The U.S. Legal System

Emerging Adulthood A Literature Review - 3335 Words

Understanding Substance Use in Emerging Adulthood: A Literature Review Emerging adulthood is defined as a development stage of life, starting approximately at age 18, or the end of high school, and spanning until 25, when adult roles are â€Å"officially† adopted (White et al., 2006). Emerging adulthood is a relatively new stage of development, which was developed by Jeffrey Arnett in 2000. Arnett explained that there are â€Å"gap years† where youths begin to identify new roles in life, which separate them from family, in order to create their own families. Furthermore, emerging adulthood was proposed to emphasize the transition between adolescent and adulthood because the transition is long enough to be considered a stage of development (Arnett, 2007). According to Arnett (2005) there are five main features of emerging adulthood: (1) Identity exploration, which is defined as the process in which individuals re-identify themselves as adults. For this to occur , individuals must gradually remove themselves from adolescent roles, family dependence, and previous social dynamics, and explore these aspects in the adult world. (2) Instability, in which emerging adulthood is considered to be the most â€Å"crucial† transition in life, resulting individuals to be the most vulnerable. This vulnerability is due to the suspension of friend and family support. Due to this suspension, individuals have a strong desire to attach themselves to new support that they perceive as foundationalShow MoreRelatedRelationship Between Platonic And Romantic Relationships1477 Words   |  6 Pages The transition from childhood to emerging adulthood consists of a unique and distinctive period in an individual’s life regarding their network of platonic and romantic relationships. Extra-familial relationships become more central in an individual’s social world; thus, an individual’s capacity for intimate relationships begins to develop with both friends and romantic partners (Allen Land, 1999). Simultaneously, a romantic partner quickly becomes the focus in one’s relationship hierarchy (CollinsRead MoreThe Social Learning And Behavioral Theory1617 Words   |  7 PagesCriminal Justice system in the United States can stop this rise of offenses in adolescence into early adulthood. Through looking at the literature reviews below a few points can be picked out of them. The first literature review show how much early experiences in childhood can affect their behavioral outcomes. The second goes to show the repeating of crimes committed during late adolescent into early adulthood and how their individual crimes have certain trajectories. The last focuses on a specific groupRead MoreImportance of Transition into the Adult World in Adolescent Foster Care995 Words   |  4 Pagesfunctioning. Therefore, systematic approaches to providing social support and advocacy are necessary. Review of Literature: Solutions Attempted to Date Collins, Spencer Ward (n.d.) found that multiple support systems and multiple sources of support are best, as they provide a range of means by which the adolescent or young adult can make the transition and navigate the tricky waters of adulthood. Mentoring is particularly effective, and has been shown to meet these youths critical needs for continuousRead MoreEffects Of Depression On Adolescents And Adolescents1687 Words   |  7 Pagesmajor influence as to why one is not excelling in activities that they once loved. Depression is an illness where the feelings of depression persist and intervene with the child or adolescent’s functional ability (AACAP 2008, www.aacap.org). Literature Review There are sufficient amounts of research that shows the effects that depression has on adolescents. With one in five children experiencing depression, it is critical for parents/caregivers/educators to understand the effects that it has on theRead MoreThe And Tenets Of Life Course Criminology1587 Words   |  7 Pagesfact the progeny of a much older field of study: sociology. On review of key literature, life-course theory can be traced to its influences from the groundbreaking sociological work of Thomas and Znaniecki (1918) who published a series of studies on Polish peasant families immigrating to larger cities in Europe and the United States in the early 20th century. It has since been regarded as a classical piece of sociological literature for its empirical methods, inspiring even the Chicago School inRead MoreAre Children Less Fit Today Compared to Previous Decades?1502 Words   |  7 Pagesconcerns for children because it tracks into adulthood; therefore, physical activity and fitness are the key preventive measures (Baranowski et al., 1992). The importance of physical activity and fitness are associated with multiple health and wellness benefits in children (Downs, 2005; Tremblay et al., 2010). Children’s physical fitness levels have declined significantly compared to the past decades (Larouche, 2011). This paper reviews the literature on the present level of physical fitness in childrenRead MoreRomantic Relationships and Self-Esteem501 Words   |  2 Pagesdismissing-avoidant or avoidant. There was a significant positive correlation between self-esteem and intimacy in support of the previous literature that found relationship maintenance behaviors, in this case measured as intimacy, lead to an increased individual well-being (Braithwaite et al., 2010). The results of the present study also support the previous literature in the sense that attachment style hosts an impact on self-esteem and intimacy and that the dismissing-avoidant attachme nt style in particularRead MoreThe Clinical High Risk ( Chr ) Essay2026 Words   |  9 Pagespsychological, physical, emotional or sexual abuse occurring before the age of 17 years old (Bernstein et al., 2003; Kraan et al., 2015). While a wealth of data has demonstrated indirect associations between childhood trauma (CT) and psychosis in adulthood (cite reviews), prospective longitudinal studies of individuals with the CHR syndrome provide a unique opportunity to examine potential risk factors, resilience factors and underlying mechanisms that may link psychosis and CT. This population providesRead MoreEpistemological And Psychological Views Of Divorce1835 Words   |  8 Pagesempirical investigation which has assessed that divorce will not guarantee true satisfaction or contentment. Through the testimonies of many, their experience has led to a revelation of truth in their lives, and the true meaning of marriage. Literature Review of Epistemology and Divorce The study of Epistemology is evaluating how we know what we know. We know that divorce is a common issue, acceptable by society and administered by the law. Epistemology would show us that divorce also effects ourRead MoreThe Influence Of Gender Roles1404 Words   |  6 Pagesrole stereotype. From having an absent father to having parents argue about money or their children, could have effect on how children see their own or the opposite gender. This paper will review the current literature on how the gender role stereotypes effect people. Keywords: gender stereotypes, emerging adulthood, role congruency, backlash effects The Influence of Gender Role Stereotyping Gender role stereotyping has been shown to reduce performance of men. However, when women are put

Psychology and Teaching Assistant free essay sample

1.1 Describe the duties and responsibilities of own work role. The teaching assistant role includes working under the guidance of the teacher, supporting teaching and learning in the school nursery through group activities. I am able to devise learning activity plans also and also spontaneous learning activities which occur through play and other immediate learning activities. The learning assistant role also includes administration, wall displays, food preparation, leading activities with smaller and larger groups, and also individual work. Listening and talking with the children and offering support in social and emotional development as well as curriculum activity development. It is necessary to promote positive behaviours and deal with any negative behaviour in a professional manner. It is also necessary to promote equal opportunities, diversity and inclusion. It is necessary to build professional relationships with the children and also with other work colleagues. Assessment on a formative or summative basis is also part of the role. The teaching assistant role also includes effective safeguarding, and health and safety of the children and also the learning environment all contributes to a happy place, that is a safe and healthy place to learn within. 1.2 Explain expectations about own work role as expressed in relevant standards. There is a list of standards for school support staff depending on the role. The National Occupational Standards for Teaching Assistants offers guidance of competent performance. Some schools ask teaching assistants to complete the National Association of Professional Teaching Assistants. There are also local and national guidelines for codes of practice. 2.1 Explain the importance of reflective practice in continuously improving the quality of service provided. Reflective practice is actually reflective learning and then putting this learning into future practice. It is essential to reflect over activities and other things that have happened and work out if they worked out well, or did not work out well. Why? And what can be improved. It is a continual thinking process to strive for improvements. It is important to self-assess and assess situations by reflecting on them and then putting ideas/plans forward to progress from that event. It is good to  be able to discuss thoughts and ideas with colleagues to then identify areas of strengths and those that need further development. Reflective practice includes reflecting on own role when supporting children learning. It also includes managing children’s behaviour and planning and assessing and also feedback. Reflective practice also includes working with colleagues and other adults and professional development. 2.3 Describe how own values, belief systems and experiences may affect working practice. If the teaching assistant is a religious person, then there may be personal conflict with been expected to take part or support learners in other religions activities. If the teaching assistant has no religion, then it is likely to be easi er to support learning activities and personally be rather passive about the belief part of the religion, and just concentrate on the knowledge part of the religion. Own beliefs, and values and experiences shape the way a person is and so facing and taking part in activities about other beliefs, values and experiences can enhance learning and understanding depending on how flexible in thought and attitude the individual actually is. A person who is less flexible in thought and attitude may find that the taking part in activities of other beliefs, values and experiences can be a very challenging experience. 3.1 Evaluate own knowledge, performance and understanding against relevant standards. It is essential to reflect on learning activities that you have taken part in with the children and then compare with the national occupation of standards to see if you meet what is required. By working through and addressing areas of performance a person can begin to improve their practice. There are 69 units of the National Occupational Standards. These describe the skills and knowledge that teaching assistants need to do their job effectively. Teaching assistants and other support staff roles do not need to cover all 69, they just need to cover the ones which relate to their work environment. (see table attached regarding the relevant standards and my evaluation of own performance and understanding) 3.2 Explain how you would demonstrate use of feedback to evaluate own performance and inform development. Consider the feedback fully and then reflect on own performance to see if you can accommodate the feedback to make effective improvements to own performance to then be able to put this into further practice. Constructive feedback is best to work from and can aid professional development as well as additional training  opportunities. The assessment forms from tutor observed sessions in the workplace can highlight strengths and also areas that need some improvement. 4.1 Identify sources of support for planning and reviewing own development. Sources of support can come from other work colleagues, teaching assistants and teaching staff and also tutors if on further college courses. The planning and reviewing cycle is not unlike that of the planning and assessment cycle which a teaching assistant is part of in the working environment. There are also online materials and also books which can be used to aid learning in order to develop planning and reviewing abilities. The school system for employees would be to use formal and informal support and appraisal meetings with senior management. College staff for those on college courses can also be part of this support system. Inset/training days for staff are a way of gaining support for planning as information is pooled and new ideas and methods are put into operation. Da ta may be logged in a milestones format for reflection and further development. 4.2 Explain how you would demonstrate how to work with others to review and prioritise own learning needs, professional interests and development opportunities. The school appraisal system for employees is a way of assisting staff to consider their own professional performance on a frequent basis. This process needs to be a positive and non-threatening one to be at its most effective. A line manager may do this process for a general teaching assistant, whereas the schools SENCO is likely to do this for a teaching assistant with one to one supportive roles for a child or children with SEN. 4.3 Explain how you would demonstrate how to work with others to agree own personal development plan. A personal development plan is a plan to improve professional practice. The appraisal system and other formal and also informal feedback on a person’s professional development all contribute along with own reflective assessments of actual working experience. There will be opportunity for training in the working environment and also external training events which can be added into the personal development plan. The initial in employment training is the induction course for teaching assistants and also opportunities for other training to take place. These will cover areas such as behaviour management, SEN, and also supporting numeracy and literacy, and learning intervention schemes such as extra literacy and extra numeracy support training to be able to implement  these programmes effectively with children who need extra support. 5.1 Evaluate how learning activities have affected practice. Practice has been affected by learning activities with extended experience. Using the learning from these experiences it has helped to shape and develop abilities and new experiences have provided opportunity to try out and reflect upon. Observing and working with other colleagues have affected practice in offering ideas previously not thought of, to use and develop into own professional practice. All learning activities have provided opportunity for reflection and then personal development with copying and continuing good practice throughout. Just as the children learn from direct experience and from each other and build/scaffold on these experiences, teaching assistants also follow the same process. 5.2 Explain how reflective practice has led to improved ways of working. Reflective practice is the key to effective learning. Reflective learning is a powerful tool and can be gained from self-reflection and including feedback from others to reflect upon. It is personal assessment and this can be used to find out what went well and what needs working on. Work colleagues and training can also aid learning as we learn from each other. Observation of other more experienced staff such as other teaching assistants and the teachers can offer food for thought, and then the person can try out these newly observed methods observed to improve ways of working with learners across the school years. Reflection on good practice has led to personal development in this role by developing new ideas based on the good practice already experienced. 5.3 Show how to record progress in relation to personal development (see enclosed CV) It is a good idea to have an achievements file where all the qualifications and other awards and certificates are all placed into the file, in groups and date order. A detailed CV can also include the most essential qualifications as well as other personal information and employment and voluntary experienced logged in chronological order. I update my CV frequently and also adapt it per type of job role that I am applying for and update my achievements file and keep in in good order.

