Friday, November 29, 2019

Renal System Physiology free essay sample

Experiment Results Predict Question: Predict Question 1: What will happen to the glomerular capillary pressure and filtration rate if you decrease the radius of the afferent arteriole? Your answer : b. Both pressure and filtration rate will decrease. Predict Question 2: What will happen to the glomerular capillary pressure and filtration rate if you increase the radius of the afferent arteriole? Your answer : a. Both pressure and filtration rate will increase. Predict Question 3: What will happen to the glomerular capillary pressure and filtration rate if you decrease the radius of the efferent arteriole? Your answer : d. Pressure will increase and filtration rate will decrease. Stop Think Questions: Caffeine consumption leads to increased urine formation. From the results in this experiment thus far, you might propose that You correctly answered: d. caffeine dilates the afferent arteriole. You scored 100% by answering 4 out of 4 questions correctly. 1. If you increase the afferent arteriole radius and keep all other variables constant, the glomerular filtration rate would You correctly answered: a. We will write a custom essay sample on Renal System Physiology or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page increase. 2. If you decrease the efferent arteriole radius and keep all other variables constant, the volume of urine flowing into the urinary bladder would You correctly answered: a. increase. If you increase the efferent arteriole radius and keep all other variables constant, the glomerular filtration rate would You correctly answered: b. decrease. 4. If you decrease the afferent arteriole radius and keep all other variables constant, the volume of urine flowing into the urinary bladder would. You correctly answered: b. decrease. 03/31/14 page 3 Review Sheet Results 1. What are two primary functions of the kidney? Your answer: 1. Excrete Excess water and wastes 2. Regulate homeostasis 2. What are the components of the renal corpuscle? Your answer: Glomerulus and Glomerular (Bowmans) capsule 3. Starting with the renal corpuscle, list the components of the renal tubule as they are encountered by filtrate. Your answer: Proximal convoluted tubule — Loop of Henle — Distal convoluted tubule — collecting duct 4. Describe the effect of decreasing the afferent arteriole radius on glomerular capillary pressure and filtration rate. How well did the results compare with your prediction? Your answer: By decreasing the radius of the afferent arteriole, the glomerular capillary pressure and the glomerular filtration rate decreased. There is less blood that is able to enter the glomerulus because of reduced radius of afferent arteriole, therefore the pressure and filtration rate are also reduced. 5. Describe the effect of increasing the afferent arteriole radius on glomerular capillary pressure and filtration rate. How well did the results compare with your prediction? Your answer: The Glomerular capillary pressure and glomerular filtration rate both increased when the radius of the afferent arteriole was increased. There was more perfusion into the renal corpuscle. Describe the effect of decreasing the efferent arteriole radius on glomerular capillary pressure and filtration rate. How well did the results compare with your prediction? Your answer: Decreasing the radius of the efferent arteriole caused an increase in glomerular capillary pressure and glomerular filtration rate. 7. Describe the effect of increasing the efferent radius on glomerular capillary pressure and filtration rate. Your answer: Increasing the efferent arteriole radius causes the glomerular capillary pressure and glomerular filtration rate to decrease. Renal System Physiology free essay sample The Effect of Arteriole Radius on Glomerular Filtration Lab Report Pre-lab Quiz Results You have not completed the Pre-lab Quiz. 03/31/14 page 1 Experiment Results Predict Question: Predict Question 1: What will happen to the glomerular capillary pressure and filtration rate if you decrease the radius of the afferent arteriole? Your answer : b. Both pressure and filtration rate will decrease. Predict Question 2: What will happen to the glomerular capillary pressure and filtration rate if you increase the radius of the afferent arteriole? Your answer : a. Both pressure and filtration rate will increase. Predict Question 3: What will happen to the glomerular capillary pressure and filtration rate if you decrease the radius of the efferent arteriole? Your answer : d. Pressure will increase and filtration rate will decrease. Stop Think Questions: Caffeine consumption leads to increased urine formation. From the results in this experiment thus far, you might propose that You correctly answered: d. caffeine dilates the afferent arteriole. We will write a custom essay sample on Renal System Physiology or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Results You scored 100% by answering 4 out of 4 questions correctly. 1. If you increase the afferent arteriole radius and keep all other variables constant, the glomerular filtration rate would You correctly answered: a. increase. 2. If you decrease the efferent arteriole radius and keep all other variables constant, the volume of urine flowing into the urinary bladder would You correctly answered: a. increase. 3. If you increase the efferent arteriole radius and keep all other variables constant, the glomerular filtration rate would You correctly answered: b. decrease. 4. If you decrease the afferent arteriole radius and keep all other variables constant, the volume of urine flowing into the urinary bladder would __________. You correctly answered: b. decrease. 03/31/14 page 3 Review Sheet Results 1. What are two primary functions of the kidney? Your answer: 1. Excrete Excess water and wastes 2. Regulate homeostasis 2. What are the components of the renal corpuscle? Your answer: Glomerulus and Glomerular (Bowmans) capsule 3. Starting with the renal corpuscle, list the components of the renal tubule as they are encountered by filtrate. Your answer: Proximal convoluted tubule — Loop of Henle — Distal convoluted tubule — collecting duct 4. Describe the effect of decreasing the afferent arteriole radius on glomerular capillary pressure and filtration rate. How well did the results compare with your prediction? Your answer: By decreasing the radius of the afferent arteriole, the glomerular capillary pressure and the glomerular filtration rate decreased. There is less blood that is able to enter the glomerulus because of reduced radius of afferent arteriole, therefore the pressure and filtration rate are also reduced. 5. Describe the effect of increasing the afferent arteriole radius on glomerular capillary pressure and filtration rate. How well did the results compare with your prediction? Your answer: The Glomerular capillary pressure and glomerular filtration rate both increased when the radius of the afferent arteriole was increased. There was more perfusion into the renal corpuscle. 6. Describe the effect of decreasing the efferent arteriole radius on glomerular capillary pressure and filtration rate. How well did the results compare with your prediction? Your answer: Decreasing the radius of the efferent arteriole caused an increase in glomerular capillary pressure and glomerular filtration rate. 7. Describe the effect of increasing the efferent radius on glomerular capillary pressure and filtration rate. Your answer: Increasing the efferent arteriole radius causes the glomerular capillary pressure and glomerular filtration rate to decrease. 03/31/14 page 4

