Essay --

BOM: Managing Conflict in Cross Generation Audience Interaction: (cassie) (Show the audience the slide show; the different generations and their views. After the slideshow is viewed, the speaker asks â€Å"what do you think this slideshow has illustrated?† Let audience respond) The workforce we work in today is changing rapidly. Over the last decades the development of technology has been widespread. Not only has technological development had an impact on each of us but also it has significantly influenced a generation gap. Simply said, the older lifestyle has become obsolete. Technology has wiped out many of the old practices that the older generation have used. Because of this generation gap, there are marked differences between our generation and our parents’ generation. These differences are ‘in the way we think, live and communicate.’ For example, if our parents’ generation use the term ‘post,’ what would come into their mind would be the system for letters and parcels being delivered. However, in today’s generation, the word ‘post means a facebook post or a social networking post. Introduction: (Solita) Welcome Business Corporates to this annual business breakfast. We are workers from the Cairns Consulting Firm and would like to address with you one of a human resource issue we face in our workforce each day. Australia, like other developing countries is currently experiencing a population that is ageing, this is resulting in a demographic trough in the country’s workforce. In consideration of the impact on the economy, the ageing workforce is now a major concern and priority for government and organisations alike. Although research acknowledges the relevance of this issue in Australia, it remains unclear how organisations s... ...ger generation to meet them, she has earned her respect and reputation, she acts as a mentor and she separates her personal life from her work life. Conclusion: (cassie) In conclusion, the workforce today consists of four different generations, the traditionalists are the workers aged 70 and over, the baby boomers are the workers aged from ages of 49-68, generations X’s are workers 34years to 48 years old, Generation Y’s or also known as Millenials are workers aging 33 years and lower. All these generations style of learning, their mindsets, their type of communication, their priorities in life and their values all differ from one another. Due to this problems easily arise, so the main strategy and the most vital is communicating with each other, addressing and taking advantage of the variety of values and being attentive. Thanks for listening !

Business Strategy BMW

Bayberries Motormen Worker GAG (English: Bavarian Motor Works) with headquarter in Munich is one of them. Founded 1916 as a producer of aircraft engines BMW is one of the ten largest car manufacturers in the world today. The company operates in three business segments: automobiles, motorcycles and financial services. However the core business Is still the production is one of the leading car manufacturers with the aim to achieve profitable growth and become the number one in next few years. The global acting company had a business volume of 53,7 billion Euro in the year 2009.Currently 96. 000 employers work at 17 different production places all over the world for BMW. In last year the BMW Group sold 1. 3 million cars of its three non-overlapping premium car brands Mini, Rolls-Royce and BMW. The brand recognition and high investments in research and development seems to be the trumps of BMW (BMW, n. D. : BMW Education Programmer n. D. ). This report will give a more detailed view at t he current situation of the BMW Group with an analysis of the company's strategies but also with a look at the issues and a final evaluation of the authors of this report. . Strategic Analysis Integral to the understanding of the organization BMW Group is a detailed strategic analysis of the company. Appendixes 1 and 2 both contain various tools for analysis, namely a SOOT and a PESTLE analysis. One can draw upon these when analyzing all the forces and factors affecting a company as an aggregate. It is also important to place the findings of these analyses in a context. In this case, a strategic analysis of BMW Group should not only consider the information contained in both these analyses, but also the context in which the firm operates.As mentioned, in Appendix 1, a SOOT analysis considers the current position of a company. In the case of BMW Group, the position is currently enjoys is a very strong one. When critically analysis the mentioned weaknesses and threats it becomes appar ent that each of these are common to most companies and car manufacturers in the market segments chosen by BMW Group and its subsidiaries. In a sense this leads to a canceling out effect, which will be discusses below.For example, in terms of threats to automotive manufacturers, existing and fierce competition applies to the vast majority, as does being affected by the volatility of fuel prices. To a large extent the price of raw materials also poses a threat to all manufacturers, however this varies by small degrees when one considers that in a anthropometry environment many cars do not share similar materials. This is due to manufacturers seeking competitive advantage through vehicle parts and structures being made of differing alloys, in attempts for qualities such as greater strength and lighter weight.In spite of this, steel remains a predominant material in the automobiles of BMW Group. Having similar â€Å"threats† appropriate to most manufacturers means they are all c ompeting amidst similar circumstances, so no firm is solely disadvantaged as a result. It is a similar case when one considers the weaknesses of BMW Group. Despite minor differences, most manufacturers in the market segments operated in by BMW Group share most weaknesses. All premium carmakers are faced with stiff competition, as it is the nature of the industry. All suffer from a perception of high prices.Again, there may be slight variations within this surmise such as slight variations in perceived value but as an aggregate, the premium car sector is partly characterized by high prices. Associated with keeping design and construction of the automobiles of BMW Group within Germany, and various other Western countries. This is due to higher labor sots, and greater levels of taxation. Keeping the majority of production and all of the design and engineering in Germany has both advantages and disadvantages. It has been listed in the SOOT analysis as a weakness, purely due to the impac t on the bottom line of the firm.It is a similar story for the other major German competitors BMW Group. Certain American (Lexus) or Swedish (Volvo) rivals face a similar problem in terms of higher cost. -Chinese competitors do not. Being engineered and assembled in Germany has to also be mentioned as a strength. This is as a result of German engineering having an international petition for being of some of the highest quality engineering in the world. This creates a perception of quality, which is common to most manufacturers in the premium car segment, but more so to the vehicles created by BMW Group.There is perception that BMW, along with Mercedes Benz are of a higher standard of quality than their third major German rival, Audio. As well as a SOOT analysis, a PESTLE analysis is important for furthering knowledge of the environment in which BMW Group operates. As Appendix 2 outlines, a PESTLE considers the external forces which impact upon the strategic implementation and runnin g of a firm. Political forces are present, however they have an effect on the industry as an aggregate. Within Germany, the country in which a lot of the cars of BMW Group are manufactured, laws dictate maximum emissions vehicles are allowed to produce.They also affect BMW Group in that they dictate minimum wages and minimum level of corporate responsibility. For most other countries, taxation laws and customs laws determine prices at which BMW Group products are sold at. Different countries have different levels of tax and import duties, however generally most countries will charge some form of import duty on valuable goods, which in turn increases the price at which local retailers sell the vehicles. In some cases there are certain charges on top of this – of example in Australia there is a Luxury Car Tax imposed on vehicles worth more that ****.But as aforementioned, this type of political influence affects all manufacturer in the premium car market segment. Ecologically t here are a lot of influences shaping the direction of BMW Group automobiles. The main one being the increased societal awareness of the popular concept that is Global Warming. As a result of this many nations and manufacturers re imposing, whether voluntarily or as a legal requirement, goals of reducing emissions. This is done through setting targets and can be quite costly – in most