PMAN Communication plan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

PMAN Communication plan - Essay Example This project communication plan will offer us an appropriate way for managing and controlling the flow of the communication and information inside and outside the corporation. In addition, by creating an efficient communication strategy we can enhance the project’s working efficiency. The basic aim of this communication plan is to run the project efficiently since it will offer a much better working and collaborative environment. The basic need is to establish a better inter and intra communication platform for the communication between project sponsor and project staff. The manager of the new ZolastinexÂÂ ® project desires to establish a communication structure that is less expensive and more effective in handling, controlling and managing the project. The communication is desired to control useful resources handling, mentoring progress, running project tasks, resources deployment, staff management and management decision making. The basic strategy is to establish a secure communication environment that is capable to transfer the entire business data and information all through the desired areas of corporation and project management staff. In this project we need to establish an efficient communication method for all the project stakeholders and handlers. In this scenario we need to take following actions to effectively handle the communication among all the project stakeholders. In this project we will use the following communication/ dissemination

Post Modern Directors Essay Example for Free

Post Modern Directors Essay Jim Jarmusch, with his striking hairstyle and rock star persona or aura, and Wong Kar-wai, with his martial artist or gangster looks, can be considered post modern directors with high caliber works in the film industry. These post modern directors are impressionistic in their respective work and point of view. They are also able to dream or pursue a higher level of quality in their expositions of time, memory and space. For other critics, they are different and simultaneously â€Å"strange†. Jim Jarmusch and Wong Kar-wai seem tend to have different themes, tone and styles. However, by looking at the analysis of other critics and auteurs in the films created by these post modern directors as well as the interviews on the Jarmusch and Kaw-wai, it can be noted that there are deep correspondences between them. In the press release notes for â€Å"Stranger Than Paradise†, the film that first provided him significant attention, Kim Jarmusch half-mockingly explained his film as â€Å"a semi-neorealist black-comedy in the style of an imaginary Eastern-European film director preoccupied with Ozu, and recognizable with the 1950s American television show ‘The Honeymooners†. In a lot of ways, the statement is distinguishing of Jarmusch, conceivably the most talented and revitalizing of the post modern or American independent directors of the last two decades. The interviews also expose that he has always been captivated with combining culturally very unusual features or materials to create something new which cannot be ordinarily categorized. In addition to this, this goes beyond the boundaries between high and low and offers a new point of view at American and the familiar. Jarmusch successfully does this by incorporating the perspective or point of view of a stranger. This is further done by keeping a sense of humor in and about his craft (Hertzberg, vii). Filmmaking for Jim Jarmusch has never had much to do with how it is traditionally imagined or visualized, either in terms of production or aesthetics. As an alternative, he has taken a road less traveled. Consequently this indeed, has made all the differences. From the time of his first feature-length movie, â€Å"Permanent Vacation†, which he completed while still in film school, to the newly released â€Å"Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai†, spectators and interviewers have been inquisitive or interested about the Way, as it were, accountable for the innovative, deadpan quality which sets this film apart. Determinedly, Jarmusch articulates of how he visualizes his films â€Å"from the inside out,† how he begins with an actor in mind, how he represents from the collection of random notes that he is continuously writing down, and how he allows the story and mood of the film develop or advance from that. In addition to this, he is always enthusiastic to acknowledge or recognize his debt to filmmakers and artists in other areas whom he has been influenced by or has borrowed from, just as he never fails to stress the significant responsibility played by the cast and crew in determining and co-creating the films he directs. Every time, he is asked to speculate about the style, themes or philosophy of his films, conversely, Jarmusch’s answers are much more reserved; â€Å"I’m the worst person to analyze (my) stuff and I hate looking back at it†, he told Rosenbaum two years later. Likewise, in a recent conversation with Chris Campion, Jarmusch says of the sense that there is a deeper connection between â€Å"Dead Man† and â€Å"Ghost Dog† that he would rather not attempt to analyze it himself: â€Å"Better to leave that up to someone smarter than myself who can explain it to me sometime†, he says, only half in jest. He insists that he does not remember his earlier films very well, as he has a hard time watching them once he is done with them. And furthermore, he often points out that he is not very fond of sharing his views on his films because he regards other people’s different interpretations of them to be at least valuable as his own and is afraid that his own reflections would only impose (Hertzberg, viii). In his film â€Å"Down by the Law† (1986), Jim Jarmusch refined his humorous and ironic wit by incorporating black and white photography. He also used elegant tracking shots in his film which adds to a unique laconic style. Somehow, the film has a resemblance to Robert Bresson’s â€Å"A Man Escapes† (1956) as well as to other films with themes about prison. This is due to the fact that the story of â€Å"Down by the Law† is drawn from both the life of an ebullient Italian tourist, played by Roberto Benigni, as well as the life of two petty hooligans, played by Tom Waits and John Lurie. However, because of the post modern skills of Jarmusch, he is able to make innovations and come up with a humorous, fresh and unusually moving film. In â€Å"Mystery Train† (1989) and â€Å"Night on Earth† (1991), Jim Jarmusch was highly regarded or commended for the charm and cleverness. Though still, there are some critics or spectators say that these two films are quite similar from his previous works. The criticisms he obtained from these two films show a correspondence to other directors such as David Lynch in his film â€Å"Twin Peaks† (1990), particularly to Wong Kar-wai in his film â€Å"Happy Together†. Wong Kar-wai and Jim Jarmusch in their respective work shows how these two directors risked repetition, as well as self-parody, in order to bring out something (in their point of view) innovative, fresh and revitalizing. Jarmusch’s film â€Å"Dead Man† (1995) can be considered a comeback or response to these criticisms and a strong evidence of how he tried to be innovative and fresh in his perspective. Internationally, this film was acclaimed to be a work of genius. It also deviated from his usual mannered style or hip irony which can be observed in his other films, such as in â€Å"Night on Earth†. Jim Jarmusch successfully uses lyrical depiction of death presented in a bold manner and rendered harsh and brutal. On the other hand, nearly a decade later after his film â€Å"Fallen Angels† was shown in the 1995 Toronto International Film Festival, Wong Kar-Wai’s signature visual pyrotechnics don’t wield quite as much power over spectators as they once did, but this is only to be expected. The best news is that Wong Kar-Wai has matured as a filmmaker, and where sheer visual and aural audacity was once enough to thrill a viewer, these ephemeral techniques have in more recent films like â€Å"Happy Together† and â€Å"In the Mood for Love†, been supplemented by a powerful artistic vision and a new depth of feeling (Tambling, 1) In May 1997, just before Hong Kong passed from British colonial rule to the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong director Wong Kai-wai released the film â€Å"Happy Together:. Wong Kar-wai was born in Shanghai in 1958 but he was brought up in Hongkong and began film-making (if a beginning can be located at this point without being arbitrary about his previous work on films) with â€Å"As Tears Go By† (1988). This was a fast-paced gangland movie set in Kowloon which is frequently compared in plot with Martin Scorsese’s â€Å"Mean Streets† (1973). It portrayed a gangster (played by Andy Lau), caught between the demands of his partner, Fly (played by Jacky Cheung), and his girlfriend (Maggie Cheung). As such, it can be seen as remaking a Hollywood formula, where the focus is on a male character proving his masculinity (Tambling, 1). Often compared with the young Jean-Luc Godard, Wong Kar-wai is celebrated as one of he leading auteurs of new wave Asian cinema. â€Å"Wong may be said to have brought the Hong Kong new wave into the 90s†, wrote Stephen Teo, â€Å"by combining post-modern themes with new wave stylistics† (2008). In â€Å"Chungking Express† (1994), California Dreamin by the Mamas and Papas functions not just as a replacement for dialogue but as the core message of the film. â€Å"In Chungking Express,† writes Larry Gross, Calfornia Dreamin is played some nine or ten times almost in its entirety. But only towards the end do you grasp that dancing casually to that song and letting its lyric play across your mind is almost literally what the movie is about. His world is very much the world with a soundtrack, where objects, perishable but still emotionally resonant, flit in and out of our hands and minds (Lannin and Caley, 173). In Stephen Teo’s analysis on Wong Kar-wai, it can be noted that his work is magisterial and is highly persuading in terms of the proofs and supports for his arguments towards Wong Kar-wai’s work. There is also a remarkable scope and depth in his analysis where comprehensive surveys of Chinese commentary are provided. Stephen Teo, being a genre analyst, particularly on Hong Kong cinema, carefully shows a thorough study of the works of Wong Kar-wai. Aside from Stephen Teo, though this may scandalize some, other spectators admit immediately that they don’t care for most Hong Kong cinema, especially that of the martial arts which sometimes seems to be most of it. Spectators however, acknowledge its worldwide success and appreciate its unbounded energy. Others understand the arguments made by David Bordwell and others for the wonderful balletic kinesthesia and the fecund and often extremely clever recycling of generic motifs from pop culture that can be found in Hong Kong cinema. Spectators and critics respect the tremendous influence that Hong Kong genre films have had on Wong’s filmmaking. Some believes that his greatest triumphs have come when he has transcended generic conventions (Brunette, xviii). In the absence of an outer voice, the song articulates the obsession with the time common to all characters in a Wong Kar-wai film. A telling scene in â€Å"Fallen Angels† shows one of the main characters shooting video of his father. They have little verbal communication despite living in the same small hotel room (the son is mute and the father rarely talks since the death of his wife). The son’s persistence with his video camera becomes so unbearable that his father shuts him out of their room. Later, he is filmed asleep. In private moments, he watches these videos with pleasure and after his death, his son watches one sequence over and over, relishing the pleasure of a rare smile from his father. The task of electronic media in memory, when one-to-one communication is complicated or hard, is a theme that persists or happen again throughout Wong Kar-wai’s films. When Kar-wai’s characters are mute, speechless, or emotionally withdrawn, songs animate their silence. â€Å"Fallen Angels† (1995) starts with a long sequence in which voices are heard only as peripheral chatter or voiceover. Preceding the main titles is a scene shot in black and white (similar to Jarmusch’s use of black and white photography). The hit man, Wong Chi-Ming, which is played by Leon Lai, and his agent, played by Michele Reis, are discussing their professional and personal relationship. Their particular conversation, can be classified as neorotic, internalized, and literally colorless fragment that is swept aside by a tour de force of camerawork, set design, sound and conceptualization, sustained without dialogue or exposition for nearly ten minutes (Lannin and Caley, 173). The difference in style, theme and tone subsequently results to a similarity in the determination of presenting new and deviant works from their previous masterpieces in the film industry makes Jim Jarmusch and Wong Kar-wai stand out to be post modern directors acclaimed by critics and spectators worldwide.

Vegetarianism is the Better Choice Essay -- Diet Vegetarian

The trend of abstaining from eating meat and other animal products is a rapidly growing one. According to David Bender in Animal Rights Opposing Viewpoints, â€Å"Today, nearly twenty million Americans are vegetarians, and many more have greatly reduced their meat consumption† (139). One meat-eating person may ponder why these non-meat eaters would deprive themselves of the wonderful taste of meat and animal products. Another concern is over nutrition, mainly protein intake. Many meat eaters believe that a vegetarian diet does not and cannot supply the protein necessary for the body to function properly. There are many misconceptions (like the one above) and unknown facts associated with the vegetarian lifestyle. This essay will deal with the issue of nutrition and reveal the truth about how the vegetarian diet can improve one’s well being by, making weigh loss easier, boosting the level of energy one feels on a day to day basis, reducing the risks of Atheseriousis, can cer, diabetes, arthritis, osteoporosis, and heart disease. There are also many unknown facts associated with the vegetarian way of life. One of which is the great role vegetarians play in reducing the amount of waste in the environment. What this statement means is that by not eating meat one is promoting the use of farmland for food for humans instead of farmland for grazing animals (this greatly reduces water usage and waste; it also cuts down on the acreage of farm land used.) Water usage will become an increasing problem if more people do not find and implement water conservation methods. According to data taken from John Robbins in Diet for a New America, if something is not done, the water in the Texas aquifers will be exhausted in less than thirty-five years (1). For reasons that will become clearer after reading this essay, vegetarianism seems to be an answer to the problem of water usage. With the increasing amount of land being used for farming to mainly feed animals used for food by us, comes increased soil erosion and leeching. Leeching is a term used to describe the process of the loss of nutrients from the soil, and the end result is sand that cannot support plant life. Vegetarians help to reduce the amount of farmlands needed to support animals. According to Robbins, in Diet for a New America, â€Å"Since 1967, the rate of deforestation in the U.S. has been one acre every five second... ...nd most veal calves are subjected to confinement so severe that they cannot even turn around† (134). The purpose for this treatment is so the animals expend as little energy (in the form of calories) as possible so that the animal gains weight substantially quicker. The raising of other â€Å"food animals† is quite similar to the treatment that pigs and veal receive. â€Å"Food animals† are often fed contaminated food, which poisons them and their meat. Dangerous heavy metals build up in manure, bones, and internal organs, such as kidneys and livers, and are then recycled back through livestock as feed. The diseased organisms that survive in animal tissue processed into feed can infect the livestock and inevitably infect us as well. When one considers the serious health risks of a meat and dairy based diet, the environmental devastation caused by animal agriculture, the huge waste of resources in a world faced with chronic human starvation, and the violence to and suffering of billions of animals the switch to vegetarianism makes perfect sense. Even if one is not willing to completely give up meat, just eating meat at less often will make a difference in ones health, and the environment.

