The First Puritan Settlement Of America - 1401 Words

Since the first Puritan settlement of America by the Massachusetts Bay Colony (â€Å"City on a Hill†) to the United States’ current involvement in the affairs of foreign countries, it is clear that Americans find a need to spread their democratic ideals abroad. The idea of Manifest Destiny, which was prevalent in pre-Civil War America, expressed the belief that Americans should expand their republican ideals of freedom, liberty, and democracy to the whole world.The notion of Manifest Destiny had many components, each serving people in different ways. Manifest Destiny reflected both the prides that characterized American Nationalism in the mid 19th century, and the idealistic vision of social perfection through God and the church. Both fueled much of the reform energy of the time. Individually, the components created separate reasons to conquer new land. Together they exemplified America s ideological need to dominate from pole to pole. To some, the Manifest Destiny Doctrine was based on the idea that America had a divine providence. It had a future that was destined by God to expand its borders, with no limit to area or country. All the traveling and expansion were part of the spirit of Manifest Destiny, a belief that it was God s will that Americans spread over the entire continent, and to control and populate the country as they see fit. Many expansionists conceived God as having the power to sustain and guide human destiny. It was white man s burden to conquer andShow MoreRelatedReligion Has Played An Important Role In The History Of1108 Words   |  5 Pagesthe first building to go up, and the town was built around it. Even though religious freedom has greatly influenced the history of the United States of America, it is also the foundation by which the Europeans discovered America. It is their religious ways which affected how they associated with the Native Americans, the new land, and their success of having America as their colony. Religious oppression in the American colonists was obvious. Europeans moved to the United States of America toRead MoreReligion Has Been A Major Force In The History Of The United1104 Words   |  5 PagesReligion has been a major force in the history of the United States and in settling the colonies of America in many ways. Religion was definitely one of the major reasons for the founding of the colonies. The early colonists wanted the freedom to worship God as they had seen as proper, and they were promised this freedom of worship. Most of these colonies were deeply rooted in their religious beliefs. Religion was a powerful influence on the social and polit ical life of the colonial times inRead MoreThe Beginnings Of English America1121 Words   |  5 PagesThe Beginnings of English America Long before Columbus sailed to America, Europeans had dreamed of a land full of abundance, riches, and freedom. Europeans believed that if they moved from Europe to America, their lives would change for the better when they stepped foot onto this new land. But what they did not realize was that things would not be so easy at first. There were some major similarities and differences between Europe and America. But compared to America, everyday life was completelyRead MoreCompare And Contrast Jamestown And From Of Plymouth Plantation714 Words   |  3 Pagesdiscovery of Virginia in 1607 at a place called Jamestown, this was the first permanent English settlement in the new world, the Americas. Also â€Å"From of Plymouth plantation†, by William Bradford, a historical account, is about when 13 years later about 100 settlers went on the big fancy ship called the Mayflower and landed in Massachusetts at a place they named Plymouth. With these two colonies, english settlements in north America were born. They historically had some similarities and also the coloniesRead MoreNative Americans And The United States991 Words   |  4 Pagestraveled during the Ice Age through the Bering Strait and English settlers sailed the Atlantic. Due to unknown reasons, most of the Native societies except for the Aztecs collapse before the arrival of the Europeans, which gives shine to the English settlements since their attainment set the roots of our society today. More importantly, it should be recognized the diverse cultures of English settlers since it has set the precedent for the tolerance and freedom of expression that is experienced in the UnitedRead MoreEssay On Jamestown Vs Plymouth705 Words   |  3 Pagesdiscovery of Virginia in 1607 at a place called Jamestown, this was the first permanent english settlement in the new world, the americas. Also â€Å"From of Plymouth plantation†, by William Bradford, a historical account, is about when 13 years later about 100 settlers went on the big fancy ship called the Mayflower and landed in Massachusetts at a place they named Plymouth. With these two colonies, english settlements in north america were born. They both had some similarities and also the colonies hadRead MoreJohn Calvin And The Protestant Reformation1462 Words   |  6 Pagesprotestantism further, which made the English leave England and go to America. -When Martin Luther posted the 95 theses, that led to the protestant reformation. -John Calvin was the leader of â€Å"Calvinism†, which focused on predestination. -Conversion was a religious event that placed you as either and â€Å"elect† or a â€Å"visible saint,† and were then expected to lead out their lives as either one. -Separatists were a group of Puritans who left the Church of England. The Pilgrims End Their PilgrimageRead MoreThirteen Colonies and New England944 Words   |  4 Pagesand in the founding of some middle colonies? 5. Besides England, what other nations influenced the colonization of the Atlantic coast of North America? 6. How did the colonization of Pennsylvania differ from the New England colonies and other middle colonies? Chapter Themes Theme: Religious and political turmoil in England shaped settlement in New England and the middle colonies. Religious persecution in England pushed the Separatists into Plymouth and Quakers into Pennsylvania. England’sRead MoreThe Puritans And The Colonists923 Words   |  4 PagesTThe Puritans were a devout spiritual group that left England and traveled to North America seeking religious freedom from the Church of England. The Puritans trusted that the word of God was the law of the land and it presented them with a plan for surviving. Puritans believed in treating one another with respect, having benevolence for the fellow mankind, loving one another as if they were family and God would reward them based on how well they treated their neighbors. The Puritans, who believedRead MoreThe First Great Awakening By The Puritans1356 Words   |  6 PagesWhen the Puritans made their initial journey to America in 1630, they possessed high aspirations and ideals in the hope that the ir future settlement at Massachusetts Bay would become a â€Å"city upon a hill†. The utopic settlement envisioned by the Puritans was supposed to serve as an example for the rest of the world in proper living. However, an increasing number of onerous factors and hardships fell upon the Puritan settlements, which would eventually lead to the diminishing of their once prominent