cases being where the majority of research and development funds are spent.In the case of BMW Group, this is certainly so. The quest for more efficient engines is ongoing, and can also be attributed to the other major ecological factor – the growing scarcity of natural resources. The natural resource whose scarcity affects motorists globally is crude oil. There are socio-cultural factors at work, also. BMW uses positioning to reach certain target markets. As such, a lot of their vehicles are financially out of reach for demographics. Due to this, things such as median incomes and average p roperty prices dictate where BMW outlets will be placed geographically.Also in the case of BMW Group, an image of exclusivity primarily exists, though more recently there has been an effort to make their products within reach of more people. This is being conducted by making smaller, more affordable cars whilst retaining an image of prestige. In an industry such as the car industry, technology is the most influential force toward a company such as BMW Group. Technology is where a lot of manufacturers obtain their competitive advantage, and for BMW Group this is certainly the case.They invest vast sums of money into research and development in a bid to create more efficient engines with which they can compete with other manufacturers and obtain a competitive advantage. This also applies on fronts such as safety of cars, durability of cars, and power of cars. With current market trends drifting towards efficiency being a high priority for most customers, this is something that plays a n integral role in the strategic goals, plans, and implementation of plans of BMW Group. Economically, there are many forces that exert influence over BMW Group.Varying exchange rates are a primary factor, and have a direct impact upon sales within a given country, as they play a large role in determining whether or not a customer will buy a substitute good. BMW Group have a strategy in place to manage this known as â€Å"hedging†. High prices for raw materials such as steel and various alloy metals also play a part in determining corporate strategies, as does the volatility in the price of petrol in various countries in which BMW Group sells their goods. The legal factors are very similar to the aforementioned political factors, as they mostly include legislations to do with emissions and safety.There are other laws which vary by degrees between countries in which BMW Group goods are produced. This mainly involves certain labor laws, such as minimum wage laws and occupationa l health and safety laws. BMW Group consider these forces and the elements of a SOOT when developing corporate strategies and implementing them. The firm devises ways in which they can manage this uncertainty, and minimize the amount of turbulence they encounter spite being part of such a competitive and volatile industry. These will be covered in a later section of this report. 3.Strategic directions Especially in the high competitive market of the automobile industry a clear vision and mission statement is important to hold the internal and external stakeholder support on a high level (Hill, Jones, Galvan & Haddam 2007). As one of the worlds leading car manufacturer BUM'S vision statement is nothing less than â€Å"To be the leading supplier of premium products and premium services for individual mobility. † (BMW AAA, p. 180) To do that BMW sets its main focus traditionally on sights quality standards and best possible service for its customers.BMW mission statement is embo ssed by sustainability and responsibility. In the centre stand the three â€Å"Or's†: resources efficiency, risk minimization and reputation. With resource addition the company tries to save energy by optimizing their current engines and providing new drive systems like hydrogen engines. The aim of the company is â€Å"to use resources sparingly and efficiently' (BMW 2005, p. L). To lead the company in successful future for BMW it is important to recognize risk in an early stadium and try to avoid them (BMW 2005).Reputation is especially for BMW as a company with a very high brand value important. So BMW wants to â€Å"enhance the Company's reputation by acting responsibly towards employees and society'(BMW 2005, p. L). Every individual of the BMW group is supposed to maintain the sustainability of that three parts and everyone in the company should implement these objectives in the every days work life. Simultaneous BMW sees its staff as an important part on the way to rea ch its mission and provide its employees with best conditions and supports the professional and personal development (BMW 2005). Key strategies BMW has several strategies to survive in the strong competitive automobile market. One is the strategy of differentiation (Hill, Jones, Galvan & Haddam 2007). Cars of BMW stand for quality and exclusivity. Customers are willing to pay more money for a BMW than for an equal car of another brand. BMW is able to create the awareness of differences in its consumers mind and satisfies its customers wants and needs at a very high level. The cars of BMW have an attractive and sportive design. In connection with the high price BMW underlines its status as a premium brand.Furthermore BMW attracts through its sportive aspect and focus on innovation especially younger people. Expensive marketing campaigns force that in an impressive way. The result is an extremely high brand recognition and binding of a large number of loyal customers all over the worl d. That unique position of BMW makes it difficult for competitors to take advantage of the market in the short and medium term. BMW follows a diversification strategy, too. It has three non- overlapping car brands and a motorcycle brand.They are able to use their high knowledge and engineering experiences for all three different car brands and rover there are several synergies between the car and the motorcycle production. Especially in the expensive development of engines both segments profit similarly and the total risk for the company is lowered down because the company is less vulnerable for unexpected economic or competitive changes (Hill, Jones, Galvan & Haddam 2007). As a third the mastication of profit is one of the major strategies of the company for the next years.BMW has to fight against decreasing sale numbers caused by the economic crisis. Therefore the firm has to find new ways to generate more earning to satisfy its shareholders. A logical consequence is to reduce cos ts and increase efficiency. BMW tries to do that by different methods and techniques (Hill, Jones, Galvan & Haddam 2007). 5. Strategic implementation In the centre of Bum's strategic implementation stand the realization of strategic plan called â€Å"Number ONE†. BMW propose two sets of goals and strategies – one to lead BMW into 2012, one to lead BMW into 2020 (BMW 2007).At present, for the short worldwide. This is inclusive of all of their car brands, Mini and Rolls Royce. To do this they are increasing the variety in their model line-up. Also, for this short term, they re among the industry-leaders in adapting to new and different target markets, by producing cheaper, better quality cars which are accessible to a greater array of potential buyers. The other major short-term strategy to achieve this is to greater â€Å"recession-proof† their interests by engaging in hedging in the $ASS (BMW 2007: Horntail 2009).The goals and strategies which BMW hopes to achie ve by 2020 are much more ambitious, but no less achievable. They have adopted a â€Å"less input, more output† ethos, and as such are aiming to cut cost-centers and save the targeted figure of 6 billion Euros. As part of this plan, that 6 billion Euros is earmarked to then be invested into research and development in order to gain a competitive advantage through greater efficiency of their products. Instruments like flexible work and shifts models make it possible to adjust the product capacity of each plant contemporary.The number of employees will be reduced naturally – without dismissals (BMW 2007: Horntail 2009: Hill, Jones, Galvan & Haddam 2007, p. 102). Because of the strong position of the Euro against the US Dollar in the last years BMW will increase the utilization of the placement in United States. Also the company want to profit of the well qualified but cheaper labor of China through extensions of productions placements in China. The movement to China means also shorter ways to the new growing market and using of cheaper local suppliers, which moreover reduces the costs further (BMW 2009).High investments in marketing are an important element in the strategic implementation of the BMW Group as well (BMW 2009). The high marketing budget attends to save its main competitive advantage: the high brand recognition. The concept of the â€Å"ultimate driving machine† creates an emotional connection to customers world wide. Thereby BMW goes within its marketing strategy not the easiest way and make the same advertisements and marketing campaigns all over the world. The BMW Group analyses the specific customer groups of each region and try to listen and respond to the customers.Whereas people in America still want big engines in their cars, the environmental aspects in Europe getting more important. So BMW not only offers the same cars with different engines, also its marketing strategies for America, Europe and Asia are different. BMW controlled its distribution network more than most of its competitors. The results are again benefits for brand management. The company has the reputation to be near its customers. The brand BMW stand not only for quality, also service is linked with BMW. So the after sales service is another important part of the strategic implementation.The people should see that the company cares about them also after the buying which is in important fact in binding the customers as well (BMW 2009). Finally BMW will fulfill the new carbon dioxide regularities of the different governments. That means also a reaction of a changing of the customer wishes and a conformance to the companies mission BMW2009). 