Jonestown The Life and Death of Peoples Temple

The tragedy of People’s Temple is one of the events that highlighted the danger of many destructive cults. This mass suicide took the lives of 918 people who voluntarily joined the religious movement. This paper is aimed at discussing social, cultural, and religious environment which emerged during that period. In particular, it is critical to show why many people were willing to join the organization established by Jim Jones.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Jonestown: The Life and Death of Peoples’ Temple specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Moreover, one should explain how this individual was able to convince hundreds of people to commit suicide. Furthermore, Peoples’ Temple should be compared to other religious trends that existed in the seventies. On the whole, it is possible to argue that Jim Jones was willing and able to appeal to people who represented diverse racial, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. They believed that he could offer them consolations and address their problems that they had encountered. This is the main argument that can be put forward. At first, one should mention why so many people were willing to follow Jim Jones. It should be mentioned that in the early seventies, many American people were becoming disappointed with the society. In particular, they believed that the social reforms, which began to be implemented in the sixties, came to a halt. In this case, one should focus on African-American Civil Rights Movement. Apart from that, the war in Vietnam led to the discontent of many young people who did not want to sacrifice their lives for the ideals that they could not understand. In the early seventies, there were many anti-government demonstrations that were supported by people who represented different age groups. In their opinion, the government did not want to bring any improvements into the lives of people. These issues are important for understanding the motives that drove the members of Peoples’ Temple. Their frustration often prompted them to look for religious answers to their problems while Jim Jones made use of this opportunity. For instance, African Americans had to struggle with racism and discrimination, while Jim Jones often emphasized the idea that he could accept people with diverse racial or ethnic backgrounds. This attitude prompted many people to become the members of Peoples’ Temple. Secondly, he was able to attract people who faced economic difficulties. To a great extent, he promised them a chance to live in a community in which there would be no inequalities. This is why Jim Jones often supported socialist ideology and gave charity to poor people. In his rhetoric, he laid stress on the notion that by joining this community, people would be able to create a just community. This is why many of the members decided to settle in Jonestown which was a small colony built in Guyana. Neverthe less, the leader of this cult did not explain how exactly this new settlement could exist independently of different governments or societies. This is one of the details that can be identified.Advertising Looking for essay on history? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More One of the main tasks is to explain how Jim Jones convinced so many people to take their own lives. This outcome can be regarded as the result of long-term term. First of all, the leader of this cult often emphasized the notion that he had not been a conventional preacher. Instead, he wanted to be perceived a god-like person who could perform miracles. This is why he staged the alleged healings of people who had been ill for a long time. Certainly, Jim Jones did not heal anyone, but these theatrical performances appealed to many people who believed in Jim Jones’ supernatural power. Moreover, he created a cult in which every form of critical thinking was supp ressed. Any disagreement with Jim Jones was either dismissed or disregarded. Even before 1978, he tested the devotion of his followers and some of them were ready to commit suicide for him. Furthermore, every individual, who intended to leave People’s Temple, was treated like a traitor who did not reach high moral standards set in this cult. After the murder of Congressman Leo Ryan, Jim Jones said that their community would be destroyed by the government. Moreover, he frequently stressed the idea that the death would preferable to the life outside Peoples’ Temple. Some of his supporters did not want to commit suicide, but their objections were dismissed. Yet, one should not suppose that every member of this cult committed suicide voluntarily. Some survivors report that Jim Jones relied on coercion. For instance, some of his guards had guns and they could force other people to take poison. Apart from that, some people intended to leave Jonestown, but they were not allow ed to do it. Thus, this event can also be described as a mass murder. It should be kept in mind that, more than two hundred children were poisoned, and their deaths cannot be described as suicide. Overall, one can say that this tragedy can be viewed as the result of manipulation and coercion. This is one of the points that can be made. To some degree, Peoples’ Temple is only a part of the religious and cultural trend that existed during that period. There were many cults which denied mainstream religions such as Christianity. Instead, the supporters of these cults paid more attention to Asian beliefs or religions such as Zen Buddhism. These movements were a part of the counterculture which existed in the seventies. Yet, unlike People’s Temple, these cults were not autocratic. The leaders of these religious organizations did not require complete devotion of their followers. This is one of the distinctions that can be singled out. Yet, Peoples’ Temple is not the o nly authoritarian cult which emerged in the seventies. For instance, one can mention the Unification Church. The followers of this cult were also supposed to accept the decisions of the leader without any doubt or criticism. However, the movement established by Jim Jones can be distinguished among others because it led to disastrous consequences. These are the main aspects that can be distinguished.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Jonestown: The Life and Death of Peoples’ Temple specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Overall, these examples show that Peoples’ Temple emerged due to social, religious, and cultural trends that were prominent in the seventies. The main issue is that many people became dissatisfied with the lack of their social, political or economic empowerment. They turned to religion in order to find consolation and escape injustice. This is the main factor that shaped their behavior. In t urn, Jim Jones alleged that he could create a different type of community. The main problem is that individuals like Jim Jones strive for power and domination, but they cannot accept the idea that other people may want to think critically. Moreover, they are ready to sacrifice the lives of others, if they see that their authority is at risk. This is why such individuals are dangerous. Yet, they can achieve their objectives only at the time, when many people feel that they are marginalized by the society. This essay on Jonestown: The Life and Death of Peoples’ Temple was written and submitted by user M1racle to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Free Essays on Favorite Teacher

My Favorite Teacher As a student growing up I had a lot of teachers like everyone else, but one teacher who really stimulated me was Mrs. Sandra Gregg. Mrs. Gregg is still today an elementary teacher at Brunson-Dargan Elementary School. There are many reasons why she stimulated me to become a teacher. The most important qualities she possesses are: she shows dedication through her students, patience through her teaching abilities, devotion through her work and most importantly is her love for all her students. Mrs. Gregg is an excellent role model for many children because she has many unique qualities that a lot of teachers lack today. Mrs. Gregg showed an enormous amount of patience to her students. If a student did not do their homework she never got frustrated instead she had many useful techniques to motivate her students to apply themselves. The way she approached a student who did not do their homework was by sitting next to them during class and by spending more time one on one with that student. There was never a wrong answer in her class and she encouraged her students to learn by reading stories, writing letters to each other and by drawing pictures. Mrs. Gregg always gave her students a hug just for showing an effort in her class, which showed me her love for us. The final yet greatest quality Mrs. Gregg possesses is that through her work she demonstrates her devotion to teaching. Anyone who knows her can see how committed she is to her work. She is one of those individuals who are gifted with the job that they do because she brings out the best qualities in her students. She inspires her students to be motivated to learn and to belief in themselves. In my opinion the greatest role model as a teacher is one who can achieve all these qualities and change lives like Mrs. Gregg has done already. The reason why I want to become a teacher is to help students be motivated to learn. I also want to make a difference in... Free Essays on Favorite Teacher Free Essays on Favorite Teacher My Favorite Teacher As a student growing up I had a lot of teachers like everyone else, but one teacher who really stimulated me was Mrs. Sandra Gregg. Mrs. Gregg is still today an elementary teacher at Brunson-Dargan Elementary School. There are many reasons why she stimulated me to become a teacher. The most important qualities she possesses are: she shows dedication through her students, patience through her teaching abilities, devotion through her work and most importantly is her love for all her students. Mrs. Gregg is an excellent role model for many children because she has many unique qualities that a lot of teachers lack today. Mrs. Gregg showed an enormous amount of patience to her students. If a student did not do their homework she never got frustrated instead she had many useful techniques to motivate her students to apply themselves. The way she approached a student who did not do their homework was by sitting next to them during class and by spending more time one on one with that student. There was never a wrong answer in her class and she encouraged her students to learn by reading stories, writing letters to each other and by drawing pictures. Mrs. Gregg always gave her students a hug just for showing an effort in her class, which showed me her love for us. The final yet greatest quality Mrs. Gregg possesses is that through her work she demonstrates her devotion to teaching. Anyone who knows her can see how committed she is to her work. She is one of those individuals who are gifted with the job that they do because she brings out the best qualities in her students. She inspires her students to be motivated to learn and to belief in themselves. In my opinion the greatest role model as a teacher is one who can achieve all these qualities and change lives like Mrs. Gregg has done already. The reason why I want to become a teacher is to help students be motivated to learn. I also want to make a difference in...