Export Import Free Essays

string(48) " use the ame as a raw material for manufacture\." Import and export of goods play a vital role in all the economy. That too, India is a developing country, the role of export and import are of greater emphasis. There must be a free flow of exports and imports in order to improve the economy. We will write a custom essay sample on Export Import or any similar topic only for you Order Now But, the free flow should not affect the economy. So, the control over import and export of goods become the need of the hour. Regulation mandated by a state attempts to produce outcome which might not otherwise occur, produce or prevent outcomes in different places to what might otherwise occur, or produce or prevent outcomes in ifferent timescales than would otherwise occur. In this way, regulations can be seen as implementations artifacts of policy statements. The economics of imposing or removing regulations relating to markets is analyzed in regulatory economics. [Development of economic legislation is of comparatively recent origin. Reserve Bank of India was established in 1935 to exercise control over banking and fiscal activities. Need to control economic activities through legislation arose during the Second World War to face shortages. Price and distribution controls were established on arious essential commodities under the Defense of India Act, 1939 (later converted into Essential Supplies (Temporary Powers) Act of 1946 and Essential commodities Act in 1955). Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1947 was passed to control the difficult position of foreign exchange. Industries (Development and Regulation) Act, 1951 provided for industrial licensing and registration. MRTP Act was passed in 1969 to exercise control over monopolies, unfair trade practices and restrictive trade practices. Sick Industrial Companies (Special Provisions) Act, 1985 was passed as a solution to growing sickness in industries. Securities and Exchange Board of India Act, 1992 was passed to establish a statutory body (SEBI) to exercise control over rapidly growing capital market. Earlier, capital issues (control) Act, 1947 was used to exercise control over capital issues. This Act was scrapped after the formation of SEBI. As international business is growing, importance of controls over foreign transactions is growing. The main purpose of economic legislation is to support the economic policies of the Government. b. to exercise control over economic activities. to protect consumers from unscrupulous persons. d. To prevent bad side effects of the development. India decided to follow Russian model of ‘controlled economy and ‘leading role to public sector’. Various Acts were passed atter 1947 to suppo t rt nese ideals. T envisaged various controls, licensing etc†¦ Some Acts like Essential Commodities Act. FERA was designed to support ‘shortage economy, where supply was less compared to demand. These economic policies were totally changed in July 1991. It is ironical that through the policies have changrd, the old Acts still continue. Though some amendments to FERA, MRTP Act etc†¦ have been made, the basic philosophy of these Acts (i. e) controls and licensing continues. Luckily, the Acts provided so much flexibility in framing policies that these old Acts provided so much flexibility in framing policies that these old Acts designed for different purposes and with entirely different concepts can be in fact are being used to implement new policies. Indeed the new policies are against basic philosophy of the old economic legislation. The country which is purchasing the goods is known as the importing country and the country which is selling the goods known as exporting country. The traders involved in such transaction are importers and exporters respectively. In India, exports and imports are regulated by Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992, which replaced the Imports and Exports (control) Act, 1947, and gave the Government of India enormous powers to control it. Besides the FTDR Act, there are some other laws which control the export and import of goods. These include :- a. -rea Act, 1953 b. Coffee Act, 1942 The Rubber Act, 1947 The Marine Products Export Development Authority Act, 1972 e. The Enemy Property Act, 1968 The Export (Quality Control and Inspection) Act, 1963. g. The tobacco Board Act, 197513] IMPORT RESTRICTIONS Control over the import ot the goods in to India is exercised by the Import Trade Control Oragnisation, which functions under the ministry of commerce. This rganisation is supervised by the director General of foreign trade station at New Delhi, who is assisted by Additional and Joint director general and by other licensing authorities at various centers. Current import policy is embodied in the export and import policy book out by the DGFT. CUSTOMS ACT, 1962 Section 12(1) of the customs Act is the charging section which provides for imposition of a duty called Customs duty levied as per the customs Tariff act 1975, or any other law for the time being in force on the goods imported in to India or exported out of India. The objects of Customs Act are i) To regulate imports and exports. To protect domestic industries from dumping. iii) revenue in the form of customs duty and indirect tax. iv) legislations such as FTDR and FEMA. To collect To assist allied By virtue of the power conferred under Secl 56 of the Customs Act 1962 Central Govt is empowered to make rules consistent with the provisions of the Act. Similarly by virtue of its powers conferred under Sec157 of the Act , the Central Board of Excise and Customs(CBEC) has been empowered to frame regulations( Customs House Agent Regulations) EXPORT IMPORT PROHIBITIONS Secl 1 of the Customs Act 1962 gives powers to central government to prohibit import or export of goods . Such a prohibition can be absolute or conditional. Absolute prohibition means an importer is totally prohibited in importing/exporting the subject goods. Some of the goods prohibited from time to time are narcotic drugs, explosives, live or dead animals [birds, arms and ammunition, counterfeit currency notes. On the other hand, conditional prohibition would mean that the prohibition would mean that the prohibition would mean that the prohibition is subject to certain conditions imposed. A conditional prohibition would attract in a case where the importer is prohibited in selling/trading the imported goods but can only use the ame as a raw material for manufacture. You read "Export Import" in category "Papers" Some item like wool, turmeric, onion, black pepper, tea, etc†¦ are allowed to be exported only after they are graded by designated authorities. In terms of Sec. ll (2) of the Customs Act, 1962, the prohibition may among other things relate to the following: i) Maintenance of security of India. Prevention of smuggling Conservation of foreign exchange and safeguarding balance of payments. Prevention of serious injury to domestic production of goods. v) Protection of national treasures. Maintenance of public order and standards of decency and morality. vii) Protection of IPR (Patent/Trademark/Copyright) viii) Any other matter conducive to the interest of general public. Sec. 2 (33) of the act defines prohibited goods means any goods the import or export of which is subject to any prohibition under this act or any other law for time being in force but doesn’t include any such goods in respect of which the conditions subject to which the goods are permitted to be imported or exported, have been complied with. Therefore, the prohibition under Customs Act applies to prohibition under any other law in India. ) Ancient Monument Prevention Act prohibits/ restricts antiquities e imported or exported without licence. b) Arms and ammunition cannot c) Wildlife Act prohibits certain exports- ‘red sandal wood ‘(which are used in Middle East countries for making musical instruments) d) Environment Protection Act prohibits export of some items. At the time of import of goods the customs authorities will first check whether the items imported is prohibited / restricted or subject to conditional import, before allowing clearance of the goods. Similarly at the time export also the goods are given ‘let export order’ only after they are checked with the reference to restrictions/ rohibitions. If such goods are attempted to be smuggled the goods are liable to seizure/confiscation and the offender liable to penal action including arrest / prosecution under the Customs Act. The word ‘confiscation’ implies appropriation consequential to seizure. The essence and concept of the confiscation is that after confiscation the property of the confiscated goods vest with the central govt. Secl 1 1 of the Act provides for confiscation of improperly imported goods. The goods brought from a place outside India shall be liable for confiscation. Sec. 111 (d) says â€Å"any goods hich are imported or attempted to be imported or are brought within the Indian Customs waters for the purpose of being imported, contrary to any prohibition imposed by or under this act or any other law for the time being in force. Secl 13 of the Act deals with confiscation of goods attempted to be improperly exported . The export goods shall be liable for confiscation under sec 113 (d) says â€Å"any goods attempted to be exported or brought within the limits of any customs area for the purpose of being exported contrary to any prohibition imposed by or under this Act or any other law for time being in force. COFEPOSA, 1974 Conservation of Foreign Exchange and prevention of smuggling Activities Act (COFEPOSA) was passed in 1974 when foreign exchange position in India was bleak and smuggling was beyond control. In view of recent liberalisation, the Act has lost its significance. The Act gives wide powers to executive to detain a person on mere Suspicion of smuggling (the draconian provisions of the act can be compared with provisions of TADA, where a person can be incarnated in Jail merely for possessing a illegal weapon and having acquaintances with some underworld elements, without any proof of direct involvement in terrorist activities). The acts like COFEPOSA, TADA, etc†¦ are criticized on the ground that they violate basic human rights. Freedom of a man can be taken away under such Acts, without Judicial scrutiny and safeguards. The act has been given special protection by including the same in the 9th schedule to constitution. The validity of COFEPOSA particularly section 5A and SAFEMA smugglers and foreign Exchange Manipulators (forfeiture of property) Act 1976, have been upheld in Attorney General of India Vs. Amaratlal PraJivandas[4]. A 9 member bench SC order. Thus, individual civil liberties can be curtailed for national security and in national interest. Under provisions of the act, a Government officer, not below the rank of Joint Secretary in case of central Government and Secretary in case of State Government, who is specifically authorized by central or state government for that purpose, is authorised to order detention of a person (including a foreigner) with a view to prevent him from acting in any manner prejudicial to conservation or augmentation of foreign exchange, or to prevent him from smuggling or abetting smuggling of goods, or transporting, keeping conceling or dealing in smuggling goods or harbouring persons engaged in smuggling ot goods. section. ). where an order ot detention is made by state government officer, it should be reported to central government within 10 days. (Section. 3 (2)). When detention is ordered by central government, central govt. is appropriate government. When detention is ordered by state government, that govt. is appropriate government. The significance of this definition is that the ‘A ppropriate government’ has to make a reference to advisory board formed for the purpose of COFEPOSA and take action as per decision of advisory board. Appropriate government also has powers to revoke a detention, release a person temporarily, etc†¦ SAFEMA, 1976 Another act relevant to COEPOSA is SAFEMA – smugglers and Foreign Exchange Manipulators (Forfeiture of property) Act, 1976. The act applies to persons convicted under customs Act, FERA and to those detained under COFEPOSA. The purpose of the act is to forfeit the illegally acquired properties of the smugglers and foreign exchange manipulators. Property can be forfeited merely on the ground that he is detained under COFEPOSA. However, in case of customs and FERA, property can be forfeited only if a person is convicted under these Acts. An appellate tribunal has also been formed for this purpose. COFEPOSA is dreaded Act similar to TADA. It permits detention of a person even without a charge. Since the powers are extraordinary, generally courts are strict about the conditions prescribed in respect of detention. FOREIGN TRADE (DEVELOPMENT AND REGULATION) ACT, 1992. The FTDR Act is designed to develop and regulate foreign trade by facilitating imports in to India, and augmenting exports from India, and for matters connected therewith. The salient features of the Act are as follows; 0 It has empowered the Central Government to make provisions for development and regulation of foreign trade by acilitating imports into, and augmenting exports from India and for all matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. 0 The Central Government can prohibit, restrict and regulate exports and imports, in all or specified cases as well as subject them to exemptions. 0 It authorizes the Central Government to formulate and announce an Export and Import (EXIM) Policy and also amend the same from time to time, by notification in the Official Gazette. It provides for the appointment of a Director General of Foreign Trade by the Central Government for the purpose of the Act. He shall advise Central Government in formulating export and import policy and implementing the policy. 01Jnder the Act, every importer and exporter must obtain a ‘Importer Exporter Code Number’ (‘EC) from Director General of Foreign Trade or from the officer so authorised. The Director General or any other officer so authorised can suspend or cancel a licence issued for export or import of goods in accordance with the Act. But he does it after giving the licence holder a reasonable opportunity of being heard. PENALTY Export or import in violation of provisions of the act, rules or policy is an offence. Penalty up to five times the value of goods can be imposed. The contravening goods and conveyance carrying the goods are liable to confiscation. The goods and conveyances confiscated can be released by paying redemption charges equal to market value of such goods or conveyance. Conveyance will not be confiscated if it is owner proves that the conveyance was used without his knowledge or ne took reasonable precautions against its misuse. Penalty and confiscation can be ordered by ‘Adjudicatory authority. APPEAL Appeal against the order of DGFT for refusing of suspending or cancelling code umber or licence or imposing penalty can be filed within 45 days with prescribed authority. Appeal can be filed only on payment of penalty imposed, unless appellate authority dispense with such pre deposit (Section. 5 of FTDR). Central Government can call and examine any records and pass revision orders in some cases (section. 16 of the act). SETTLEMENT A person can opt for settlement by admitting contravention in the following Contravention was without willful mistake or without any circumstances. a. collusion, fraud or without intention to cause loss of foreign exchange. b. Person mporting has not misutilised the imported goods, but condition of ‘Actual userâ €™ or ‘Export obligation’ have not been satisfied. How to cite Export Import, Papers

