Critical Analysis of published research paper Essay

Critical Analysis of published research paper - Essay Example MEs, indeed, comprise one of the negative issues overwhelming the medical world today. It is not new anymore but is still uncontrollably happening—which had urged and is continually urging many to uncover some facts that surround it through research. Such researches have heralded attention not only from the people engaged in the provision of care but also from its recipients and from the rest of the world to see whether proposed actions by the researchers can be efficiently applied and make used of. The research paper done by Bohomol, Ramos, and D’Innocenzo (2009) entitled â€Å"Medication errors in an intensive care unit† is one of those researches focused in the subject of medication errors in a specialized unit—the intensive care unit (ICU). In this paper, their research will be subjected to fair evaluation to enable analysis of its applicability and practicability to the medical field and work. Specifically, the paper will assess the research’s effectiveness based on its research design, data collection, validity, reliability, data analysis, certain ethical considerations and other important matters that will give rise to its importance or worthlessness. With due respect to the researchers’ capability to conduct thorough research process, this paper will also try review the research’s outcome competency in relation to the goals that the researchers have formulated. As reported by Creswell (2003), the purpose statement of a research â€Å"establishes the direction for the research† (p. 87). Hence, it is from the purpose statement that researchers formulate key points that must be considered throughout the study. Bohomol et al. (2009) clearly iterated their research rationale by simply stating that the research was done to investigate the â€Å"incidence types and causes of medication errors and the consequences for patients† (p. 1259). It was straightforward and direct to the point; it

New health care Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words - 1

New health care - Assignment Example It is in this call from the developing countries and the various stakeholders in the health sector that as medical practitioners and professionals; alongside partnerships of other stakeholders such as the communities in those areas, the policy makers, local authorities, and business leaders that we seek to establish new models of care in Nigeria, as a developing country. Diversity is a challenge within the health and social care systems of the world. The hospital as a public place services multitudes of people from diverse cultural backgrounds, creating the need to accommodate the factor of diversity in every new model of care (Diller, 2011). Particularly, with the selected case where this new health model will serve, that is Nigeria, there are over 50 different communities, all distributed across the country, especially in the urban settlements (Okehie-Offoha, 2006). The tiers of healthcare in Nigeria incorporate three levels, the federal, state and local governments. The country initiated several developments recently within the health care system, including incorporating a national insurance policy, policies regarding the availability and distribution of drugs and medical equipment, financing for the health care systems, partnerships among others. The entire developments align with the millennium development goals, in which the country aims to at tain safe, sufficient, and effective healthcare system for her people. The cultural diversity in Nigeria incorporates several factors including differences in the origins of the people, their dressing, languages, art and traditional practices among many others. Particularly, the Kaduna State in the northern section of the country is among the symbols in Nigeria with remarkably vast sub-political entities. It has over fifteen tribes, with the majority of the minority groups in Nigeria located within this state

Piece of irony Essay Example for Free

Piece of irony Essay His odyssey then comes to a halt, as he perceives his friend, Henry Clerval. Coming across this memorable person allows him to forget his horror and misfortune; it allows him to feel calm and serene joy. They exchange stories and Victor reveals the scenario of his created monster. Henry believes it is a disturbed imagination, but the pertinacity of the story allows it to become believable. Where will Frankenstein go from here? This chapter is of pure significance to how the story is concluded. It creates suspense, knowing there is a vile monster on the loose. Where will it go? What will it do? This chapter allows new themes to be created. Death! Love! What will this mean for Frankenstein? Will he live or will he die? How will this gothic novel conclude and what effect will this monster have on the communities welfare? The character of Frankenstein should be immensely appreciated. Is Frankenstein who we think he is? From previously read chapters, we see the emotional and diligent side of Frankenstein. He is seen to be energetic, beneficial, well-mannered; a man of determination who would in capacitate at the thought of failure. However, chapter 5 emphasizes the indolent and non-progressive side of Dr. Frankenstein. We see this by the way he reacts to the form and appearance of his unforgettable monster. For example, he uses a great phrase: With anxiety that almost amounted to agony. This suggests that the amount of fear and worry was immensely increasing. Victors feelings towards his creature are negative, consequently his use of irony emphasizes this. One piece of irony used is: I had selected his features as beautiful. Beautiful! Great God! Victor doesnt mean what