The History of the Computer Keyboard

The History of the Computer Keyboard The history of the modern computer keyboard begins with a direct inheritance from the  invention of the typewriter.  It was Christopher Latham Sholes who, in 1868,  patented the first practical modern typewriter. Soon after, in 1877, the Remington Company began mass marketing the first typewriters. After a series of technological developments, the typewriter gradually evolved into the standard computer keyboard your fingers know so well today. The QWERTY Keyboard There are several legends around the development of the QWERTY keyboard layout, which was patented by Sholes and his partner James Densmore in 1878. The most compelling explanation is that Sholes developed the layout to overcome the physical limitations of mechanical technology at the time. Early typists pressed a key which would, in turn, push a metal hammer that rose up in an arc, striking an inked ribbon to make a mark on a paper before returning to its original position. Separating common pairs of letters minimized the jamming of the mechanism. As machine technology improved, other keyboard layouts were invented that claimed to be more efficient, including as the Dvorak keyboard patented in 1936. Although there are dedicated Dvorak users today, they remain a tiny minority compared to those who continue to use the original QWERTY layout, which remains the most popular keyboard layout on devices of many types throughout the English-speaking world. QWERTYs current acceptance has been attributed to the layout being efficient enough and familiar enough to hinder the commercial viability of competitors. Early Breakthroughs   One of the first breakthroughs in keyboard technology was the invention of the teletype machine. Also referred to as the teleprinter, the technology has been around since the mid-1800s and was improved by inventors such as Royal Earl House, David Edward Hughes, Emile Baudot, Donald Murray, Charles L. Krum, Edward Kleinschmidt, and Frederick G. Creed.  But it was thanks to the efforts of  Charles Krum between 1907 and 1910 that the teletype system became practical for everyday users. In the 1930s, new keyboard models were introduced that combined the input and printing technology of typewriters with the communications technology of the  telegraph. Punch-card systems were also combined with typewriters to create what were known as keypunches. These systems became the basis of early adding machines (early calculators), which were hugely commercially successful. By 1931, IBM had registered more than $1 million in adding machine sales. Keypunch technology was incorporated into the designs of the earliest computers, including the 1946  Eniac computer that used a punch-card reader as its input and output device. In 1948, another computer called the Binac computer used an electro-mechanically controlled typewriter to input data directly onto magnetic tape in order to feed in computer data and print results. The emerging electric typewriter further improved the technological marriage between the typewriter and the computer. Video Display Terminals By 1964, MIT, Bell Laboratories, and General Electric had collaborated to create a  time-sharing, multi-user computer system called Multics. The system encouraged the development of a new user interface called  the video display terminal (VDT), which incorporated the technology of the cathode ray tube used in televisions into the design of the electric typewriter. This allowed computer users to see what text characters they were typing on their display screens for the first time, which made  text assets easier to create, edit, and delete. It also made computers easier to program and use. Electronic Impulses and Hand-Held Devices Early computer keyboards were based either on teletype machines or keypunches but there was a problem: having so many electro-mechanical steps necessary to transmit data between the keyboard and the computer slowed things down considerably. With VDT technology and electric keyboards, the keys could now send electronic impulses directly to the computer and save time. By the late 1970s and early 1980s, all computers used electronic keyboards and VDTs.   In the 1990s, handheld devices that introduced mobile computing became available to consumers. The first of handheld devices was the HP95LX, released in 1991 by Hewlett-Packard. It had a hinged clamshell format that was small enough to fit in the hand. Although not yet classified as such, the HP95LX was the first of the Personal Data Assistants (PDA). It had a small QWERTY keyboard for text entry, although touch typing was practically impossible due to its small size. The Pen Is Not Mightier Than the Keyboard As PDAs began to add web and email access, word processing, spreadsheets, personal schedules, and other desktop applications, pen input was introduced. The first pen input devices were made in the early 1990s, but the technology to recognize handwriting was not robust enough to be effective. Keyboards produce machine-readable text (ASCII), a necessary feature for indexing and searching by contemporary character-based technology. Minus character recognition, handwriting produces digital ink, which works for some applications but requires more memory in order to save input and is not machine-readable. Ultimately, most of the early PDAs (GRiDPaD, Momenta, Poqet, PenPad) were not commercially viable. Apples 1993 Newton project was expensive and its handwriting recognition was particularly poor. Goldberg and Richardson, two researchers at Xerox in Palo Alto, invented a simplified system of pen strokes called Unistrokes, a sort of shorthand that converted each letter of the English alphabet into single strokes that users would input into their devices. Palm Pilot, released in 1996, was an instant hit, introducing the Graffiti technique, which was closer to the Roman alphabet and included a way to input capital and lowercase characters. Other non-keyboard inputs of the era included the MDTIM, published by Poika Isokoski, and Jot, introduced by Microsoft. Why Keyboards Persist The problem with all of these alternative keyboard technologies is the data capture takes more memory and is less accurate than with digital keyboards. As mobile devices such as smartphones grew in popularity, many differently formatted keyboard patterns were tested- and the issue became how to get one small enough to use accurately. One fairly popular method was the soft keyboard. A soft keyboard is one that has a visual display with built-in touchscreen technology. Text entry is performed by tapping on keys with a stylus or finger. The soft keyboard disappears when not in use. QWERTY keyboard layouts are most frequently used with soft keyboards, but there were others, such as the FITALY, Cubon, and OPTI soft keyboards, as well as a simple listing of alphabetic letters. Thumbs and Voice As voice recognition technology has advanced, its capabilities have been added to small hand-held devices to augment, but not replace soft keyboards. Keyboard layouts continue to evolve as data input embraced texting, which is typically is entered via some form of a soft QWERTY keyboard layout (although there have been some attempts to develop thumb-typing entry such as the KALQ keyboard, a split-screen layout available as an Android app). Sources David, Paul A. Clio and the Economics of Qwerty. The American Economic Review 75.2 (1985): 332-37. Print.Dorit, Robert L. Marginalia: Keyboards, Codes and the Search for Optimality. American Scientist 97.5 (2009): 376-79. Print.Kristensson, Per Ola. Typing Isnt All Fingers, Its Thumbs. The World Today 69.3 (2013): 10-10. Print.Leiva, Luis A., et al. Text Entry on Tiny Qwerty Soft Keyboards. Proceedings of the 33rd Annual ACM Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems. 2702388: ACM, 2015. Print.Liebowitz, S. J., and Stephen E. Margolis. The Fable of the Keys. The Journal of Law Economics 33.1 (1990): 1-25. Print.MacKenzie, I. Scott, and R. William Soukoreff. Text Entry for Mobile Computing: Models and Methods, Theory and Practice. Human-Computer Interaction 17.2-3 (2002): 147-98. Print.Topolinski, Sascha. I 5683 You: Dialing Phone Numbers on Cell Phones Activates Key-Concordant Concepts. Psychological Science 22.3 (2011): 355-60. Print.

Strategic Marketing (SBU Competition) Research Paper

Strategic Marketing (SBU Competition) - Research Paper Example Among all the mentioned competitors of Star Hub SingNet is the largest internet service provider in Singapore with 372,000 broadband users and 71,000 dial up customers (about SingTel, 2013). As SingNet is the biggest internet provider company followed secondly by Star Hub and at third place stand M1 Net Ltd. The total broad band subscribers of Star Hub are 329,000. The broad band user of the third largest company M1 Broad band is over 10,000 . ... The stock price also increased compared to the price of last day Revenue for the companies (as according to available financial reports) 2012: 18,825 Million 2011: 18,071 Million 2010: 16, 871 Million 2012: 2,422 Million 2011: 2,312 Million 2010: 2, 238 Million 2012: 1,076,812 2011: 1,064,896 2010: 979.2 Million Customer base 557,000 are the total broad band internet users for the company 442,300 are the total subscribers of the broad band internet service provided by the company 173,900 are the total broad band internet subscribers for M1 Strengths Many of the strengths that are associated with the company includes: The first ever company to launch its broad band services in Singapore First broad band service provider to introduce supplementary surfing Being the pioneer and the largest company to hold the stake, trust of people in the service provided Star Hub being the second market leaders holds certain strengths as well including: Fastest growing broad band internet service provi der Provides the highest speed for surfing including the fastest speed internet for downloading and uploading in Singapore Provides unlimited surfing packages to make family time fun M1 as is the third largest leading broad band possess the following strengths: Introducer of the latest technology Pioneer in providing the fastest downloading speed where even needed with even in peak hours Connectivity choices are customized and available according to the need and requirement of the customers Faster and an easier way to access the international high bandwidth sites Competitive Advantage Pricing Bundles that are offered by SingNet is their competitive advantage and the factors which helps them gaining the highest market