Marketing Plan for Leather Bags in UK - Get Solution

Question: Describe about the Marketing Plan For Leather Bags In UK? Answer: Abstract The report focuses on the marketing plan for the tote leather handbag which is being introduced by Bohlux which is a medium scale leather producing company of USA. The company proposes to introduce the product in UK and the major target market consists of high income group of female customers. The report highlights the fact that the company will be able to successfully operate in UK and since the sales trend for leather goods are growing positive hence the company will be able to make profit out of sales of the product. Finally the report shows that for entering the UK market, Bohlux will use pull marketing strategy and opt for Facebook marketing and promotion. Does The Intricacy of The Topic Intimidate You? Tame Your Fear with Unmatched Assignment Help Services from Professional Writers. 1. Introduction According to Alaoui, Ezzine and Azzi (2012) advent of social media has helped the marketers to successfully market the products within different segment of target market with least amount of promotional expenses. UK accounts for strong history of leather processing and leather manufacturing. However the industry began to contract during 1980 when majority of the leather producing companies shifted their production to the eastern countries like Africa and Asia. The report will focus on marketing plan for the launch of new leather handbag by Bohlux. The assignment primarily deals with the marketing of the leather handbags in UK through social media marketing tools. East, Wright and Vanhuele (2013) stated that due to high rate of import of cheap leather goods from the eastern countries, the demand for the local high-class leather goods of UK has been decreasing lately. Thus, the report will focus on analyzing the feasibility of the UK market with regards to launch of the new leather handbag. The report will finally focus on using Face book as the major marketing tool for the promotion of the leather handbags in UK. 2. Product Analysis The marketing plan will focus on introduction of female leather handbags and clutches by a medium-scale leather good producing company namely Bohlux. The company focuses on combining innovation with ethnicity and style. Bohlux is primarily a USA based leather workshop which aims in providing stylish and luxuriously designed handbags for the female population suiting the needs of the exquisite lifestyle of the female customers (Bohlux.com 2015). Majority of the products of Bohlux includes clutches, sling shoulder bags, tote handbags, satchels, cross body and Messenger bags. The company has been able to successfully make its mark within the fashion industry of US with the stylish handbags that provides the customers with the feel of Italian and French style quotient. Bohlux, has shifted its focus on introducing the range of leather handbags with British ethnicity in UK. The new range of tote handbags that will be launched with the help of the Facebook marketing in UK will be named as Smartways Leather Bags. Beldona, Lin and Yoo (2012) unlike the USA customer segment, who prefers small to medium sized purse and clutches, female population of UK generally prefers stylish and dignified look and hence they prefer using traditional and large-sized Tote handbags. The company has selected the name Smartways Leather Bag in order to promote the smart, urban and classy style incorporated with the handbags. The company will use Cowhide leather which is the best quality leather for production of the new range of Tote handbags. 3. Macro environment analysis Bohlux has selected UK for the country expansion strategy for sale of its new range of Tote handbags. Assessment of UK leather industry in context to the demand of leather products shows presence of two favorable factors namely high demand of Leather goods irrespective of the income of the consumers and high availability of best quality hides and skins for production of leather goods (Mullen Johnson, 2013). The PESTEL analysis conducted on the business operational facilities in UK will help in understanding the feasibility of UK as a new country for expansion. P- political factors Trading relations with UK is highly favorable due to the low level of political, economic and financial risk within the country. Further, Baker (2014) added that UK government discourages any monopoly in any particular trading sector and promotes free and fair competition Moreover majority of the large scale leather producing companies of UK are engaged in trading relations with Asian countries thus the export and import duties for the leather goods are low (Solomon,Russell-Bennett Previte 2012). E- Economic factors The economic analysis of UK non-food retail market shows that the overall retail market is expected to increase by 15% within the next 5 years (Johnson et al. 2013). As per the reports of The Guardian, the demand for the luxury products in UK was stagnant even during the recession period which proves to be beneficial for the sale of the luxury goods like Handbags. Around 3.5% of minimum wage of an individual in UK is spent for the purchase of luxury items like garments, accessories and Handbags (Paul et al. 2013). S- social factors Around 50% of the UK customers spend one-third part of their monthly income for purchase of luxury products in order to maintain the high social status (the Guardian 2002). UK is considered as one of the biggest fashion hub where demands for stylish and ethnic products are always high irrespective of the economic condition of the country. As per the 2011, census report, the total population of UK is 63.2 million out of which 32.2 million consists of female population and thus the demand for the female luxury products like bags, accessories and fashion equipments are high compared to the male accessories in UK (Ons.gov.uk 2015). T- technological factors Technologically UK has been one of the developing nations and the governments high level of encouragement to the different entrepreneurs is helping UK in developing the innovation level in different sectors. UK also accounts for the large volumes of Cow hides and skins that help in production of relevant leather goods for some of the branded leather manufacturing companies of UK (Chaffey, Ellis-Chadwick Chaffey 2012). L- legal factors The leather industry in UK is regulated by the norms under the UK leather Safety and Guidance regulations that provides the different terms for managing moral and legal terms during the production of leather goods in different companies of UK. The leather footwear companies operating in UK are required to obtain legal workplace permits from the UK government before commencing production of leather goods (W-Fowler, 2015). E- environmental factors The leather companies operating in UK are also required to abide by the following environmental directives in relation to manufacturing and production of raw hide and skin for production of leather goods: Water Framework Directive Solvent Emissions directive Norms of Tanneries BREF Registration, authorization and evaluation of Chemicals Regulation (Ons.gov.uk, 2015) Further, Bastien and Kapferer (2013) added that the tanneries are also required to abide by the norms of Integrated Pollution, prevention and Control (IPPC) Regime for reducing environmental pollution generated from the manufacturing and production of leather goods. 4. Situational analysis 4.1 Overview of leather goods industry of UK The luggage and bags market of UK accounts for around 10.6% of the total leather goods market of UK and is forecasted to increase by around 2 billion within 2017 (Chiew, 2015). The luggage and leather goods market includes different leather products like bags, wallets, purses, handbags, suitcases, travel bags and briefcases. However, as per the reports of Euromonitor, the luggage market of UK has experienced poor growth in the recent years and the market declined by -1.5% to -0.8% from 2011 to 2012 (Euromonitor.com, 2015). However, the unprecedented growth of the luxury sector of UK confirms the fact that the luggage and leather goods industry of UK is also expected to grow in the recent years. The following table shows the market segmentation for luggage and leather goods in UK. category 2015 ( billion) Percentage (%) Luggage 1.1 61.5% Bags, wallets and purses 0.8 38.5% Total 1.9 100 % Table 1: Market segmentation for luggage and leather goods in UK (Source: Store.mintel.com, 2015) Figure 1: Market segmentation for luggage and leather goods in UK (Source: Store.mintel.com, 2015) The following table shows the forecasted growth rate of the leather goods industry from 2012 to 2017 to highlight the estimated trend of leather goods sales in UK. Table 2: Forecasted growth rate of the leather goods industry from 2012 to 2017 (Source: Armstrong, 2015) Figure 2: Forecasted growth rate of the leather goods industry from 2012 to 2017 (Source: Armstrong, 2015) Gonca Telli Yamamoto (2012) stated that for a new entrant within the leather industry of UK, stiff competition may be faced from the large scale department stores, retailers and specialized clothing and accessories centers. The leather market of UK are dominated by the international and domestic companies like Zara, Louis Vitton, Marks and Spencer, Hermes, Prada, Coach and LVMH. However, in terms of employment, it can be stated that lack of labors skilled in embroidery and ethnic works makes it difficult for all the domestic UK companies to produce innovative leather products. The reputation of leather industry in UK also depends on the presence of high technological innovations for the leather production and presence of Institute of Creative Leather Technologies (ICLT) at University of Northhampton 4.2 STP analysis for leather handbags The assessment of the STO analysis for the target customers of UK will help Bohlux in promoting and launching the new Tote Handbags in UK. Segmentation According to Jung Choo et al. (2012) segmentation strategy includes segmenting the total population based on gender, age, and income and purchase behavior. In case of Smartways leather bags, the following characteristics will be chosen for segmenting the overall UK population. Since the