Monday, November 25, 2019

Product Innovation and Management

Product Innovation and Management Introduction For the contemporary companies, the current global business environment is complex and with a myriad of challenges when it comes to maintaining production and continued market relevance (Adner 2006). Product innovation is increasingly becoming a driving factor for promoting product development and marketing.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Product Innovation and Management specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More For any company aspiring to maneuver, embracing various innovative ideas in making new, or improving the existing products is nowadays a demanding task. Fisk (2014) postulates that innovation nowadays determines whether a product will successfully clinch the higher market tier or fail. Giant companies that compete on the global scale are facing even tougher demands to continually embrace new business innovations or improve their existing innovations (Garcia Calantone 2002). Such perceptions explain wh y the automobile, mobile phone, and the computer companies are relentlessly searching for the modern innovations. Given such presumptions, this essay analyses the Intel Core I 7-5000 series processor to examine its product innovation ideas. Overview of the Intel Core I 7 Computer Processors Intel Corporation is an American advanced computer-technology company that has invested in making innovative computer hardware systems that suit the users of the 21st century (Santa-Clara 2003). The computer technology has evolved from the first generation, to the fourth and the fifth generation computers, where computer features, and the power and efficiency of the central processing units matter (Jordan-Marsh 2010). One of the latest innovations that marked a new era in the world of computer technology is the super-speed Core I 7-5000 laptop and desktop processor from the Intel Corporation. The Intel Corporation made this move in a bid to offer laptop users a wide variety of opportunities that improve their computer experiences on the commercial scale (Santa-Clara 2003). The Core I 7-5000 series processors have managed to influence the success of other computer processing companies that rely on the hardware components provided by the Intel Computer Technology Company. The Market Performance of the Core I 7 (5000 Series) Computers Intel Corporation released the Intel Core I 7-5000 series processor in August of the year 2014 (Duran 2014). With the introduction and release of the Intel Core i7-5000 Processors, commercial and home laptop users have discovered a new technology that is capable of serving most of their desired needs in surfing, cloud computing, networking, computer programming, and other computing needs.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Laptops that are using the Intel Core I 7-5000 series processor have received a remarkable market success in several European markets since the processor arrived in the computer technology back in August of the year 2014. In Europe, over 6, 000 corporate organizations have bought various commercial laptops integrated with the Core I 7-5000 processor. Out of those 6, 000 corporate organizations that have incorporated laptops that are running via the Intel Core I 7-5000 series processor, over 4300 firms have revealed that laptops integrated with these processors have noticeable performance advancements.  In China and Australia, companies that deal with the manufacturing of the desktops and laptops confirmed with Intel Corporation that the processor has received a good market uptake. Due to its high performing capabilities, this high-end laptop and desktop processor has managed to influence the activities of the mega computer manufacturing companies (Duran 2014). The Intel Core I 7-5000 series processor has now manifested itself in the mega computer brands such as the new Dell computers, HP computers, Lenovo computers, and Toshiba computers. Almost all the new generation computers in several renowned computer-processing companies are running through the Intel Core I 7-5000 series processor (Intel Corp. 2014). In the United States, the United Kingdom, and France, computer manufacturing companies have noted a registered success in the marketing of computers integrated with the Core i7-5960X processors, the Core i7-5930K processors, and the Core i7-5820K processors. The Applicable Theories (The 4Cs Marketing Theory) Several theories have appeared to explain the association between innovative product development and management of product innovation. The theories that highly associate with the emergence and subsequent success of the Intel Core I 7-5000 series processor are two theories that show the relevance of using strategic marketing techniques to penetrate highly competitive markets (Constantinides 2002 English 2000). The first theory that best describes the success of the Intel Corporation and its success story in the development and marketing of the Intel Core I 7-5000 series processor is the 4Cs marketing theory. This theory postulates that for an innovative product to manoeuvre in the highly competitive business environments, an innovation must consider the elements that associate with Consumers, the production Cost, product Convenience, and the Communication platforms (Constantinides 2002). Hence, companies must assess what the customers want and what they are lacking, for them to create an appealing product, service or a business solution.  When Robert F. Lauterborn designed the 4Cs marketing theory, the second component of the 4Cs model that deemed important was the concept of production cost (Prandelli Verona 2006).Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Product Innovation and Management specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Companies intending to develop a successful innovatio n must consider all the costs involved in the development, production, and marketing of the product to the targeted consumers. Such approaches often help the innovation to remain strategic and undeterred in its processes, from the beginning of the designing process to the ultimate destination of meeting the end-user (Prandelli Verona 2006). The third component that Robert F. Lauterborn thought was imperative in product innovation and management realm was the degree of convenience that a new product is capable of delivering to the consumers. Goi (2009) postulates that, for a new product to manoeuvre in the already competitive markets, its design and its features must provide a high proof of convenience in terms of accessibility, efficiency, usability and suitability to the needy clients scattered within the niche markets. The last aspect of product innovation that Robert F. Lauterborn proposed in the 4Cs marketing model is the idea of the available communication platforms. Robert po stulated that since new products face numerous challenges while trying to penetrate the exigent markets, companies must consider the available communication channels and the manner in which other previous brands may act as brand ambassadors. Hence, the theory of Robert F. Lauterborn emphasizes on four driving factors that determine the success of an upcoming innovation from its initial production strategies to the final marketing techniques. From the perspective of the 4Cs marketing model, Robert F. Lauterborn encourages companies to consider consumers, the