Retail management case study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Retail management case study - Essay Example With the help of Simon’s decision-making structure one can examine the decision making process. Also, included in the model is the time and cost savings of the customers. The satisfaction levels can also be measured with this model. Apart from the design and choice factors the consumers also give due consideration to cost and time savings factor. These aspects affect the consumers greatly and help them to make the decision accordingly. In the present structure of online shopping the comparison shopping agents play an active role between the suppliers and the consumers in order to yield efficient markets. But the recent days shopping agents are mostly determined by the price factor and it is not dependent on the supplier and consumer differentiation. However, in spite of tremendous growth in the Web commerce and the superlative growth of consumers now making purchase online it is not very clear what actually makes the consumers purchase from the online shopping malls. The most important characteristics of the online retailers is that they allow the vendors to make their own unique interactive web pages, enabling the consumers to decide accordingly as per their needs and comfort zone. These tools are a great differentiator in terms of consumer preferences and can change a shopper from one website to the other. The product information available can help the customers to take the decisions accordingly. But while making the decision the consumers at times are unable to evaluate all the available alternatives with in depth analysis. Hence they use primarily a two stage process while taking such a decision. These are: Considering this the consumer requires the correct tools in order to select the most appropriate commodity. These tools are very effective to make the initial decision much easier. The in-depth analysis can also be made before deciding on the final product. The better the tools the

College Tuition Essay Example for Free

College Tuition Essay Liberal views on college tuition is that it should be affordable and not increase the average debt an American should have. Recently Obama capped the federal student loan payments at 10% of income and stopped federal student loan interest rates from doubling. Liberals tend to believe strongly in public education and are against the high tuition of private schools, many believe that the high prices of private schools take away from the education system and increase the price of public education. Conservative views on college education is to switch from community schools to trade schools, increasing training instead. They believe you would cut the amount of money you owe by attending a trade school and not investing in a 4+ year college, but they believe also that this opportunity should be possible for most Americans. Many Conservatives believe that federal government has no business in originating student loans and encourages private loan investing. Many believe in shifting the role of federal government in student loans to make government the guarantor for private sector student loans. Demographics The raising of any college tuition funds or loan rates would have a direct effect on the younger generation of 18-30 year olds that would be trying to access education early on in their lives. The United States ranks 9th in the world in the amount of young adults enrolled in college, but 16th in the world of 25-34 year olds graduating with a higher education. The ideas of the liberal party would settle well with the younger generation going into college after high school or returning to college at a young age. The older generation from 65 and up would see faults in this idea by questioning why not raise interest rates or where the funding would come to support the growth of public schooling, but also the idea of do you really have to go to college? Many people of the older generation do not see purpose in being in high debt at such a young age in life. Major difference between the two parties is how the money is received to pay for higher education. They both believe that college tuition should be lowered and more possibilities should be available for lower class Americans, but how those Americans get the money for this education is a widely debated topic.

The Film Schindlers List versus Novel Schindlers Ark Essay -- Holoca

Schindler's List The film Schindler’s List has a tendency to simplify and sentimentalize the character Oskar Schindler compared to the novel Schindler’s Ark in which the film is based on. The film Schindler’s List lacks depth and understanding of the character Oskar Schindler, and tends to over dramatize events within the film in which Oskar Schindler is responsible for. The novel Schindler’s Ark begins its in-depth documentary story with the earlier life of Oskar Schindler. The novel describes his family life in the Austro-Hungarian Empire and his rebellious teenage years in the newly created state of Czechoslovakia. The novel informs the reader of Oskar Schindler’s relationship with his father and how his father abandoned Oskar’s mother, in which Oskar never forgave his father for leaving his mother alone. This information of how Oskar Schindler became to be how he is, is all significantly missed with Schindler’s List, Because it gives the viewer a whole outlook of Oskar Schindler and a better understanding of the ...

Indian Culture Essay

INDIA A country in South Asia. India is bounded by the Indian ocean on the south, Arabian sea in the south-west and bay of Bengal in the south-east. It shares borders with Pakistan in the west, china, Nepal and Bhutan in the north-east and with Burma and Bangladesh in the east. India’s Andaman Nicobar islands share a maritime borders with Thailand and Indonesia. Home to the ancient Indus Valley Civilisation and a region of historic trade routes and vast empires, the Indian subcontinent was identified with its commercial and cultural wealth for much of its long history. Four world religions—Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism— originated here, whereas Zoroastrianism, Christianity, and Islam arrived in the 1st millennium CE and also helped shape the region’s diverse culture. Gradually annexed by and brought under the administration of the British East India Company from the early 18th century and administered directly by the United Kingdom from the mid-19th century, India became an independent nation in 1947 after a struggle for independence that was marked by non-violent resistance led by Mahatma Gandhi. The Indian economy is the world’s tenth-largest by  nominal GDP and third-largest by purchasing power parity (PPP). Following market-based economic  Reforms in 1991, India became one of the fastest- rowing major economies; it is considered a newly industrialised country. However, it continues to face the challenges of  Poverty, corruption, malnutrition, inadequate public Healthcare and terrorism. A nuclear weapons state and a regional power, it has the third-largest standing army in the world and ranks eighth in military expenditure among nations. Current Details of India: President : Pranab Mukherjee Vice President : Mohammed Hamid Ansari Prime Minister : Manmohan Singh About India: Since ancient times India is known for diversity and prosperity in its Culture. It has one of the oldest civilization and culture in the world. Despite of such diversity Indian culture has the immense power to unite peoples together. There are fifteen national languages recognized by the Indian constitution and these are spoken in over 1600 dialects. With language changing across different parts of country, culture is also diverse. The Culture of India has played a vital role in its civilization. But, now a days, there is a lot of change in our Indian culture. Some changes are good and some effects badly on society. Let us see some of the changes in our society and what is our responsibility to preserve our pride, because â€Å"Pride of India is its Culture†. Changes In Indian Culture that are Positive for Indian Society A few Centuries ago â€Å"Sati pratha† was abolished and â€Å"widow remarriage† was approved. These Changes were the major achievements of Indian Society. These changes have removed the traditions and methodologies which was a curse to all the women and humanity. These Changes were the major revolution in the Indian Society. From that time, changes have influenced a lot to the Indian Society. Now a days, there are many visible changes in our society. Some of them are: †¢With technology becoming fast and easily portable people of different parts of the world are interacting together. Today they can easily know each other’s culture and tradition. So technology has made this world a smaller place and make the peoples come closer to know each other’s lifestyle and culture. Now a days people of a country are well known about the culture and tradition of other countries and so their knowledge has broaden. Peoples are becoming more independent. They are no more restricted in their own methodologies. New thinking are evolving between society. †¢Today peoples of our country are moving to other parts of the world for higher education and learning better technology. Now a girl of our country is no more restricted to home, and a woman to a housewife. Things are changing. Girls are also getting opportunities for their better education and lifestyle, same as the boys. Old traditions and wooden customs are  changing. These changes are the seeds for the better society where girls and women have the same right as the boys and men have. These changes are empowering our girls and women. †¢In case of marriage the changes are visible. Now a days younger generation chooses their life partner themselves. Traditionally their parents used to find a marriage par tner for them. Today If their parents choose a life partner for them then they allow their young ones to spend time with their life partner to understand each other and then perform the marriage ceremony. By doing this they gave their children a better chance to have a better future. So now a days young generation have freedom of choice in contrast with the old culture of Indian society where parents were solely responsible for choosing life partner for their children. †¢A major change that can be sensed in Indian Culture is the change in Indian Cinema. We all know that cinema is the mirror of our society. It clearly reflects the culture and methodologies of our society. Few decades ago Indian cinema was only meant for entertainment. At that times films were of conservative type. But today film makers are moving to the various social issues and giving the Indian cinema a touch of perfection. Films displaying the critical and major issues like terrorism and bogus CBI has already produced. These films teach a lesson to society regarding these issues and its consequences. Also the films promoting art and music have produced over a few years. Such types of films also encourage new ta lents and provide new opportunities. Negative Aspects Of Changes In Indian Culture As stated earlier that â€Å"every coin has two faces†. So If there are some positives, negatives also lies within. The changes in Indian Culture is also giving some negative consequences. Some of them are discussed below: †¢With growing technology competition in the market is also rising. People are spending their lots of time in office and at workplace. Consequently they have not much time to spend with their family specially with their children. So now a days parents have a less time to care for their children in contrast with the old age, where an immense care was given to a child by his family members. So the present generation of children are very much unaware of our Indian Culture. No one is there to make them understand about this. At present this is not a major issue but in future it will be of great concern. No one of us will ever want that our future generation will remain unaware from our Indian Culture. Problem: Our next Generation will remain unaware about our Indian Culture and slowly they forget it. Solution: Parents should spend a valuable time with their children discussing about our culture and tradition. Classes should be organized by schools for making them aware of our culture and its value. †¢With the growing demands of the world level of education has also changed. Pedagogy has changed. In old ages learning of a few subjects was enough but now a days a child has to learn about the different subjects and different areas of concern including present technology and science. So the level of mental stress has increased. In such conditions behaviour of parents act as catalyst. Now a days parents used to impose their desire and dreams on their children. Consequently mental stress rises exponentially leading to the act of suicide and state of depression. Problem: Mental stress on a child has increased. Solution: Nature of Pedagogy should be in a way, favourable with children. Parents should not impose their desires and dreams on their children. Every child is special, every child has a special talent. Provide them care and love and help in enhancing their mental strength so that their confidence in themselves will increase. They need these things because they are the future of our country. How would be our next society and culture largely depends on them. †¢In this world of growing technology, nearness and full of connections it is almost impossible for anyone to remain unaware about the culture following in different parts of the world, specially to our young generation. They are crazy about being modern and in their journey of modernization they are more attracted towards western culture. Regarding this they have accepted some freaky ideas of western culture. Now a days, physical pleasure are preferred by them over mental pleasure in almost every aspect, whether their life is concerned or whether their love. In search of physical pleasure they often commits crime. They are the building blocks of our society and culture. What  would happen to our future generations if they themselves solely tends towards western culture? Modernization is necessary but it should be in a way so as to preserve our culture and values. Problem: Physical pleasure is preferred by our young generation over mental pleasure. Solution: Parents should take care of their teens. They should restrict their teens up to some extent. Freedom is necessary but it should be in a limit. Parents should also be frank with their teens as like friends. Parents should give lessons to their teens about the consequences of bad habits prevailing in society, and how they can contribute in removing them. They should also make their teens frank with them and their family. Parents should discuss each and every issue of their teen among themselves and should tackle it patiently and smartly. If a proper care is given to them, they can be a responsible Indian in the Future.