luggage and leather bag demand have decreased in the past years hence the company will have to initially focus on the high-income segment of total population. As per gender segment, the company will include only target the female customers since the product is tote handbag. However, Hooley, Piercy and Nicoulaud (2012) stated that selection of a particulars section from among the overall target segment helps in focusing on aggressive marketing for the product. Thus the target segment of Smartways Leather bags will include the female corporate professional, business entrepreneurs, models and actors and housewives of high-end professionals. Targeting Bohlux will target majorly the female population within the age range of 25 to 45 years for the Smartways leather Handbags. Smartways will be designed as Tote handbags with broad and small straps that will allow the user to carry the bag as a hanging hand bag. The size of the bag will vary from large to medium and which will give the female population spacious opportunity of storing various important objects (Westwood 2013). Target segment characteristics Age group 25 to 45 years Income segment High income class and urban population Corporate professionals and wives of high-business class individuals Gender Only female customers Purchasing characteristics Highly fashion conscious High demand due to professional needs The company has focused on making different colors for the bags in order to attract the younger generation of female population in UK Positioning The product will be promoted based on the online strategy platforms. Bohlux has focused on making tote a part of the luxury handbag segment by differentiating on the basis of heritage, craftsmanship, unique design and high price. Gorp Hoffmann Coste-Manire (2012) stated that majority of the common female population takes fashion aspirations from the celebrities. Thus, Bohlux will focus on positioning the Smartways leather bags under category of fashionable accessories. In terms of targeting the overall female population of UK, Bohlux will use niche promotional strategies that will target only the high-class female population whose income level is above the average monthly income. Selection of the high income segment will help the company to sale the product in UK, since the customers in UK are highly afflicted towards the luxury product group irrespective of their income level. 4.3 SWOT analysis of leather handbags Strength Bohlux is a medium scale company and the designer bags offered by Bohlux generally is styled differently than the European bags. The company uses own handbag patterns and uses best quality cow hides and skins for the purpose of bag production(Hooley, Piercy Nicoulaud, 2012). The company also produces customized tailored handbags for high- priced handbag Bohlux provides the option of online product delivery along with physical product delivery which gives the company the opportunity of catering to the needs of a large customer segment. Weaknesses Sale of the luxury leather handbag is reducing due to reduction in demand for luxury products (Stefan et al. 2012) Bohlux faces high competition from the international brands like Coach, Louis Vitton and Prada. Production of leather handbags requires large amounts of cow hides which are unavailable in USA. Opportunities Bohux is operating primarily in USA where the numbers of brand conscious customers are high. Thus, Shankar and Carpenter (2012) stated that expansion to Asian countries and UK will help Bohlux to make successful expansion. The company can introduce low and medium priced handbags for the common income group customers in UK in order to trigger demands. Threats Economic recession may threaten the existence of the overall demand of leather handbags in different countries since leather handbags are considered to be luxury product. Fluctuations in the taste and preference of the customers will also affect the demand for leather handbags (Lamb, Hair McDaniel, 2013). Threat of reduction in demand due to availability of large number of substitute bags at low costs. 4.4 Sales forecast Bohlux plans on using social media marketing for introducing Smartways leather bags in UK market. The company will take the help of Facebook which is used by around 31.2 million UK populations and will promote the new category of Tote handbags through the online marketing startegy of Facebook (Statista, 2015). As per the reports of Mintel, 50% of the female shoppers in UK generally considers leather handbag as a lucrative product and occasionally purchases the bag without any valid purchase intention. Thus the occasional luxury purchases have helped the handbag industry to grow by 9.3% with a sales turnover of around 1.3 billion in 2014 (Store.mintel.com, 2015). Depending on the purchase behavior and the growing trend of the handbag market of UK, Bohlux has estimated the following sales trend for Smartways leather bags for the next six months: Months Quantity Rate/ price () Total () 1st month 1000 21.80 21800 2nd month 1100 26.80 29480 3rd month 1200 31.80 38160 4th month 1300 36.80 47840 5th month 1400 41.80 58520 6th month 1500 46.80 70200 Table 3: Sales forecast of Smartways leather bags for first 6 months (Source: created by author) Figure 3: Sales forecast of Smartways leather bags for first 6 months (Source : Created by author) The table shows that the management of Bohlux will launch 1000 leather handbags initially through Facebook marketing and the company is expecting to increase the quantity by 100 handbags every month with an average sale of 1500 handbags within first 6 months from the launch of the product. The initial rate of the handbag will be fixed at minimum price of 21.80 and the company will increase 5 every month depending on the demand and acceptance of Smartways leather handbags in UK market. 5. Marketing plan of leather handbag on Facebook Hooley, Piercy and Nicoulaud (2012) opined that usage of social media platforms as marketing channels currently has helped the majority of the medium scale companies to reduce the operational costs involving high promotional, advertisement and selling costs. As per 2015 survey reports, Facebook currently has over 1 billion users globally in around six continents and 100 countries (Doughty, 2015). As per the 2015 reports, 31 million users in UK are using Facebook and frames around 60% of their purchase decision based on Facebook product promotion. The percentage of women population (51%) using Facebook is considerably higher than the male population (49%) thus; in case of marketing female products the companies will be successful in catering to a large segment of female population. It has been estimated that the number of Facebook users in UK will increase to 33 million within 2018. Thus considering the high relevance of facebook and the influence of Facebook on triggering purchase de cisions of majority of the customers, the company can successfully promote its product. Figure 4: Facebook users in UK (Source: Statista 2015) 5.1 Identification of Facebook marketing strategy 42% of the marketers feel that Facebook is highly important for their business since the number of Facebook users and the frequency of Facebook use is increasing currently. Thus, Shankar and Carpenter (2012) stated that adoption of Facebook marketing strategies will help in creating more in-depth awareness about the product in the mind of the customers. According to Lamb, Hair and McDaniel (2013) push and pull marketing strategies are the two opposite marketing strategies that aim to attract the customers to the product and also generate awareness about the product within the relevant target segment. In case of Smartways Leather bags, Bohlux will use the social pull marketing strategies to attract the customers towards the product. Sevitz, Brent and Fourie (2012) stated that the social pull marketing strategy is a combination of both push and pull marketing strategies and helps in successfully attracting the customers towards the products with the help of social media promotion. Marketers get the options of providing information about the product to all segments of customers through the official facebook page and pull attraction of the customers towards the product. According to Phau, Lee and Quintal (2013) pull marketing is a form of inbound marketing where the marketer aims to pull the consumer into business. Bohlux will use the social pull marketing to attract the high class female population of UK for Smartways leather bags. Assessment of purchase behavior of the female population in terms of leather bags and luxury bags shows the following characteristics: Purchase decision depending on social status and high price consciousness for the leather bags Preference to brands with ethical and sustainable practices 37% of the female population makes online purchase in case of accessories, leather bags and luxury bags High preference for designs that combines ethnicity with style Purchase intention depending on word-of-mouth marketing and social promotions (East,Wright Vanhuele 2013) Depending on the purchase behavior of the UK customers, the pull strategy of Bohlux for Smartways leather bags will focus on following strategies: The company will adopt an ethical strategy by engaging the product sale with ethical donations to NGOs Bohlux will introduce Smartways Leather Bags through different online selling portals like Amazon and eBay. This will help in generating high online sales for Smartways Leather Bags. Bohlux will be required to keep the Facebook page active so that the number of visitors increases thereby increasing the product and company awareness in UK. The major aim of the pull marketing strategy is to bring the customer to the product rather than going to the customer with product and forcing the customer to purchase the product (Baker 2014). Thus, Bohlux will use search engine optimization, coupon-advertisements, flyers and personalized emails for making the customers aware of Bohlux and its existing as well as new product range. Mitic and Kapoulas (2012) opined that the number of shares and likes over the Facebook page will help an organization to forecast the level of demand for the product. Bohlux is a medium scale brand which does not feature as an immediate