production cost, product convenience, and the communication strategies as factors that determine the success of a new product innovation. In essence, companies must identify their targeted consumers, consider the convenience of the desired innovation, and evaluate the involved costs while marketing an emergent innovation. The Applicable Theories (The Developer-Based Theory) In determining the behaviour of the emergent innovations and the manner in which new products permeate into the market, business philosophers sought to establish the ideas of how innovative products diffuse into the market (Goi 2009). One of the theories that best suits the explanation of the manner in which Intel Corporation has been replacing its old technologies with zealous technologies that have gained a massive market prominence is the developer-based theory. The developer-based theory is a form of a deterministic theory that postulates that companies must be willing to understand that ensuring high efficiency, high effectiveness and elegancy are essential market elements while developing products that replace the initial technologies (Prandelli Verona 2006).Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The developer-based or the deterministic theory of product innovation and management assumes that superior technological products will only by virtue of their superiority alone; substitute the previous inferior products in the existing markets.  From the philosophical perspective, the determinist theory assumes that the behaviours of human beings largely depend on the preceding factors (Ram 2007). The human behaviour that shows itself in the technology world is the desire among the people to understand how new technologies work and their desire to have a better knowledge about the upcoming technologies (Ram 2007). In terms of innovation, technological determinism according to business philosophers is the ability of the developers or companies to design and implement efficient strategies that enable a new product to excel in a market (Guo Sun 2004). In product marketing process, this idea may associate with the reputation of a company, the stability of a company, and the strategic planning processes of a company (Mahadevan 2000 Werbach 2000). Therefore, the superiority of an emerging innovation and the reputation of similar brands from a tech company may determine the market success of a new product. Strategic Product Design and Innovation The 4Ps marketing model also known as the marketing mix model has four major components or business marketing principles that drive the marketing strategies of companies (West, Ford Ibrahim 2015). These four principles of marketing include Product, Price, Promotion, and Place. The first principle is product, where the issues of product design and product-manufacturing techniques play a pivotal role (Grieves 2009). For the Intel Core I 7-5000 series processor, Intel Corporation and its team of technologists fostered some sophisticated technologies to develop a high-end multiprocessor system that offers high capabilities for the major computer activities (Duran 2014). The Intel Core I 7-5000 series processor comes via a co mpatible motherboard made of a powerful Intel X99 Express chipset, an eight-core processor unit, and a quad-channel memory controller (Duran 2014). These features enable the software developers, the media professionals and the ultra HD gamers to find high performing hardware systems that are compatible with the computer motherboard.  According to the fourth component of the 4Cs marketing theory, which carries the idea of convenience in product innovation, products should have the element of convenience and reliability. The Intel Core I 7-5000 series processor came with superior features that matched the growing demands of the computer users (Intel Corp. 2014). With a RAM memory integrated with a 3.50 GHz system processor that enables a maximum turbo boost, consumers cannot and may not stop liking the innovation incorporated in the Intel Core I 7-5000 series processor. This unique feature enables customers who demand high capacity computers to install software of their wish, comput e what they desire, and program their computers according to their personal needs (Intel Corp. 2014). Since companies and businesspersons are increasingly facing increased demands to maintain huge databases, prolific computer-aided services, and several other demanding needs, the Intel Core I 7-5000 series processor seems to have brought a permanent solution. A Positive Market Reputation The theory of determinism in technology considers manufactures or producers of an innovation as the most determinants of the success of a newly launched product (Cravens 2000). Intel Corporation has been a giant manufacturer of the computer processors from the 18th century era, and has managed to maintain a positive reputation as a market leader in the computer processors technology. Since the 1971 era of the 4-bit 4004 processors, the 32-bit and 64-bit processors of the 2002 era, to the Intel core 2 and quad-cores, and finally to the modern eight-core generation processors, Intel has been fervent i n its reputation (Parsons Oja 2012). The market archrival of the Intel Corporation, the Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) processors have always faced an unmatched competition from the superbly made Intel processors. Since 1994, the AMD Company and its computer processors have never matched the market success of the Intel processors in almost all the computer brands.  Although the AMD Processor Company has been using low-pricing strategies to expand its market and improve its reputation amongst the consumers, the Intel Corporation has been keen in ensuring that it dominates the world market with reputable processor brands. According to the theory of the 4Cs of marketing, consumers are normally the platform for the successful marketing of an emergent business product, as they possess the initial experience that often contributes to the building of a stable corporate reputation (Bhatt Emdad 2002). According to the viewpoints of the UK and the U.S computer users, the power and processin g capabilities of the Intel chips and processors are incomparable to the AMD processors. In the U.S, Japan, South Korea, and Chinese markets, users have recognised a continued relevance of the Intel processors and Chips, and have cited an increasing market reputation (Intel Corp. 2014). This continuous and broadened reputation contributed to the triumph of the Intel Core I 7-5000 series processor. Strategic Marketing Techniques According to the 4Ps marketing mix model, a new product will excel in a competitive market when the involved company considers creating a strategy for penetrating the item into the competitive markets (Cooper Edgett 2009). On the other hand, the 4Cs marketing model considers communication platforms of companies as the contributing factors that help in delivering the product information to the consumers. Intel Corporation has a strategic marketing channel that goes through the brand marketing strategies, where several major players in the computer industry pl ay significant roles in marketing their brands (Intel Corp. 2014). Since its appearance in the computer technology, the Intel Corporation has been working closely with its fellow computer-manufacturing companies such as Toshiba, Dell, HP, Hitachi, Gateway, NEC and Fujitsu Companies in marketing its processors. When releasing the Intel Core I 7-5000 series processor, Intel Corporation strategically analysed its communication channel by singling out its reputable brand ambassadors.  