“Devil in a Blue Dress” Film vs. Book Essay

When an individual reads a book and then sees the movie that is based on the book, there is bound to be many differences between the two. Sometimes there are elements that are present in the book that have a tendency to get lost in the production and directing of a movie. At other times, the movie adds elements that are not originally in the book. In Walter Mosley’s book, â€Å"Devil in a Blue Dress,† and the movie of the same name share some similar literary elements. However, there are several vital situations and parts of the book’s story that are not present in the film. Hence, the movie downplays a lot of the foul language as well as the racial slurs that were used in the era the book was set in. With a comparison of the two mediums, it will show the differences and similarities between the story elements of the book as well as the story elements of the movie. Both the book and the movie start with the same challenge for Easy Rawlins. Easy needs money to make mortgage payments for his most prized possession, his home. He had been laid off from his job at Champion Aircraft because he told his boss,†he would not stay and inspect the plane, he would like to be fully rested before inspecting the aircraft to ensure that it was assembled properly (Mosley pg73).† Unfortunately now his desire is to find a job so that he can make the mortgage payments. Two days later after being laid off, while at Joppy’s bar Easy ends up meeting a white man that comes in. The man’s name is Mr. Albright. Mr. Albright tells Easy that he needs someone to find a girl for him and he is offering to pay that person. Easy accepts the offer from Mr. Albright with the alternative challenge of surviving the white man’s system. Easy’s plan is to find the girl, Daphne Monet and collect the money from Mr. Albright. As the plot unfolds, his plan becomes more involved. In the book his plan includes having a romance with Daphne; however, in the movie his plan is more of a quest for truth and an attempt to clear his name with the police. The challenge is complicated and everyone is trying to get at Easy because of his knowledge or the lack of in regards to Daphne’s whereabouts. Easy’s self-realization in both the book and the movie is when Mouse saves Easy’s life, but then kills Joppy in an execution style. Easy is grateful to his friend, but does not know how to deal with such meaningless brutality. Easy’s new balance though comes when he his talking to Odell and asks him, â€Å"if a man knows that his friend  did something wrong but does not turn him into the police, is it wrong (263)?† Odell replies with, â€Å"All you got is your friends (263).† In the movie, the audience sees Easy go through the change; where as, in the book we know that he has two years salary buried in his back yard, which gives him the nest egg and security to try a new field of work. However, in both cases Easy changes and adjusts himself to become a private detective. The most obvious similarities between the book and the movie are the way that the story is told as well as the setting. The setting is in Los Angeles, California around the late 1940s. In the movie the director chooses costumes from that time period and uses antique cars to help create the illusion for the audience whereas in the book the reader only knows the setting by Easy’s description as he says, â€Å"I was used to white people by 1948 (45).† In the book the reader can only see things through Easy Rawlins’s eyes which are a subjective view through Easy’s narration. Also in both the book and the movie, the narrative point of view is in first person which is told by Easy Rawlins. As he narrates, Easy leads us along with him in search for answers to the mystery of Daphne Monet and we experience his confusion and inability to understand what is going on around him. However, there is a great deal of differences between the book and the movie. In the book we as the reader get a great sense of Easy’s motivations through his narration and we also get more of a story than we do in the movie. One of the most noticeable differences in the book and the movie is that everybody in the book is linked to each other whereas in the movie supposedly nobody knew anyone. For instance, in the book Joppy knew Albright; Albright knew Todd Carter; Todd Carter knew Richard McGee as well as Matthew Terrell whereas in the movie every character denied knowing each other except Albright and Joppy. Another noticeable difference is that in the book Frank Green, Daphne’s brother ends up murdered and in the movie he lives and they both end up moving. The third noticeable difference is a character name change from the book to the movie; Matthew Teran in the book is Matthew Terrell in the movie and he ends up being murdered in the book whereas at the end of the movie he’s running for mayor. A fourth noticeable  difference is the pier scene. In the book Albright and Easy meet at the Santa Monica pier and in the movie it is the Malibu pier. And the last most noticeable difference between the book and the movie is that Mouse knows Daphne Monet or shall we call her by her real name Ruby Hanks; however, in the movie the audience never finds that out. In the movie the only true thing you get to know about Daphne is that she is both black and white. Therefore, due to the many differences between the book and the movie it is confusing to the audience since it is almost like dealing with two different stories because of the plot inconsistencies. Even though, you have those noticeable differences that were mentioned in the above paragraph the biggest difference of them all between the movie and the book is the language. In the book there is a lot more foul language and racial slurs than there is in the movie. This kind of dramatic difference could be because in the book you have to use words and certain kind of language to set the mood as well as show and express how things were back then in the 1940 between the different races. Whereas in the movie actions and body language can expresses the mood a lot more than words. Also another reason possible for the lack of language could be that with a movie you have to focus on the audience appeal as well as movie ratings and peer acceptance. Therefore, if a director wants people to come see the movie, he or she must get a good rating and by doing that certain items such as language and sometimes violence must be taken into consideration. As for the category of detective stories, there are similar characteristics that are common from one movie to the next. The context of the detective story is one of a man on a quest for information and answers; therefore, usually following a trail of dead bodies, death threats, and beautiful women. This context is more evident in the book than in the movie. The typical tough guy talk, sex with the beautiful woman, lots of shooting and action, and danger are all present in both; however, the context is more dark and tough-guy like in the book. The movie’s context is more like a black man who has fallen into the job because of circumstances, but the book makes Easy’s private eye job as a kind of natural extension of who he is. In the book, Easy has seen killing, torture, and injustice in the war; we don’t get to see this in the movie. The context is still that he is a tough  guy, but with a different motivation. In conclusion, there are elements that are present in the book version that were lost in the production and directing of the movie; however, the movie did add some elements such as the goodbye scene between Daphne and Carter that was not in the book. In regards to Walter Mosley’s book, â€Å"Devil in a Blue Dress,† and the movie by the same name do share some similar literary elements, but there are several vital situations and parts of the book’s story that are not present in the film. Comparing and contrasting the story elements such as narrative point of view, setting, plot and the classical structure show that the screen writer for â€Å"Devil in a Blue Dress,† took many liberties with the movie version in respect to the plot, story, and ending. Although both mediums are enjoyable on their own, the audience and readers can see that the book and movie are very different.

buy custom The Prosecution of Criminals and Mozambican Model essay

buy custom The Prosecution of Criminals and Mozambican Model essay The main purpose of the paper is to study and analyze the article War, Gender and Culture: Mozambican Women Refugees written by Tina Sideris in order to answer the question whether prosecution of war criminals should take precedence over amnesty and/or reconciliation (Sideris, 2003). The special attention in this essay is paid to the Mozambican model, as it is important to define whether it is worth emulating, or it saws the seeds of future conflicts. The following conflict in the world history is a perfect example of demonstrating the connection between the war criminals and the outcomes of their crimes as a lot of people have been injured during this warfare. The current analysis shows that criminals prosecution is extremely important despite the fact that there are series of cases where the amnesty has to take place. The war in Mozambique continued for nearly two decades and it has injured a great number of people. Special attention has to be paid to the trauma caused towards women that are far more affected by the severe violence and constant warfare. The numerous injured people that survived show that the multiple injuries are the result of the lack of understanding of the real value of humans life, the outomes of the conflicts and crimes (Sideris, 2003). In this connection, punishment and prosecution have to be implemented in order to stop criminals committing crimes. This shows the border line to a great number of people. The injury to the spirit is worse than the physical injuries. Therefore, the trauma that remains after the crime is even more severe. However, here it can be seen that the prosecution can also cause such a trauma. In this connection, the criminal can potentially become injured. That is why there are some cases where the amnesty is more suitable, especially in such countries as Mozambique. Mozambican model was suitable for the country at that period of time, but such a process results in the emergence of new conflicts. Therefore, the model that took place within the country appeared to be ineffective. It can be seen from multiple evidences of local people that a lot of families have been killed during the warfare, not only the single persons. Women have been left alone and many of them became refugees. A great number of deaths could have been prevented in case the criminals were stopped. It is important to persecute and punish such individuals because of the destructive characteer f their crimes and the great number of innocent victims. The amnesty for such criminals is not an option because it can be seen that this warfare was extremely heavy and resulted in the psychological trauma, depression and distress of a number of people. These mental injuries might affect their children and therefore the number of victims grows. The series of crimes produces a great number of criminals as well. And these people have to witness severe punishment. Unlike common citizens that witnessed persecution and therefore were seriously harmed, real criminals have to face real punishment. This is the main difference between the two measures and therefore in the majority of cases criminals that affected innocent civilians have to be persecuted. This will lower the number of criminals and make it possible to prevent a series of new crimes and victims. It is extremely important to protect people and guarantee their safety and security of their families. That is why the amnesty in many cases is not a perfect solution as it will cause the emergence of new criminals that can also be left unpunished. A proper system and its stable functioning will support the development of healthy social environment within the country. Buy custom The Prosecution of Criminals and Mozambican Model essay