New Belgium Case Analysis

Introduction The New Belgium Brewing Company is one of the top three craft beer breweries in the nation. It has experienced solid growth from its original entry as a niche marketer to a brand that is now distributed across the country. Much of New Belgium’s success is a result of a well-developed positioning strategy that promotes the company’s culture as much as its product. Not coincidentally, New Belgium’s target market chooses brands like Fat Tire because of both the company’s culture and its product.Our evaluation of the two New Belgium cases indicates that the craft beer industry remains an attractive investment for the company, particularly because of its specific capabilities and resources. The cases also suggest that a conservative growth outlook has the greatest probability of maintaining an acceptable level of profitability without sacrificing the company’s mission and core values.Finally, New Belgium’s positioning, particularly as it’s exemplified by the Fat Tire campaign, is a sustainable one for both current and future brands, though deliberate adaptations will be necessary as New Belgium expands into new markets SWOT Analysis Strengths (New Belgium)| Weaknesses (New Belgium)| High-quality beer, award-winning beers| Association with a single line of beer- Fat Tire| 7th Largest brewery in the nation, 3rd largest craft brewery| Increased pressure on maintaining company culture as a result of company growth| Strong growth with est. ales of over $100B and sales of over 700K barrels of beer| Continued reliance on natural gas and fossil fuels- non-renewable resources| $10M advertising budget for Fat Tire campaign| No follow-up of successful Fat-Tire ad campaign| Collaboration with Elysian Brewing Company| Increasing distribution distances| Customer Loyalty| Competition from craft brewers and craft beers from traditional brewers| Effective word-of-mouth advertising| Smaller advertising budget ($10M) than c ompetition (Sam Adams $35M)| Strong product association (Fat Tire Brewery)| One of the founders no longer with NBB| Social media presence: Facebook (300K; $50. M monetization), Twitter (100K), Pandora, Instagram, Beer Stream, YouTube| Customer blow back if environmental and social responsibility not as advertised| TV advertising differentiated from traditional breweries| Incompatibility between social responsibility and promotion of alcohol consumption| Clear market segmentation| Increased expense associated with sustainability efforts| Strong brand positioning| | Distribution in 29 states and DC| |Performance advantage of ethically and socially responsible companies| | Triple Bottom Line: economic, social, and environmental focus drives strategy| | Brand manifesto co-developed by Dr. Holt| | Clear mission, core values, and beliefs| | Long-standing commitment to sustainability| | â€Å"Sustainable Purchasing Guidelines†| | Awards for environmental achievement | | Admission of flaws in sustainability claims| |Dedication to socially responsible initiatives, corporate charity and philanthropy| | Event sponsorship to promote environmental responsibility| | Generous employee benefits that reflect company culture| | Awards for business ethics and work-place environment| | Grant-supported new plant in NC| | Opportunities (Craft Beer Industry)| Threats (Craft Beer Industry)| 16. 4 percent growth in craft beer industry| 2 percent decrease in total beer consumption| Fastest growing segment of US alcoholic beverage market w/>100 percent growth from 1999-2011| Accounts for only 5. percent of US beer market| Differentiation from traditional breweries| Competition from traditional and other craft breweries| Low cost per viewer TV advertising | Social stigma of alcohol consumption| Growth of social media as inexpensive source of advertising| Beer can become a commodity in a poor economy, decreasing demand for craft beers| Customer loyalty| Increased differentiation ef forts required to stand apart from traditional breweries| More immune to an economic downturn than traditional beers| |New Belgium and the Craft Beer Industry New Belgium Brewing Company is relatively small compared to the traditional breweries such as Anheuser Busch and Coors, though they are still the seventh-largest brewery in the nation. New Belgium is, however, the third-largest craft brewery in the nation, with estimated sales of over $100 million, equaling approximately 700,000 barrels of beer per year. An analysis of the craft beer industry as a whole suggests that there is continued growth potential for New Belgium.Exhibit 5. 1 of the New Belgium Brewing (B) case shows that craft beer is the fastest growing segment of the U. S. alcoholic beverage market, with an increase in market share of over 100 percent from 1999-2011. It is also an industry whose customers tend to be extremely loyal, making them less likely to view craft beer as a commodity. Consequently, craft beer has a higher probability of being immune to competition from inferior goods and substitutes.This is particularly applicable to New Belgium’s target market of â€Å"beer connoisseurs† that appreciate the high quality and taste of craft beer and who include â€Å"executives, lawyers, and accountants† with the continued ability to pay higher prices for craft beer, enabling the craft beer industry to achieve gross margins of up to 30 percent (Clark & Rogler, 2013). Four other strengths of New Belgium indicate continued growth in the craft beer industry. First, studies have shown that companies who sincerely promote ethical, social, and environmental responsibility outperform those on the S&P 500.New Belgium has been such a company from the very start. Second, they have exploited social media as an inexpensive advertising platform, with their Facebook presence alone accounting for over $50 million in annual sales. Third, New Belgium has shown that they can succeed in tr aditional television advertising as well with their Fat Tire campaign that produced an extremely successful positioning strategy resulting in significant sales increases. Fourth, New Belgium continues to look for ways to innovate, like their partnership with Elysian Brewing Company that could lead to greater efficiency and support new product development.New Belgium is a company that has received awards for their beer, for their ethics, for their employee care, and for their stewardship of the environment, all the while maintaining strong financial growth and market share. There is nothing to suggest that New Belgium cannot continue to succeed in the craft beer industry. New Belgium’s Growth Outlook New Belgium’s success to date in the industry has been a result of a conservative approach to growing their business- a â€Å"go slow to go fast† strategy. We believe it should continue to be conservative in its outlook on growth.New Belgium Brewing is a growing comp any, best exemplified by plans to open a second brewery in Asheville, North Carolina, in order to reach new markets on the east coast. This expansion, however, is creating pressure on the company’s commitment to sustainability. Even though the new plant will reduce the fuel necessary for east coast distribution, it still will result in an increase in the overall use of fossil fuels and non-renewable resources from current levels, not just with transportation but with production as well. In addition, the increased production will necessarily mean an increase in environmental waste by-products.An aggressive outlook on growth with a mindset of â€Å"grow, grow, grow† would further jeopardize the company’s ability to maintain sustainability efforts, which would not be consistent with New Belgium’s way of operating. New Belgium Brewing embraces a â€Å"triple bottom line† approach to business that factors economic, social, and environmental consideratio ns into its business strategy rather than simply looking at the bottom line. We believe that this has been critical in developing a strong brand preference through customer trust.New Belgium’s own study indicates the â€Å"39 percent of beer consumers will make extra efforts to buy from and support sustainable companies,† while outside studies suggest that a significant number of consumers support businesses that demonstrate sustainable practices. Going â€Å"fast† with an aggressive growth outlook would likely alienate New Belgium’s customer base and would violate every one of New Belgium’s Sustainable Branding Strategy principles, from â€Å"walk before talk† (living up to sustainability claims) to â€Å"make ripples† (convincing the customer that advertisements promote the brand and the culture behind it).In addition, an aggressive growth outlook would be contrary to some of New Belgium’s core values and beliefs, particularl y those that address environmental stewardship and commitment to trust through fulfilling promises. No one should doubt that New Belgium is in the business to â€Å"operate a profitable brewery† as its mission statement makes clear, but not at the expense of the other two bottom lines. For New Belgium Brewing Company, slow and steady leads the way. Fat Tire Positioning As noted above, New Belgium’s positioning of its Fat Tire brand was a success.Clancy (2001) defines positioning as â€Å"the message a company wants to imprint on the minds of customer and prospects about its product†¦and how it differs from and offers something better than competitors† (p. 1). In the case of Fat Tire, its positioning mirrored the company’s culture â€Å"where a highly creative activity†¦is pursued for the intrinsic value of doing it, as well as perfromed in a balanced manner with nature. † The message was about pursuing one’s interests (folly) but n ot in a way that reflect’s self-interest alone.It’s a message about recycling (restoring the bike), about caring for the environment (riding instead of driving), about relationships (the road biker and the tinkerer riding uphill together), and about the simple joy of simple things. It’s about good beer made by a literally â€Å"good† company. Compare this approach with the positioning of the largest craft brewer, Sam Adams, whose ads have â€Å"morphed into television spots that [look] more and more like the position of America’s Big Three brewers. The Fat Tire ad, on the other hand, cleary demonstrates that New Belgium is different than it’s competitors in the culture behind the beer, and that’s what New Belgium is after- the market who not only wants high quality, excellent craft beer but who also wants to be associated with a high quality company behind it. The Fat Tire campaign produced increased sales of 37 percent in test marke ts, and New Belgium’s sales force was able to leverage this success by convincing transactional customers to promote New Belgium’s secondary brands, increasing these sales by over 50 percent (Holt & Cameron, 2010).Given the results of the Fat Tire campaign, we recommend a continuation of the current positioning. Through Fat Tire, New Belgium has been able to differentiate itself in the craft beer industry by producing strong products that are well received by their target customers who are, or who see themselves as, smart, creative, athletic, environmentally conscious, and socially engaged. Target Markets The target consumer customer marketing strategy for the Fat Tire campaign focuses on the market concentration approach of selecting a single market segment and then identifying shared segmentation factors.For example, the campaign targets â€Å"high-end† (psychographic, behavioral) male beer drinkers ages 25-44 (demographic) who are mostly white-collar professi onals (demographic) who vacation in Colorado (geographic) for a taste of the mountain lifestyle (psychographic). This market longs for the life of the tinkerer (psychographic) but believe that they are unable to sacrifice their current circumstances in order to obtain it (psychographic). They can, however, make a connection to that life and to others in similar situations (psychographic, association/affinity) by drinking Fat Tire (behavioral).The transactional customer, on the other hand, is likely to be the local liquor store or grocer rather than supermarket or large retail discount center. For one, such distributors are more apt to carry craft beers because of their higher price and lower sales volume. More importantly, it is more probable that they are susceptible to local demands to carry New Belgium beers, the kind that result from the example noted by the case where a local Minnesota liquor store sold 400 cases of Fat Tire with the first hour of opening.Recommendations for th e Future Looking toward the future, the cases note that New Belgium has no plans to undertake another major television ad campaign similar to Fat Tire. We recommend that they reconsider this position, particularly as they move into the east coast market and open their Asheville brewery. Taking a pure aggregation approach by replicating current strategy there will probably not produce the success to which New Belgium has become accustomed.Having recently studied the early failures of Disney in Europe due to a lack of adaptation, we suggest a television ad campaign modeled after a listening tour, perhaps where the tinkerer and his single-speed bike tours the Carolinas, finding compatriots along the way. The tagline could be, â€Å"Beer is our folly. What’s yours? † The television ads would promote contact with New Belgium via social media, and local events would be sponsored to share New Belgium beer and culture with the east coast market, as well as to learn more about their new target market.Based upon what New Belgium learns, we also recommend developing a new craft beer specifically for the east coast market, fulfilling the transformational innovation activities of the Innovation Ambition Matrix (Limacher, 2012). We envision this campaign then developing television spots that show the tinkerer traveling through locations from the Maine coast to the Key West, with quick images of him restoring old junked treasures that represent the follies he previously learned about- a wooden canoe, an Appalachian fiddle, or an antique Penn ocean reel- all the while promoting New Belgium’s new brand.In addition to television ads, New Belgium would continue its established strategy of permission marketing using social media, which they have clearly established as having a strong correlation with annual sales. We project that if New Belgium follows this Sustainable Branding Strategy with an emphasis on adaptations to the new market, it will achieve succes s similar to the results from the Fat Tire campaign. Conclusion New Belgium is poised for significant growth because of the way that it has differentiated the company from other craft brewers.Despite a smaller advertising budget that larger competitors like Sam Adams, New Belgium has leveraged its advertising resources into developing a position that is distinctly different, which has created strong brand appeal among its target market. If New Belgium can maintain its original principles as it grows, we see a high likelihood that profits will follow. New Belgium’s â€Å"single speed† is absolutely the right vehicle to transport the company into the future. References Clancy, K. 2001). Whatever happened to positioning: Recent Copernicus study confirms the dissappearance of positioning. Copernicus. Clark, C. , & Rogler, J. (2013, March 8). Personal Interview. (M. Holcomb, Interviewer) Holt, D. , & Cameron, D. (2010). Cultural Strategy: Using Innovative Ideologies to Buil d Breakthrough Brands. New York: Oxford University Press. Limacher, R. (2012, May 25). Framework of the week – 81 -innovation ambition matrix. Retrieved March 20, 2013, from strategyhub. net:

Performance Management System Essay

A performance management system is the process in which an organization will involves its employees, as individuals and members of a group, in improving organizational effectiveness in the accomplishment of the organization’s mission and goals. Employee performance management includes: planning work and setting expectations, continually monitoring performance, developing the capacity to perform, periodically rating performance in a summary fashion, and rewarding good performance. Planning Work and other processes are planned out in organizations; one of the best ways the organization knows to ensure that the employees are effective in the organization is by implementing the employees in the planning process. This helps the employees understand the goals, what needs done, why it needs to be done, and how well it should be done within the organization. Monitoring Within effective organizations, projects and other assignments are monitored, positive monitoring is consistently measuring performance as well as providing positive and negative feedback to and from employee’s on their progress toward reaching goals. Requirements for monitoring employees performance is compared against their elements and standards in the organization, monitoring provides the organization opportunity to check the employees performance and the ability to measure the unacceptable performance. Developing Employee development should be evaluated and addressed; this form of developing can increase the capacity to perform through training, give tasks that work on new skills of higher levels of responsibility, improve the work process, and many other methods. When employees are provided with training and developmental opportunity’s, organizations encourage good performance, strengthen job-related skills and competence, and helps employees keep up with changes in the organization such as; new policy, standards, or technology. Rating Organizations will summarize employees performance allowing them to compare  performance over time or amongst a variety of employees, this allows the organization to see who the best performers are as well as the employees that need work. Rating is evaluating employees or a group of employee’s performance against the standards in a performance plan and assigning a summary rating record. There are rating of records assigned according to procedures included in the organizations appraisal program, which is biased on the performance by employees during an entire appraisal period. Rewarding Rewarding is when the organization recognizes the employees, either as individuals or a team for their performance and acknowledging their contributions to the needs of the organization. Positive performance can be recognized without waiting for nominations for awards, recognition can be implemented in all day-to-day operations within the organization. Using a Performance Management System Any organization that uses a performance management system creates positive work practices among the employees, as well it allows the management in the organization to see where the employees performance is at. Organizations need to gather information about employee performance in order to figure out who would be a good fit when it comes to promotions and who would be better equipped to handle more responsibilities. Performance management system helps the organization to determine which employees are best suited to hire from within, not only do they already know the operations of the organization, but the organizations management knows their work ethics and has already been monitoring their progress.

Buffer Definition - Chemistry and Biology

Buffer Definition - Chemistry and Biology A buffer is a  solution containing either a weak acid and its salt or a weak base and its salt, which is resistant to changes in pH. In other words, a buffer is an aqueous solution of either a weak acid and its conjugate base or a weak base and its conjugate acid. A buffer may also be called a pH buffer, hydrogen ion buffer, or buffer solution. Buffers are used to maintain a stable pH in a solution, as they can neutralize small quantities of additional acid of base. For a given buffer solution, there is a working pH range and a set amount of acid or base that can be neutralized before the pH will change.  The amount of acid or base that can be added to a buffer before changing its pH is called its buffer capacity.   The Henderson-Hasselbalch equation may be used to gauge the approximate pH of a buffer.  In order to use the equation, the initial concentration or stoichiometric concentration is entered instead of the equilibrium concentration. The general form of a buffer chemical reaction is: HA â‡Å' H   A− Examples of Buffers blood - contains a bicarbonate buffer systemTRIS bufferphosphate buffer As stated, buffers are useful over specific pH ranges. For example, here is the pH range of common buffering agents: Buffer pKa pH range citric acid 3.13., 4.76, 6.40 2.1 to 7.4 acetic acid 4.8 3.8 to 5.8 KH2PO4 7.2 6.2 to 8.2 borate 9.24 8.25 to 10.25 CHES 9.3 8.3 to 10.3 When a buffer solution is prepared, the pH of the solution is adjusted to get it within the correct effective range. Typically a strong acid, such as hydrochloric acid (HCl) is added to lower the pH of acidic buffers. A strong base, such as sodium hydroxide solution (NaOH), is added to raise the pH of alkaline buffers. How Buffers Work In order to understand how a buffer works, consider the example of a buffer solution made by dissolving sodium acetate into acetic acid. Acetic acid is (as you can tell from the name) an acid: CH3COOH, while the sodium acetate dissociates in solution to yield the conjugate base, acetate ions of CH3COO-. The equation for the reaction is: CH3COOH(aq) OH-(aq) ⇆ CH3COO-(aq) H2O(aq) If a strong acid is added to this solution, the acetate ion neutralizes it: CH3COO-(aq) H(aq) ⇆ CH3COOH(aq) This shifts the equilibrium of the initial buffer reaction, keeping the pH stable. A strong base, on the other hand, would react with the acetic acid. Universal Buffers Most buffers work over a relative narrow pH range. An exception is citric acid because it has three pKa values. When a compound has multiple pKa values, a larger pH range becomes available for a buffer. Its also possible to combine buffers, providing their pKa values are close (differing by 2 or less), and adjusting the pH with strong base or acid to reach the required range. For example, McIvaines buffer is prepared by combining mixtures of Na2PO4 and citric acid. Depending on the ratio between the compounds, the buffer may be effective from pH 3.0 to 8.0. A mixture of citric acid, boric acid, monopotassium phosphate, and diethyl barbituic acid can cover the pH range from 2.6 to 12! Buffer Key Takeaways A buffer is an aqueous solution used to keep the pH of a solution nearly constant.A buffer consists of a weak acid and its conjugate base or a weak base and its conjugate acid.Buffer capacity is the amount of acid or base that can be added before the pH of a buffer changes.An example of a buffer solution is bicarbonate in blood, which maintains the bodys internal pH. Sources Butler, J. N. (1964).  Ionic Equilibrium: A Mathematical Approach. Addison-Wesley. p.  151.Carmody, Walter R. (1961). Easily prepared wide range buffer series. J. Chem. Educ. 38 (11): 559–560. doi:10.1021/ed038p559Hulanicki, A. (1987). Reactions of acids and bases in analytical chemistry. Translated by Masson, Mary R. Horwood. ISBN 0-85312-330-6.Mendham, J.; Denny, R. C.; Barnes, J. D.; Thomas, M. (2000). Appendix 5. Vogels Textbook of Quantitative Chemical Analysis (5th ed.). Harlow: Pearson Education. ISBN 0-582-22628-7.Scorpio, R. (2000). Fundamentals of Acids, Bases, Buffers Their Application to Biochemical Systems. ISBN 0-7872-7374-0.

Jacksonian era essays

Jacksonian era essays Why the Versailles Peace Treaty did not work When World War I came to a close in mid-November of 1918, many ideas came about in Europe as to what the peace settlement should be. In Britain, leaders were thinking about how to increase British colonial power. In France, many wanted to permanently punish the Germans, partly in revenge for Germany's aggression in World War I. In Germany, citizens were worried about how radical changes after the war could affect their daily lives. Finally, in the United States, President Wilson was already putting together a system of permanently preserving European peace. All these confusion, worries, plans, and ideas came together in Paris in 1919, with the Treaty of Versailles, establishing the post-war peace in Europe. Yet just twenty years later, war would once again break out in Europe. So why were the peace settlements of World War I unable to prevent the outbreak of war twenty years later in World War II? The treaty was signed on the 28th of June 1919, it was mainly put together by David Lloyd George, representing Britain and Georges Clemenceau, representing France. Woodrow Wilson was the representative of the United States, but Wilsons fourteen points to a peaceful Europe was immediately ignored by France and Britain. The Treaty of Versailles had two main issues on which it focused: Germany's post war territory and also the amount of reparations Germany must pay. Not only were Britain and France overly nasty in assessing these reparations, but they were also blind in thinking they would receive anything beneficial out of it. In essence, Britain and France demanded all of Germany's money, nonetheless they also took away all territory from Germany that could produce this money. By taking away Germany's colonies, they, in result, eliminated all of Germany's investments and belongings in their Colonial power. Future income and i...

4 Great Going Away Gifts for Coworkers

4 Great Going Away Gifts for Coworkers Ever wonder what to get a coworker who’s leaving your office? This person may have become a real friend outside of work. Or he or she might be a face to nod and smile at in the hallway, with whom you’ve spent very little time outside the office. Either way, it’s nice to commemorate the time you’ve spent working together. It’s just very often hard to think of what to get for the going away gifts. Maybe the most appropriate thing to do is band together as a team and chip in a little (say, $5-10) for a larger, more expensive group gift. If that turns out to not be the best option, you can consider individual gifts. Just keep in mind that whatever gift you give should be something they’d be comfortable with unwrapping in public, in a professional setting.Here are some great ideas for departure gifts.Gifts for the Coworker Moving AwayIf your coworker is relocating, particularly somewhere new where they don’t have roots, consider a gift rela ted to their new locale:  a book about the history or food culture of a place, a local guidebook or restaurant guide, etc. Or, you could try the sentimental route and get a commemorative photo or book or trinket from where you are currently, so they can take it with them to their new life somewhere else.Gifts for the Coworker  Changing CreersMaybe  your coworker is switching fields- or even careers. A gift to commemorate the new job is a lovely gesture of support. A little gift bag of useful items, trinkets, or aspirational things suited for their new job or role can be very much appreciated- particularly if you add a little note of support to send them off with confidence!Gifts for the Coworker  Who Found Success on the JobWas there a particular achievement you shared? Consider having your team find an object or souvenir that symbolizes your work together. Then frame it, or put it on a stand, and make sure to all sign it in permanent marker. Wherever your coworker goes, the y’ll have the memory both of the accomplishment and of your team to brighten their office.Gifts for the Coworker You Don’t Know That WellIf you don’t have the time or energy to put together one of these more specialized gifts, the old standbys are always available! Try a bouquet of flowers and a group-signed card on their desk. A bottle of champagne or their favorite wine. Or even simply slap a bow on a box of chocolates. Remember, it’s the thought that counts.