he says so he uses sarcasm to overlap his disappointment. Victor also uses a rhetorical question to make himself and the reader think. He asks himself: how can I describe my emotions at this catastrophe? . This once again clarifies his negativity towards the monster. In this chapter, Victor has two main dreams, one being of relevance. His first dream is about the outcome of his creation; the beauty that had encountered to disgust and breathless horror. The second of the two dreams is the most abnormal. Victor dreamt that his wife Elizabeth had wandered the streets of Ingolstadt in the bloom of health; once embracing her, he kisses her dainty lips and somehow her body reforms to that of his dead mother, wrapped up in cloth, covered scarcely in graveworms. This is of pure relevance to the rest of the novel as they are seen as signs for what is to come in the future. As it happens, his dream in some phases becomes true. Elizabeth, Victors wife gets killed by his vicious creature. From this stage, Victor is forced to create a companion for the monster; not consenting to this would lead to more homicides within Victors family. In the novel, Mary Shelley illustrates a poem to correlate with Victors retreat from home. The first line of the poem reads: Like one, on a lonesome road. Using this sentence suggests that Victor is walking by himself; disassociated with anyone. At this moment in time, he is feeling poorly and anxious about what the consequences hold. The second line reads: Doth walk in fear and dread. This emphasizes the fact that he is scared as he triumphants through the streets. The next line reads: And having once turned round, walks on. This phrase states that he turns around to see his surroundings, and then continues his journey. Victors feels as if the monster has banished him from Ingolstadt. The following line reads; And turns no more his head. This tells us that Victor doesnt want to come in contact with the monster again. At this point, Victor still has the feeling of disappointment and embarrassment in himself. Next the poem reads; Because he knows a frightful flend. This means he knows a frightful demon, of whom to him is the monster he created. The final line of the poem reads: Doth close behind him tread. This means that the monster is perhaps close behind him. At this moment, Victor feels paranoid and weary. Within this gothic novel, Victor includes 3 themes: dark science, isolation and weather. Dark science is used to indicate the creation of the fiend, made from scarce rotted bodily parts. His thoughts are deep and out of this world. His knowledge takes him so deep into science that his tutor tries to prevent him passing a certain stage in his medical degree. His aim is to infuse life into an inanimate body. He succeeds, however is disappointed with his result. During this theme, it is intercepted by weather. During the lonely nights and experimental days, the dark science compacts with horrid weather. For example: it was on a dreary night of November that I beheld the accomplishments of my toils. This tells us that the night the monster was finalised, the night and atmosphere was very dull. Another example of the weather.

Role Of Technology In The Operations Of Argos Marketing Essay

Role Of Technology In The Operations Of Argos Marketing Essay The organisation, Argos was founded in 1973 and is part of Home Retail Group (Parent Company). It is a generalized store, which sells a vast number of household products such as: household appliances, toys and games, DIY, sports and leisure, etc. According to the Times: Argos has a formidable grasp in most of the aforementioned markets. This establishments business model is based on a simple initiative: combine the comfort and the convenience of home selection (catalogues, internet, and phone) with the nearness of its high street stores. Since it first started out, Argos has always been noticed for its innovative use of technology similar to the way other organisations like Walmart, Amazon or Tesco utilize this type of technology. Computer systems have always had a huge impact on the way Argos functions as a retailer. Argos uses ICT to monitor stock levels, to recognise market developments earlier, to avoid stock shortage situations and to eliminate product theft. Tesco has a very similar business structure/model. Argos is convenient because of its integration with its virtual online business and its retail stores, just like the way Tesco operates; using its stores as its main core of operations. Argos also publishes two catalogues a year, the spring/summer edition at the start of January and the autumn/winter catalogue around mid-July. Finance and Accounting Argos is one of the UKs major non-fare retail groups. In 1998, after poor financial results, it was taken over by GUS (Great Universal Stores) plc. The then new appointed managing director Terry Duddy then set out to improve its performance. Part of Terrys job was to change the values and beliefs (the culture) shared at Argos. As stated in the Times 100 case study: The culture he (Terry) developed is one that values: customer service, teamwork, encouraging managers to take their own decisions, respect for each other and wanting to be competitive and improve. The Times then goes on to say that these values were clearly communicated to the employees; so that they felt more a part of the business. This clearly shows how Argos consulted with its staff to build a sound team, with team values such as: Welcoming change Being impatient to win Having lots of opportunities Working in teams Argos has built these values into its culture. To support this change, they also provided good introductory training, promotional opportunities and performance goals. As well as changing the culture at Argos, managers changed the marketing fusion. This consisted of the traditional Four Ps along with other issues which Argos thought important. Product. Market studies showed that the Argos brand was seen as dull and old-fashioned. Argos then modernised the brand with a new logo and new slogan: Brighter Shopping. It also extended its product range. Promotion. Argos advertises to separate market sectors. It divides its market by traditional ways but also uses brand awareness. As quoted from the Times: The get it group who know and understand the brand are used to help bring on board the dont get it group. Price. Argos continually keeps its prices as low as possible. Place (distribution). Argos continues to expand its retail market by opening new shops. Its catalogue is a key part of its distribution system and is found in 70% of British homes.  [2]   People Argos provides good training for its staff as part of its culture change. Process Alongside traditional shopping methods, Argos introduced Quick Pay and Text and Take Home. (Customers text to see if an item is in stock, and then reserve it to collect later) Quick Pay cuts down on queues by allowing customers to check availability, order and pay using credit or debit cards. Physical environment. Argos invested in improvements to make shops more appealing to consumers. As a result of these implemented changes to Argoss culture and the employment of technology. Argos now out-performs the market as a whole: Between the periods (2002-2003) sales grew by 13% and profits by 17%.  [3]   Sales Marketing For advertising, it (Argos) uses a variety of different media to promote its retail market, such as: television, radio, newspapers, catalogues, magazines, posters and the internet. Depending on which is the most beneficial and efficient at the time. This method of utilizing technology is very effective relating to attracting new and old customers namely by proposing: Value for money Convenience. Marketing managers at Argos are continually concerned with addressing questions such as: Who are our consumers? (Argos wants to discover as much information as possible on its customers in order to meet their requirements.) Are we proposing enough variety of products, appeal and convenience? How can we gain advantages over competition? (How is Argos different from the opposition?) How can we defend what trade we already have and how can we expand? How do we successfully interact with our customers? According to the website, computerworlduk, this year Argoss internet website accounted for 32% of the organisations total sales, 22% of which used the online click and reserve service. This shows how much of a positive impact the technology of the internet has had on this retail giant. However, compared to last years same interim sales review this year was 11% down, but despite the 11% fall in profits, online sales had significant growth. Argos sales ( £M): 2006 = 3,859, 2007 = 4,164, 2008 = 4,321, 2009 = 4,282, 2010 = 4,347Description: % Sales across more than one channel: Totals: 2006: 32 2007: 35 2008: 37 2009: 40 2010: 43 2010: Home delivery Store 7.7 Phone 1.6 Internet 9.5 Check Reserve Phone 9.5 Internet 22.5 Sales ( £M) (Picture on left) Definition: Sales in the 52 weeks to 27 February 2010 increased by 1.5% in total. There was further strong growth in televisions and personal computers, offsetting weakness in the video gaming market. Toy sales grew strongly. Challenging market conditions continued in home-related areas such as furniture, but the rate of decline moderated over the year. Source: audited financial statements. Sales across more than one channel (%) (Picture on right) Multi-channel sales grew to  £1.9bn or 43% of Argos sales. The internet represented 32% of Argoss sales; over two-thirds of this or 22% of Argos total sales were customers using online Check Reserve for store collection, with this channel growing by 36% for a second year in a row. Definition: Percentage of sales across more than one channel. There are three ordering channels: the internet, phone or store and two fulfillment channels, store or home delivery. Source: Measured internally. Argos has a multitude of unique marketing and sales strategies in retail. Argoss stated mission statement is: We provide our customers with the best value for money through the most convenient shopping experience. This statement clearly sets out the main areas which differentiate Argos from its rivals, namely by offering its customers. As stated in 2002 by managing director of Argos, Kate Swann. Customers can: Pick up a catalogue Choose at home (internet) Use a store to collect or order Use a store for collection point Order at home (telephone) Use home delivery She also specified that Argoss drivers for growth were: Small kitchen appliances (which it was in top position in 2001 for both value and volume) Beds and mattresses Watches Jewellery Portable audio Toys Retail Structure Tesco was the first to use such a structure; by combining its online website(s) with its supermarkets. Argos most likely adopted this similar strategy based on Tescos overwhelming success. However, Argos retail stores have minimal staff (unlike Tesco), and exploit technology to its full potential (like Tesco and Amazon). On an independent case study by Databank Consulting, they stated that: Argoss business model is a multi-channel approach: customers are offered different types of outlets for shopping. Prior to the introduction of the new e-channels, the customers could only browse the offer in the catalogue or directly at the store  [4]   They also suggested that Argoss success as a retailer has been based on its influential decision to adopt a technological based approach, by stating: The Argos website was launched in 1995à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Nearly 10 years later, Argos can be called a pioneer and leader in e-commerce. With www.Argos.co.uk, the company became UKs number two Clicks and Bricks retailer, combining both store based and online sales.  [5]   Before its decision to introduce a system called Nominated Carrier Scheme, the problem of receiving and delivering products was problematic and complicated, because every supplier has its own form of transportation, its specific method of documenting and specific time schedules. The decision was therefore to adopt a single system to bring together all the produce from suppliers and have them offered as only one delivery. This stock chain solution by UPS receives, validates and handles shipments from several hundred Argos suppliers. UPS then checks that the order is accurate, merges it with other orders and then sends it to Argoss own warehouses for the final delivery. Possible Improvements Argos could implement an improved stock ordering and restocking system. Argos stated that it would continue to roll out a voice put away process across all stores over the next two years. They then went on to say: This technology (voice put away) helps to automatically guide stock room assistants to the correct location  [6]   The key benefits of this technology would be; quicker processing and enhanced stock accuracy, thereby improving availability of stock and the level of customer satisfaction. Another possible improvement could be directed towards their gaming sector; as this is one of the areas they do not perform well in. They could do this by adopting a similar strategy to gaming stores like; Gamestation or Granger games. Which will include a trade in system for games and the value of the trade in(s) would be deducted from their chosen purchase from the Argos stores. Argos could then go on to sell the traded in games. The key benefits of this adopted strategy would be; increased sales at Argos as many people who buy games would be more inclined to shop there, increased revenue and a larger share of the gaming market. Conclusion Overall, this organisation effectively utilizes technology for growth, stability and convenience for both Argos and its customers. Argos has gained competitive advantage over competitors by distinguishing itself on the basis of providing the best value for money for customers through the most convenient shopping experience  [7]  . Tesco was one of the first organisation giants to integrate its already existing chain of supermarkets with a virtual online one, Argos uses the similar strategy but with a difference; convenience of reserving products online and collecting at the customers nearest retail store (there Click and Reserve service). The dominance and success of Argos (and other organisations like Tesco and Amazon) are a result of each of them applying their own unique shopping experience  [8]  . Argos is popular and successful because it is focused around meeting the customers needs. By incorporating new technologies, Argos continues to provide the methods that are most appropriate to the modern-day retailing experience.

O, the Sweetness of Reading :: Literacy Illiterate Education Texas Essays

O, the Sweetness of Reading Works Cited Missing Deep in the wilderness of Texas, the untamed, open fields provide a vast space for imagination to run free. Tales of adventure, cattle ranches, gamblers, rogues, and scoundrels abound. In the book Raising Sweetness, author Diane Stanley contrasts the stereotype of uncivilized lawlessness with a story of eight Texas orphans and the sheriff in their town who adopted them. The contrast of a sheriff of the wild west and orphans provides a unique juxtaposition. Despite this contrast of the stereotypical Texas sheriff, a more realistic problem provides the major conflict of the story—the sheriff and the orphans can not read. Although illiteracy was a common problem in the west it is not a respected method of killing off bad guys. Therefore, modern depictions of the wild west overlook illiteracy. Because illiteracy is the main hindrance to the characters’ quest of being able to read a letter, the illustrations to the book become even more important than just providing interest to the reader. The pictures provide a medium in which not only actions and key information, but also emotions are portrayed. These illustrations become an integral part in adding depth to the story. Through the use of coloring, style, details not described in the text, and perspective the illustrations make the story more effective. The coloring in the pictures makes the story more effective because it portrays the emotion that correlates to the text. For example, one illustration has only the colors brown, black, and white. The corresponding text is a flashback of how the sheriff’s â€Å"darlin’ done broke† his heart (4). Thus, the coloring effectively portrays the sad emotion because dark, neutral colors have a depressing connotation associated with them. Another picture that uses dark coloring portrays the orphanage and the mean caretaker who made the orphans scrub floors with toothbrushes. This illustration uses different shades of brown as the only colors. The picture represents a flashback to a previous book in which the sheriff adopts all the children to save them from the horrid caretaker. The brown tones give the appearance of an old, faded picture. The tones also lack warmth or brightness thus, they correspond to the emotion of dislike for the caretaker. This portrays that the actions took place in the past, and emphasizes the unpleasantness of the memory. Conversely, the illustrator uses light pastel colors whenever the sheriff’s sweetheart, Miss Lucy, is shown.