6. Key strategic implementation issues 0 Raising competition Environmental issues Global recession Changes in demand The external environment is a major contributor to this in the form of cut-throat competition, which is rife throughout the automotive industry.BMW don't have brand cannibalism to w orry about, but the existence of suitable alternative goods which may also appeal to potential buyers' (Hill, Jones, Galvan & Haddam 2007). Another key issue is those faced by the research and development department. Competitors wish to achieve the same outcome, for the same reasons, therefore BMW eave to remain competitive on a number of fronts (Hill, Jones, Galvan & Haddam 2007). This is also in keeping with having to work within the confines of various regulations.As they are the manufacturer of automobiles they must adhere to environmental and safety regulations in all the countries in which their goods are sold, and, due to globalization, this counts for the vast majority of nation states (Hill, 7. Evaluation of strategy The strategy of differentiation is important for a brand like BMW which do not serve the whole market. There are a few competitors in the premium segment of the automobile market and BMW has to do a high effort to keep its position and reputation in the long ru n. But BMW has to be careful.The company invests a lot of money in research and development. That could keep the danger that competitors imitate Bum's new products and inventions faster than the company can take real advantages of its investments. The high brand recognition is surely safe for the short and middle distance but in the long run BMW has to maintain its competitive advantage. Because of its relative small size in comparison with its main competitors tragic alliances will probably become a key position in BMW future strategic direction to achieve economies of scale and finally high profit margins.This is also a good possibility to reduce the costs of research and development and to realize especially cost intensive big innovations like the development of new engines for example the electric or hydrogen technologies. 8. Conclusions BMW seems to be good prepared for the future. The strong brand image gives the company a unique position in the marketplace, which is quite ess ential in such a high competitive business environment like the automobile industry. The key strategy Differentiation† works and the strategy plan for the next years â€Å"Number ONE† shows a sustainable and moreover feasible concept which should be successful.

Public Budgeting- Revenue Sources

Three revenue sources in public budgeting Property Tax: Property tax can be defined as a levy that the government issues on a person’s property. The value assessed to the property is taxed. Revenue of local governments like cities and counties are derived from property taxes. The revenue is used for administration in government and expenses concerning law enforcement, paramedics etc. ; and also to fund courts in local governments and helps for the payment of services which include civic centers, community programs, libraries, parks and recreation, and schools.Property taxes are also often used to pay some state programs such as Medicaid (in New York for example) and also to provide public assistance such as assistance to needy family (TANF), child welfare services and other social services such as supported employment, adult protective services, domestic violence and personal care assistance. This revenue can also be tracked in public safety like in juvenile detention, probati on services and other mandates (corrections/ county jail, law library in county jail, staffing for state and county court, prosecution services, community colleges etc. ).Property tax revenue can be tracked in many ways, it depends on each state but all states generally use these revenues to fund almost the same programs. Intergovernmental Revenue: Intergovernmental revenue is the funds obtained from other governments. These funds usually include grants, taxes which are shared, and contingent loans and advances. Here, funding emanates from all governments (federal, state and local governments). â€Å"Financial arrangements for funding and delivering intergovernmental services can be complex according to the variability of government structure, organization, roles and responsibilities.For example, government support concerning elementary and secondary schools includes direct funds from the federal government that are passed through state and local governments to local educational ag encies† (www. gao. gov). There are also funds allocated to cover costs for elementary and secondary education, these funds include the rent on school buildings for example. Charges for services: Charges for services are defined as customers’ charges and others charges coming from governmental and business activities. Charges for services within the governmental activities category include items such as licenses and permits (for example, business licenses and building permits), fines and forfeits, and operating special assessments sometimes charged for services provided outside the normal service area or beyond the normal level of services. Charges to other governments for services such as incarceration of prisoners also are reported in the Charges for Services column† (Kattelus & Reck, 2007).These charges include various services rendered within the states for example park entrance fees, document fees, court-filling fees etc. It also implies any government which p urchases, uses or benefits from goods and services provided. References Wilson, E. R. , Kattelus, S. C. , & Reck, J. L. (2007). Accounting for governmental and nonprofit entities. (14th ed. ). Boston, MA: McGraw-Hill Irwin. http://www. gao. gov/special. pubs/longterm/state/intergovrevenue. html

The Sting essays

The Sting essays The re-releasing of The Sting on DVD will hit stores on April 5, 2005. It hits store as anticipated as it did when it was first released in 1973. The Sting is a cinematic masterpiece even three decades after the first release date. The plot is simply astonishing. It has more twists and turns then any other movie to date. The Sting also doesnt just lure in the audience by promising an unpredictable plot, it actually delivers. Instead of the standard one-twist and the movie is over, The Sting never lets its audience rest with new developments around every corner. The plot is truly one that never allows a dull moment. This clever and hilarious movie is set in the depression years. A small-time drifter, Johnny Hooker, (played by Robert Redford), is making ends meet in the tough times of the depression by living off of scams that he and his partner Luther Coleman, played by Robert Earl Jones, pull on unsuspecting civilians. When Hooker and Coleman pull their favorite con, the old switch-a-rue, they think they have won the lottery when they come to realize that they just conned a guy out of eleven thousand dollars. Hooker wasnt able to enjoy his money for long as he blows his take on roulette. Coleman keeps his money and decides to retire, after he finally pulled off "The Big One". What neither of them realize is that their mark, the unsuspecting civilian, was a numbers-runner for some big-time gangster in New York. That powerful gangster was Doyle Lonnegan, played by Robert Shaw. Lonnegan, hearing of this grim news, puts a bounty on both of their heads. Lonnegan's thugs find one-half of the tande m; Luther in his debacle of an apartment. The thugs then throw Luther out the window to the solid ground below. This was a very convincing reason for Hooker to flee town and seek refugee. Swearing to revenge his partner's death, Hooker contacts Henry Gondorff, played by Paul Newman, an old friend of Luther's and as reputatio...