Consulting Case Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Consulting Case Assignment - Essay Example The firm’s quick ratio during 2003-2004 was 0.79. In 2003-2004 the cost of goods sold of the company increased by 41.20% The cost of gods sold of the company have increased at an alarming rate considering that the sales growth factor in fiscal year 2003-2004 was 6.40%. Higher costs of goods sold have diminished the profitability of the company. The cash position of the firm is catastrophic. Its cash balance has been declining since 2001-2002. The cash balance of the firm this year was -$5,804. The organization is suffering from cash flow problems. The situation has escalated to a point that the firm might be forced to shutdown operations because the company will be unable to pay its short term obligations without any cash. Cash is the most important asset because it is used to pay for business transactions. Another problem that the company faces is limited production capacity. The lack of production capacity is hurting the ability of the company to take large orders. Two human resource problems the firm has are absenteeism among the staff and underperforming managers and supervisors. The first issue that must be attended is resolving the cash flow position of the firm. The company is at the blink of bankruptcy. Typically all loans go into default after 90 days without payment. A simple solution that the firm can implement in the short term to solve the liquidity issues of the firm is factoring. Factoring is the sale of the account receivables of the company at a discount. The balance of accounting receivables of the company is $123,501. If the firm is able to factor its receivables at a 10% discount rate the company will generate a cash influx of $111,151. The firm also has to attend the problem of rising cost of goods sold. The increase in costs is the main reason that the profitability of the company is negative. A solution to reduce cost of goods sold is sourcing materials from a Chinese manufacturer. China is the top

The notion of Peace Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The notion of Peace - Essay Example This paper will evaluate Dr. Abigail Forsythe’s argument. Question 1: Conclusion of Dr. Abigail Forsythe’s argument In summarizing Dr. Abigail Forsythe’s argument, it stands to be vague as opposing peace portrays a senseless mind. Trying to justify the activities of the armed forces as a way of bridging peace comes out as under reasoning. Instead of stating that people should have given war a chance in 1939 and peace in 1946, the chance of peace should have been embraced in both 1939 and 1946. This would have saved people a lot of suffering. As long as individuals remain imprisoned in the field of self-oriented reasoning, they can easily justify their brutality to others. They excuse their tough eyes and supremacist rankings, ignoring the suffering they cause to others, and continue on rationalizing their actions and blocking awareness of the reality of their feelings and their fundamental oneness with other humans. Question 2: Important premises of Dr. Abigail F orsythe’s argument Dr. Abigail Forsythe’s argument has four main premises, of which some stand as cogent arguments and some as irrational. One premise holds that saying people should not avoid war because of its inconveniences is insane because they do not avoid giving birth to babies even though they come with their own inconveniences. The second vital premise is based on the reason why parents have to take care of their babies. This argument is valid because every parent, despite the hardships, should dictate the course of the children; this stands as their sole reason of bringing them to this world. The third premise stands at trying to justify Canada’s war against Hitler and Mussolini versions of fascism. The premises try to justify that it is Canada’s own right to fight for its rights in a war. This argument is vague as it does not spell out other options that Canada could opt for; hence it stands as an irrational argument. Any reasonable person woul d have thought of other options in the place of Canada instead of engaging in fights. The fourth point, trying to seek peace, lies in the people’s own context, hence is irrational. The premise tries to justify that the country was right to seek war in 1939 and seek peace in 1946. The reasonable fact should be that peace should have been sought in 1939, and more peace in 1946. For this reason, Dr Abigail Forsythe’s argument, for seeking war in 1939, is irrational. Question 3: Quality of Dr Abigail Forsythe’s argument Dr Abigail Forsythe put out an argument whose thesis stood mostly of opposing the wrong things. The argument tried to justify the right things that people do. Some of the fallacies in the argument are as follows: it stands wrongly to avoid war because there is much more to avoid than the inconveniences of deaths on sufferings. The second argument, which can be viewed as a good argument, is the one that says parents have the duty of looking after thei r children, not for any other reason, but because they brought them to this world. The third fallacy trying to justify Canada’s fighting as a measure of doing what stood to be right then shows a lack of reasoning. Other options like peaceful mediation would have been adopted instead of going to the battle field to sort out issues. As a result of the battle, many lives were lost, the losing country lost its dignity, and property was destroyed. In the pursuit of peace, Canada, Germany and Italy could have

Concert response paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Concert response paper - Essay Example Musical performance was directed by Midiyanto and accompanied by the guest dance company called Lestari Indonesia. This unusual performance created a great opportunity to appreciate the power of traditional Javanese music in real life. Ladrang Wilujeng was the first piece performed during the concert. It was a good beginning because it introduced all spectators to unusual scales and harmonies used in traditional Javanese music. It was difficult to perceive the melody in the beginning because of its significant differences with Western music where rhythm and melody went together under any circumstances. However, after a couple of minutes there atmosphere in the hall changed; it was full of meditative vibes and made all spectators feel engaged in the performance. Harga Wisma followed the first piece and presented a good case of traditional Javanese vocal. The melody was very authentic and it made people feel as if they travelled to the place where the music was created. Gambyong Pareanom came next; it was a traditional Javanese dance performed by the troop of dancers who joined the musicians and helped them to showcase the best traditions of Javanese culture in one performance. The second part of the performance began with a cheerful sound of Gendhing Erang-Erang to Ladrang Opak Apem. That piece was quite emotional as it was followed by a vocal party. Unusual vocal joined by a number of Javanese musical instruments created a strong feeling of Javanese culture to all spectators. That piece was followed by a composition consisting of several pieces with gong cycles. All cycles were different due to the scale used and beat structures. Sampak was the best part of all because it was more dynamic and cheerful in its mood. There was a small vocal party between some of the pieces; it was interesting because only a small group of musicians followed the vocalist. It was great to hear all diverse and changing musical elements used in traditional Javanese Gamelan in

Hegel's philosophy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Hegel's philosophy - Essay Example Hegel’s philosophy explains about the appearances, images and illusions throughout the history of human consciousness. He have had tried to search for the eternal consciousness of the mankind .According to Hegel Geist is a post dead presence of soul. Hegel’s philosophy explains right from the human response to consciousness to attaining great knowledge of the un-consciousness pertaining in the world The Geist were said to make noise. They were described as the alien bodies which make their presence felt by their virtual movements and moving the physical things with out any sense of touch. The Geist is believed to be the Holy Spirit. Geist is said to lead the holy personalities to empower the eternal world and lead them to the father the mankind. Geist is not considered to be God but the follower and preacher of the ultimate. The Geist is the virtual essence of the ultimate which unifies the thought of community. The worldly knowledge when enhanced enables a sprit to dis tinguish between the good and the bad existing. This conscience leads to control the thought and moves the spirit towards the right path of implementation. God sets the stage with the rules but the individual has to grasp the essence and has to cross the stages to be at the stage where he himself can judge the will.According to Hegel the self was nothing until the mind was able to relate the self to its concept of 'Self'. Hegel believed that the individual, by interacting with other individuals, other objects in the external environment, as well as other ideas in the world of the spirit, could empower himself. According to Hegel self empowerment could only be achieved through interaction with other individuals, other objects, and other ideas. Institutions like the family; civil society, education etc. were absolutely essential means to attain freedom of the individual. Hegel believes that the material things which are visible are inexistent. The object which evolved has to face the cycle of extinction. As the time evolves an object created is an object going to be in past in future. The existence is not immortal. Every stage a human being crosses has a lesson to learn. Organisism: According to Hegel an object has to been seen as whole entity but not as individual sections. He emphasizes that every part has an equal contribution to overall growth of the object. If one section is diluted then it reflects on the other sections of the same objects. So, the working of each section is vital in building a strong system in an object. Human thoughts initially will be like an embryo which as time evolves develops into a strong physical structure by accumulating energy resources, mind also develops the expanse of visualizing the situation in-depth as it gains the knowledge to interpret the thought. According to the empowerment should occur inherently to sharpen the panoramic view of a thought developed in the mind. Historicism: The human thought and actions in various fields were bought from the historical implication rather than a spontaneous revolutionary idea. Thus Hegel signifies that the historical work done on an particular theme is a significant base for any new developments. The importance of the historical essence asserts on creating a clear idea of history to conceptualize any idea According to Hegel this system of looking back to the previous work enables us to pin-point at the fallouts of the previous and act upon the same to create a more meaning system. According to Hegel one must look at the individual in the society to know the value of the society. To understasnd the society of a region one must look at the history of the society.The persent senario existing in any society is due to the contemporary forces acting on it.Hegel considered human societies as the main sources of observation rather than the other external factors like the religion,race, culture etc.He discribes that modern philopher now a days don't isolate his presence but tries to be in the society to bring the

Contemporary Developments Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Contemporary Developments - Essay Example Some of the competitors of Cafà © Coffee day are Barista, Cafà © Mocha and Costa Coffee. India is a growing economy and has shown stability over the past decades in terms of economic growth. The GDP (gross domestic product) of 6% has been maintained in the past ten years and India has become the fourth largest economy in the world (Government of India, 2005). Along with having increased the per capita income of a large number of its people, especially the middle classes, India now has a vast middle class with large amount of disposable income (Aguilar, 2006). This makes the country a choice for consumer product producers and retailers. AT Kearneys annual Global Retail Development Index (A.T. Kearney, 2008) lists India at the top and the country is hailed as the 5th largest retail investment destination (with expected growth of investments to US$ 427 billion by 2010 and US$ 637 billion by 2015) (A.T. Kearney, 2008). It also has the largest number of retail outlets at 12 million, out of which 5 million retailers cater for the food and beverage requirements (India Brand Equity Foundation, 2008). In addition to the proliferation of the retail business in urban India, there is tremendous potential provided by the smaller towns and cities. A very large section of the Indian masses reside in the semi-urban regions that border the metros as well as in the villages. These people are as yet not introduced to the retail boom that urban India is experiencing, and offer a large market that can be tapped. According to Brand Equity Survey, the there investment through franchising in rural India is expected to double by 2010 (India Brand Equity Foundation, 2008). The indigenous coffee organizations however face increased competition from foreign brands and retailers who are getting a stronghold in India. India started its economic reforms in 1991 and deregulated economy that led to an influx of foreign

Hegel's philosophy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Hegel's philosophy - Essay Example Hegel’s philosophy explains about the appearances, images and illusions throughout the history of human consciousness. He have had tried to search for the eternal consciousness of the mankind .According to Hegel Geist is a post dead presence of soul. Hegel’s philosophy explains right from the human response to consciousness to attaining great knowledge of the un-consciousness pertaining in the world The Geist were said to make noise. They were described as the alien bodies which make their presence felt by their virtual movements and moving the physical things with out any sense of touch. The Geist is believed to be the Holy Spirit. Geist is said to lead the holy personalities to empower the eternal world and lead them to the father the mankind. Geist is not considered to be God but the follower and preacher of the ultimate. The Geist is the virtual essence of the ultimate which unifies the thought of community. The worldly knowledge when enhanced enables a sprit to dis tinguish between the good and the bad existing. This conscience leads to control the thought and moves the spirit towards the right path of implementation. God sets the stage with the rules but the individual has to grasp the essence and has to cross the stages to be at the stage where he himself can judge the will.According to Hegel the self was nothing until the mind was able to relate the self to its concept of 'Self'. Hegel believed that the individual, by interacting with other individuals, other objects in the external environment, as well as other ideas in the world of the spirit, could empower himself. According to Hegel self empowerment could only be achieved through interaction with other individuals, other objects, and other ideas. Institutions like the family; civil society, education etc. were absolutely essential means to attain freedom of the individual. Hegel believes that the material things which are visible are inexistent. The object which evolved has to face the cycle of extinction. As the time evolves an object created is an object going to be in past in future. The existence is not immortal. Every stage a human being crosses has a lesson to learn. Organisism: According to Hegel an object has to been seen as whole entity but not as individual sections. He emphasizes that every part has an equal contribution to overall growth of the object. If one section is diluted then it reflects on the other sections of the same objects. So, the working of each section is vital in building a strong system in an object. Human thoughts initially will be like an embryo which as time evolves develops into a strong physical structure by accumulating energy resources, mind also develops the expanse of visualizing the situation in-depth as it gains the knowledge to interpret the thought. According to the empowerment should occur inherently to sharpen the panoramic view of a thought developed in the mind. Historicism: The human thought and actions in various fields were bought from the historical implication rather than a spontaneous revolutionary idea. Thus Hegel signifies that the historical work done on an particular theme is a significant base for any new developments. The importance of the historical essence asserts on creating a clear idea of history to conceptualize any idea According to Hegel this system of looking back to the previous work enables us to pin-point at the fallouts of the previous and act upon the same to create a more meaning system. According to Hegel one must look at the individual in the society to know the value of the society. To understasnd the society of a region one must look at the history of the society.The persent senario existing in any society is due to the contemporary forces acting on it.Hegel considered human societies as the main sources of observation rather than the other external factors like the religion,race, culture etc.He discribes that modern philopher now a days don't isolate his presence but tries to be in the society to bring the