Natural Born Japanese Killers :: Exploratory Essays Research Papers

Natural Born Japanese Killers Americans and Japanese are both fond of pointing out the difference in crime rates. To many Japanese, America is seen as an outlaw nation, bristling with guns. And for many Americans, the juxtaposition of Japan's often ultra-violent entertainment with their low crime rate is fascinating. Japanese pop culture and crime statistics are often cited to defend American entertainment when it is accused of inspiring violence. But for anyone paying attention, startling crimes have a way of popping up in Japan unexpectedly. There were the "Otaku Murders" of 1988 and 1989, where Tsutomo Miyazaki kidnapped and killed four girls of around five years of age, reenacting gruesome scenes from his hentai collection. The serin gas attack in 1995 is another notable incident in the analogs of Japanese crime history. Perpetrated by the Aum Shinrikyo cult, almost a dozen people were killed during the terrorist attack. I asked a Japanese friend of mine once, "Are there gangs in Japan?" I've since learned that Japan has a long history of gangs, including everything from high school motorcycle gangs to the Yakuza, but he shook his head. He said there were no gangs, but in Japan sometimes kids just go crazy. He told me the story of a boy who would kill people on the street, discretely, and then hide in an alley to watch the ensuing action. He was eventually caught with the murder weapon near one of his crime scenes. This was several years ago, and I wrote the story off as an urban legend. Recently, however, there have been several articles published about teenage boys committing gory crimes in Japan. Over the last year there have been multiple incidents. A 65-year old woman in Aichi prefecture was murdered on May 1, 2000. On May 3, a boy in Saga prefecture hijacked a bus with a knife. He held a six-year-old girl hostage, killed one woman, and wounded five others. There have been more crimes, including knivings in people's homes, baseball bat bludgeonings and matricide, budgeonings with hammers, and, just two weeks ago, a 15-year-old boy on Kyushu crept into a house during the night and attacked a family. All six family members were attacked, and three died. Incidents such as these have been reported in many newspapers and online news sites, but I take the examples above from two articles on the subject. Tim Larimer, a correspondent for Time wrote "Natural-Born

Findings, Recommendations and Conclusions on Hyundai Motors

A REPORT ON INTERNSHIP TRAINING SAGAR LOGISTICS LIMITED Submitted in the partial fulfilment of the requirement for the award of the degree of MASTER OF INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS By SIDHARTH THOMAS REG NO: 11MIB111 2011-2013 SCHOOL OF COMMERCE AND INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS Dr. G. R. DAMODARAN COLLEGE OF SCIENCE (Autonomous) Affiliated to Bharathiar University and Re accredited with ‘A’ grade by NAAC, An ISO 9001:2000 Certified Institution Civil Aerodrome Post, Avinashi Road, Coimbatore- 641 014. SCHOOL OF COMMERCE AND INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS Dr. G. R.DAMODARAN COLLEGE OF SCIENCE (Autonomous) Affiliated to Bharathiar University and Re accredited with ‘A’ grade by NAAC, An ISO 9001:2000 Certified Institution Civil Aerodrome Post, Avinashi Road, Coimbatore- 641 014 CERTIFICATE This is to certify that the internship report on GENERAL STUDY ON LOGISTICS is a bonafide record of work done by SIDHARTH THOMAS REG NO: 11MIB111, in partial fulfilment of the requirement for the award of the degree of MASTER OF INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS COURSE DIRECTOR Submitted for Viva-Voce Examination held on INTERNAL EXAMINER   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  EXTERNAL EXAMINER DECLARATIONI hereby declare that the internship report on â€Å"A GENERAL STUDY ON LOGISTICS† DONE AT SAGAR LOGISTICS submitted in the partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the degree of MASTER OF INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS is the original work carried out by me. It is not formed as a part of any other project work submitted for the award of any degree or diploma, either to this or to any other university. SIDHARTH THOMAS REG NO: 11MIB111 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT I express my sincere thanks to DR. K. K. RAMACHANDRAN, Director, G. R. D SCHOOL OF COMMERCE AND INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS, for providing me this opportunity to take up this internship training.I wish to express my deep sense of gratitude to Mr. VS PRADEEP, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER of SAG AR LOGISTICS PVT LIMITED, for his kind acceptance of training request in the company. The gratitude passes to all the trainers of  SAGAR LOGISTICS PVT. LTD, who gave me support and training during my internship training in the company. I also express my sincere thanks to Mr. S. MOORTHY who guided me throughout my report. I extend my sincere thanks to all my family members for being extremely supportive during my training period. SIDHARTH THOMAS TABLE OF CONTENT S. NO| CHAPTER| NAME| PAGENO| 1. | I | 1.INTRODUCTION TO INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS2. INTRODUCTION TO THE INDUSTRY3. OBJECTIVES4. ROLE AS AN INTERN| 6-891011| 2. | II| 1. COMPANY PROFILE2. VISION AND MISSION3. PRODUCT PROFILE/ SERVICE PROFILE| 111212-20| 3. | III| 1. DEPARTMENTAL ACTIVITIES| 20-26| 4. | IV| 1. OUTCOME OF THE INTERNSHIP2. CONCLUSION| 2728| Introduction to international business International business is a term used to collectively describe all commercial transactions (private and governmental, sales, investments , logistics, and transportation) that take place between two or more regions, countries and nations beyond their political boundary.Usually, private companies undertake such transactions for profit; governments undertake them for profit and for political reasons. 