Biotechnology Development and the U.S. Economic Hegemony

Biotechnology Development and the U.S. Economic Hegemony Abstract Biotechnology is understood by many to be one of the most promising areas of technological development and among the most probable to bring significant economic and societal gains to the United States in the 21st century. With so much potentially at stake, an international competition has emerged among states and companies to grow and capture the value of biotechnology products.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Biotechnology Development and the U.S. Economic Hegemony specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Competitiveness generally refers to the relative potential of a nation or company to convey goods or services to markets. Evaluations of competitive strength usually rely on indicators such as revenues, market share, and trade. Biotechnology is not a detached industry, but relatively a technology applied across a wide range of products in different industries for which biotechnology products in general ac count for a small fraction of total sales. For this reason, this research reviews national biotechnology research and development (RD) investments and patents as indicators of current U.S. scientific and technological competitiveness and potential markers of future industrial competitiveness in biotechnology products. Introduction Biotechnology is understood by many to be one of the most promising areas of technological development and among the most probable to bring significant economic and societal gains to the United States in the 21st century.1 With so much potentially at stake, an international competition has emerged among states and companies to grow and capture the value of biotechnology products. Competitiveness generally refers to the relative potential of a nation or company to convey goods or services to markets. Evaluations of competitive strength usually rely on indicators such as revenues, market share, and trade. Biotechnology is not a detached industry, but relativ ely a technology applied across a wide range of products in different industries for which biotechnology products in general account for a small fraction of total sales.2 For this reason, this research reviews national biotechnology research and development (RD) investments and patents as indicators of current U.S. scientific and technological competitiveness and potential markers of future industrial competitiveness in biotechnology products. The competitiveness of U.S. developed biotechnology products and processes may finally depend on broad issues, i.e. fair trade practices, protection of intellectual property, regulatory climate, and tax policies.3 The competitiveness of U.S. innovation, however, could largely depend on the ability of biotechnology companies to remain in business.Advertising Looking for research paper on other technology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Because biotechnology is capital concentra ted, staying in business means raising significant amounts of money. Start-up companies’ primary need for cash, together with the desire of venture capitalists in the United States to benefit from the manufacture of high-value-added products (based on innovative technology) have led to the financial community’s substantial involvement in the formation of biotechnology-based firms.4 The United States has led the world in the commercial development of biotechnology because of its strong research base most visibly in biomedical sciences, and the capacity of entrepreneurs to finance their ideas. During the early 1980s, an amalgamation of large scale Federal funding for basic bio-medical research, publicity surrounding commercial potential, and readily available venture capital funding gave way to the formation of numerous dedicated biotechnology companies (DBCs).5 Dedicated biotechnology companies are almost exclusively a U.S. experience as no other country has a distantly comparable number. Biotechnology companies are created specifically to take advantage of the business potential of biotechnology. These companies generally start as research companies with science and technology but without products. They do not undertake RD on practically so wide a scale as established companies. Instead, they focus on definite technologies, particular products, and position markets. The companies must finance the preliminary costs of infrastructure development-including buildings, plants, equipment, and people without the advantage of internally generated revenues. They rely on venture capital, stock offerings, and rapport with established companies for their financing needs.6 Apart from venture capitalists, the federal government has played a vital role in catalyzing U.S. RD efforts. Indeed, the U.S. is the only country in the world that is known to have an integrated national effort focused on biotechnology. The biotechnology sector has enjoyed strong, bipartis an support from the executive branch, the House of Representatives, and the Senate. Each year, the President has proposed increased funding for federal biotechnology RD, and each year Congress has provided supplementary funding.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Biotechnology Development and the U.S. Economic Hegemony specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Over the years, the congress is believed to have utilized a total of $9 billion for biotechnology RD intended to bolster continued U.S. technological leadership and to sustain the technology’s development, with the long-term objective of creating high-wage jobs, bolstering economic growth, and wealth creation.7 This has also been for the purpose of addressing vital national needs, renewing U.S. manufacturing leadership and advancing health, the environment, and the overall quality of life.8 National RD investment is an input measure that may give some per spective on how successful a country and the organizations within the nation may become in generating scientific knowledge that can lead to innovative products and processes. However, the long-term value of these investments may be influenced by a range of factors such as: the ability of the scientists carrying out the RD and the tools available to them; the effectiveness of the system (i.e., businesses, supply chains, infrastructure, innovation, climate and government policies) for interpreting RD outcomes into commercial products; the fields of biotechnology pursued; the balance in fundamental research, applied research and development efforts.9 The United States has led and continues to lead, all countries in public investments in biotechnology RD.10 However, the estimated U.S. allocation of global public RD investments in biotechnology has dropped as other nations have come up with similar programs and increased funding. In the closing decade of the 20th century, many nations fo llowed the U.S. example and established formal national biotechnology programs in recognition of the potential contributions that biotechnology may offer for economic growth, job creation, and public health and safety.11 Indeed, a recent research estimates that the total 2005 public global R$D investments increased 10% over the 2004 level, reaching $6.4 billion. International investment levels can be contrasted using varying methods, producing significantly different perspectives on leadership.Advertising Looking for research paper on other technology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More For example, using a currency exchange rate comparison, the United States ranks ahead of all others, with federal and state investments of $1.78 billion in 2005 (27.8% of global public a RD investments), followed by Japan ($975 million, 15.2%) and Germany ($563 million, 8.8%). When national investments are regulated using purchasing power parity (PPP) exchange rates (which seek to balance the purchasing power of currencies in different nations for a given basket of goods and or services), China ranks second