Latest computer models such as the Dell Inspiron computer series, the Lenovo Computer models, and the Toshiba new models are systematically supporting the market growth and development of the Intel Core I 7-5000 series processor (Intel Corp. 2014). Apart from its internal market players, the American Intel Corporation has been using external market players in parts of Europe and Asia to market the Intel Core I 7-5000 series processor, as part of its strategic internationalization channels. Aside from the idea of using corporate brand ambassadors in its marketing, the strategic launching of the Intel Core I 7-5000 series processors played a significant part in the marketing of these eight-core processors. The 4Ps of marketing consider product promotion as a strategic marketing approach that promotes the growth and development of new products in the markets (Gronroos 2005 Jobber 2001). Through close ties with the computer manufacturers, the Intel Corporation has managed to market its Core I 7-5000 series processor to several computers manufactures. Strategic Financing Pricing Techniques The power of designing, producing, and marketing of new products rests on the ability of the companies to have the financial power to make their strategies workable (Li 2013). According to the 4Cs of marketing, Li (2013) states that companies must always consider the costs of designing a new product, developing the product and the ultimate costs required in delivering it to the end-users. The Core I 7-5000 series processor, being a mega project that Intel Corporation had aspired to initiate through the fifth generation platform, forced Intel to have a strategic financing plan for the development and release of this fifth generation processor. In their 2014 financial year, a time when the Core I 7-5000 series processor first emerged in the computer market, Intel’s budget for the computer chips under the fifth generation platform increased significantly (Duran 2014). According to the Intel Corporation (2014), the company used over USD350 million in the production and marketing of the Intel Core I 7-5000 series processor.  A significant factor that determines the success of an emergent product is the pricing strategy set out by the product-manufacturing firm (Yu Hang 2009). According to the 4Ps marketing model, the pricing strategy that a manufacturing company uses on a new business product, matters in its ultimate market success. Although the AMD processors come in rel atively lower prices when compared to the prices that the Intel Corporation imposes, the processors of the fifth generation created by the Intel Corporation appear via a unique market-pricing strategy (Duran 2014). Intel Corporation has been selling the Intel Core I 7-5000 series processor at a relatively high price although its strategic partnership with the mega computer manufacturing companies has made the company to consider offering large-scale commercial discounts and price cut-offs (Duran 2014). Subsequently, this strategic scheme automatically helps the Intel Corporation to dominate the processor’s market and later pressure the computer manufacturers to sell their products at favourable market prices. Conclusion Any new technological product entering into a modern competitive market must have a strategic system that would enable it to excel in the market. The 4Ps and the 4Cs models of marketing are very significant in explaining the manner in which companies ought to understand the promotion of the new products. From the above analysis, it is conclusive that the marketing of an emergent hi-tech product is still a demanding task for several companies because several factors determine the successful growth, development, and marketing of an emergent product. Nonetheless, the three common business elements that seem to dominate the process of product innovation and management include the aspects of product designing, product marketing, and product pricing. The three major variables pave way for an understanding of the manner in which the aspects related to the consumers and their preferences or abilities, the location of the business, and the production costs interact. References Adner, R 2006, ‘Match your innovation strategy to your innovation ecosystem’, Harvard Business Review, vol. 84, no. 4, pp. 98–107. Bhatt, G, Emdad, A 2001, ‘An Analysis of the Virtual Chain in Electronic Commerce. Logistics Information Management, vol. 14, no. 2, pp. 78-85. Constantinides, E 2002, ‘The 4S Web-Marketing Mix Model’, Electronic Commerce Research and Applications, vol. 1, no. 1, pp. 57-76. Cooper, R Edgett, S 2009, Product Innovation, and Technology Strategy, Stage-Gate International, London. Cravens, D. 2000. Strategic Marketing, Sixth Edition, McGraw-Hill Publishers, United Kingdom. Duran, C 2014, Testimony of Carolyn Duran. Web. English, J 2000, ‘The Four â€Å"P†s of Marketing are dead’, Marketing Health Services, vol. 20, no. 2, pp. 20-23. Fisk, P 2014, Game-changers: Creating Innovative Strategies for Business and Brands; New Approaches to Strategy, Innovation and Marketing, John Wiley Sons, London. Garcia, R Calantone, R 2002, ‘A critical look at technological innovation typology and innovativeness terminology: a literature review’, The Journal of Product Innovation Management, vol. 19, no. 1, pp. 110-132. Goi, C 2009, ‘A Review of Marketing Mix: 4Ps or More?’, International Journal of Marketing Studies, vol. 1, no. 1, pp. 1-15. Grieves, M 2009, PLM: Driving the Next Generation of Lean Thinking, McGraw-Hill, New York. Gronroos, C 2005, ‘On defining marketing: finding a new roadmap for marketing’, Marketing Theory, vol. 6, no. 4, pp. 395-417. Guo, J, Sun, C 2004, ‘Global Electronic Markets and Global Traditional Markets’, Electronic Markets, vol. 14, no. 1, pp. 4-25. Intel Corporation 2014, Backgrounder: Intel Corporation. Web. Jobber D 2001, Principles and Practices of Marketing 3 rd edition, McGraw Hill Publishers, London. Jordan-Marsh, M 2010, Health Technology Literacy: A Trans disciplinary Framework for Consumer-Oriented Practice, Jones Bartlett Learning, London. Li, P 2013, Disruptive Innovation in Chinese and Indian Businesses: The Strategic Implications for Local Entrepreneurs and Global Incumbents, Rutledge, London. Mahadevan, B 2000, ‘Business Models for Internet-based E-Commerc e: An Anatomy’, California Management Review, vol. 42, no. 1, pp. 4-20. Parsons, J, Oja, D 2012, New Perspectives on Computer Concepts 2013: Comprehensive New Perspectives, Cengage Learning, London. Prandelli, E, Verona G 2006, Marketing in Rete, Milan, McGraw-Hill Publishers, London. Ram, B 2007, Computer Fundamentals, Architecture Organization, New Age International, New York. Santa-Clara, P 2003, Valuing Intel Corporation, Inc. Web. Werbach, K 2000, ‘The Emerging Model for Business in the Internet Era’, Harvard Business Review, vol. 3, no. 1, pp. 84-94. West, D, Ford, J, Ibrahim, E 2015, Strategic Marketing: Creating Competitive Advantage, Oxford University Press, London. Yu, D, Hang, C 2009, ‘A reflective review of Disruptive Innovation Theory’, International Journal of Management Reviews, vol. 2, no. 2, pp. 1-21.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Implications of ignored behavioral problems Assignment