Battle of Spotsylvania Court House - Civil War Battle of Spotsylvania

Battle of Spotsylvania Court House - Civil War Battle of Spotsylvania Battle of Spotsylvania Court House - Conflict Dates: The Battle of Spotsylvania Court House was fought May 8-21, 1864, and was part of the American Civil War. Armies Commanders at Spotsylvania Court House: Union Lieutenant General Ulysses S. GrantMajor General George G. Meadeapprox. 100,000 men Confederate General Robert E. Leeapprox. 52,000 men Battle of Spotsylvania Court House - Background: Following the bloody stalemate at the Battle of the Wilderness (May 5-7, 1864), Union Lieutenant General Ulysses S. Grant elected to disengage, but unlike his predecessors, he decided to keep pressing south. Shifting bulk of the Army of the Potomacs strength to the east, he began moving around the right flank of General Robert E. Lees Army of Northern Virginia on the night of May 7. The next day, Grant directed Major General Gouverneur K. Warrens V Corps to capture Spotsylvania Court House, approximately 10 miles to the southeast. Battle of Spotsylvania Court House - Sedgwick Killed: Anticipating Grants move, Lee rushed Major General J.E.B. Stuarts cavalry and Major General Richard Andersons First Corps to the area. Utilizing interior lines and taking advantage of Warrens tardiness, the Confederates were able to assume a position north of Spotsylvania before Union troops could arrive. Quickly building several miles of trenches, the Confederates were soon in a formidable defensive position. On May 9, as the bulk of Grants army arrived on the scene, Major General John Sedgwick, commander of the VI Corps, was killed as he scouted the Confederate lines. Replacing Sedgwick with Major General Horatio Wright, Grant began to develop plans for assaulting Lees army. Forming a ragged, inverted V, the Confederate lines were weakest near the tip in an area known as the Mule Shoe Salient. At 4:00 PM on May 10, the first Union attacks moved forward as Warrens men assaulted Andersons corps along the left side of the Confederate position. Repulsed with around 3,000 casualties, the attack was the precursor for another assault which slammed into the east side of the Mule Shoe two hours later. Battle of Spotsylvania Court House - Uptons Attack: Assembling twelve regiments from the VI Corps, Colonel Emory Upton formed them in a tight assault column three wide by four deep. Striking a narrow front along the Mule Shoe, his new approach quickly breached the Confederate lines and opened a narrow but deep penetration. Battling valiantly, Uptons men were forced to withdraw when reinforcements to exploit the breach failed to arrive. Recognizing the brilliance of Uptons tactics, Grant immediately promoted him to brigadier general and began planning corps-size assault using the same approach. Battle of Spotsylvania Court House - Assaulting the Mule Shoe: Taking May 11 to plan and shift troops for the pending assault, Grants army was quiet for most of the day. Misinterpreting the Union inactivity as a sign that Grant was going to attempt moving by his army, Lee removed artillery from the Mule Shoe in preparation for shifting to a new position. Shortly before dawn on May 12, Major General Winfield S. Hancocks veteran II Corps struck top of the Mule Shoe using Uptons tactics. Quickly overwhelming Major General Edward Allegheny Johnsons division, Hancocks men captured 4,000 prisoners along with their commander. Rolling through the Mule Shoe, the Union advance bogged down as Brigadier General John B. Gordon shifted three brigades to block Hancocks men. Also hampered by the lack of a follow-up wave to press the attack, Hancocks troops were soon being pushed back. To regain the momentum, Grant ordered Major General Ambrose Burnsides IX Corps to attack from east. While Burnside had some initial success, his assaults were contained and defeated. Around 6:00 AM, Grant sent Wrights VI Corps into the Mule Shoe to fight on Hancocks right. Raging through the day and into the night, fighting in the Mule Shoe surged back and forth as each side sought an advantage. With heavy casualties on both sides, the landscape was quickly reduced to a body-strewn wasteland that presaged the battlefields of World War I. Recognizing the critical nature of the situation, Lee repeatedly sought to personally lead his men forward, but was prevented from doing so by his troops who desired to preserve his safety. Some of the most intense combat occurred at an area of the salient known as the Bloody Angle where sides were sometimes reduced to hand-to-hand fighting. As the fighting raged, Confederate troops built a defensive line across the base of the salient. Completed around 3:00 AM on May 13, Lee ordered his troops to abandon the salient and retire into the new line. Occupying the salient, Grant paused for five days as he probed east and south seeking a weak spot in the Confederate lines. Unable to find one, he sought to surprise the Confederates at the Mule Shoe line on May 18. Moving forward, Hancocks men were repulsed and Grant soon cancelled the effort. Realizing that a breakthrough would not be possible at Spotsylvania, Grant continued his trend of moving left and again slipped around Lees army by marching south towards Guinea Station on May 20. Battle of Spotsylvania Court House - Aftermath: The fighting at Spotsylvania Court House cost Grant 2,725 killed, 13,416 wounded, and 2,258 captured/missing, while Lee suffered 1,467 killed, 6,235 wounded, and 5,719 captured/missing. The second contest between Grant and Lee, Spotsylvania effectively ended in a stalemate. Unable to win a decisive victory over Lee, Grant continued the Overland Campaign by pressing south. Though desiring a war-winning triumph, Grant was aware that each battle cost Lee casualties that the Confederates could not replace. Selected Sources Fredericksburg Spotsylvania Court House National Military ParkCWSAC Battle Summaries: Battle of Spotsylvania Court HouseBattle of Spotsylvania Court House Overview

Analysis of a drama film-The Truman Show Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Analysis of a drama film-The Truman Show - Essay Example The protagonist of the film, Truman Burbank, is the main character of a longest nonstop live broadcast catering to a global audience. He is unaware that his life, activities and emotions are being filmed and that all those who are with him are acting their roles well for the success of the show. His mundane life in the seaside town of Seahaven is being captured by more than 5,000 hidden cameras. Most parts of the film appear as if the audience is watching "The Truman Show" rather than a film based on a reality show.         The film opens on the broadcast day 10,909 when Truman is nearly thirty years old. Until this day, Truman has not realized that he is living in an artificial world that Christof has created for him. Omnicom Corporation had adopted Truman from the day he was born and turned his life to a reality show where â€Å"his wife Meryl, his best friend Marlon and his mother † (Niccol 1998) are actors who are performing in front of Truman to convince him that hi s life is real. As in the words of the master architect of the Show, Christof, "We’ve become bored with watching actors giving us phony emotions. We’re tired of pyrotechnics and special effects. While the world he inhabits is in some respects counterfeit, there is nothing fake about Truman himself. No scripts, no cue-cons. It’s not always Shakespeare, but it’s genuine. It’s a life†¦Louis Coltrane and Hannah Gill (Meryl) also stresses the originality of Truman's life by saying that "It's all true, it's all real.

Quasi Zenith and Beidou2 Satellite systems Essay

Quasi Zenith and Beidou2 Satellite systems - Essay Example The GPS or Global Positioning System, which first became popular as a means of car navigation have become widespread with their integration in mobile phones. A navigation signal can point to an exact location with the help of at least four satellites but in areas whose geographical terrains are populated with mountains, the satellites signals can be hampered by their presence and the same is true in urban areas where skyscrapers abound. Mountains, skyscrapers and other tall structures, manmade or otherwise, can cause signal errors. The QZSS and the BeiDou-2 Satellite Systems were launched to remedy such situations. In 2003, Japan launched the Quasi-Zenith Satellite System that will provide a regional satellite positioning service in addition to communication and broadcasting services. This is the first satellite positioning of Japan and it is a joint effort of government and private sectors. The Advanced Satellite Business Corporation or ASBC is a private company that is tasked with the development and operation of the communications and broadcasting functions of the satellite system. Four ministries of the Government, on the other hand, are tasked with the development of the satellite positioning system.

Critically evaluate the extent to which intangible resources can be Essay

Critically evaluate the extent to which intangible resources can be used to legitimise management authority in organisations - Essay Example Thus, they are the assets, which the company must recognize as its significant components, which are rather better determinants of the company’s performance than the actual money it generates (Cameron, pp. 88-92, 2004). Most authors and intellectuals, today, focus on the need of knowledge workers in the modern industry to keep the ship sailing. They are of the opinion than in this uncertain world, where downsizing and losses in one company, may also affect the situation in another company, located way far from the host (TSG, p.1, 2009). On the other hand, increase in demand of a product or a service in one country, may also lead to increase in demand of the same product in some other culturally distinct country. Economic insecurity may often liquidate tangible resources with no prior notice and the global dilemma of interrelated companies, put greater expectations on the managers to control and organize the information from around the world on their fingertips. In these difficult times, human resource, as the intangible resource of the company, is the most effective tool to cope up with changing situations (Andriessen, p.1 2004). Today’s era is information era and all the stake of the companies requires handling and managing information critically. This information may include knowledge about the product or service cost, employees’ needs and concerns, competitors in the market, company’s capital at hand etc. Managing company information carefully means that internal members of the organization take good care of the power entrusted upon them and channelized the information attained properly down the hierarchy. According to management research, much of the company’s progress depends on the top managements efforts to align the company’s resources. With regard to intangible resources, strategic competitiveness is much dependent on the way lower staff, age, workload, education standard, job performance, and empowerment