in public biotechnology spending in 2005 at $906 million, behind only the united states. Japan drops to third as its PPP-regulated investment drops to $889 million.12 This shows that the United States still maintains the leadership in relation to public investment in biotechnology. Apart from public investments, private investments in biotechnology development come from two major sources, corporation and venture capital investors. Internationally, organizations invested an estima ted $5.3 billion in biotechnology research and development in 2005.13 This figure represents a 19% raise over the 2004 estimate, a growth rate nearly double that of international public research and development. This apparent rise of growth in corporate research and development is undoubtedly an indicator that biotechnology research has attained commercial development. As with public research and development investments, on a PPP comparison basis, the United States led the rest of the world with a projected $1.9 billion investment. In the second position was Japan with $1.7 billion in private investment in biotechnology RD. Statistics show that the private investments of companies based in these two countries account for almost three-fourths of private investment in biotechnology RD in 2005. Additionally, venture capital investment, which is the primary financier of start-up organizations, provides another possible indicator of U.S. international competitiveness. In 2007, venture ca pital for biotechnology reached an estimated $702 million internationally of which U.S.-based organizations received $632 million translating to 90% of the total funding.14 Another indicator of gauging a country’s competitive position is in the assessment of the number of patents issued to individuals or institutions of that country.15 According to the U.S. Patent and Trade Office (USPTO), a patent awards ownership rights to a person who â€Å"invents or discovers any new and useful process, machine, manufacture, or composition of matter, or any new and useful improvement thereof.† 16 By this definition, patents are undoubtedly an indicator of future value and national might in a technology, product or industry. By this measure, the United States position seems to be very strong. United States assignees lead all other countries in patents issues by the USPTO. According to an examination by the USPTO of patents in the United States and in other countries, U.S. origin i nventors and owners have the most biotechnology-related U.S. patents by a wide margin and the most biotechnology-related patent publications internationally, but by a slimmer margin. Additionally, the USPTO analysis established that U.S. assignees have the most biotechnology-related inventions that have patent publications in three or more countries. The figure placed at 31.7% is a strong indication of a more aggressive pursuit of international intellectual property protection and, by supposition, of its professed potential value. By this measurement, the United States is followed by Japan (26.9%), Germany (11.3%), Korea (6.6%), and France (3.6%).17 There has been quick growth in biotechnology patents in the USPTO and European Patent Office (EPO) patent databases. A study conducted in 2007 established that the number of U.S. biotechnology patents in the USPTO and EPO databases grew at a close exponential pace between 1980 and 2004. The study showed that each year from 1990, U.S. ass ignees have taken up an approximate of two-thirds of all patents in the USPTO database. In 2004, U.S. assignees took up 66.9% of USPTO biotechnology patents. An earlier examination of USPTO data, covering patents from 1976 to 2002 also indicated U.S. biotechnology patent leadership, with the United States accounting for over 67% of patents, followed by Japan, Germany, France, and Canada.18 Although patents have shortcomings when it comes to assessing future competitiveness in terms of economic gains, there is no doubt that, the United States is leading in this area. If the recent trend is anything to go by, then there is no doubt that the U.S. will maintain its competitive edge in biotechnology development.19 Conclusion Biotechnology, both as a scientific art and commercial entity is just slightly above two decades old. In that short period, however, it has changed the way scientists perceive living matter and has led to research and development that may lead to commercialization of products that can dramatically bolster human and animal health, the food supply, and the quality of the environment. Developed mainly in U.S. laboratories, many applications of biotechnology are now viewed by companies and governments throughout the world as essential for economic growth in several, seemingly different industries. Since its development, the U.S. has maintained its competitiveness in this crucial sector of the economy. With other nations emerging as serious competitors in this field, the question of whether the U.S. can maintain its competitiveness has remained a question among many people. However, if the available statistics are anything to go by, then there is no doubt that the U.S. will continue holding on to its current position as a world leader in the biotechnology industry. Bibliography Acharya, Rohini.   The Emergence and Growth of Biotechnology. Cheltenham: Edward Elgar, 1994. Arrighi, Giovanni and Beverly Silver. Chaos and Governance in the Modern World -System: Comparing Hegemonic Transitions. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press, 1999. Bergesen, Albert and John Sonnett. â€Å"The Global 500: Mapping the World Economy at Century’s End.† American Behavioral Scientist 44 (2001):1602-1615. Hacking, Andrew.   The Economic Aspects of Biotechnology. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1986. Kealey, Terrence. The Economic Laws of Scientific Research. New York: St. Martin’s Press, 1996. Li, Xin and Lin Yiling. â€Å"Worldwide Biotechnology Development: A Comparative Study of USPTO, EPO, and JPO Patents-1976-2004.† Journal of Biotech Research 9, (December 2007): 231-240. Maddison, Angus. Monitoring the World Economy, 1820-1992. Paris: Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, 1995. Powell, Walter. â€Å"Inter-organizational Collaboration in the Biotechnology Industry.† Journal of Institutional and Theoretical Economics 120 (1996):197-215. Sassen, Saskia. The Global City:   New Yo rk, London, Tokyo (Princeton:   Princeton University Press, 2001) 26-31. Taylor, Peter. The Way the Modern World Works: World Hegemony to World Impasse. New York: Wiley, 1996. Footnotes Rohini Acharya, The Emergence and Growth of Biotechnology (Cheltenham: Edward Elgar, 1994), 60. Andrew Hacking, The Economic Aspects of Biotechnology (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1986) 79-86. Ibid. Saskia Sassen, The Global City:   New York, London, Tokyo (Princeton:   Princeton University Press, 2001) 47-50. Angus Maddison, Monitoring the World Economy, 1820-1992 (Paris: Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, 1995) 5-10. Ibid, 7. Ibid, 10. Peter Taylor, The Way the Modern World Works: World Hegemony to World Impasse (New York: Wiley, 1996) 81-90. Ibid, 84. Giovanni Arrighi and Silver Beverly, Chaos and Governance in the Modern World-System: Comparing Hegemonic Transitions (Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press, 1999) 72. Ibid. Albert Bergesen and Sonnett John, â€Å"The Global 500: Mapping the World Economy at Century’s End.† American Behavioral Scientist 44 (2001): 1602-1615. Xin Li and Yiling Lin, â€Å"Worldwide Biotechnology Development: A Comparative Study of USPTO, EPO, and JPO Patents-1976-2004.† Journal of Biotech Research 9, (December 2007): 231-240. Ibid, 232. Ibid, 233. Terrence Kealey, The Economic Laws of Scientific Research (New York: St. Martin’s Press, 1996) 12-20. Li and Lin, Journal of Biotech Research, 236. Ibid, 239. Walter Powell, â€Å"Inter-organizational Collaboration in the Biotechnology Industry† Journal of Institutional and Theoretical Economics 120 (1996):197-215.