Implications of ignored behavioral problems - Assignment Example Teachers get frustrated when all their teaching efforts get countered by these ignored, unsolved behavioral problems. In some extreme cases some teachers simply lose interest in making things right. This occurs as a result of lose of morale, and gets depicted by the quality of teaching services offered which is likely to be poor. They often fail to take an interest in the character details of their students. Before one knows it, the students’ unruly behavior has spiraled out of control. Problematic character is not conducive in any educational setting and hinders effective learning and teaching (Jenson, 2002). Both teachers and parents are charged with the responsibility of guiding students’ behavior. When in school, teachers get expected to outline to the students what gets viewed as appropriate and inappropriate character. However, when the students are at home, their parents get expected to maintain the same standards of behavior upheld in the schools. Persistent behavioral problems create tension between teachers, parents and the administration. The blame game that is usually involved is the manifestation of the tension. Tension between education stakeholders also affects the education environment (Jenson, 2002). Ignoring behavioral problems will more often than not lead to the progression into fully blown negative traits that inform moral decadence (Jenson, 2002). A look into the character of people who get considered as harmful to society usually reveals traces of behavioral problems in early life stages that went

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Retributive justice differ from restorative justice Essay - 1

Retributive justice differ from restorative justice - Essay Example This concept is foundational throughout the world. Restorative justice also known as reparative justice is an approach of justice whose focal point is on the wishes of the victims and the offenders and all the involved parties (â€Å"Restorative Justice Practice†). This approach does not look to satisfy the obvious legal principle that requires punishing an offender. These two forms of justice are very different from each other. The paper will focus on the differences between reparative justice and retributive justice. The proof of retributive justice laws’ popularity is evident through ancient materials. For example, in the ancient Jewish community, this is shown in the Law of Moses; the law included punishments such as life for life. The opinion of whether a punishment is appropriate or fit enough for a certain crime varies greatly between the different cultures of the world. Comparability  necessitates that the height of castigation should be leveled virtually to the severity of the offence. At times the punishment does not always have to be equivalent to the offence (Retributive Justice). The retributive system makes compulsory to reprimand serious offence more callously than minor offence. Conventionally, theorists of chastisement have compared retributivism with  utilitarianism. Utilitarian believe punishment is advanced and defensible by an alleged capability to achieve future social benefits such as crime decline. Retributionists believe that punishment is archaic and only justified by the offence that was committed and in agreement with the offence committed. According to people that believe in retributive justice, the seriousness of the crime is usually determined by the amount of harm caused by the offence. Reparative justice involves the victims taking an active role in the restoration process whole the offenders are encouraged to take liability for their actions. This is by apologizing and returning property that was stolen. This form of

Monday, November 18, 2019

The economy of U.S.A Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The economy of U.S.A - Essay Example It outlines the theoretical and methodological approaches that the country seeks to use in economic recovery process, asserting relative data sources and the theoretical perspective on the data’s view. The analytical approach of US economic policies The U.S.A needs to set an analytical approach to the economic issues and establish fiscal policies to stimulate growth, control amount of money in supply, dictate inflationary rates and of the dollar, and subsequently reduce the unemployment levels. The government should be certain of the factors that would help it achieve economic stability to the desired level. The United States should be observant on the whether the factors will positively or negatively affect the country at the long run (Gwartney and James, 250). The U.S.A engages in diverse economic prospectus criteria, ranging from macro to micro variables of forecasting for economic propulsion. The United States observes on the psychological impacts that a given policy would reflect from the economy. Therefore, the economy practices scientific theoretical approaches on the immediate factors of production, for example, the demand and supply variables, interests, and capital basis of the economy and labor. Theoretical and methodological approaches to the US economy The Keynesian theory as an approach to the economy of the United States would propel economic growth if well practiced. The theory stipulates that, during the short run period, productivity of the economy shape up in accordance to change in demand. The theory declares that the supply may not increase during an increase in the level of demand but may instead remain constant thus leading to an increase in prices, which consequently results to high costs of living, demand for salary increments, increased unemployment, and subsequent increase in inflation (Barfield and Claude, 314). The United States could adapt to the theoretical approach, which further inhibits the express authority of capitalists. America practices a free market enterprise whereby the investors make decisions on prices depending on the changes in market variables. The United States of America suffered economic crisis between the year 2007-2009 and eventually resulted to poor exchange value of the dollar against other currencies in the world (Majmundar and Malay, 43). America suffered intensely during the crisis due to the increased rate of unemployment, which implied negatively on the gross domestic product (GDP) because of the reduction of per capita income. America could view this aspect of fall back from another perspective, mainly by imposing controls on pricing whenever the demand of products increases with constant maintenance in supply. America’s approach of forecasting the futu re through leading economic indicators could also help the country realize economic prowess again. The index criterion is a methodological approach that eyes on the bank lending rates and the possible changes in the economy. The Keynesian approach emphasizes that federal bank should restrict on the amount of money in supply (a monetary policy) to ensure that the country does not suffer from inflation. The country should focus on the theoretical approach since, reduction of the amount of money in supply would press the economy to operate on the available balance of payment, and the country’