finding on the search engine among the different USA brands. Thus, Bohlux in order to pull the UK customers will have to improve the search engine optimization rate by including relevant searching keywords like leather bags, Bohlux Leather bags, Bohlux handbags, Popular handbag, USA, Bohlux and Tote handbags- Bohlux. Further, Bohlux currently has a very simple Facebook page that generally highlights some of the products of Bohlux without any relevant information about any product. However, in order to pull UK customers to make purchase decision regarding Bohlux products, the company will have to enhance the visual look and the content of the official Facebook page. Bohlux should include high quality digital pictures of the new range of leather bags and new Smartways Leather bags with some important information like price of the bags, bag-size and information on discounts, coupons and online purchase links. Further, Bohlux should also include pop-up advertisements in profiles of all face book users irrespective of the target groups. The pop-up ad at the side of the user profile help the company to promote its product conituonusly for a long time span and generates top-of-the mind awareness for products(Pride Ferrell 2012). Further, Bohlux can also introduce different discussion links and discussion chain on Smartways leather and invite the friends present within the Facebook profile to contribute their thoughts about the new product range. This will generate product awareness and word-of mouth promotion of the new range of leather bags within the UK target population. Pearson(2013) stated that celebrity endorsements have always influenced female customers in taking purchase decision without any relevant purchase intention. Thus, depending on this factor, Bohlux can also post different videos of celebrities and models advertising and promoting the Smartways leather bags on their faceboo k page. This strategy will help Bohlux in influencing the high-income group of female customers to purchase Smartways bags in order to enhance their social status. 5.2 Evaluation for selection of alternative marketing strategy According to Bastien and Kapferer (2013) major difference between push and pull strategy is that in pull marketing the company will get independent customers who will willingly purchase the product of the company, however in case of push strategy the company will force the customers to purchase the products. Thus, companies using the pull marketing strategy generally benefit more because the willful customers tend to be loyal ad long-term customers of the company. Mullen and Johnson(2013) argued that in case of push marketing strategy the company will use different promotional strategies like inclusion of discounts, coupons, gifts, warranties and guarantees and additional after sales services for marketing the product and making the product attractive for the customers. In case of push marketing thus, the customer may change the purchase preference with the change in the fashion trends. Hence, Phau, Lee and Quintal (2013) stated that push marketing does not generate long-term loyal c ustomers for the company. In case of Smartways leather bags, Bohlux will use the pull marketing since the company is entering a new market and hence the company requires loyal customers for its product in UK. On the contrary if Bohlux uses the push marketing strategy for online promotion of its new handbag, it will not be able to succeed in the long run due to the presence of large number of competitors dominating the luxury bag industry of UK. Further, use of the push marking strategy will involve aggressive online promotion of leather bags and forcing the UK customers to like the page of Facebook. Application of the push strategy might help Bohlux in securing large number of views and likes for the facebook page and the products promoted through the facebook page, however, the conversion of users liking the page to potential buyers will be limited. Thus, it is advisable for Bohlux to use pull marketing strategy and create product demand among UK customers on a gradual basis. 6. Conclusion The analysis of the marketing plan shows that although the leather goods market in UK had deteriorated during 2012-2014, however, the gradual increase in market share and revenue of luggage and leather sector in UK confirms the fact that Bohlux will be able to market and sell its products successfully. Within the marketing report the analysis of the leather goods industry of UK shows a positive trend in purchase of handbags and the SWOT analysis of Leather handbags confirms the fact that the company will be able to operate successfully in UK. Finally the report reveals that the marketer will select pull marketing strategy instead of push marketing strategy for making online promotion of the new product. 7. References Alaoui, M., Ezzine, M., Azzi, M. (2012). Applying the principles of sustainable development in the leather industry in Morocco: tannery case.International Journal Of Environment And Sustainable Development,11(2), 180. https://dx.doi.org/10.1504/ijesd.2012.049194 Armstrong, A. (2015).Mulberry profits collapse on lower bag sales.Telegraph.co.uk. Retrieved 29 December 2015, from https://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/retailandconsumer/11666874/Mulberry-profits-collapse-on-lower-bag-sales.html Baker, M. J. (2014). Marketing strategy and management. Palgrave Macmillan. Bastien, V., Kapferer, J. N. (2013). More on Luxury anti-laws of Marketing. InLuxury Marketing(pp. 19-34). Gabler Verlag. Beldona, S., Lin, K., Yoo, J. (2012). The roles of personal innovativeness and push vs pull delivery methods in travel oriented location based marketing services.Journal Of Hospitality And Tourism Technology,3(2), 86-95. https://dx.doi.org/10.1108/17579881211248772 Bohlux.com,. (2015).Bohlux | About. Retrieved 29 December 2015, from https://bohlux.com/about.html Chaffey, D., Ellis-Chadwick, F., Chaffey, D. (2012).Digital marketing. Harlow: Pearson. Chiew, S. (2015).Home.Btaa.org.uk. Retrieved 29 December 2015, from https://www.btaa.org.uk Doughty, E. (2015).Facebook is the most popular social network for the over 50s.Telegraph.co.uk. Retrieved 29 December 2015, from https://www.telegraph.co.uk/goodlife/11751851/Facebook-is-the-most-popular-social-network-for-the-over-50s.html East, R., Wright, M., Vanhuele, M. (2013).Consumer behaviour: applications in marketing. Sage. Euromonitor.com,. (2015).Bags and luggage market research, market share, and trends analysis. Retrieved 29 December 2015, from https://www.euromonitor.com/bags-and-luggage Gonca Telli Yamamoto,. (2012). Leather and leather products industry in Turkey: Marketing developments.Afr. J. Bus. Manage.,6(3). https://dx.doi.org/10.5897/ajbm11.1564 Gorp, T., Hoffmann, J., Coste-Manire, I. (2012). Brand Building: Luxury Leather Goods Brands Anatomized.Journal Of Global Fashion Marketing,3(3), 127-134. https://dx.doi.org/10.1080/20932685.2012.10593115 Hooley, G., Piercy, N., Nicoulaud, B. (2012).Marketing strategy competitive positioning. Harlow, England: Pearson Financial Times/Prentice Hall. Johnson, G., Whittington, R., Angwin, D., Regner, P., Scholes, K., Pyle, S. (2013).Exploring strategy: text and cases. Pearson. Jung Choo, H., Moon, H., Kim, H., Yoon, N. (2012). Luxury customer value.Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management: An International Journal,16(1), 81-101. Lamb, C., Hair, J., McDaniel, C. (2013).Marketing. Mason, OH: South-Western/Cengage Learning. Mitic, M., Kapoulas, A. (2012). Understanding the role of social media in bank marketing.Marketing Intelligence Planning,30(7), 668-686. https://dx.doi.org/10.1108/02634501211273797 Mullen, B., Johnson, C. (2013).The psychology of consumer behavior. Psychology Press. Ons.gov.uk,. (2015).2011 Census: Population Estimates for the United Kingdom, 27 March 2011 - ONS. Retrieved 29 December 2015, from https://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/rel/census/2011-census/population-and-household-estimates-for-the-united-kingdom/stb-2011-census--population-estimates-for-the-united-kingdom.html Paul, H. L., Antunes, A. P. M., Covington, A. D., Evans, P., Phillips, P. S. (2013). Bangladeshi Leather Industry: An Overview of Recent Sustainable Developments.J. Soc. Leather Technol. Chem,97(1), 25-32. Pearson, D. (2013).20 Ps of Marketing. Kogan Page. Phau, I., Lee, S., Quintal, V. (2013). An investigation of push and pull motivations of visitors to private parks: The case of Araluen Botanic Park.Journal Of Vacation Marketing,19(3), 269-284. https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1356766712471232 Pride, W., Ferrell, O. (2012).Marketing. Australia: South-Western Cengage Learning. Sevitz, J., Brent, A., Fourie, A. (2012). AN ENVIRONMENTAL COMPARISON OF PLASTIC AND PAPER CONSUMER CARRIER BAGS IN SOUTH AFRICA: IMPLICATIONS FOR THE LOCAL MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY.The South African Journal Of Industrial Engineering,14(1). https://dx.doi.org/10.7166/14-1-299 Shankar, V., Carpenter, G. (2012).Handbook of marketing strategy. Cheltenham, UK: Edward Elgar Pub. Solomon, M., Russell-Bennett, R., Previte, J. (2012).Consumer behaviour. Pearson Higher Education AU. Statista,. (2015).UK Facebook users 2012-2018 | Statistic. Retrieved 29 December 2015, from https://www.statista.com/statistics/271349/facebook-users-in-the-united-kingdom-uk/). Stefan, D., Dima, R., Pantazi, M., Ferdes, M., Meghea, A. (2012). Identifying Microorganisms Able to Perform Biodegradation of Leather Industry Waste.Molecular Crystals And Liquid Crystals,556(1), 301-308. https://dx.doi.org/10.1080/15421406.2012.635983 Store.mintel.com,. (2015).Leather Goods UK a snapshot (2012) - Market size data - retail sales value - sales volume. Retrieved 29 December 2015, from https://store.mintel.com/leather-goods-in-uk-2012-market-sizes the Guardian,. (2002).UK luxury goods market grows. Retrieved 29 December 2015, from https://www.theguardian.com/money/2002/sep/04/1 Westwood, J. (2013).How to write a marketing plan. Philadelphia, Pa.: Kogan Page Ltd. W-Fowler, A. (2015).UK Leather Federation Health Safety Guidance.Ukleather.org. Retrieved 29 December 2015, from https://www.ukleather.org/regulations-guidance/health-and-safety.htm