Systems of Equations in SAT Math Algebra Prep and Practice

Systems of Equations in SAT Math Algebra Prep and Practice SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips Sure, you’ve done your paces on single variable equations and now they’re no problem, but what do you do when presented with multiple equations and multiple variables at once? These are what we call â€Å"systems of equations† and, luckily for us, they are extremely predictable types of problems with multiple methods for solving them. Depending on how you like to work best, you can basically choose your own adventure when it comes to system of equation problems. But before you choose the method that suits you (or the individual problem) best, let’s look at all the various options you have available as well as the types of questions you’ll see come test day. These questions will always show up once or twice on any given test, so it's best to understand all the strategies you have at your disposal. This will be your complete guide to systems of equations questions- what they are, the many different ways for solving them, and how you’ll see them on the SAT. What Are Systems of Equations? Systems of equations are a set of two (or more) equations which have two (or more) variables. The equations rely on each other and can be solved only with the information that each provides. The majority of the time on the SAT, you will see a system of equations that involves two equations and two variables, but it is certainly not unheard of that you will see three equations and/or a three variables, in any number of combinations. Systems of equations can also be solved in a multitude of ways. As always with the SAT, how you chose to solve your problems mostly depends on how you like to work best as well as the time you have available to dedicate to the problem. The three methods to solve a system of equations problem are: #1: Graphing#2: Substitution#3: Subtraction Let us look at each method and see them in action by using the same system of equations as an example. For the sake of our example, let us say that our given system of equations is: $$2y + 3x = 38$$ $$y - 2x = 12$$ Solving Method 1: Graphing There will only ever beonesolution for the system of equations, and that one solution will be the intersection of the two lines.In order to graph our equations, we must first put each equation into slope-intercept form. If you are familiar with lines and slopes, you know that slope intercept-form looks like: $y = mx + b$ So let us put our two equations into slope-intercept form. $2y + 3x = 38$ $2y = -3x + 38$ $y = {-3/2}x + 19$ And $y - 2x = 12$ $y = 2x + 12$ Now let us graph each equation in order to find their point of intersection. Once we graphed our equation, we can see that the intersection is at (2, 16). So our final results are: $x = 2$ and $y = 16$ Solving Method 2: Substitution In order to solve our system of equations through substitution, we must isolate one variable in one of the equations and then use that found variable for the second equation in order to solve for the remaining variable. For example, we have two equations, $2y + 3x = 38$ $y - 2x = 12$ So let us select just one of the equations and then isolate one of the variables. In this case, let us chose the second equation and isolate our $y$ value. $y - 2x = 12$ $y = 2x + 12$ Next, we must plug that found variable into the second equation. (In this case, because we used the second equation to isolate our $y$, we need to plug in that $y$ value into the first equation.) $2y + 3x = 38$ $2(2x + 12) + 3x = 38$ $4x + 24 + 3x = 38$ $24 + 7x = 38$ $7x = 14$ $x = 2$ And finally, you can find the numerical value for your first variable ($y$) by plugging in the numerical value for your second variable ($x$) into either equation. $2y + 3x = 38$ $2y + 3(2) = 38$ $2y + 6 = 38$ $2y = 32$ $y = 16$ Or $y - 2x = 12$ $y - 2(2) = 12$ $y - 4 = 12$ $y = 16$ Either way, you have found the value of both your $x$ and $y$. Again, $x = 2$ and $y = 16$ Solving Method 3: Subtraction As the last method for solving systems of equations, you can subtract one of the variables completely in order to find the value of the second variable. We do this by subtracting one of the entire equations from the other, complete, equation. Do take note that you can only do this if the variables in question (the one you wish to eliminate) are exactly the same. If they are NOT the same, then we must first multiply the entire equation by the necessary amount in order to make them the same. In the case of our two equations, none of our variables are equal. $2y + 3x = 38$ $y - 2x = 12$ In this case, let us decide to subtract our $y$ values and cancel them out. This means that we must first make them equal by multiplying our second equation by 2, so that both $y$ values match. $2y + 3x = 38$ $y - 2x = 12$ Becomes: $2y + 3x = 38$ (This first equation remains unchanged) And $2(y - 2x = 12)$ = $2y - 4x = 24$ (The entire equation is multiplied by 2) And now we can cancel out our $y$ values by subtracting the entire second equation from the first. $2y + 3x = 38$ - $2y - 4x = 24$ $3x - -4x = 14$ $7x = 14$ $x = 2$ Now that we have isolated our $x$ value, we can plug it into either of our two equations to find our $y$ value. $2y + 3x = 38$ $2y + 3(2) = 38$ $2y + 6 = 38$ $2y = 32$ $y = 16$ Or $y - 2x = 12$ $y - 2(2) = 12$ $y - 4 = 12$ $y = 16$ Our final results are, once again, $x = 2$ and $y = 16$. Though there are many ways to solve your problems, don't let this knowledge overwhelm you; with practice, you'll find the best solving method for you. No matter which method we use to solve our problems, a system of equations will either have one solution- meaning that each variable will have a numerical value attached- no solution, or infinite solutions. In order for a system of equations to have infinite solutions, each system is actually identical. This means that they are the same line. In order for a system of equations to have no solution, the $x$ values will be equal when the $y$ values are set to 1 (which means that both variables- $x$ and $y$- will be equal). The reason this is true is that it will result in two parallel lines, as the lines will have the same slope. The system has no solution because the two lines will never meet and therefore have no point of intersection. For instance, Because our system will have no solution when both our $y$ values and our $x$ values are equal, this means that there will be no solution where we have eliminated both our variables by canceling them out. In this case, the most expedient solution to this problem will be subtraction. Why? We can see this because the two $x$ values ($2x$ and $4x$) are multiples of one another, so we can easily multiply one equation in order to equal them out. $2x - 5y = 8$ $4x + ky = 17$ Now, let us multiply the top equation in order to equal out our $x$ values. So the system pair, $2(2x - 5y = 8)$ $4x + ky = 17$ Becomes, $4x - 10y = 16)$ - $4x + ky = 17$ $-10y - ky = -1$ In order to have NO solution, our two $y$ values must balance out to zero. So let us set our two $y$ values equal to one another: $-10y - ky = 0$ $-ky = 10y$ $k = -10$ Our $k$ valuemust be -10 in order for our system of equations to have no solution. Our final answer is A, -10. [Note: don’t fall for the bait answer of +10! You are still subtracting your system of equations, so keep close track of your negatives.] Also, if it is frustrating or confusing to you to try to decide which of the three solving methods â€Å"best† fits the particular problem, don’t worry about it! You will almost always be able to solve your systems of equations problems no matter which method you choose. For instance, you could have also chosen to graph this question. If you had done so, you would first have to put each equation into slope-intercept form: $2x - 5y = 8$ $4x + ky = 17$ $2x - 5y = 8$ $-5y = -2x + 8$ $y = 2/5(x) + 8$ And $4x + ky = 17$ $ky = -4x + 17$ $y = {-4/k}(x) + 17$ Now, we know a system of equations will have no solution only when each variable balances out to zero, so let us equate our two $x$ variables in order to solve for $k$. $2/5(x) = {-4/k}(x)$ $2/5 = {-4}/k$ ${2k}/5 = -4$ $2k = -20$ $k = -10$ Again, our $k$ value is -10. Our final answer is A, -10. As you can see, there is never any â€Å"best† method to solve a system of equations question, only the solving method that appeals to you the most. All roads lead to Rome, so don't stress yourself by trying to find the "right" solving method for your systems problems. Typical Systems of Equations Questions Most systems of equations questions on the SAT will let you know that it IS a systems of equations by explicitly using the words â€Å"systems of equations† in the question itself. (We will walk through how to solve this question later in the guide) Other problems will simply present you with multiple equations with variables in common and ask you to find the value of a one of the variables, or even a combination of the variables (such as the value of $x + y$ or $x - y$). (We will walk through how to solve this question later in the guide) And finally, the last type of systems of equation question will ask you to find the numerical value of a variable in which there is NO solution, as with the example from earlier. Want to learn more about the SAT but tired of reading blog articles? Then you'll love our free, SAT prep livestreams. Designed and led by PrepScholar SAT experts, these live video events are a great resource for students and parents looking to learn more about the SAT and SAT prep. Click on the button below to register for one of our livestreams today! Strategies for Solving Systems of Equations Questions All systems of equations questions can be solved through the same methods that we outlined above, but there are additional strategies you can use to solve your questions most accurately and expediently. #1: To begin, find the variable that is already the most isolated The ultimate goal is the find the value of all the variables, but we can only do this by finding one variable to start with. The easiest way to solve for this one variable isolate (or eliminate) the variable that has the fewest coefficients or is seemingly the most isolated. For instance, $5x - 3y = -13$ $2x + y = 19$ If we are using substitution, it is easiest for us to first isolate the $y$ value in our second equation. It is already the most isolated variable, as it does not have any coefficients, and so we will not have to deal with fractions once we replace its value in the first equation. If, on the other hand, we were using subtraction, it is still best to target and eliminate our $y$ values. Why? Because we have $3y$ and $y$, which means that we only have to multiply the second equation by 3 in order to match up our $y$ values. If we were to target and eliminate our $x$ values, we would have to multiply both equations- the first by 2 and the second by 5- in order to make our $x$ values match. Though you can always find your solutions no matter which variables you choose to isolate or eliminate, it's always nice to save yourself the time, energy, and hassle (not to mention avoid possible mistakes) by going for the easy pickings first. #2: Practice all three solving methods to see which one is most comfortable to you The best way to decide which system of equation solving method suits you the best is by practicing on multiple problems (though it will help your flexibility if you can become comfortable using all the solving methods available, even if one or two suit you better than the other(s)). When you test yourself on systems questions, try to solve each one using more than one method in order to see which one is most comfortable for you personally. #3: Use subtraction for questions that require finding more than just one variable Most â€Å"multiple variable solve† systems of equations questions will ask you to find $x + y$ or $x - y$, which will almost always be most easily found via the subtraction method. It is also most useful to use the method of subtraction when we have three or more variables, especially when it is a combination of multiple variables AND three or more variables. We will see this kind of problem in action in the next section. Ready to tackle your systems problems and put your strategies to the test? Test Your Knowledge Now let us test your system of equation knowledge on real SAT math questions. 1. 2. 3. Answers: 300, E, 12 Answer Explanations: 1. As we outlined in our strategy section, it is almost always easiest to find the value of multiple variables by using the method of subtraction (though, again, it is not the only way). We are restricted somewhat, though, as we have three variables and only two equations. Why is this important? Well, we can find the individual values for each variable if we have the same number of equations as we have variables, but in this case we do not. This means we need to use a solution that will give us $x + y$, since we cannot find the value of $x$ or $y$ alone. So let us use subtraction. To do this, we must subtract like variables and, luckily for us, both equations have a single $x + y$ value. This means we can isolate our variable $z$. $x + y + 3z = 600$ $x + y + z = 400$ So let us subtract them. $x + y + 3z = 600$ - $x + y + z = 400$ - $2z = 200$ $z = 100$ Now that we have the value of $z$, we can replace it in either of the equations in order to find the value of $x + y$. Because it is always easiest to use the most isolated variable (less math involved for us!), let us our second equation to plug in our $z$ value into. $x + y + z = 400$ $x + y + 100 = 400$ $x + y = 300$ Our final answer for the value of $x + y$ is 300. Do note, however, that if you would much prefer to use substitution, you can definitely do so. Because we are trying to find $x + y$, let us isolate it as our wanted variable in one of our equations. $x + y + 3z = 600$ $x + y + z = 400$ Let us use our first equation. $x + y + 3z = 600$ $x + y = 600 - 3z$ And now we can substitute our $x + y$ value into our second equation. $x + y + z = 400$ $(600 - 3z) + z = 400$ $600 - 2z = 400$ $-2z = -200$ $z = 100$ Now that we have found our value for $z$, we can plug it into either equation to find the numerical value for our $x + y$. Let us use the second equation to do so. Why the second? Because each value is already the most isolated and so will be easiest to work with, but each question will work either way. $x + y + z = 400$ $x + y + 100 = 400$ $x + y = 300$ Again, our final answer is $x + y = 300$ As you can see, any method will suit you- it just depends on how you like to work. 2. Again, though not the only way to solve our problem, it is easiest to use subtraction when we have three or more variables in our equations or we are trying to find a combination of variables (in this case, the value of $y + z$). In this case, we have both, so let us use subtraction. $3x + 2y + 2z = 19$ $3x + y + z = 14$ Our $x$ values are identical, so let us simply subtract the second equation from the first. $3x + 2y + 2z = 19$ - $3x + y + z = 14$ - $y + z = 5$ Our final answer is E, $y + z = 5$ 3. In this case, let us use the method of substitution in order to isolate one of our values and plug it into one of the other equations in our system. The equations we are given are: $x = 3v$ $v = 4t$ $x = pt$ $v$ is already isolated, so let us plug it back into our first equation. $v = 4t$ $x = 3v$ $x = 3(4t)$ $x = 12t$ Now, we are also told that $x = pt$, so we can equate the two expressions. $x = 12t$ $x = pt$ $12t = pt$ Because 12 and $p$ both act as coefficients (numbers before a variable) for $t$, we can see that they are equal. This means that $p = 12$ Our final answer is 12. You did it! Balloons and confetti for you! The Take-Aways As you can see, systems of equations are some of the most versatile problems when it comes to methods for solving them (though the problems themselves are not terribly varied). Though you can solve many problems on the SAT in a variety of ways, most are not quite so flexible, so take heart that you have many choices for how to proceed for your systems of equations questions. Once you practice and familiarize yourself with these types of questions, you’ll find the best method for you- your strengths, and your timing- for taking the test. And pretty soon, you’ll be able to knock out systems of equations questions in multiple ways, blindfolded, and with hands behind your back (though why you would want to is, frankly, anyone’s guess). What’s Next? Systems were a snap, you say? You're ready for math problems, you say? Well lucky you! We have more math guides than you can shake a stick at, all of which cover crucial aspects of the SAT math section. Lines and angles, polygons, integers, ratios...any topic you need to brush up on is at your fingertips, so make the best of your study time and energy and target any of your known problem areas before test day. Want to know the most valuable strategies for SAT math problems? Check out our guides on plugging in answers and plugging in numbers to help finesse the vast majority of your SAT math questions. Looking to get a perfect score? Look no further than our guide to getting a perfect 800 on the SAT math section, written by a perfect-scorer. Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points? Check out our best-in-class online SAT prep program. We guarantee your money back if you don't improve your SAT score by 160 points or more. Our program is entirely online, and it customizes what you study to your strengths and weaknesses. If you liked this Math strategy guide, you'll love our program.Along with more detailed lessons, you'll get thousands ofpractice problems organized by individual skills so you learn most effectively. We'll also give you a step-by-step program to follow so you'll never be confused about what to study next. Check out our 5-day free trial:

Increased Empowerment Of The American Non-Commissioned Officer Essay

Increased Empowerment Of The American Non-Commissioned Officer - Essay Example This paper shall focus on the increased empowerment of the American Non-commissioned officer over time. The paper shall, also discuss the fundamental causes and consequences of the shift in responsibilities of the NCOs down the chain of command. Moreover, the paper shall discuss how well the US military is prepared or not prepared for the ever increasing burdens of responsibility. Finally, I shall give my opinion of whether or not this trend shall continue. For one to understand the ever increasing empowerment of the American Non-commissioned officer, it is essential to review the history behind it. The history of the NCO in the United States can be traced back in 1775 with the dawn of the Continental army. This officer did not copy Britain, but just like the American army, he blended French, Prussian, and British army traditions into a unique American institution (Bland, 2009). The development of change in the organization and action of the military offers an insight into the transfer of ultimate power and responsibilities down the succession of command. As much as the empowerment of the NCO is ever increasing, it is arguable that there is more room for further advancement for the military. There are several factors that have contribute to the increased empowerment of the non-commissioned officer in America, however, this paper shall focus on the three most important; advanced training opportunities, fighting strategies, and military d octrine (Bland, 2009). Advanced training opportunities It has constantly been argued that knowledge is power. This holds true considering the ever increasing empowerment of the American NCO. It is true that technical skills and leadership training are essential for a successful and affective NCO. Before the publicized training manuals for NCO, the only available training was on-the-job training (Fisher, 1994). Professional education was unknown for NCOs except the constant instructions received from company commanders. All leadership skills were practically learned during operations. Today, however, skills in leadership are taught continuously providing proper decision-making for trainees. The training required to make use and maintain complex battle equipment during the First World War initiated the technically advanced field training that paved way for a leadership role. Advanced training was essential for medical services, artillery, as well as other military operation areas. Wit h time, technology grew as wars became more sophisticated. As a result, leadership demands for NCO also grew. General John Pershing recommended that NCO receive a formal training, a suggestion that sparked the NCO academy system in the 1950s (Fisher, 1994). Later, a Non-commissioned officer Candidate Course was created that trained NCOs in combat arms. The NCO’s Educational System put a formal training system that educated both men and women. Fighting strategies Battle history evidences that the constant changes in fighting led to the evolution of the NCO as a leader in the military. In the early days of