Saturday, November 16, 2019

Inter Professional Practice In Health Nursing Essay

Inter Professional Practice In Health Nursing Essay Inter-professional practice includes benefits that help to improve the provisions of health and social care services. One of these benefits that derive from inter-professional practice is that it increases the number of professions, which means that all aspects of service users who have multiple needs requiring different specialists are taken into consideration rather than neglecting some aspects. E.g. an individual who was a victim of domestic violence and had sustained physical injuries would not only receive treatment for the physical injuries but also receive counselling for their emotional needs so that they are healed holistically. By increasing the number of professions also allows health and social services to be able to deal with complexity. This is because of the different qualifications, skills, knowledge and expertises each professional has which not only reduces workload creating less stress but make difficult tasks achievable. Likewise errors made by some professionals can be quickly identified and rectified by others reducing risks towards patients/users e.g. a physiotherapist may fail to provide treatment to a patient which a nurse can pick up on. Professional roles in relation to health and social care provision entail the responsibilities and duties of a professional towards their patients/users. This includes jobs that they have to perform that fits into the specific professions that they have been qualified to do. E.g. the role of a nurse is to provide care for their patients. Professional principles are the rules and regulations that act as a guideline by defining the boundaries/perimeters of what is inclusive and expected of professionals due to the nature of their work, which in terms of the health and social care provision is to provide patients/users the best quality care/services they need to function properly. It also stresses out the legal requirements these professionals need to have in order for them to carry out practice such as the type of qualifications that they need. These principles are set out by professional bodies within certain organisations to act as a guideline in order to maintain the high standing of the profession. E.g. the Nursing and Midwifery council (NMC) regulates nurses and midwives by having codes of conduct which informs nurses and midwives on how to care for their patients by treating them as individuals, giving equal opportunities regardless of their gender, race etc. Professionals within health and social care services use inter-professional working to improve the quality of care that they provide which in turn enhances patient/users experience as their level of trust increases, restoring their confidence further motivating them into using their health and social care services. For example, if it was just one professional available to care for a patient/user with needs that goes beyond the expertise of their profession, the patient/user wouldnt want to use that service as they feel that the professional is incapable of providing the necessary care that they need. However if they know that other professionals can be involve in their care, they are empowered to use the service and get the help that they need. With the level of trust and confidence patients/users develop in their care services due to inter-professional, this enables professionals to creates alliances with their patients/users as these patients/users know that for the professionals to be collaborating, they are being put at the centre of service provision to ensure that they receive a high standard of care. Taylor (2000) defined reflection as throwing back of thoughts and memories, in cognitive acts such as thinking, contemplation, mediation and any other form of attentive consideration, in order to make sense of them, and to make contextually appropriate changes if they are required. This help us to think critically of situations where we might find ourselves in enabling us to make the changes needed to improve certain aspects of ourselves especially in our professional life as it helps to maintain a high standard of work. Reflection also helps us to pick up on errors and ensure that they do not reoccur e.g. a nurse who might not have used effective communication with one of their patient, such as not letting the patient know that they were about to give them an injection. Through reflection, the nurse would know where they went wrong and make certain that they use effective communication which is informing the patient before carrying out any procedure. In this reflection, Ill be referring to the Marks-Maran Roses Reflective Cycle (1997) to explore and highlight areas within a specific event for me to make any required changes. The cycle consists of an explanation of the event, my thoughts arising from the situation, how it relates to theory and how it can be applied into practice. The inter-professional learning is based on a session which I (a student nurse) took part in with my student peers from different professions consisting of a student; social worker, physiotherapist, radiotherapist, pharmacist and three other student nurses. The session was based on a case study about a girl named Millie, who has Downs Syndrome and also a long term boyfriend and wanted to go on the Contraceptive Pill. We had to debate about whether it was in her best interest to start taking the pills or not. My team had to debate against Millie going on the pill, for this my team and I used different skills such as communication, listening, information gathering and teamwork skills in order to achieve the main aim of the task. I made use of my communication skill by interacting with my student peers within my team and the opposing team to discuss about the evidence gathered and our own view of the situation. Communication involves a reciprocal process of sending and receiving message between two or more persons. Sellman and Snelling (2010). For the other opposing team to hear our side of the debate we had to be clear, precise and concise so that they are able to give feedback to show that they understood our arguments. I made sure I used the right tone of voice by sounding calm and collected in the manner in which I delivered my speech, by keeping the pitch of my voice moderately loud enough for others to hear me without sounding aggressive, even though at some points of the debate the level of my voice was slightly high when some members of the opposing team became hostile by shouting over my team. I felt that this skill was used appropriately and effectively even though there were times were it lacked consistency. This is because I have learnt that communication does not only involve using words, signs, language, tone, speech etc, it also consists of body language e.g. how you face an individual during a conversation. I also noticed that others in my team positioned their body away from the rest of the group which looked like they werent interested or wanted to be part of the team. This has made me more conscious of my body language when communicating with people so that I dont give the wrong impressions. This skill would be beneficial when applied into practice, importantly in inter-professional working as my role of a nurse involves working collaboratively with other professionals to provide care for certain patients e.g. working with dieticians, radiotherapists, radiologists etc. With effective communication, service users are safeguarded and protected against potential risks they may be exposed to by reducing the number of errors that may occur. For instance, a GP might have prescribed the wrong dosage of medication to an individual, the pharmacist is able to pick up on this and get in contact with the GP. Active listening was shown through feedbacks and contributions which also showed my level of understanding and that of my team members, however if going through what the opposing team had said did not make sense we asked them to repeat themselves. In support to this, Hoppe (2006) suggested that reflecting the other persons information, perspective, and feelings is a way to indicate that you hear and understand. This helped lessen the level of confusion through misinterpretations which the opposing team seem to have had a problem with, as a member of their team kept answering their question that was meant for our team or our questions were not being answered. I have learnt that it is important to actively listen to people as it is the key to effective communication in receiving information, which in turn enables individuals to grasp hold of messages immediately rather than allowing the other person involved to keep on repeating themselves delaying response or action. In practice, this skill would help me to understand patients clearly as it will allow me to pick up on underlying issues which may go unnoticed, for this you must listen to the people in your care and respond to their concerns and preferences (UK Nursing and Midwifery Council 2008). This helps to reduce the likelihood of incidents occurring especially in healthcare such as sending a patient home when they tell you that they are unwell and when they do go back home they are found unconscious or dead. Information gathering was used in this session as we were asked to conduct a research about literatures that were against the contraceptive pill and those that supported it. Because information gathering is also known as research which seeks to make known something about a field of practice or activity which is currently unknown to the researcher (Brown and Dowling 1998), so by looking at various sources; journals, books and the Web rather than focusing on one source for information. This allowed my team and I to collect a wide range of information that targeted different areas of the topic, such as the effect of the pill on a Down syndrome woman and her mental capacity in relation to the Mental Capacity Act 2005 which tries to empower and protect vulnerable people who are unable to make their own decisions (UK Department of Health 2005) and it seemed like Millie was not in the position to make rational decisions due to her disability as one of the symptoms of Downs syndrome is the d ifficulty to understand why they have made certain choices. This skill would be useful in the health and social care sector where me as a health practitioner would need to be able to gather information on services users background on past medical histories by knowing how to source them electronically via the computer, folders and even the patients themselves so that me and those involve in the professionals have an idea of how best to provide effective care. Teamwork involves a group of people working together towards an aim, in my group we supported each other by reading out our literatures based on our research such as statistics and government Acts if we thought that they needed help so that we come out stronger in the debate. Because of lack of teamwork the other team seemed to have struggled for their members were left on their own to argue our points without any input from the rest of their team. I think that this skill is one of the attribute a professional need to have when working collaboratively with other professionals; this means professionals helping each other especially in areas that others may lack in knowledge, understanding or unable to cope by themselves. In health, this ensures that patients/users needs are not neglected by making sure that they are at the centre of service provision by everyone working together as a team. With this skill I have learnt that in order for one to become successful in their work, they have to work with others as effective teamwork is being dependent on each team member being able to anticipate the needs of others (Alonso and Dunleavy 2012) for them to successfully achieve their goals. This is because everyone has weaknesses which may pose as an obstacle preventing them from achieving their goals, but with the help of others barriers are minimised as all the people involved work towards the same goal. For example a social worker might seek the assistance of a nurse to identify their needs such as they might need carers, go into a home that caters to their needs due to the patients medical condition(s). Teamwork can be applied in practice by collaborating with others in a professional manner by contributing, showing support to others and having an understanding of what my role and others roles are within the team as a way to reduce misunderstanding and enable us to work efficiently. In terms of reflection, it helps an individual get a broaden outlook on how they have performed, which for a professional enables them to identify where they might have gone wrong within their practice which they can learn from and assist them in becoming a competent professional.