Jimi Hendrix Why He Desrves World Recognition free essay sample

During his career, he revolutionized the sound of rock, and changed it greatly. Hendrix was a major influence in music and with his beliefs. Jim Hendrix was a positive influence on the world, and his music and views continue to inspire many people. Jim Hendrix was born in Seattle, Washington on November 27, 1942. Throughout his childhood, his family dealt with financial problems, and he was sometimes put in the care of friends and family.By the time he was nine, his parents had divorced, and as occasionally sent to live In Vancouver, British Columbia with his grandmother. Around the age of fifteen is when he started to pursue his love of music. His first acoustic guitar was given to him for five dollars, and he immediately began to learn to play by listening to records, and through tips from other players. In 1959, his father bought him his first electric guitar. Hendrix main influences were Elvis Presley, blues music, such as the Muddy Waters and B. We will write a custom essay sample on Jimi Hendrix: Why He Desrves World Recognition or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page B. King.Another big Influence came from the western movie Johnny Guitar because the main character Is a hero that isnt carry a gun, but only a guitar. Jim Hendrix has had an obvious contribution to society in music. But many people dont know that he also contributed by Joining the army. He was assigned to the 1st Airborne Division and was stationed in Kentucky. Unfortunately, after a year, he was discharged because during his twenty-sixth parachute Jump, he broke his ankle. Secondly, and more importantly, his greatest contribution was his advances In music.He furthered the range of the electric guitar, establishing It as a unique source, ether than amplified guitar, and blended many styles of his voice and his guitar style. Along with other bands during his time, he furthered the development of hard rock, heavy metal, and blues. Hendrix contributions to music can not be overstated, and without a doubt, they still impact many people, more specifically, musicians. Although he was unable to read music, and he was self-taught, he was a music genius. He pioneered the use of effects, Like way-way, phasing, and fuzz tone, which have become part of rock music. His precision and speed with his guitar, have influenced people to try to aspire to lay half as good as him. All of his contributions have lasted almost thirty years because Jim Hendrix was a major force in music then, and was so powerful, that they have all continued to influence and inspire people. There are really only two areas of the world that Hendrix has Influenced, and that Is Europe, Japan, and the United States. He Minimally had success In Europe, and throughout his career he made fans such as Eric Clayton, members of The Beetles and The Who.In the United States, his fame came later, although he was already internationally known. Many people have been affected by Hendrix music, and have been influenced to pursue careers, and have become great fans of his. Jim Hendrix has influenced artists in the funk genre of music like The Sisley Brothers and Prince. Also, his Influence In music extends to rap music, and to artists such as Wesley Jean Hendrix, simply in the fact that everyone can relate to music, and he made it easy for everyone to listen and enjoy it. Hendrix made rock music different and unique.In conclusion, Jim Hendrix has revolutionized the sound of rock music, and mirrored new advances in the music as well. He has influenced people that like completely different types of music other than rock. Not only that, but he made the music because of his love for it and wanted it to be perfect for everyone. He succeeded greatly with that, and even with his untimely and tragic death, to this day, people continue to love his music. Jim Hendrix played the music so that everyone could relate to it, and because of that he is known as one of the greatest and most influential guitarists and music artists of all time.