Development of an inventory management system

Development of an inventory management system INTRODUCTION This project is on the design and development of an inventory management system which is part of the supply-chain Management. This system will attempt to solve issues with current inventory management systems in order to give businesses a better competitive edge. The literature review will provide a detailed overview about Inventory management; why business need to manage their inventory, benefits and objectives of inventory management and best practice in inventory management. It will go on to further discuss what inventory management system is all about, a detailed explanation of the benefits, future of inventory management systems and talk about success of inventory management system. In the review, various factors for implementing efficient inventory management systems were listed in order to understand fully how to design and develop a software solution for a company that would provide the best services and effective solution to their current problems. The report also discussed some challenges faced by most inventory management system in providing businesses with an effective solution. As part of the literature review, a case study was carried out on Sahad Stores, a distribution company in Nigeria and a detailed investigation into their existing system was accomplished highlighting the problems of the current system. Based on knowledge gained from the literature review, a proposed solution was presented to resolve the issues with the companys current system of inventory management. INVENTORY MANAGEMENT An inventory is basically a detailed list of all the items in stock. Inventory consists of raw materials, work-in-process and finished goods. In todays highly competitive market, businesses need to maintain an appropriate level of stock to meet the customer demands at any time. Inventory management is part of the supply chain management. Over the past years, the concept of supply chain management SCM has been given a considerable attention. This is an approach to view the supply chain as a whole rather than as a set of separate processes (Weele, 2002). Mentzer, Dewitt, Keebler, Min, Nix, Smith and Zacharia defined Supply chain management SCM as the systematic and strategic coordination of the traditional business operations. The main aim of supply chain management SCM is to improve the long term performance of each firm as well as the whole supply chain (Mentzer, Dewitt, Keebler, Min, Nix, Smith and Zacharia, 2001). Inventory management involves system and processes of maintaining the appropriate level of stock in a warehouse (Barcodes, 2010). These activities includes identifying necessary inventory requirements, and creating replenishment processes, tracking and monitoring the usage of items/stock, reconciling inventory balances as well as reporting inventory status.(Barcodes , 2010). It is basically the process of efficiently controlling the amount of stock in order to avoid excess inventory. Reliable inventory management will therefore minimise the cost associated with inventory (Barcodes, 2010). Inventory management involves a wide scope of processes ranging from inventory forecasting , replenishment, demand forecasting as well as quality management (Wikipedia, 2009). Objectives and benefits of inventory management According to Stylus Systems, The 3 main objectives in inventory management are (Stylus, 2008): To reduce inventory investment or cost which is one of the most important goals of any business. Balancing the cost of keeping inventory with the benefits gained from it is vital to the successes of an organisation To provide improved customer satisfaction To increase sales and profits realised from effective inventory management which therefore improve overall business productivity Benefits of inventory management In a report by Stylus, he highlighted the following as some of the benefits of inventory management (Stylus, 2008): Inventory management systems can help reduce the time to respond to changing market demand of products and can help control excess stock IMS provide a means for business to effectively manage or control their inventory IMS helps businesses to constantly analyse their business processes such as sales and purchasing in order to make efficient inventory decisions Stylus systems also reported that inventory management systems IMS can provide total insight on stock transactions Stylus systems also stated that IMS can provide hands on knowledge on inventory which might lead to increased sales and efficient customer services. Development in inventory management Presently, there are two major approaches to inventory management Materials requirement planning (MRP): MRP is simply a management system in which sales are converted into loads by sub-unit and time. In this system, orders are scheduled more closely thereby reducing inventory and making delivery times shorter and more predictable (Hedrick, 2003). MPR review order quantities periodically and as such allow ordering only what is currently needed. This helps keep inventory levels very low. Just-in-Time (JIT): JIT approach ensures that a business should only keep inventory in the right quantity at the right time with the right quality (David, 2004) .Most organizations adapt to this system to integrate inventory management for a more competitive advantage (Kaynak, 2005). It eliminates inventories rather than optimize them. Why keep Inventory Inventory refers to a detailed list of all the items in store or warehouse. According to Inman, Inventory refers to the items that are stored in warehouses or distribution centres in excess of what the store needs (Inman, 2010). The following are the reason why business keeps more inventory than they currently need (Inventory Management, 2010). Meet Demand: this ensures that customers get the product or item that they want when they want it. Keep Operations running: When for example manufacturers run out of stock to manufacture certain product, the whole production process or operations will be halted and thus manufacture of the finished product. In order to prevent this, most manufacturers purchase excess inventory. Lead time: When a shop or a factory places an order for a particular item, the period of time between the order placements and when the order is received is known as lead time. Business therefore should have hands on inventory during the lead time in order to keep its operations running. Hedge: This involves keeping inventory against inflation in price of products. This allows the buyer to buy at a lower price than when the price increases. Quantity Discount: Quantity discount refers to reduction in price of an item when purchasing in bulk. This always influences most businesses to buy more than it needs which might lead to excess inventory. Smoothing Requirements: businesses sometimes acquire access inventory for products that have unpredictable demands in order to meet demand. According to Edwars Silver (Silver, 2008), inventory management involves knowing the following Questions: The size of replenishment order that will be required The time this order will be placed And finally how frequent inventory records should be analysed Best practice in inventory management In an effort to maximise their return on investment (ROI) and avoid excess inventory, many businesses invest a fortune in inventory management systems. In a report by Philip Slater (Slater, 2009), he stated that most of these systems fails to render expected services and rather result in excess inventory. This is because software can only optimise the values it has and not what it could be and as a result, it neglects some important external influences like changes in the management process. He stated that Worlds best practice inventory management demands that the inventory management system is optimised not just the inventory. Inventory management therefore goes beyond software system and as stated by Philip Slater (Slater, 2009) inventory management involves combination of know-how, process and reporting that collectively provide a means of maximizing availability while minimizing cash investment. In the report, he stated five level of worlds best practice inventory management that when fully implemented, can enable businesses to reduce their inventory investment or cost. These levels are: Ad Hoc: this level require less control as inventory is expensed when purchased on an as needed basis and used immediately. Storage: this level involves the storage of items for use and not strictly controlled. Here, inventory is expensed when purchased. This approach tends to increase total expenditure as items are purchased in economic quantities and discourage review and development due to lack of control Capitalisation: This approach entails the use of software solution to control inventory and provide good availability. Unfortunately, most businesses use their software mostly for counting and accounting. Software Optimisation: at this level, inventory is capitalised and the levels of stock are optimised based on a risk/return algorithm. Software solution can automatically adjust stock levels based on the history of demand and supply but these level are not trusted by most business because they believe the supply and demand may not represent actual usage System Optimisation: At this level, all factors influencing inventory investment are reviewed periodically. The main purpose of inventory management is to minimise overall cash investment without increasing risk. This according to Philip Slater is the worlds best practice in inventory management (Slater, 2009). Capitalisation and system optimisation goes hand-in-hand. For an effective system, the management is therefore required to possess the know-how, measures, policy development, and reporting required to take the business to level 5 (System Optimization) and not just the software alone(Slater, 2009). INVENTORY CONTROL According to business link in an article, an organisation has an efficient inventory control only when they have the right amount of stock in the right place and at the right time (Business link, 2006). Inefficient Inventory control can leads slower sales and disappointed customers. Inventory control basically deals with reducing the total cost of inventory. Inventory control is very relevant for businesses, especially businesses dealing with a large variety of products. As site by Hossein Arsham, Inventory management or control can be used to streamline warehouse processes in order to track orders and shipment (Arsham, 2006). Other important applications of inventory management systems are in manufacturing, shipping, and receiving. As stated by Arsham, there are three main factors in inventory control decision making process (Arsham, 2006). The cost of holding the stock: this is the cost associated carrying inventory over time and involves having items in storage. This includes interest, taxes, insurance, spoilage, breakage and warehousing cost like light, rent. The cost of placing an order: this is the cost of ordering and receiving inventory which include shipping cost, preparing invoices, determine how much is needed and moving goods. The cost of shortage: this cost involves what is lost if the stock is insufficient to meet all demand. This normally happens when demand exceeds the supply of inventory on hand. MerchantOS argued that the easiest way to manage inventory is with a computer inventory management s ystem (Merchant, 2010). The systems below help to reduce the time spent in managing inventory: Point-of-sale terminals: this system updates stock level automatically and provide a more error free sales transaction Barcodes and barcode readers which proved a way to effectively input inventory and stock takes faster into the system Job costing and inventory systems which are systems that also automatically update stock counts as orders are being made. Electronic Supplier product catalogs: allows the use of electronic devices like CD/DVDs to record inventory data. These systems ensure accurate inventory records through the use of electronic and wireless technologies that provide error free data. These systems are very efficient in that they: Keep only up-to-date records of items and remove all sold items from the system It is possible to Review stock reports periodically to check the products status and identify low demand products. Periodically check record to ensure the level of accuracy of the system and to check against physical stock quantities. Methods of Inventory Control There are several method of inventory control which include (Hedrick, 2010): Visual control: this is used to determine if additional inventory is required through visual examination. This method is mostly used in small businesses and may not require any records. Tickler control: this is the physical counting of small portion of the inventory on a regular basis. Click Sheet Control: this involves the recording of items as they are used on a sheet of paper and used for reorder purposes Stub control: mostly used by retailers and allow managers have certain control of prices. Today, the growth of businesses has provided a necessity to develop a more complicated and highly analytical form of inventory management. The above inventory management systems became difficult and inefficient. As a result, computer systems to control inventory was introduced. These systems include: Point-of-sale terminals: this stores information of each item that is used or sold. Off-line point-of-sale terminals: this transmits sales information directly to the suppliers computer system. The supplier then uses this information to ship necessary items automatically to the retailers The last method for inventory control is carried out by an external agency. As sited by Floyd Hedrick, it involves removal of unwanted products from stock which can be returned to the manufacture. This however has to occur after an agreement and frequent scheduled visit by the manufacturers representative to the large retailer in order to record stock count and writes the reorder (Hedrick, 2010). The main aim of the above systems was to provide a more efficient system that will be able to identify the cost of each inventory (Hedrick, 2010). According to the report, two main control values are used: The Economic order quantity (EOQ) that is the size of the order The reorder point which is the lowest quantity that a stock or an item can be before more quantity is ordered. The Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) is a formula that is used mainly for calculating the annual cost for ordering an item. It is widely used by most businesses and involves the actual cost of placing an order, the cost of carrying inventory as well as the annual sales rate. (Hedrick, 2010). INVENTORY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS An Inventory management system is a system that automates all the processes involved in inventory management. These system are a vital part of any successful business and is basically used to efficiently track inventory using both hardware and software tools. The