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods Essays -- Qualitative R

In this paper, I will define quantitative and qualitative research methods and provide examples in the context of social issues which will hopefully provide insight into how this methods are properly applied. Social issues are very broad and diverse and are usually made up of factors or consequences which directly or indirectly affect a person or many members of a society and are considered to be problems, controversies or both and are related to moral values, therefore their immediate social environment may become vulnerable in some respect which may also effect several individuals environment and in turn society. There are two methods of approaching study of the world; deductive and inductive (L. Osburn, personal communication, August 11, 2011). Quantitative research uses a deductive reasoning also known as top to bottom or (top down approach) starting with a theory, then the hypothesis, followed by observation and finally confirmation , going from the general to the more specific. Quantitative methods use numbers and statistics to show the results of the research exercise and mainly are concerned with mathematics and statistics. In quantitative research there are levels of measurement being firstly nominal which are names of things followed by ordinal sequence of things, interval where the sequence has equal distance between each item, and ratio where there is a true zero (Alston & Bowles, 2003, p. 7-9). Quantitative research is the oldest form of research; it is incredibly formal, stemming from positivism paradigm, or the outside looking in approach. The method is about trying to establish cause and affect relationships between variables. This method can be considered non biased as the researcher isn’t us... ...or hindrance? Outcomes of social work student placements. Australian Social Work, 58(3), 301–312. doi:10.1111/j.1447-0748.2005.00222.x Barria, L., & Roper, S. (2010). The Development of institutions of human rights: A comparative stud. Palgrave Macmillan: New York. Faherty, V. (2008) Compassionate Statistics applied quantitative analysis for social services. Sage Publications: California. Research methods knowledge base, deduction and induction the web centre for social research methods. Retrieved from: http://www.socialresearchmethods.net/kb/dedind.php Coster, P., & Woolf, A. (Eds.).(2011). World book: South Africa’s Anti-Apartheid Movement, (pp. 56-57). Arcturus Publishers: Chicago. Stevenson, H. (1995). Relationship of Adolescent Perceptions of Racial Socialisation to Racial Identity. Journal of Black Psychology. DOI: 10.1177/00957984950211005

Monday, November 11, 2019

Leadership Approach

Leadership Approach for Team Members University of Phoenix March 4, 2013 Leadership Approach for Team Members Mr. Peck, my team is comprised of four members. After taking the Jungian’s 16-Type Personality Self-Assessment, each member has identified their personality and possible career choices and has shared it among the group. Each member’s classification is discussed in this paragraph. Team member 1, scored ENTP. Under the analysis and interpretation each member’s classification with this type of personality describes one who is innovative, individualistic, versatile, and entrepreneurial.Team member 2, scored ENTJ. This personality is identifies a person who is outgoing, a visionary, argumentative, have a low tolerance for incompetence, and often seen as a natural leader. Team member 3 scored ISFP which means they have a personality of warmth, sensitive, unassuming and artistic. The 4th member of the team scored ISFJ which states they are loyal, amiable, and wi lling to make sacrifices for the greater good. Each score depicts the uniqueness of each personality. According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary (n. d. ) â€Å"diversity is defined as an instance of being composed of differing elements or qualities. Each member carries a different personality trait. Not only are there uniqueness among the group, we are diverse in our own rights. Leadership Theories In Chapter 17 of Management the topic of â€Å"Managers as Leaders†; we learned about the five leadership trait theories. â€Å"These early leadership theories focused on the leader (leadership trait theory) and how the leader interacted with his group members (leadership behavior theories. )† Other trait theories include the contingency trait theory, and leadership member exchange theory. (Robbins.S. P & Culter, 2012). I will assign a leadership approach for each team member based on the theories of leadership. Evaluate the Situation In Terms Of Urgency In terms of urgency, w hen entering a new market several things come to mine. A strategic plan needs to be developed. This plan will lay out the goals and objectives for the new department. It would also be good to conduct a SWOT analysis to identify the strengths, weakness, opportunities and threats of entering into the new market and lastly a good marketing plan would be essential.The marketing will assist you in answering important questing such as is this new product or an existing product? What are the internal and external factors affecting the success of your new product line? What is the overall goal? These are just a few of the questions you would ask in developing a market plan. Determine Leadership Approaches Each team member comes with differentiating gifts, talents, strengths, weaknesses and personalities. For this reason alone their individual leadership approach will differ. In Chapter 17 of Management the topic of â€Å"Managers as Leaders†; we learned about the six leadership trait theories. These early leadership theories focused on the leader (leadership trait theory) and how the leader interacted with his group members (leadership behavior theories. )† Other trait theories include the contingency trait theory, and leadership member exchange theory. (Robbins. S. P & Culter, 2012). Reference Diversity. (n. d. ). In Merriam-Webster dictionary. Retrieved from http://www. merriam- webster. com/dictionary Robbins. S. P & Coulter, M. (2012). Management (11th ed. ). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall

Saturday, November 9, 2019

Seven essays

Seven essays SEVEN A FILM BY DAVID FINCHER STARRING: BRADD PITT AND MORGAN FREEMAN By Ken Balch World of Ideas 390 Prof. George Adams The movie Seven is a depiction of the inevitable fall of mankind through the grizzly murders of John Doe (Kevin Spacey). Doe commits a series of methodical, exacting, and grotesque murders, as portrayed in the Seven Deadly Sins listed in the novel Marques de Sade, works of Milton, Chaucer, and Dante. The Seven Sins consist of Pride, Envy, Greed, Wrath, Sloth, Gluttony, and Lust. These were set out to show mankind what they must avoid to find their way into Heaven. The killer (Doe) cleverly commits each Sin in such a way that it seems; to the older, wiser detective Somerset (Morgan Freeman), that the man is preaching a sermon. Telling each victim to commit an act of attrition for his or her Sin. Later this notion turns out to be true, for in fact the killer is trying to send out a message of how despicable and ugly mankind has become. We are introduced to Mills (Pitt), at the scene of the first crime. He (Pitt) is a young, brash, full of anger and energy detective. He sees the killer as a fucking nut bag, who owns a library card. The symbolism can easily be detected in the vast differences of the two detectives, the older, cautious, almost poetic Somerset (Freeman). Contrasted by the younger, vile, over eager, act before thinking, Mills (Pitt). The two make a match that combines wit with strength, which will lead to the eventual capture of John Doe. Before the surrender of John Doe, we are walked through a gruesome world of seven murders, which follow the Seven Deadly Sins list presented by Milton, Chaucer, and Dante. First, we see an obese man face down in a plate of spaghetti, killed by eating himself to death; Gluttony was found at the scene behind the fridge, w...