Compare Contrast Blue Winds Dancing and Two Kinds Essay Example

Compare Contrast Blue Winds Dancing and Two Kinds Essay Example Compare Contrast Blue Winds Dancing and Two Kinds Paper Compare Contrast Blue Winds Dancing and Two Kinds Paper While both of these stories have different themes regarding cultural issues, the characters involved similarly have their own reasons that compel them to oppose their individual situations. In Amy Tans Two Kinds and in Tom Woodlouses Blue Winds Dancing, both narrators choose nonconformity regarding their unique situations, but have different motivations for doing so. In Two Kinds, the narrator struggles to be the ideal daughter that her mother wishes her to be. Having come from China where she ad lost her home and her entire family, Including her first two daughters, her mother places a huge burden of becoming famous and successful on the narrator. The opening paragraph of this story, quite plainly, tells of the mothers lofty goals for her daughter. My mother believed you could be anything you wanted to be in America. You could open a restaurant. You could work for the government and get good retirement. You could buy a house with no money down. You could become rich. You could become Instantly famous (Tan 180). After falling to master many efferent talents to ultimately become the prodigy her mother wishes her to become, the mother enrolls her in piano lessons and buys her a piano. The narrator deliberately fails to learn the piano as an act of defiance against her mother. She biblically humiliates her mother at a talent show where she plays terribly. She purposely fails to live up to her mothers expectations of her. She knows she cannot possibly conform to her mothers dreams for her, so she decides that rebellion Is her only choice. In Tom Wheelhouse Blue Winds Dancing, the narrator Is a Native American living in the western united States. It is here while attending college that he learns that he will never fit into white culture. Having gone off to college and attempting to conform to white society, the narrator feels as if he has rebelled against his own people in doing so. But soon he realizes that being civilized is Just too tiresome for him. l am weary of trying to keep up this bluff of being civilized. These Cleveland white men want us to be Just Like them always dissatisfied getting a hill and wanting a mountain. (Whiteout 270). He longs to be back at home on he reservation, to be one with nature again, and be with his own people. But having left the reservation for college, he wonders if his people, and especially his father, will accept him back. The narrator begins a long Journey back to his home in Wisconsin by train-hopping. All along the way he worries his people will not accept him any longer. He is confused as to where he really does belong. HIS confusion Is ended with Immediate acceptance when he finally enters his home and his father, though not saying a word to him, embraces him. His father then instructs him to go lone to the lodge, where his father will later accompany him. At the lodge he is met with happiness in the eyes of everyone there. His people accept him. Cultural background and individual choices on why to rebel make these stories differ. They are similar In that both narrators ultimately choose their own form of rebellion In Two Kinds the daughter realizes that she will never be happy unless she stands up to near mother, aspect ten Tact Tanat seen must rule near mothers nope In ten process. In Woodlouses story, the narrator chooses what the path of least resistance for him is.

Seed Tree and Shelterwood Harvesting Methods

Seed Tree and Shelterwood Harvesting Methods Even-aged Harvesting Methods Many tree species do not tolerate major shade during the early stages of development. These stages include early seedling germination, development and sapling growth stable enough to compete in mid-canopy.  These tree species have to have some light for regenerating and ensuring future even-aged stands for that species. Most of these timber types are mostly coniferous with a few exceptions. Commercially valuable trees that need light to naturally regenerate a new stand of the same species makes up a major part of even-aged harvesting schemes by foresters. The reproductive management of these trees in North America includes jack pine, loblolly pine, longleaf pine, lodgepole pine, ponderosa pine, slash pine. Notable intolerant hardwood species include many valuable commercial oaks plus yellow-poplar and sweetgum. Several reforestation systems and harvesting methods can be used to create even-aged stands.   While specific treatments vary across the U.S. by tree species and climate, the basic systems are clearcutting, seed tree and shelterwood. Shelterwood Even-aged stands must regenerate beneath the shade provided by mature trees left from the previous stand.   It is a major harvest scheme used in all regions of the United States. This includes regenerating loblolly pine in the South, Eastern white pine in the Northeast and ponderosa pine in the West. Preparing a typical shelterwood condition could include three possible types of cuttings: 1) a preliminary cut might be made to select high yielding trees to leave for seed production; 2) an establishment cut can be made that prepares a bare soil seed-bed  as well as trees that provide seed just before seed fall; and/or 3) a removal cut of overstory seed trees that have established seedlings and saplings but would be in competition if left to grow.   So, a shelterwood harvest would be done to leave seed-producing trees uniformly throughout the stand, in groups, or strips and, depending on seed  crop and species, can have between 40 and 100 crop trees.   As with seed tree harvests,  shelterwoods  are sometimes interplanted to supplement natural seeding.   Red and white oak, the southern pines, white  pine,  and sugar maple are examples of tree species that may be regenerated using the shelterwood harvesting method. Here are specific shelterwood terms that further explain this harvesting method: Shelterwood Cut - Removing trees on the  harvest  area in a series of two or more cuttings so new seedlings can grow from the seed of older trees. This method produces an even-aged forest. Shelterwood Logging  - Method of harvesting timber so that selected trees remain scattered throughout the tract to provide seeds for regeneration and shelter for seedlings. Shelterwood System  - An even-aged  silvicultural scheme in which a new stand is established under the protection of a partial canopy of trees. The mature stand is generally removed in a series of two or more cuts, the last leaving a new even-aged stand that is well developed. Seed Tree The seed tree reforestation method leaves healthy, mature trees with a good cone crop (usually 6 to 15 per acre) in the existing stand to provide seed for regenerating a new stand of trees.   Seed trees are typically removed after regeneration is established, especially when seedling levels are significant enough to  stand some logging losses. It is not unusual for a forest manager to  leave the seed trees for wildlife or aesthetics objectives. However, the primary objective of a seed tree regeneration harvest is to provide a natural seed source. Artificial planting of nursery seedlings may be used to supplement areas where natural seeding was not adequate.   White pine, the southern pines and several species of oak may be regenerated using the seed tree harvesting method. Clearcutting Removing in a single cutting all of the overstory trees in a stand to develop a new stand in a shade-free environment is called a clear or clean cut harvest. Depending on species and topography, reforestation can occur  by natural seeding, direct seeding, planting, or sprouting. See my feature on clearcutting: The Debate Over Clearcutting Each individual clearcut area is a unit in which regeneration, growth, and yield are monitored and managed specifically for wood production. That does not mean that all trees will be cut. Certain trees or groups of trees may be left for wildlife, and buffer strips are maintained to protect streams, wetlands, and special areas. Common tree species regenerated using clearcutting include the southern pines, Douglas-fir, red and white oak, jack pine, white birch, aspen, and yellow-poplar.