Strategic Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 6

Strategic Management - Essay Example mpany to simplify entire transaction completing cycle since it does not include any complicated features that are difficult to understand and implement. It benefits management in a way that it reduces total employee training costs and time. As far as core technical benefit of POS is concerned, it is worthwhile to mention that it is extremely helpful in initiating promotion activities because it reduce dependence on manual process (that may take up to 48 hours from stores) currently used at MYER store. After induction of POS, the Myer store will have access to and be able to manage all in-store information relating to promotions and pricing directly from company headquarters. Secondly, the system enables the company to offer additional services to customers besides routine services because it offers flexibility and adaptability. Needless to mention that the system has ability to enhance service speed thereby improving customer satisfaction and perceived loyalty. Thirdly, POS help in r ecognizing customers as it records their facial expressions and other information besides keeping individual transaction records. In addition, POS offers a unique feature of keeping inventory records and stock availability options that facilitates top and middle managers in decision making and problem solving. In short, Point of sale is a real time information system that manages all areas of a business organization including sales back office, inventory management, warehousing, data mining, distribution center and others etc. In simple words, it is a multipurpose system that increases organizational productivity, efficiency and effectiveness besides reducing total business

Applied Skill for Human Services Essay Example for Free

Applied Skill for Human Services Essay The field of Human Services is broadly defined, uniquely approaching the objective of meeting human needs through an interdisciplinary knowledge base, focusing on prevention as well as remediation of problems, and maintaining a commitment to improving the overall quality of life of service populations. The Human Services profession is one which promotes improved service delivery systems by addressing not only the quality of direct services, but also by seeking to improve accessibility, accountability, and coordination among professionals and agencies in service delivery. (http://www.nationalhumanservices.org/what-is-human-services). Human services professional is a generic term for people who hold professional and paraprofessional jobs in such diverse settings as group homes and halfway houses; correctional, intellectual disability, and community mental health centers; family, child, and youth service agencies, and programs concerned with alcoholism, drug abuse, family violence, and aging. Depending on the employment setting and the kinds of clients served there, job titles and duties vary a great deal. The primary purpose of the human services professional is to assist individual and communities to function as effectively as possible in the major domains of living. A strong desire to help others is an important consideration for a job as a human services worker. Individuals who show patience, understanding, and caring in their dealings with others are highly valued by employers. Other important personal traits include communication skills, a strong sense of responsibility, and the ability to manage time effectively. (http://www.nationalhumanservices.org/what-is-human-services). When you think about it we all are in the human service field in some way or another, helping someone across the street, picking up something someone dropped for them, helping for the holidays, these are all ways of helping your fellow man/woman. The bigger difference is the profession of human service goes further to do this every day not just on a random whim. When it comes to helping a family on the brink of splitting up because abuse, violence, or  any other unthinkable act against a child will you help or just turn a cold shoulder, a human service worker has made a choice to put themselves as an advocate for the child/family to intervene and provide a safe haven or way out and away from the problem. When looking at Todd and Reggie, they really are going through a lot separately let alone together as a couple. You know off the bat that this will not be a quick couple of sessions and call it a day, these guys have a lot of things going on from death to substance abuse to being homosexual, which has been not as taboo as it has been in the past few years. The need separate counseling to air out their own personal issues then once that has been dealt with then try tackling couples therapy. Categories give order to life, and every day, we group other people into categories based on social and other characteristics. This is the foundation of stereotypes, prejudice and, ultimately, discrimination. A stereotype is an exaggerated belief, image or distorted truth about a person or group — a generalization that allows for little or no individual differences or social variation. Stereotypes are based on images in mass media, or reputations passed on by parents, peers and other members of society. Stereotypes can be positive or negative. A prejudice is an opinion, prejudgment or attitude about a group or its individual members. A prejudice can be positive, but in our usage refers to a negative attitude. Many of the prejudices and discrimination are passed down to the other generations. When the media and parents perpetuate degrading stereotypes and images about certain groups of people tend to discriminate others who belong to such groups. People with authoritarian personalities tend to prejudice as well since their thinking has its base on unconscious fears. Ethnocentrism makes people to evaluate other peoples culture based on their own and they are usually suspicious of outsiders. Group closure which involves keeping clear boundaries between groups with different characteristics could be another cause. The conflict theory suggests that the people who belong to the majority, the high social class and the privileged groups try very hard to hold on such positions. Any kind of competition especially from the minority can bring violence and conflict between them. In America, for example, black patients may go to a white counselor with negative expectations and biases. A recommendation to them would be to seek grief, alcohol, and substance abuse counseling aside from what they are getting. There may also be other programs Reggie could  look into for employment help as he is not really finding anything with the STARS program. It seems as if Reggie and Todd may need time apart before they can become a couple, They really need to sit down and be honest with each other and see if this really going anywhere or are they just hanging on in hopes something changes for the better. Resources http://www.nationalhumanservices.org/what-is-human-services http://www.psychologytoday.com/articles/199805/where-bias-begins-the-truth-about-stereotypes