1 It refers to all those business activities which involve cross border transactions of goods, services, resources between two or more nations. Transaction of economic resources include capital, skills, people etc. for international production of physical goods and services such as finance, banking, insurance, construction etc. 2 International business involves commercial activities that cross national frontiers.It concerns the international movement of goods, capital, services, employees and technology; importing and exporting; cross border transactions in intellectual property via licensing and franchising; investments in physical and financial assets in foreign countries; contract manufacture or assembly of goods abroad for local sale or for export to other nations; buying and selling in foreign countries; the establishment of foreign warehousing and distribution systems; and the import to one foreign country of goods from a second foreign country for subsequent local sale. 3All the basic tools and concepts of domestic business management are relevant to international business. However, special problem arise in international business, in particular * Deals might have to be transacted in foreign languages and under foreign laws, customs and regulations. * Information on foreign countries needed by a particular firm may be difficult * Foreign currency transactions will be necessary. Exchange rate variations can be very wide and create many problems for international business. * Numerous cultural differences may have to be taken into account when trading in other nations. Control and communication systems are normally more complex for foreign than for domestic operations. * Risk levels might be higher in foreign markets. * International managers require a broader range of management skills than do managers who are concerned only with domestic problems. 1-Daniels, J. , Radebaugh, L. , Sullivan, D. (2007). International Business: environment and operations, 11th edition. Prentice Hall. * Large amounts of important work might have to be left to intermediaries, consultants and advisers. * It is more difficult to observe and monitor trends and activities in foreign countries.Why firms engage in International Business? Business undertakes international operations in order to expand sales, acquire resources from foreign countries, or diversify these activities (Anderson 1993). The motives for operating internationally are as follows: * Commercial risks can be spread across several countries. * Involvement in international business can facilitate the ‘experience curve’ effect. * Economies of scope (as opposed to economies of scale) might become available. Economies of scale are reductions in unit production costs resulting from large scale operations. The costs of new product dev could require so much expenditure that the firm is compelled to adopt an international perspective. * There might be intense competition in the home market but little in certain foreign countries. * A company’ overall strategies and plans can be anchored against a wider range of opportunities. Sudden collapses in market demand in some countries may be offset by expansions elsewhere. * Cross-border trade is today much easier to organise than in the past. International business is not new – businesses and nations have conducted trade across national boundaries for centuries.Lured by the prospects of large markets and/or sources of raw materials, businesses have traded with other parts of the world. But as we will see later global business and global industry is different. Overseas trade and Ansoff’s matrix Thinking about international business in the contex t of Ansoff’s matrix: * Entry into overseas markets represents market development. * Existing products are sold in new markets. * It is appealing because: – market penetration is difficult in saturated markets. – product development is costly. – diversification is risky Why enter overseas markets?The reasons for entering overseas markets can be categorised into â€Å"push† and â€Å"pull† factors: Push factors * Saturation in domestic markets * Economic difficulty in domestic markets * Near the end of the product life cycle at home * Excess capacity * Risk diversification Pull factors * The attraction of overseas markets * Increase sales * Enjoy greater economies of scale * Extend the product life cycle * Exploit a competitive advantage * Personal ambition Factors in the choice of which overseas market(s) to enter: * Size of the market (population, income) * Economic factors (state of the economy) Cultural linguistic factors (e. g. preferenc e for countries with similar cultural background) * Political stability (there is usually a preference for stable areas) * Technological factors (these affect demand and the ease of trading) Constraints and difficulties in entering overseas markets: * Resources * Time * Market uncertainty * Marketing costs * Cultural differences * Linguistic differences * Trade barriers * Regulations and administrative procedures. * Political uncertainties * Exchange rates (transactions costs & risks) * Problems of financing * Working capital problems * Cost of insurance Distribution networks Exporting is only one method of doing business internationally * We normally think of overseas trade in terms of exporting and importing goods and services * This involves transporting goods and selling them across national boundaries. * Direct exporting implies that the domestic firm is actively involved in selling the goods abroad * Indirect exporting means that the marketing of goods is delegated to export a gents and the UK manufacturer concentrates on production * But exporting involving the movement of goods is only one method of engaging in international businessOther methods of market entry * Overseas product an/or assembly (producing goods abroad) * International alliances and joint ventures (working with foreign companies) * International M&A (mergers and acquisitions across frontiers) * International franchising and licensing allowing foreign based firms to produce, market and distribute goods in specified areas abroad) A. Definition LOGISTICS IS THE ART AND SCIENCE OF MANAGEMENT, ENGINEERING AND TECHNICAL ACTIVITIES CONCERNED WITH REQUIREMENTS, DESIGN AND SUPPLYING, MAINTAINING RESOURCES TO SUPPORT OBJECTIVES, PLANS AND OPERATION. — SOCIETY OF LOGISTICS ENGINEERS (SOLE) 1974. Fierce competition in today’s market has forced business enterprises to invest in and focus on supply chains. The growth in telecommunication and transportation technologies has led to furthe r growth of the supply chain. The supply chain, also known as the logistics network, consists of suppliers, manufacturing centers, warehouses, distribution centers and retail outlets, as well as raw materials, work-in-process inventory and finished products that flow between the facilities.The logistics management takes into consideration every facility that has an impact on