types of inventory tracked with an inventory management system includes almost any type of quantifiable products like clothing, household products, food, as well as equipment (Barcodes inc, 2010 ). These inventory management systems can influence the overall efficiency of a companys performance resulting in profits. An overview of the whole system is as shown in the diagram below: The diagram above show an over view of the whole inventory management system indication how numerous branches. It shows how the inventory management system manages inventory, sales as well as Employee information. Through the end of 1980s, sales and accounting related modules were the main focus of majority of software solution for retailer, manufacturers, and wholesalers. During the early 1990s, many distributors began to notice the relevance of an effective way of controlling and managing their largest investment of corporate assets which is inventory. This lead to the development of comprehensive inventory management modules and systems by several software companies (Schreibfeder, 2009). Presently, many businesses rely on modern inventory management systems to automate and integrate all aspects their business operations from order management, shipping management, billing systems, to inventory control all in one software package (Schreibfeder, 2009). Tim Cosby reported that, inventory management systems must have ability to track sales and availability, communicate with suppliers in near real-time and receive and incorporate other data like seasonal demand (Cosby, 2007). This means that the system must tell the storeowner for example when its stock level is low so as to reorder and how much to purchase. Information technology provided a way to convert sales and purchasing into a strategic business operation. Businesses now are faced with the challenge of finding out how to use these technologies to gain value and competitive advantage. Inventory management system can deliver these advantages (Stylus Systems, 2008). Modern inventory management systems now depend on barcodes, and potentially RFID systems to enable automatic identification of objects. According to a case study at Wal-Mart, for products selling between 1 and 15 units a day, RFID was able to reduced Out of Stocks by up to 30% (Mathieu, 2007). In order to record an inventory transaction accurately, the inventory management system uses abarcode scanneror RFID reader to identify products automatically, and then collects additional information on the specific product from the operators via fixedwireless terminals, or mobile computers (Mathieu, 2007). Mathieu defined RFID (RadioFrequencyIdentification) as a data collection technology that uses electronic tags also known as electronic label to store data and can be used to identify items just like bar codes. The main difference between RFID and bar codes is that RFID uses wireless technology to transmit information into the system and can be inserted within packages and does not have to be close to the scanner. On the other hand, barcodes require line of sight and closure to the scanner for information to be read. As stated by Mathieu, RFID tagged cartons rolling on a conveyer belt can be read many times faster than bar-coded boxes (Mathieu, 2007). Large software companies like IBM, Microsoft, SAP, and Oracle have already designed effective inventory management systems for large businesses. These software solutions cost thousands to millions of dollars. They have now turned to focus on smaller businesses. Some of the popular inventory (supply chain) management systems produced by Microsoft include Great Plains and Solomon, which are now joined together and called Microsoft Dynamics GP (Quittner, 2008). Implementing effective inventory management systems Inventory management is very relevant for todays businesses in order to ensure quality control in businesses which presently is centred mostly on customer satisfaction. Inefficient inventory control or management can therefore cause customer dissatisfaction when they run out of stock of an item the customer needs. In order to avoid this, most businesses are willing to invest large amount of money in acquiring an effective and efficient inventory management systems. A good inventory management system will be able to alert the retailer when it is time to reorder. It is also an important way automatically tracking moving inventory. An efficient inventory management system helps to minimize the risk of error. For example, if a business orders large quantity of goods, and say 10,000 are missing. Manual counting each goods is likely to result in error but these errors can be avoided using an automated inventory management system. In retail stores, an inventory management system can also be used to track theft of retail merchandise, providing valuable information about store activities (Schreibfeder, 2009). Inventory management systems must be designed to reflect and support companys strategic plan as well as adapt to market changes due to worldwide marketing or new technology. It should also provide relevant information to efficiently monitor inventory movements, coordinate and integrate internal processes like accounting or billing, manage people and equipment and communicate with customers. According to Invatol, inventory management system must be able to integrate the following processes in order to ensure continuity between functions (Invatol, 2003): Sales Forecasting: this requires the system to provide necessary information to coordinate business operations effectively and manage equipment and people. It should allow managers to make accurate and real time decisions. Sales and Operations planning: inventory management should control or handle fluctuations in market demands and lead time Companys Strategic goals: Alignment with company strategy is an important aspect of the business and necessary for its success and therefore inventory management should be designed to align with the companys strategic goal and market demand. Production and materials requirement planning: inventory system s should provide a balance of demand and supply at a minimised cost, inventory level and work load to achieve customer satisfaction. These processes however vary from business to business depending on how the businesses carry out its processes, and on the market demand. Benefits of using Inventory management systems As cited by David Essex (Essex, 2009), he stated that the following are some of the advantages that businesses achieve while using inventory management software: Businesses get faster return on investment (ROI) which is as a result of lower carrying cost. Inventory software can provide accurate up-to-date information about inventory thereby improving sales forecasts. Replenishment Planning. This means that Inventory management software can notify businesses the safest time to delay order without affecting customer satisfaction and cost. It also proved the ability to separate safety stock according to customer satisfaction and profitability. Increased sales It can also encourage sales staff to promote products without running out of stock by improving inventory visibility (Essex, 2009). Successful Inventory management systems For any successful business, inventory management must be a critical aspect of its business. The most important aspect of an efficient inventory management is to achieve accurate data in terms of figures and facts and to implement policies to protect this information (Inventory Management, 2007). A successful inventory management system will provided businesses with proper inventory control that reduces overall operating cost leading to customer satisfaction as well as give a competitive advantage. As sited by Alan Smith, a well-structured inventory management system should be able to adjust to an existing system (Smith, 2009) Success in manufacturing industry entails producing the right products, in the right quantities, at the right time, with good quality, and at a price the customer is willing to pay. Success in the manufacturing industry requires producing the right products, in the right quantities, at the right time, with good quality, and at a price the customer is willing to pay. The flexibility to respond to compliance standards and the ever-changing needs of customers, such as providing real-time visibility into global operations, is also imperative for success. Meeting these demands requires the ability to make quick decisions based on accurate data. Successful inventory management has to do with balancing the cost of keeping inventory with the benefits gained from inventory. Some of the reasons for inventory management include (Hedrick, 2003): Obtaining lower prices by purchasing products in bulk Keeping stock low just enough to meet demand and avoid excess inventory Maintaining a wide range of stock Increasing inventory turnover or return on investment Having adequate inventory on hand so as to provide reliable customer services However, the degree of success in addressing these issues varies within the functionality of inventory as well as the type of business. A successful inventory management system will accelerate the process of tracking and removing from inventory those items that needed by customer. This process minimises the lead-time for order fulfilment (Merchantos, 2010). Ideally, in order to avoid late re-order times, inventory software should be able to adjust the order quantity and delivery lead time to match that of the suppliers performance. Future of Inventory Management Systems During the late 1990s, there was a large amount of businesses investing in integrated order and inventory system which were basically designed to reduce the amount of inventories as well as manage stock level (replenish stock). There were a wide range of system integration options based on the business needs and financial ability (Gale Group, 2002). However, these stand-alone systems do not integrate well with each other. In 1996, a study by the International Mass Retail Association (IMRA), concluded that stand alone warehouse Management System (WMS) for example which perform only individual business operations will become obsolete because of their lack of integration well with other systems (Gale Group, 2002). Presently, organisations can no longer compete effectively in isolation of their suppliers and other entities. The future success of many businesses depends on the co-ordination and co-operation of efforts, thereby making supply Chain management important. JIT and VMI are the two of the philosophies that have been used to update supply chain relationships and management (David, 2004). The trend now in inventory management is to strives to improve not just specific aspect of the supply chain but system-wide (the entire supply chain) efficiency through automatic replenishment programs (ARPs) like the vendor managed inventory (VMI). In this system, the vendors are responsible for inventory replenishment or restocking of inventory for their retailers. They get retailers warehouse or point of sale information and use it to track retailers inventory thereby placing the whole responsibility for inventory management of the shoulders of the vendors (Gale Group, 2002). Popular Automatic replenishment programs (ARP) includes continuous replenishment planning (CRP) and vendor managed inventory (VMI). CRP and VMI are similar but differ in the sense that VMI also decides what and when to ship. Another widely used ARP is the efficient consumer response (ECR) used within the grocery industry and quick response (QR) programs which are common in the apparel industry (Daugherty, Mye rs, Matthew, Autry and Chad, 1999). Future inventory management systems will be able to integrate all business processes for the whole supply chain. Another future development would be the use of RFID with GPRS to track inventory. ANALYSING INVENTORY ADJUSTMENTS Inventory Adjustment as the name implies is implemented as a stock adjuster with the main objective of synchronising the system with the actual stock on hand. According to Jon Schreibfeder, in a case study with a large food distributor, he stated that the company began a program to achieve effective inventory management. As part of the program, they were cycle counting products and entering inventory adjustments as they find any miss match between the quality of a product in their warehouse and the inventory maintained by their computer system (Schreibfeder, 2009). In his analysis, Schreibfeder stated that the company was able to adopt a system that improved their future inventory accuracy that is methods of handling stock in order to prevent additional stock discrepancies. They did this by carefully analysing the reasons for inventory adjustments (Schreibfeder, 2009). This I believe was because most inventory adjustments are the result of problems encountered in the normal handling of materials. The reason to make inventory Adjustments are basically the same for most businesses irrespective of the systems and operative methodologies they are using but the way these inventory adjustments are made will affect the inventory cost differently. The main reasons why inventory adjustments are required are (Schreibfeder, 2009): Some of the products in inventory are damaged or spoiled and therefore cannot be sold Material is missing from inventory Product in inventory might be out-dated or cannot be sold because it has been in inventory for too long More products available in the inventory than is recorded in the system The remaining inventory in stock is less than the quantity a customer will normally buy Some inventory management system like FoodConnex implement inventory adjustment modules. According to FoodConnex, inventory adjustment can be categorized as follows (Solutions, 2009): Stock Quantity Adjustments as a result of spoilage, damage, theft, samples. These are adjustments made when stock in a store or warehouse is removed from the warehouse or store for a known reason (Solutions, 2009). Quality Adjustment due to a Receiving Error. The adjustments are made when the quantity entered as received into the system was incorrect. This will result in the re-calculation of the average cost of that item (Solutions, 2009). Cost Adjustment due to a Receiving Error: when the cost of an item is entered incorrectly this will require inventory adjustment. This will also cause the average cost of the item to be re-calculated (Solutions, 2009). Based on the information presented, every inventory adjustment should be considered as an opportunity for businesses to improve which can result to greater corporate profitability. Challenges of Inventory management systems Several inventory management systems now include many new features designed to help distributors effectively manage their inventory. However, after implementing such systems, many businesses still continue to face the same challenges they experience with their old system. These challenges include (Schreibfeder, 2000): Stock-out and lost sales Inaccurate On-hand and available-for-sale quantities in their systems Unsatisfactory return on investments from inventory