Solar Water Heating System in Malaysian Homes

Solar Water Heating System in Malaysian Homes Chapter 1 Introduction 1.1 Project Title A study into solar water heating system in Malaysian Homes 1.2 Problem Statement Malaysia has favourable climatic conditions for the development of solar energy due to the abundant sunshine and is considered good for harnessing energy from the sun. This is because solar hot water can represent the large energy consumer in Malaysia households. But, because of the high initial cost of solar water heating system, and easily to install and relatively inexpensive to purchase electric water heaters, many Malaysia families are still suing electric water heaters to hot their water needs. This research is presented the comparing of solar water heating system from Malaysian’s market with the electric water heater by study the initial cost, price, durability, maintenance cost and environment impact for both systems. The most important is to compare the long term economical benefits for both systems. 1.3 Aims To study solar water heating system in Malaysian Homes 1.4 Objectives To determine the pros and cons for solar water heating system To investigate the popularity of solar water heating system in Malaysian Homes To compare the initial cost, price, durability, and environment impact for solar water heating system and electric water heater 1.5 Background Every day, we are heard with information about global warming, global pollution, wars over energy resources, species depletion†¦the lists go and on. Solar energy is renewable. Solar Water Heating System gets energy from the sun to heat water for homes, there by displacing the use of electricity. The use of Solar Water Heating System has a long history and it is impossible for us to exactly date the first uses of it. But we do know that ancient Greeks and Romans civilizations made good use of passive solar energy in their building designs. The first inventor for Solar Water Heater is Clarence M. Kemp at Year 1891. Until today, Solar Water Heating System is commonly used by residents and becomes one of the action to protect our global. 1.6 Scope of Study The main study will specific on Solar Water Heating System and its pros and cons. The scope of study will focus on the comparison of initial cost, price, durability and environmental impact between Solar Water Heating System and Electric Water Heater. 1.7 Research Methodology  : This research will be carried out by using literature review and questionnaire. Literature review is going to determine the pros and cons for solar water heating system, and also to compare the cost of operation, price, durability, maintenance cost and environment impact for solar water heating system and electric water heater. Questionnaire will be carried out to investigate the popularity of Solar Water Heater in Malaysian Homes at Wangsa Maju. 1.8 Contribution From this research, we gain deeper knowledge about solar water heating system and Malaysian’s family can have another choice on water heating system other than electric water heater. 1.9 Proposed Chapter 1.9.1 Chapter 1 -Introduction Introduction for solar water heating system. 1.9.2 Chapter 2 -Literature review Determine the pros and cons for solar water heating system from journals, books and through internet to support. Compare the cost of operation, price, durability, maintenance cost and environment impact for solar water heating system and electric water heater. 1.9.3 Chapter 3 -Research Methodology 1.9.3.1 Questionnaire The method for this research is using questionnaire. The main purpose of this questionnaire is to obtain facts, data and basic information from every party that involves in this area of study. Questionnaire will be distributed to relevant parties for feedback and will be set in an easy to answer manner to encourage response from the respondents. At the end of the questionnaire section, result will be tabulated in charts, graph, pie forms. This will reflect the trend and indicates the distribution of figure to help in analyzing the problems. 1.9.3.2 Literature Review The information of the second source will be come from literature review. For the topic of this Project and Dissertation, all the information will base on the relevant literature on Solar Water Heating System. For better understanding, some aspects such as the method of installation for Solar Water Heating System, the type of Solar Water Heating System will also included. TARC library and national library is the best way to get all the relevant information. Besides that, internet is also the way to obtain all the relevant information and data. The online resource in TARC library is the best search engineers for the journals articles which related to my Project and Dissertation. 1.9.4 Chapter 4 -Data and analysis After the questionnaire, all the analysis results will be record and explain in this chapter. All the result will base on 40 respondents and given a conclusion whether the majority of the respondents prefer water heating system or electric water heater in Malaysian Homes. 1.9.5 Chapter 5 -Conclusion In this chapter will list down the achievement of objectives for this dissertation and will be concluded and commented. Other than that, my personal opinion and comment will also be in this chapter. Chapter 2 Literature Review 2.1 History of Solar Water Heating System Throughout human’s history the sun has always been a subject of guess and mystery. In fact, most ancient cultures have considered the sun as a god or godlike due to its life-giving and energy-giving. Thus, the subject of solar is one of the oldest subject for human. Besides that, it has gone through many evolutions and has been the subject of many schools of thought- starting with religion, and ending up in the field of science. It is impossible to exactly date the first uses of solar energy, it maybe the Egyptian, Chinese or even the Malay first invented solar energy. But we do know that ancient Greeks and Romans civilizations, made good use of passive solar energy in their building designs. The use of Solar Water Heating System has a surprisingly long history. Year 1891, Clarence M. Kemp became the first man to patent a Solar Water Heater, called the â€Å"Climax†(Bob Ramlow and Benjamin Nusz, 2006, p.2). It was a black painted water tank mounted in an insulated box with glass on one side. The Climax was instantly popular in California. Thousands of Climaxes and similar systems were installed in a short time. Figure 2. 1 An old advertisement for the Climax Solar Water Heater Year 1909, William J. Bailey, a California Engineer began selling a new system Solar Water Heater named â€Å"Day and Night†(Ramlow and Nusz, 2006, p.3). It consisted of a solar collector and a separate storage tank mounted above the collector. Year 1913, a freak cold snap hit southern California and many â€Å"Day and Night† Solar Water Heater collectors froze and burst. To terminate future freezing problem, Bailey installed a coil of pipe within the storage tank to act as a heat exchanger. Then he used an alcohol and water mixture as the antifreeze solution for his heat exchange medium. This system called as a â€Å"closed-loop† Solar Water Heating System. Year 1979, U.S. President Jimmy Carter made the following prophetic statement at the inauguration of a solar-thermal water heater installed on the White House roof: â€Å"In the Year 2000, the solar heater behind me will still be here, supplying cheap, efficient energy. A generation from now, this solar heater can either be a curiosity, a museum piece, an example of a road not taken; or it can be just a small part of the greatest and most exciting adventure ever undertaken by the American people.† (Ondrey, 2009). 2.2 Introduction of Solar Water Heating System One of the biggest uses of electricity, gas and oil is the heating of water in the home. Solar Water Heating System is a very simple and efficient way to grab energy from sun and use it. Solar Water Heater collects and converts solar radiation energy to useful thermal energy into the form of hot water. It essentially consists of solar collectors for absorbing and converting the solar energy and an insulated storage vessel or tank to contain the heated water. The amount of hot water a solar water heater produces depends on:- type and size of the system amount of sun available at the site seasonal hot water demand pattern and installation of the system Solar Water heater used in the homes for supplying domestic hot water are typically installed with some form of back-up heating system such as electricity to ensure a hot water supply during the night time and cloudy conditions. Solar water heater can be considered as per-heater. The Solar Water Heater raises the temperature of water before it enters the water tank. 2.3 Types of Solar Water Heating System There are two types of Solar Water Heating Systems, either is active or passive. Both of the types are working on the same principles. The only difference is active systems have a pump moving the water through the Solar Water Heating System but passive systems rely on nature principles which is warm water rises to the top, and cold water sinks to the bottom. With a passive Solar Water Heating System, the water storage tank must therefore always be positioned above the solar water heater collector. 2.3.1 Active Solar Water Heating System Active Solar Water Heaters rely on electric pumps, and the controllers to circulate water, or other heat-transfer fluids through the collectors. These are the types of Active Solar Water Heating System:- Open loop active systems- circulate water directly from the tank through the collectors (Morrison, 2005, p.226). This design is efficient and also can lower operating costs if there is no problem with the water supply because of calcium deposits quickly build up in the collector. Closed loop active systems- the heat transfer fluid is pumped through the collectors, and a heat exchanger is used to transfer heat from the collector loop to the water in the tank (Morrison, 2005, p.227). The two most common closed loop active  systems are:- Antifreeze- The heat transfer fluid is usually a glycol-water mixture with the glycol concentration depending on the expected minimum temperature. The glycol is usually food-grade propylene glycol because it is non-toxic. Drainback systems- A type of indirect system, use pump to circulate water through the collectors. The water in the collector loop drains into a reservoir tank when the pumps stop. This makes drainback systems a good choice in colder climates. Drainback systems must be carefully installed to assure that the piping always slopes downward, so that the water will completely drain from the piping. This can be difficult to achieve in some circulation. Active systems are usually more expensive and are less efficient than passive system of antifreeze measures are required. Active systems are more difficult to retrofit in houses that do not have basements because space must be found in house for additional equipment (Morrison, 2005, p.226). 2.3.2 Passive Solar Water Heating System Passive Solar Water Heaters rely on gravity and the tendency for water to naturally circulate as it is heated. Due to they contain no electric components, passive systems are generally more reliable, easier to maintain, and possibly have a longer work life than active systems. The two most popular types of passive systems are:- Integral-collector storage systems- combine tank and collector into one unit. These systems are simple and effective (Morrison, 2005, p.225). This system is only good in households with daytime and evening hot water needs due to high heat loss at night. The main limitation with this system concept is it is only a pre-heater and must be connected in series with a conventional water heater if a 24 hours hot water supply is required. Thermosyphon systems- an economical and reliable choice, especially in new homes. These systems rely on the natural circulation of water between the collector and the tank or heat exchanger (Morrison, 2005, p. 223). The tank set up must above the collector due to achieve circulation during daytime and also to limit reverse circulation at nighttime. Water which is heated will rise naturally into the tank and cooler water flows down to the bottom of the collector, causing circulation throughout system. 2.4 Pros and Cons of Solar Water Heating System 2.4.1 Advantages of Solar Water Heating System Installing a Solar Water Heater is an investment that will save our money for the coming years and it is simple to construct. It is almost free once the equipment is installed because of the â€Å"fuel† for the Solar Water Heater is getting from sun. Energy from the sun is renewable. So, we are protected from electricity bill increment year by year in the future. It is four times cheaper than electricity (Pandey and Banerjee, 1998, p.17). Besides that, it is environment free because it produces no greenhouse gases. Solar Water Heater avoids nitrogen oxides, carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide and other air pollutants created when electric water heater is used to heat water. Solar Water Heater reduces pollutants and contribute to a healthier environment Other than that, Solar Water Heater is extremely safe and clean. We will feel free from the problem which will occur by electric water heater because Solar Water Heater mostly no maintenance, repair work or cleaning is required. By choosing a Solar Water Heater to heat water in home, it is an intelligent, socially aware and environmentally responsible energy source. 2.4.2 Disadvantages of Solar Water Heating System Although Solar Water Heating System consists of a lot of advantages, but it has its disadvantages also. First of all, Solar Water Heater will doesn’t work well on days when it is cloudy, over cast or raining. Besides that, it doesn’t work at nighttime. So, it is typically installed with electric water heater to ensure that hot water is supplied when the day is cloudy, overcast, raining or at night. Other than that, Cost of purchase Solar Water Heater is one the most critical issue. The initial cost of Solar Water Heater is high for Malaysian if compare to electric water heater. Many of the residents will not choose Solar Water heater due to its high initial cost. In addition, appearance of the house will affected due to the collector of Solar Water Heater is being installed on the roof. 2.5 Selecting a Solar Water Heater Before purchasing and installing a Solar Water Heating System, we are required to do the following:-  ·Ã‚  Consider into the economics of a Solar Water Heating System  ·Ã‚  Consider into the needs of hot water required  ·Ã‚  Determine the correct size for Solar Water Heating System  ·Ã‚  Determine the energy efficiency of Solar Water Heating System  ·Ã‚  Estimate and compare system costs 2.6 Method of Installation for Solar Water Heating System The installation of a Solar Water Heater requires skills that overlap many trades. Installer needs to be familiar with plumbing, roofing and electrical. Here will shows the various steps and processes to install a Solar Water Heater. This Solar Water Heating System consists of flat-plate collector, a differential controller, several sensors, a pump, and various valves. Step 1: Collector Mounting Before start the installation, installer must verify that the roof is suitable for the condition of mounting of the solar collector. Installer has to ensure that the roof tiles are in satisfactory condition and the trusses are adequate to support the collector. In general, there is no problem for installing a solar collector on a traditional roof. Besides that, it is recommended that the solar collector to face to south or within 30 º to 45  º east or west of due south. The installer needs to locate the trusses that will be use to attach the solar mounting brackets. After installer locates the trusses, he will then makes preparation for the installing of the collector mounting clips. The collector will then attach to the clips. Installer will carefully remove the roof tiles where the mounting clips will be installed. Four mounting clips will be used to support the collector and also to distribute the weight at the four mounting locations. Lastly, solar collector installs on the mounting clips. Step 2: Roof Pipe Flashing First of all, installer needs to identify and mark down the locations of the piping penetrations. There will be two penetration-collector feed line and collector return line. In gravity drain system, the feed line should penetrate the roof below the collector. Then, make a flat copper flashing with an oversize collar to penetrate the fluid line. Step 3: Piping from Tank to Collector Installer will install the pipe that will connect the water heater to the solar connector. Normally, soft copper will be used in the attic run between the tank area components and the collector lines exits at the roof because by using soft copper, installer does not have to solder any fittings in the attic. Pipe hangers will be used in locations to secure the long piping runs. Besides that, insulation will be installed on all attic piping to prevent heat loss. Step 4: Collector Feed line Piping Installer will measure, cut and fit the pipe fittings for proper length. He will solder the piping and fittings once all of them have been attached correctly. Step 5: Collector Return Line Plumbing Installer will solder fittings that will accommodate the system air vent. The system can prevent air locks that will restrict flow in the system. Air vent is always install at the high point of system and in a true north vertical position. Then, installer will solder more fitting such as pressure relief valve. Step 6: Storage Tank Installer starts the installation for storage tank. this involves plumbing the water heater for cold service, hot outlet, collector feed and return lines. Installer will place insulation on all exposed piping once the piping has been installed to reduce heat loss during system operation. Lastly, he will set the thermostat on the water heater because although the majority of the how water is produced by solar energy, but when cloudy, overcast or nighttime, the electric elements are always the spare for it. Step 7: Controller and Sensors Installer will install controller and sensor for the system. The differential controller is the brains of solar system. It works with two sensors. One of it located at the hottest part of the system which is collector outlet. The other one is located at the coldest part of the system which is the bottom of the tank. Step 8: Pump and Valves A Solar Water Heating System consists of a variety of components. System pump also called as circulator is a critical component for Solar Water Heating System. Its function is to circulate the fluid from the tank to the collector. Then the fluid gains heat in the solar collector and return to the storage tank. Besides that, check valve, drain valves and isolation valves also the components to install. Step 9: Pipe Insulation The last step for installation process is pipe insulation. It is to prevent heat loss from the piping, so pipe insulation is installed on both external and internal system piping. After that, installer should provide the owner of the Solar Water Heater a system operation and maintenance manual. 