cost. It plays an important role in making the product conform to customer requirements. Also it involves efficient integration of suppliers, manufacturers, warehouses and stores and encompasses the firms’ activities at many levels, from the strategic level through the tactical to the operational level. Logistics is a challenging and important activity because it serves as an integrating or boundary spanning function.It links suppliers with customers and it integrates functional entities across a company. With the ever-growing competition in today’s market place it becomes necessary for a firm to u se its resources to focus on strategic opportunities. This includes several internal factors like management style, culture, human resources, facilities and several external factors like technology, globalization and competition. This is where the concept of logistics plays a major role, i. e. it helps to leverage certain advantages the firm has in the marketplace.B. Role of Logistics Lets us now have a look at how logistics works. It is important to recognize the importance of a dynamic balance between the minute details and the main elements involved in a product. The Role of Logistics is to maintain that balance. Once the firm realizes the importance of logistics it is necessary that the firm make full and efficient use of logistics. The first step is to create a buyer value for the customer and a strategic value for the firm. The customer is the most important asset for a company.He drives the entire supply chain including manufacturing, marketing and logistics. Hence it is impo rtant for a firm to have a clear understanding of what the customer demands and to keep up to the customers expectations. Once a company has a clear understanding of its customer’s requirements it must device a strategy on how to use logistics to achieve it. This means that the company has to have a clear understanding or assessment of company’s strategic direction. Now lets take a look at the various steps involved in a logistics strategy development and planning process.Visioning: this includes the systematic development of an organizational consensus regarding the key inputs to the logistics planning process as well as identification of the potential alternative logistics approaches. This is an important step for the following reasons: * Helps to define a strategic direction to the company and also to get a clear understanding the role of logistics in it. * Get a clear idea of the requirements of the various segments of customers. * Have a look at the various factor s that would affect the strategy of the company. * Define alternative strategies and also the scope of the planning effort.Strategic analysis: this involves taking a look at the various components involved in the process and selecting the best logistics process among the alternatives. These components, which are to be reviewed, are revealed during he first step. This may include revamping the entire process to assessing how a single component can be used more effectively. Planning: this involves the assembling of a plan that outlines the mission and goals for the logistics function and the programs and activities to achieve these goals. Logistics planning is an iterative process.The plans have to be redefined every year to improve the quality of performance. Managing change: this involves effective management to implement enhanced ways of conducting business. The management should keeping changing the plans in accordance with the change in the market and also coach the organization to effectively embrace this change. C. Current Logistics Related Issues There are several factors that affect logistics. These issues need to be anticipated, prepared for and taken advantage of for a company to be successful in today’s market. They are External: * Globalisation * Technology Workforce 2000 * challenging nature of the work force * Environmental concerns Internal: * Customer service and quality * Third party networks * Supply chain management * Changes in management and organization style Listed below are some of the steps that could be followed to mitigate the above mentioned issues: Performance: * Better service for customers * Improved productivity * Assess just in time and quick response needs System structure: * Better relationship with vendors, customers and third parties to more effectively manage the supply chain * Better relationship within and across the organizationTechnology integration: * Better information systems that connect functions and organiz ations * Combine information and material handling systems for increased efficiency and effectiveness. OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY * To study the performance of LOGISTICS process. . * To know about the marketing techniques and promotion measures. * To understand the overall functioning of all the various departments. AS A INTERNEE I did my Internship training at SAGAR LOGISTICS PVT. LTD. I had a very good experience observing and working with various departments of SAGAR.COMPANY PROFILE SAGAR shipping was started in the year 1987 at Willington Island, Kochi, Kerala to provide professionalized service in the area of clearing and forwarding. This is our Silver Jubilee year. OUR LEADER & MISSIONARY : Mr. V. S Pradeep is the founder of this organization and is the chief executive officer. Amongst the many laurels that adorn his professional cap the following needs special mention. President Cochin Customs Agent Association (1999-2001) Director Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Two terms ) Trustee Cochin port (2000-2002)OUR MISSION : Our mission is to provide a personalized touch to the professional service of Clearing & Forwarding by finding the right person for the right job and by ensuring the right job for the right person. It is our Endeavour to translate our years of experience, competence and goodwill to cater to the stringent demands of changing times. We take pride in building long term relationships and quality service with uncompromising thoroughness, integrity, confidentiality and timely delivery. We take time to listen, understand and match the needs of our clients.OUR ETHICS : We are a value based organization. We conduct reference checks before our service is offered. We ensure confidentiality to our clients. OUR SERVICES : * Custom Clearing forwarding * Baggage clearance * Packing * Freight forwarding * Warehousing * Transporting Packing and Warehousing The packing