Wednesday, November 6, 2019

When You Want Your Home Made Just for You, Customize

When You Want Your Home Made Just for You, Customize A custom home is one that is specially designed to meet the specifications of the person who commissioned it. A custom home is constructed from architectural plans drawn up to meet the needs and stipulations of the owner - the first owner. Plans can be extravagant, drawn from a Pritzker Laureate, or modest from the local architect in your town. Custom plans are different from stock building plans, where the same plan may be sold to many different people. Frequently a builder will customize stock plans by changing details. The builder may change the type of siding, move a doorway, or even add a dormer. However, the house is not truly a custom home unless a designer (usually an architect) has closely studied the land and interviewed the clients to create a one-of-a-kind home that is tailor-made for the people who will live there. Basically, if you dont have it built, a custom home will not be built. Custom Home or Production Home? To build a custom home, you will need a building site and an architect or a professional home designer. A builder who specializes in custom homes may also offer design services. A custom home builder may be a production home builder, but the process and results are different. Because the process is a personal relationship, custom homes cannot be advertised. If the house was already built and ready to be sold, it wouldnt be customized to the buyer. Sometimes developers will leave parts of the interior unfinished to customize for prospective buyers (e.g., custom kitchens), but this is not really a custom home- its more of a customized production home. Know the difference, and dont be fooled by marketing and sales pitches. Examples of Custom Homes: Many architects begin their careers designing homes for specific people. For example, architect William Rawn designed a house for a couple in Massachusetts and author Tracy Kidder told the whole story in his book House- a good exploration of the conflicts that arise in the scope of a custom home project. The commissioned plans of a custom home are tailor-made for the client and location, but also often reflect the design style of the architect. Here are some examples: The Vanna Venturi House by Robert Venturi was built for his motherXanadu 2.0, home of Bill and Melinda GatesGraceland, well-known home of Elvis Presley, was built in 1939 for Ruth Brown Moore and her familyThe Robie House, Frank Lloyd Wrights most famous house, was built for Frederick C. RobieMaison Bordeaux by Rem Koolhaas was built for Jean-Franà §ois Lemoine and his familyMendocino County Wooden Cottage as a get-away designed by architect Cathy Schwabe What Is a Custom Home Builder? A Custom Home Builder constructs a one-of-a-kind home that is designed for a specific client and for a particular location. They may use plans created by an architect or by a professional home designer, so the Custom Home Builder knows how to read and interpret architectural renderings- a skill we assume all builders to have, but youll find degrees of abilities in the construction industry. Some Custom Home Builders also offer professional design services. Because each house is unique, Custom Home Builders generally construct only a few (less than twenty-five) homes a year. In most cases, Custom Home Builders construct on land the home buyer already owns. However, some Custom Builders will provide the building lot. If you own your own land or have plans for a particular home you want to build, you will need the services of a Custom Home Builder.

Monday, November 4, 2019

Create a counseling theory that is compatible with a Christian Essay

Create a counseling theory that is compatible with a Christian Worldview - Essay Example The human quest for knowledge has at times placed reason and science at odds with theology and faith. Of course, this conflict is ultimately illusory, as all truth is God’s truth. But that hasn’t prevented champions from both side from sparring with each other. The most cited instance of this phenomenon was the dispute between Galileo and the medieval Catholic church. The Italian scientist was right, as even the Roman pontiff has admitted in recent years. That was hardly the last round in the centuries-long controversy, however. The nineteenth century was a time of both great discovery and tremendous turmoil. Charles Darwin turned the world upside down with the publication of his volumes The Origin of Species and Descent of Man. The higher critics in Germany questioned the veracity of Scripture. Across Christendom, the fundamentals of the faith seemed to be crumbling under the ferocity of an all-out intellectual assault. The new discipline known as psychology wasn’t exempt from this battle. Sigmund Freud pioneered the study of human personality and the causes of mental illness. While much of his writings reveal keen insights into human nature, their overall theme was stridently materialistic. As the century developed other theorists such as Jung constructed their own theories. In his case his views were far from atheistic. However, they display an openness to eastern thoughts forms similar to those common in Buddhist and Hindu thought. In these ways it foreshadowed so-called New Age counseling methods. For every action there is an opposite reaction. The emphasis on reason and objectivity that emerged from the Enlightenment found a formidable challenge in the writings of Soren Kierkegaard in the 1800s. Widely regarded as the father of existentialism, the Dutch thinker emphasized the roles of subjective answers and of human freedom in discovering one’s meaning in life. His views were later given a nihilistic

Saturday, November 2, 2019

Wal-Mart Business Operations Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Wal-Mart Business Operations - Case Study Example The industry environment tools include: industry definition, industry life cycle, and Porter's five forces. The competitor environment can be analysed by the framework explained in chapter 2; comparison of critical success factors; and market commonality or resource similarity. A framework of competitor analysis takes into consideration the high or low level of market commonality, simultaneously with the high or low level of resource similarity. The portfolio of resources of two different firms are examined to find the degree of market commonality and resource similarity, and this is displayed graphically as shaded area. In question #2 we analyse the internal environment, which consists of: tangible resources, intangible resources, capabilities, core competencies, competitive advantage, and value chain analysis. We then summarise the main strengths and weaknesses that we have identified from the analysis of the internal environment. Question #2 is answered using the case study and tools such as SWOT matrix/SWOT analysis, Ansoff's matrix, Grand Strategy matrix, etc. These tools are used to identify strategic options available to Wal-Mart. We then critically assess these strategic options. The components of internal analysis leading to competitive advantage and strategic competitiveness include the inter... We then summarise the main strengths and weaknesses that we have identified from the analysis of the internal environment. Question #2 is answered using the case study and tools such as SWOT matrix/SWOT analysis, Ansoff's matrix, Grand Strategy matrix, etc. These tools are used to identify strategic options available to Wal-Mart. We then critically assess these strategic options. The components of internal analysis leading to competitive advantage and strategic competitiveness include the internal environment factors considered above. In addition, the category of discovering core competencies involves four criteria of sustainable advantages: valuable, rare, costly to imitate, and nonsubstitutable. Discovering core competencies also includes value chain analysis, that can be outsourced. In addition to competitive analysis is strategic competitive analysis. Tangible resources include financial resources, such as the ability to generate internal funds; organizational resources, which consist of the reporting, planning, controlling and coordinating systems; physical resources, such as access to raw materials; and technological resources, such as patents and trade secrets. Intangible resources include human resources, such as knowledge; innovation resources, such as ideas and capacity to innovate; and reputational resources, such as brand name. For a sustainable competitive analysis, McKinsey & Co. suggest a company strive for three to four core competencies. More than this number may cause a company to lose its focus. A value chain analysis is a tool that lets a company see where its value lies, and what elements of the company do not hold value. Value chain analysis is also used to understand the company's cost position. In a value chain,