2.7 A Comparison between Solar Water Heater and Electric Water Heater Solartech (Summer) CX – Direct Heating* Panasonic DH – 3HE1M** Panasonic DH – 3HT1M** Type of Water Heater Solar Electric Electric Power Consumption 2.4 KW (back up heating element) 3.6 KW 3.6 KW Selling Price / unit RM 5,490.00 RM 639.00 RM 449.00 Selling Price (2 units) RM 1,278 RM 1,098 Initial Cost (selling price + installation cost) RM 5,690.00 RM 1428.00 RM 1248.00 Warranty (full warranty) 10 years 1 year 1 year Operation Cost / year RM 170.25 RM 1,109.67 RM 1,109.67 Operation Cost (10 years) RM 1702.50 RM 11,096.70 RM 11,096.70 Total Cost (initial cost + operation cost) for 10 years without maintenance cost RM 7,392.50 RM 12,374.70 RM 12,194.70 Environment Impact free CO2 CO2 Table 2. 1 Comparison between Solar Water Heater and Electric Water Heater * Description is given by Solartech Sales Service Sdn Bhd ** Description is given by Pansasonic Malaysia Sdn Bhd The table above shows the comparison between Solar Water Heater and Electric Water Heater. In the table, it is shown that the total cost for 10 years, environment impact and their operation cost. Firstly, for family consists of 6 persons considered as the study in the table. They installed 2 units of electric water heater in the toilets for their house or a unit of Solar Water Heater. Their need for hot water is 3 hours per day. Besides that, the study is estimating the total cost for 10 years. 2.7.1 Total Cost Method Intention in this study is to let the operation time (N) of a system be variable to find the operation life of the systems. The total cost will be adapted in the study because it allows the comparison between the systems for 10 years time. In general, the total cost of a system can be expressed as the following equation: Total Cost = Initial Cost + Operation Cost( 10years) 2.7.1.1 Operation Cost (OC) For Electric Water Heater, operation cost is the electrical bill cost over the year to provide hot water needs of the family consists of 6 persons. But for Solar Water Heater, the operation cost is yearly electrical bill cost for the back up heating system. OCSWH = 12 months x NOCD x NOHs x price of electricity (RM/KWh) Where, OCSWH operation cost of Solar Water Heater; NOCD number of cloudy day per month; NOHS number of hours switched back up heating system. OCEWH = 365 days x NOH x price of electricity (RM/KWh) Where, OCEWH operation cost of Electric Water Heater; NOH number of hours electricity is used to provide hot water. 2.7.2 Summary of the values of the parameter Solartech (Summer) CX – Direct Heating Panasonic DH – 3HE1M (2 units) Panasonic DH – 3HT1M (2 units) Initial Cost = RM 5,690.00 OC = 12 months x NOCD x NOHs x price of  electricity (RM/KWh) = 12 months x 7 days/month x 3 hours x (2.4 KW x (RM 0.218 + RM 0.345)/2) = RM 170.25 Total Cost = Initial Cost + (OC x 10 years) = RM 5,690.00 + (RM 170.25 x 10) = RM 7,392.50 Initial Cost = RM 1,278.00 OC = 365 days x NOH x price of electricity (RM/KWh) = 365 days x 3 hours x (3.6 KW x (RM 0.218 + RM 0.345)/2) = RM 1,109.67 Total Cost = Initial Cost + (OC x 10 years) = RM 1,278.00 + (RM 1,109.67 x 10) = RM 12,374.70 Initial Cost = RM 1,098.00 OC = 365 days x NOH x price of electricity (RM/KWh) = 365 days x 3 hours x (3.6 KW x (RM 0.218 + RM 0.345)/2) = RM 1,109.67 Total Cost = Initial Cost + (OC x 10 years) = RM 1,098.00 + (RM 1,109.67 x 10) = RM 12,194.70 Table 2. 2 Summary of the values of the paramater From the table above, it is shown that Solar Water Heater is more economical and more attractive than the Electric Water Heater in long term. It is better for the family to use Solar Water Heater when compared to Electrical Water Heater. Besides that, it is more benefits to install Solar Water Heater because of long term economical benefits, environment friendly and a way to avoid from the problem of increasing electricity bill and increasing family size. References Ong, K. S. 1994. Solar Water Heater. Perpustakaan Negara Malaysia: University of Malaya. Gordon, J. 2005. Solar Enegy The State of The Art. London: James James (Science Publishers) Ltd. Ondrey, G. 2009. ‘Solar’s Second Coming’. Chemical Engineering. pg. 18. Pandey, J. L. and Banerjee M. K. 1998. ‘Energy Conservation with the Use of Solar Selective Coatings’. Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials. 45(1), pp. 16-24. Davidson, Jane, Wood and Byard. 1996. ‘Solar Hot Water for the Home’. Mechanical Engineering. pg. 60. European Journal of Scientific Research. 2009. ‘Economics of Domestic Solar Hot Water Heating Systems in Malaysia’. 26(1), pp. 20-28 Progress Report Task to be completed Second Year Semester 1 (Week)   July 05, 2009 July 11, 2009 July 12, 2009 July 18, 2009 July 19, 2009 July 25, 2009 July 26, 2009 Aug 01, 2009 Aug 02, 2009 Aug 08, 2009 Aug 09, 2009 Aug 15, 2009 Aug 16, 2009 Aug 22, 2009 Aug 23, 2009 Aug 29, 2009 Confirm Title Finalise Proposal 1.0 Introduction 2.0 Literature review Proposed Work Schedule Actual Work Schedule Task to be completed Second Year Semester 1 (Week) July 05, 2009 July 11, 2009 July 12, 2009 July 18, 2009 July 19, 2009 July 25, 2009 July 26, 2009 Aug 01, 2009 Aug 02, 2009 Aug 08, 2009 Aug 09, 2009 Aug 15, 2009 Aug 16, 2009 Aug 22, 2009 Aug 23, 2009 Aug 29, 2009 Confirm Title Finalise Proposal 1.0 Introduction 2.0 Literature review Every element had been done on time according to the proposed work progress except Chapter 1 Introduction. It should be done before August 01, 2009, but in stead it was done on August 22, 2009. The reason for the delay because of Introduction is revised proposal, so I decided to postpone it until the same with the date of completion for literature review. For Literature Review, I started it a week earlier than the proposed work schedule due to I need longer time to search information from TARC library and internet. Besides that, I also needed to get the quotation from supplier so that I started my literature review earlier. Luckily, everything in progress and I finished my literature review on time. My supervisor, Mr. Teh Bin Sin checked my works on August 20, 2009 and I printed out all the chapters for interim submission. Report on Changes Involved Date (Week) Issue of Changes Issue of Amendment July 05, 2009 – July 11,2009 Project Title ‘A Comparison between Solar Water Heating System and Electric Water Heater’ changed to ‘A Study into Solar Water Heating System in Malaysian Homes’ The project title changed because ‘A Study into Solar Water Heating System in Malaysian Homes’ is more specific and to fulfill requirement of supervisor. July 26, 2009 – August 01, 2009 Objectives ‘To compare the initial cost, price, durability, maintenance cost and environment impact for solar water heating system and electric water heater’ changed to ‘To compare the initial cost, price, durability, and environment impact for solar water heating system and electric water heater’ Due to the comment from supplier, which is maintenance cost is difficult to calculate or estimate for the following 10 years for water heater, so I decided to take out the comparison of maintenance cost in objective. Solar Water Heating System in Malaysian Homes Solar Water Heating System in Malaysian Homes Chapter 1 Introduction 1.1 Project Title A study into solar water heating system in Malaysian Homes 1.2 Problem Statement Malaysia has favourable climatic conditions for the development of solar energy due to the abundant sunshine and is considered good for harnessing energy from the sun. This is because solar hot water can represent the large energy consumer in Malaysia households. But, because of the high initial cost of solar water heating system, and easily to install and relatively inexpensive to purchase electric water heaters, many Malaysia families are still suing electric water heaters to hot their water needs. This research is presented the comparing of solar water heating system from Malaysian’s market with the electric water heater by study the initial cost, price, durability, maintenance cost and environment impact for both systems. The most important is to compare the long term economical benefits for both systems. 1.3 Aims To study solar water heating system in Malaysian Homes 1.4 Objectives To determine the pros and cons for solar water heating system To investigate the popularity of solar water heating system in Malaysian Homes To compare the initial cost, price, durability, and environment impact for solar water heating system and electric water heater 1.5 Background Every day, we are heard with information about global warming, global pollution, wars over energy resources, species depletion†¦the lists go and on. Solar energy is renewable. Solar Water Heating System gets energy from the sun to heat water for homes, there by displacing the use of electricity. The use of Solar Water Heating System has a long history and it is impossible for us to exactly date the first uses of it. But we do know that ancient Greeks and Romans civilizations made good use of passive solar energy in their building designs. The first inventor for Solar Water Heater is Clarence M. Kemp at Year 1891. Until today, Solar Water Heating System is commonly used by residents and becomes one of the action to protect our global. 1.6 Scope of Study The main study will specific on Solar Water Heating System and its pros and cons. The scope of study will focus on the comparison of initial cost, price, durability and environmental impact between Solar Water Heating System and Electric Water Heater. 1.7 Research Methodology  : This research will be carried out by using literature review and questionnaire. Literature review is going to determine the pros and cons for solar water heating system, and also to compare the cost of operation, price, durability, maintenance cost and environment impact for solar water heating system and electric water heater. Questionnaire will be carried out to investigate the popularity of Solar Water Heater in Malaysian Homes at Wangsa Maju. 1.8 Contribution From this research, we gain deeper knowledge about solar water heating system and Malaysian’s family can have another choice on water heating system other than electric water heater. 1.9 Proposed Chapter 1.9.1 Chapter 1 -Introduction Introduction for solar water heating system. 1.9.2 Chapter 2 -Literature review Determine the pros and cons for solar water heating system from journals, books and through internet to support. Compare the cost of operation, price, durability, maintenance cost and environment impact for solar water heating system and electric water heater. 1.9.3 Chapter 3 -Research Methodology 1.9.3.1 Questionnaire The method for this research is using questionnaire. The main purpose of this questionnaire is to obtain facts, data and basic information from every party that involves in this area of study. Questionnaire will be distributed to relevant parties for feedback and will be set in an easy to answer manner to encourage response from the respondents. At the end of the questionnaire section, result will be tabulated in charts, graph, pie forms. This will reflect the trend and indicates the distribution of figure to help in analyzing the problems. 1.9.3.2 Literature Review The information of the second source will be come from literature review. For the topic of this Project and Dissertation, all the information will base on the relevant literature on Solar Water Heating System. For better understanding, some aspects such as the method of installation for Solar Water Heating System, the type of Solar Water Heating System will also included. TARC library and national library is the best way to get all the relevant information. Besides that, internet is also the way to obtain all the relevant information and data. The online resource in TARC library is the best search engineers for the journals articles which related to my Project and Dissertation. 1.9.4 Chapter 4 -Data and analysis After the questionnaire, all the analysis results will be record and explain in this chapter. All the result will base on 40 respondents and given a conclusion whether the majority of the respondents prefer water heating system or electric water heater in Malaysian Homes. 1.9.5 Chapter 5 -Conclusion In this chapter will list down the achievement of objectives for this dissertation and will be concluded and commented. Other than that, my personal opinion and comment will also be in this chapter. Chapter 2 Literature Review 2.1 History of Solar Water Heating System Throughout human’s history the sun has always been a subject of guess and mystery. In fact, most ancient cultures have considered the sun as a god or godlike due to its life-giving and energy-giving. Thus, the subject of solar is one of the oldest subject for human. Besides that, it has gone through many evolutions and has been the subject of many schools of thought- starting with religion, and ending up in the field of science. It is impossible to exactly date the first uses of solar energy, it maybe the Egyptian, Chinese or even the Malay first invented solar energy. But we do know that ancient Greeks and Romans civilizations, made good use of passive solar energy in their building designs. The use of Solar Water Heating System has a surprisingly long history. Year 1891, Clarence M. Kemp became the first man to patent a Solar Water Heater, called the â€Å"Climax†(Bob Ramlow and Benjamin Nusz, 2006, p.2). It was a black painted water tank mounted in an insulated box with glass on one side. The Climax was instantly popular in California. Thousands of Climaxes and similar systems were installed in a short time. Figure 2. 1 An old advertisement for the Climax Solar Water Heater Year 1909, William J. Bailey, a California Engineer began selling a new system Solar Water Heater named â€Å"Day and Night†(Ramlow and Nusz, 2006, p.3). It consisted of a solar collector and a separate storage tank mounted above the collector. Year 1913, a freak cold snap hit southern California and many â€Å"Day and Night† Solar Water Heater collectors froze and burst. To terminate future freezing problem, Bailey installed a coil of pipe within the storage tank to act as a heat exchanger. Then he used an alcohol and water mixture as the antifreeze solution for his heat exchange medium. This system called as a â€Å"closed-loop† Solar Water Heating System. Year 1979, U.S. President Jimmy Carter made the following prophetic statement at the inauguration of a solar-thermal water heater installed on the White House roof: â€Å"In the Year 2000, the solar heater behind me will still be here, supplying cheap, efficient energy. A generation from now, this solar heater can either be a curiosity, a museum piece, an example of a road not taken; or it can be just a small part of the greatest and most exciting adventure ever undertaken by the American people.† (Ondrey, 2009). 2.2 Introduction of Solar Water Heating System One of the biggest uses of electricity, gas and oil is the heating of water in the home. Solar Water Heating System is a very simple and efficient way to grab energy from sun and use it. Solar Water Heater collects and converts solar radiation energy to useful thermal energy into the form of hot water. It essentially consists of solar collectors for absorbing and converting the solar energy and an insulated storage vessel or tank to contain the heated water. The amount of hot water a solar water heater produces depends on:- type and size of the system amount of sun available at the site seasonal hot water demand pattern and installation of the system Solar Water heater used in the homes for supplying domestic hot water are typically installed with some form of back-up heating system such as electricity to ensure a hot water supply during the night time and cloudy conditions. Solar water heater can be considered as per-heater. The Solar Water Heater raises the temperature of water before it enters the water tank. 2.3 Types of Solar Water Heating System There are two types of Solar Water Heating Systems, either is active or passive. Both of the types are working on the same principles. The only difference is active systems have a pump moving the water through the Solar Water Heating System but passive systems rely on nature principles which is warm water rises to the top, and cold water sinks to the bottom. With a passive Solar Water Heating System, the water storage tank must therefore always be positioned above the solar water heater collector. 