of the goods for export is a complex task to ensure goods are protected against the ri sks involved in their handling and the modes of transportation being used. Consideration needs to be given to the climates and terrain of the countries through which the consignments will be travelling.Too much heavy packing could prove costly for goods travelling by air, for example. On the other hand, too little packing might prove a false economy. Many forwarders provide a packing service for their customers, and the forwarder’s expertise . . Who are Freight Forwarders? The different types of freight forwarding companies can be broadly divided into three categories: Local companies – These are generally small single office companies which tend to deal with customers in the local area, or operate at a seaport or airport concentrating on particular types of traffic.National companies – Many forwarders have offices in the major ports and airports throughout the country as well as in the largest industrial towns. They may also have warehousing or handling depots from where they operate their own services. Such companies will often have agents or correspondents overseas in the markets with which they operate. International companies – The truly international company will have its own offices overseas and offer a wide range of worldwide services. Import Procedures Procedures have to be followed by ‘person-in-charge of conveyance’ as well as the importer.WHO IS ‘PERSON IN CHARGE' – As per section 2(31), ‘person in charge' means (a) In case of vessel – its master (b) In case of aircraft – its commander or pilot-in-charge (c) In case of train – its conductor or guard and (d) In case of vehicle or other conveyance – its driver or other person in charge. The significance of this definition is – He is responsible for submitting Import Manifest and Export Manifest He is responsible to ensure that the conveyance comes through approved route and lands at approved place only. He has to ensure that goods are unloaded after written order, at proper place.Loading also has to be only after permission. He has to ensure that conveyance does not leave without written order of Customs authorities. He can be penalised for (a) Giving false declaration and statement (b) shortages or non-accounting of goods in conveyance Procedure by Importer – The importer importing the goods has to follow prescribed procedures for import by ship/air/road. (There is separate procedure for goods imported as a baggage or by post. ) Bill of Entry – This is a very vital and important document which every importer has to submit under section 46.The Bill of Entry should be in prescribed form. The standard size of Bill of Entry is 16†³ ? 13†³. However, for computerisation purposes, 15†³ ? 12†³ size is permitted. (Mumbai Customs Public Notice No. 142/93 dated 3-11- 93). Bill of Entry should be submitted in quadruplicate – original and duplicate for cus toms, triplicate for the importer and fourth copy is meant for bank for making remittances. Under EDI system, Bill of Entry is actually printed on computer in triplicate only after ‘out of charge’ order is given. Duplicate copy is given to importer.Types of Bill of Entry – Bills of Entry should be of one of three types. Out of these, two types are for clearance from customs while third is for clearance from warehouse. ACTIVITIES OF SELECTED DEPARTMENT Sea Freight Forwarding : services are offered irrespective of the nature of business i. e. export or import . Through our ocean Freight Forwarding Services, we handle general, project as well as stock shipments at the quickest pace. We ensure dry area for the proper placement of the arrived shipment at all the sea ports.Being a reliable Sea Freight Forwarder we also offer LCL and FCL consolidation . We also have support of order follow up and supply chain tracking system. Air Freight Forwarding : Service are the fir st of all quick and then very safe . The services of International Air Freight Forwarding include door to door service of pick up , custom clearance , delivery on the desired destination . Besides, we also pick up the cargo from the clients end . We promptly notify the consignee about the arrival of the shipment and delivery instruction . Besides, we are a trusted Air Freight Forwarder in India.The company offers gamut of Import and Export Services in the industry . We are reckoned as one of the leading Import Export agents in India. Our range of services in this category includes custom duty clearance , providing required bills and certificates, certified survey and compliances , third party inspection, transportation, warehousing and logistics solution and so on . Counted among the prominent import Export Agents in India, we take every measure to serve the clients in the most professional manner so that they get maximum satisfaction meeting their end vision.SAGAR logistics is spec ialized in offering highly reliable Custom Clearance Services in the industry. We are counted among the best Custom Clearing Agents in India. We extend our services for the hassle free transaction of shipments of the clients in almost all the customs houses in India. Our team of professionals is proficient in the complex documentation process of custom clearance . We take every care for the timely clearance of the goods from the ports or custom house through our Custom Clearance Services OUT COME OF THE INTERNSHIPGot to observe the various departments as an whole but not in detail Learned new things concerning the procedures of import and export Got a chance to interact with people around 5. 2 CONCLUSION Logistics is the one important function in business today. No marketing, manufacturing or project execution can succeed without logistics support. Logistics is important in India because of the country’s size, geography, population variety, natural and man-made calamities etc . The transport facilities are inadequate in India and roads are bad.India lacks a well-developed road network and waterways are still unexploited. Due to competition, globalization and information availability, logistics has gained extra importance. First: the days are gone when a manufacturer had a better raw material supplier than competitors. Then, the operations in a manufacturing process are well known to all. The processes are more or less standard. Also, technology is available to all. The only area where one can score over competitors is logistics. If logistics cost is reduced, there is a gain. . .