2.3.1 Active Solar Water Heating System Active Solar Water Heaters rely on electric pumps, and the controllers to circulate water, or other heat-transfer fluids through the collectors. These are the types of Active Solar Water Heating System:- Open loop active systems- circulate water directly from the tank through the collectors (Morrison, 2005, p.226). This design is efficient and also can lower operating costs if there is no problem with the water supply because of calcium deposits quickly build up in the collector. Closed loop active systems- the heat transfer fluid is pumped through the collectors, and a heat exchanger is used to transfer heat from the collector loop to the water in the tank (Morrison, 2005, p.227). The two most common closed loop active  systems are:- Antifreeze- The heat transfer fluid is usually a glycol-water mixture with the glycol concentration depending on the expected minimum temperature. The glycol is usually food-grade propylene glycol because it is non-toxic. Drainback systems- A type of indirect system, use pump to circulate water through the collectors. The water in the collector loop drains into a reservoir tank when the pumps stop. This makes drainback systems a good choice in colder climates. Drainback systems must be carefully installed to assure that the piping always slopes downward, so that the water will completely drain from the piping. This can be difficult to achieve in some circulation. Active systems are usually more expensive and are less efficient than passive system of antifreeze measures are required. Active systems are more difficult to retrofit in houses that do not have basements because space must be found in house for additional equipment (Morrison, 2005, p.226). 2.3.2 Passive Solar Water Heating System Passive Solar Water Heaters rely on gravity and the tendency for water to naturally circulate as it is heated. Due to they contain no electric components, passive systems are generally more reliable, easier to maintain, and possibly have a longer work life than active systems. The two most popular types of passive systems are:- Integral-collector storage systems- combine tank and collector into one unit. These systems are simple and effective (Morrison, 2005, p.225). This system is only good in households with daytime and evening hot water needs due to high heat loss at night. The main limitation with this system concept is it is only a pre-heater and must be connected in series with a conventional water heater if a 24 hours hot water supply is required. Thermosyphon systems- an economical and reliable choice, especially in new homes. These systems rely on the natural circulation of water between the collector and the tank or heat exchanger (Morrison, 2005, p. 223). The tank set up must above the collector due to achieve circulation during daytime and also to limit reverse circulation at nighttime. Water which is heated will rise naturally into the tank and cooler water flows down to the bottom of the collector, causing circulation throughout system. 2.4 Pros and Cons of Solar Water Heating System 2.4.1 Advantages of Solar Water Heating System Installing a Solar Water Heater is an investment that will save our money for the coming years and it is simple to construct. It is almost free once the equipment is installed because of the â€Å"fuel† for the Solar Water Heater is getting from sun. Energy from the sun is renewable. So, we are protected from electricity bill increment year by year in the future. It is four times cheaper than electricity (Pandey and Banerjee, 1998, p.17). Besides that, it is environment free because it produces no greenhouse gases. Solar Water Heater avoids nitrogen oxides, carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide and other air pollutants created when electric water heater is used to heat water. Solar Water Heater reduces pollutants and contribute to a healthier environment Other than that, Solar Water Heater is extremely safe and clean. We will feel free from the problem which will occur by electric water heater because Solar Water Heater mostly no maintenance, repair work or cleaning is required. By choosing a Solar Water Heater to heat water in home, it is an intelligent, socially aware and environmentally responsible energy source. 2.4.2 Disadvantages of Solar Water Heating System Although Solar Water Heating System consists of a lot of advantages, but it has its disadvantages also. First of all, Solar Water Heater will doesn’t work well on days when it is cloudy, over cast or raining. Besides that, it doesn’t work at nighttime. So, it is typically installed with electric water heater to ensure that hot water is supplied when the day is cloudy, overcast, raining or at night. Other than that, Cost of purchase Solar Water Heater is one the most critical issue. The initial cost of Solar Water Heater is high for Malaysian if compare to electric water heater. Many of the residents will not choose Solar Water heater due to its high initial cost. In addition, appearance of the house will affected due to the collector of Solar Water Heater is being installed on the roof. 2.5 Selecting a Solar Water Heater Before purchasing and installing a Solar Water Heating System, we are required to do the following:-  ·Ã‚  Consider into the economics of a Solar Water Heating System  ·Ã‚  Consider into the needs of hot water required  ·Ã‚  Determine the correct size for Solar Water Heating System  ·Ã‚  Determine the energy efficiency of Solar Water Heating System  ·Ã‚  Estimate and compare system costs 2.6 Method of Installation for Solar Water Heating System The installation of a Solar Water Heater requires skills that overlap many trades. Installer needs to be familiar with plumbing, roofing and electrical. Here will shows the various steps and processes to install a Solar Water Heater. This Solar Water Heating System consists of flat-plate collector, a differential controller, several sensors, a pump, and various valves. Step 1: Collector Mounting Before start the installation, installer must verify that the roof is suitable for the condition of mounting of the solar collector. Installer has to ensure that the roof tiles are in satisfactory condition and the trusses are adequate to support the collector. In general, there is no problem for installing a solar collector on a traditional roof. Besides that, it is recommended that the solar collector to face to south or within 30 º to 45  º east or west of due south. The installer needs to locate the trusses that will be use to attach the solar mounting brackets. After installer locates the trusses, he will then makes preparation for the installing of the collector mounting clips. The collector will then attach to the clips. Installer will carefully remove the roof tiles where the mounting clips will be installed. Four mounting clips will be used to support the collector and also to distribute the weight at the four mounting locations. Lastly, solar collector installs on the mounting clips. Step 2: Roof Pipe Flashing First of all, installer needs to identify and mark down the locations of the piping penetrations. There will be two penetration-collector feed line and collector return line. In gravity drain system, the feed line should penetrate the roof below the collector. Then, make a flat copper flashing with an oversize collar to penetrate the fluid line. Step 3: Piping from Tank to Collector Installer will install the pipe that will connect the water heater to the solar connector. Normally, soft copper will be used in the attic run between the tank area components and the collector lines exits at the roof because by using soft copper, installer does not have to solder any fittings in the attic. Pipe hangers will be used in locations to secure the long piping runs. Besides that, insulation will be installed on all attic piping to prevent heat loss. Step 4: Collector Feed line Piping Installer will measure, cut and fit the pipe fittings for proper length. He will solder the piping and fittings once all of them have been attached correctly. Step 5: Collector Return Line Plumbing Installer will solder fittings that will accommodate the system air vent. The system can prevent air locks that will restrict flow in the system. Air vent is always install at the high point of system and in a true north vertical position. Then, installer will solder more fitting such as pressure relief valve. Step 6: Storage Tank Installer starts the installation for storage tank. this involves plumbing the water heater for cold service, hot outlet, collector feed and return lines. Installer will place insulation on all exposed piping once the piping has been installed to reduce heat loss during system operation. Lastly, he will set the thermostat on the water heater because although the majority of the how water is produced by solar energy, but when cloudy, overcast or nighttime, the electric elements are always the spare for it. Step 7: Controller and Sensors Installer will install controller and sensor for the system. The differential controller is the brains of solar system. It works with two sensors. One of it located at the hottest part of the system which is collector outlet. The other one is located at the coldest part of the system which is the bottom of the tank. Step 8: Pump and Valves A Solar Water Heating System consists of a variety of components. System pump also called as circulator is a critical component for Solar Water Heating System. Its function is to circulate the fluid from the tank to the collector. Then the fluid gains heat in the solar collector and return to the storage tank. Besides that, check valve, drain valves and isolation valves also the components to install. Step 9: Pipe Insulation The last step for installation process is pipe insulation. It is to prevent heat loss from the piping, so pipe insulation is installed on both external and internal system piping. After that, installer should provide the owner of the Solar Water Heater a system operation and maintenance manual. 2.7 A Comparison between Solar Water Heater and Electric Water Heater Solartech (Summer) CX – Direct Heating* Panasonic DH – 3HE1M** Panasonic DH – 3HT1M** Type of Water Heater Solar Electric Electric Power Consumption 2.4 KW (back up heating element) 3.6 KW 3.6 KW Selling Price / unit RM 5,490.00 RM 639.00 RM 449.00 Selling Price (2 units) RM 1,278 RM 1,098 Initial Cost (selling price + installation cost) RM 5,690.00 RM 1428.00 RM 1248.00 Warranty (full warranty) 10 years 1 year 1 year Operation Cost / year RM 170.25 RM 1,109.67 RM 1,109.67 Operation Cost (10 years) RM 1702.50 RM 11,096.70 RM 11,096.70 Total Cost (initial cost + operation cost) for 10 years without maintenance cost RM 7,392.50 RM 12,374.70 RM 12,194.70 Environment Impact free CO2 CO2 Table 2. 1 Comparison between Solar Water Heater and Electric Water Heater * Description is given by Solartech Sales Service Sdn Bhd ** Description is given by Pansasonic Malaysia Sdn Bhd The table above shows the comparison between Solar Water Heater and Electric Water Heater. In the table, it is shown that the total cost for 10 years, environment impact and their operation cost. Firstly, for family consists of 6 persons considered as the study in the table. They installed 2 units of electric water heater in the toilets for their house or a unit of Solar Water Heater. Their need for hot water is 3 hours per day. Besides that, the study is estimating the total cost for 10 years. 2.7.1 Total Cost Method Intention in this study is to let the operation time (N) of a system be variable to find the operation life of the systems. The total cost will be adapted in the study because it allows the comparison between the systems for 10 years time. In general, the total cost of a system can be expressed as the following equation: Total Cost = Initial Cost + Operation Cost( 10years) 2.7.1.1 Operation Cost (OC) For Electric Water Heater, operation cost is the electrical bill cost over the year to provide hot water needs of the family consists of 6 persons. But for Solar Water Heater, the operation cost is yearly electrical bill cost for the back up heating system. OCSWH = 12 months x NOCD x NOHs x price of electricity (RM/KWh) Where, OCSWH operation cost of Solar Water Heater; NOCD number of cloudy day per month; NOHS number of hours switched back up heating system. OCEWH = 365 days x NOH x price of electricity (RM/KWh) Where, OCEWH operation cost of Electric Water Heater; NOH number of hours electricity is used to provide hot water. 2.7.2 Summary of the values of the parameter Solartech (Summer) CX – Direct Heating Panasonic DH – 3HE1M (2 units) Panasonic DH – 3HT1M (2 units) Initial Cost = RM 5,690.00 OC = 12 months x NOCD x NOHs x price of  electricity (RM/KWh) = 12 months x 7 days/month x 3 hours x (2.4 KW x (RM 0.218 + RM 0.345)/2) = RM 170.25 Total Cost = Initial Cost + (OC x 10 years) = RM 5,690.00 + (RM 170.25 x 10) = RM 7,392.50 Initial Cost = RM 1,278.00 OC = 365 days x NOH x price of electricity (RM/KWh) = 365 days x 3 hours x (3.6 KW x (RM 0.218 + RM 0.345)/2) = RM 1,109.67 Total Cost = Initial Cost + (OC x 10 years) = RM 1,278.00 + (RM 1,109.67 x 10) = RM 12,374.70 Initial Cost = RM 1,098.00 OC = 365 days x NOH x price of electricity (RM/KWh) = 365 days x 3 hours x (3.6 KW x (RM 0.218 + RM 0.345)/2) = RM 1,109.67 Total Cost = Initial Cost + (OC x 10 years) = RM 1,098.00 + (RM 1,109.67 x 10) = RM 12,194.70 Table 2. 2 Summary of the values of the paramater From the table above, it is shown that Solar Water Heater is more economical and more attractive than the Electric Water Heater in long term. It is better for the family to use Solar Water Heater when compared to Electrical Water Heater. Besides that, it is more benefits to install Solar Water Heater because of long term economical benefits, environment friendly and a way to avoid from the problem of increasing electricity bill and increasing family size. References Ong, K. S. 1994. Solar Water Heater. Perpustakaan Negara Malaysia: University of Malaya. Gordon, J. 2005. Solar Enegy The State of The Art. London: James James (Science Publishers) Ltd. Ondrey, G. 2009. ‘Solar’s Second Coming’. Chemical Engineering. pg. 18. Pandey, J. L. and Banerjee M. K. 1998. ‘Energy Conservation with the Use of Solar Selective Coatings’. Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials. 45(1), pp. 16-24. Davidson, Jane, Wood and Byard. 1996. ‘Solar Hot Water for the Home’. Mechanical Engineering. pg. 60. European Journal of Scientific Research. 2009. ‘Economics of Domestic Solar Hot Water Heating Systems in Malaysia’. 26(1), pp. 20-28 Progress Report Task to be completed Second Year Semester 1 (Week)   July 05, 2009 July 11, 2009 July 12, 2009 July 18, 2009 July 19, 2009 July 25, 2009 July 26, 2009 Aug 01, 2009 Aug 02, 2009 Aug 08, 2009 Aug 09, 2009 Aug 15, 2009 Aug 16, 2009 Aug 22, 2009 Aug 23, 2009 Aug 29, 2009 Confirm Title Finalise Proposal 1.0 Introduction 2.0 Literature review Proposed Work Schedule Actual Work Schedule Task to be completed Second Year Semester 1 (Week) July 05, 2009 July 11, 2009 July 12, 2009 July 18, 2009 July 19, 2009 July 25, 2009 July 26, 2009 Aug 01, 2009 Aug 02, 2009 Aug 08, 2009 Aug 09, 2009 Aug 15, 2009 Aug 16, 2009 Aug 22, 2009 Aug 23, 2009 Aug 29, 2009 Confirm Title Finalise Proposal 1.0 Introduction 2.0 Literature review Every element had been done on time according to the proposed work progress except Chapter 1 Introduction. It should be done before August 01, 2009, but in stead it was done on August 22, 2009. The reason for the delay because of Introduction is revised proposal, so I decided to postpone it until the same with the date of completion for literature review. For Literature Review, I started it a week earlier than the proposed work schedule due to I need longer time to search information from TARC library and internet. Besides that, I also needed to get the quotation from supplier so that I started my literature review earlier. Luckily, everything in progress and I finished my literature review on time. My supervisor, Mr. Teh Bin Sin checked my works on August 20, 2009 and I printed out all the chapters for interim submission. Report on Changes Involved Date (Week) Issue of Changes Issue of Amendment July 05, 2009 – July 11,2009 Project Title ‘A Comparison between Solar Water Heating System and Electric Water Heater’ changed to ‘A Study into Solar Water Heating System in Malaysian Homes’ The project title changed because ‘A Study into Solar Water Heating System in Malaysian Homes’ is more specific and to fulfill requirement of supervisor. July 26, 2009 – August 01, 2009 Objectives ‘To compare the initial cost, price, durability, maintenance cost and environment impact for solar water heating system and electric water heater’ changed to ‘To compare the initial cost, price, durability, and environment impact for solar water heating system and electric water heater’ Due to the comment from supplier, which is maintenance cost is difficult to calculate or estimate for the following 10 years for water heater, so I decided to take out the comparison of maintenance cost in objective.