Medical Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Medical - Essay Example Hormones are like chemical messengers and they need to be present in the right amounts in order to effectively carry out their designated functions. Any upset in hormonal levels can result in symptoms. There are several tests which can be performed in order to diagnose abnormalities in hormonal functions. Firstly, in order to diagnose whether your blood sugar levels are within normal limits and whether your body is producing the right amounts of hormones needed to effectively utilize and store the sugars that we consume, there are a number of diagnostic tests. The first one is the fasting blood sugar. For this test you have to fast overnight (i.e. eat or drink nothing, except water, for about 8-12 hours) and give a blood sample. The level of sugar in your blood sample is compared against a reference range and if it is greater than 126 mg/dl on more than one occasion, it is diagnostic of diabetes (Encyclop?dia Britannica, 2011), which is an impairment in the body’s capacity to effectively utilize and store sugars. Another confirmatory test for diabetes is the glucose tolerance test, whereby you will be made to give two blood samples. To prepare for the test you have to eat a normal balanced diet for upto three days preceding the tests. Then, like for the fasting blood sugar test, you have to fast overnight, for duration of about 8 hours and the first blood sample is collected. After that you will be made to drink a liquid containing 75 grams of glucose and a second blood sample is taken 2 hours later (Encyclop?dia Britannica, 2011). The blood sugar values obtained are compared against normal standards and if the value of the blood sugar levels obtained 2 hours after the glucose drink exceeds 200 mg/dl, it is diagnostic of diabetes (Becker, 2001). One of the most important gland in our body is the pituitary gland, which releases various hormones required to stimulate all the other glands in our body to secrete their respective hormones. The pituitary gland in turn is stimulated by hormones secreted by the hypothalamus which is an important region in our brains. These together form the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. Inorder to evaluate the normal functioning of hypothalamic pituitary axis, the insulin tolerance test is carried out. The night prior to this test, you will be asked to fast, i.e. not eat or drink anything except water. The morning when the test is performed, you will be first injected with insulin, which is a substance which will lower your blood sugar. Our body’s normal response to low blood sugar levels is to secrete two hormones growth hormone (GH) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which in turn stimulates the secretion of another hormone called cortisol (National Institutes of Health (NIH), 2011). After the insulin injections timed blood samples will be taken and the levels of GH and cortisol will be checked and compared against the normal reference ranges to see whether the normal secretion of these substa nces in your body is present or not (National Institutes of Health (NIH), 2011). In order to evaluate the functioning of the thyroid gland, which is an important gland located in our neck, there are several tests. A complete panel of tests to assess proper functioning of the thyroid gland is termed as the thyroid function test. This panel includes levels of different form of thyroid hormones such as T3 and T4 which are different circulating forms of thyroid hormone in our bloodstream (American Thyroid Association, 2005). Moreover, this

Publi Pension Replacement Rates Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Publi Pension Replacement Rates - Essay Example Even the marital status is a point of concern for some countries. The earnings level of the worker is also taken into account. This level dictates the amount of their contribution. The duration of membership of a worker in the pension plan is factored in in the replacement rate computation. Another cause of the variance is the type of employment, whether it is full-time or part-time. The public pension replacement rate was a major contributing factor in the debt burden of Greece. The average earner with a full career in an Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) country, of which Greece belongs, has a pension replacement rate of 58.7% of earnings (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), 2007). However, in Greece, the replacement rate was at a high of 96% of earnings (OECD, 2007). This rate is considered to be very high. In 2010, Greece’s pension system had approximately 400 billion euros or $509 billion in unfunded liabilities (Oxford Analytica, 2010). The excessively high replacement rate forced the Greek government to make emergency grants to meet the pension outlays (Oxford Analytica, 2010). Nektarios describes the Greek public pension system as one which is â€Å"highly segmented and complex, containing over 300 funds, with many different regulations for pension rights† (n.d.). Because of these chara cteristic of the public pension plan, it was difficult for the government to manage. One proof that the public pension replacement rate contributed largely on the debt problem of Greece are the reforms in the pension plan that were instituted by the EU and the IMF. Some of these reforms that were dictated upon on Greece include introduction of a unified statutory retirement age of 65 by December 2013; the gradual increase in the minimum contribution period for retirement; and the reduction of pension benefits to be based on the pensioners average pay over their working lives

The themes in Hamlet Essay Example for Free

The themes in Hamlet Essay Hamlet by William Shakespeare is a revenge tragedy that illustrates a tragic heros struggle with two opposing forces: moral integrity, and the need to avenge his fathers murder. Hamlet the prince of Denmark discovers from his fathers ghost that his father has been murdered with malicious premeditation and this atrocious act was committed by none other than his uncle Claudius. Inevitably Hamlet is instigated to seek revenge, however is incapable of such action due to the need for certainty and other emotional, psychological, and ethical factors; thus he remains indecisive. Through Hamlets complex, divided, introspective character and with the help of such an intriguing plot Shakespeare exposes the themes of immorality, revenge, and death; which are evidently the most significant and recurring themes throughout the play. Immorality plays a significant role in the play. The plot commences with Claudius not only committing the immoral act of regicide but also repulsively seducing the queen into marriage; completely disrupting the natural order of Denmark. Therefore Claudius has deprived the prior king of life, of crown, of queen Such corruption leads to Denmark being represented as a physical body which has been made ill as the people come to believe that something is rotten in the state. (I, iv, 90) The appearance of the previous kings ghost confirms a sense of foreboding about the future of the country since the new king has forced himself onto the throne through corrupt means. All this corruption affects Hamlets view of the world as well, where he comes to believe that the world is merely possessed by things rank in gross in nature. ( I, ii, 136) Even before Hamlet encounters his fathers ghost who reveals the truth about the murder, Hamlet is searing with indignation over how his mother with most wicked speed, [did] post with such dexterity to incestuous sheets (I,ii,156 157) Thus Hamlet foreshadows that such dissolute deeds cannot come to good (I. ii. 158) However when the ghost does reveal the truth Hamlet is overwhelmed with disgust at the immorality and injustice of his own uncles and his mothers foul deeds. Inevitably the occurrences of such immoral acts have brought a burning need within Hamlet, a need to seek to revenge; which is another significant theme that recurs throughout the play. Indisputably, revenge is probably the most essential theme in the development of Hamlet. Revenge is a dreadful, decadent and a bloodthirsty emotion and is the driving force behind two of the main characters in the play- Hamlet and Laertes. However Shakespeares conduct of revenge within Hamlet differs completely to the quintessential style of revenge during his era. Shakespeares illustration of revenge delves more into the physiological and moral aspect of seeking revenge; where he portrays that revenge is not an action that usually comes innately because even overpowering emotion cannot bring about immediate action. Therefore Hamlet contemplates heavily and plans the revenge, but fails to put his ideas into action until the last scene. The first sign of revenge is evidently seen in the beginning where Hamlets fathers ghost urges him to revenge his foul and most unnatural murder. (I. v.25). However Hamlet was still not convinced by the ghost as he believes it may be the devil( II,ii) Therefore in order to catch Claudiuss conscience and prove the ghosts message, Hamlet has a play enacted in the scenario of his fathers murder. This shows Hamlets need for certainty and deep contemplation. Even after The kings outburst when he had the perfect opportunity to kill whilst he was praying, Hamlet failed to perform. Hamlet states Now he is praying a villain kills my father and for that, I, his sole son, do this same villain send to heaven( III,iii). It is evident that Hamlet is a man with too much reason (III.ii) and not enough action. One could argue that it is as if he develops excuses for not completing the deed, mainly because he is human and that the deed is immoral. Therefore he is incapable of performing such action immediately. This proves that every action; even revenge is affected by rational considerations, involving the need for truth or certainty as well as moral, physiological and emotional factors. Nevertheless it seems as though Hamlet disbelieves the notion of performing a deed in a purposeful and controlled way; because when Hamlet does take action; killing Polonius, he prefers to do it irresponsibly, blindly and viciously. It evidently shows his thirst for revenge as well as the obscurity and complexity of his character. Hamlets blind, irrational, and impulsive, manner of killing Polonius without being aware of his identitiy formulates the beginning of a vicious cycle of retribution; as Hamlet becomes a part of Denmarks squalor and misery. This irrepressible and unjustifiable murder instigated Laertess(Poloniuss son) quest to avenge his fathers death. Later on in act 5 Hamlet and Laertes have the opportunity to avenge their fathers in a gruesome duel. However this only leads to their downfall, revenges eventual outcome- death. Shakespeare utilizes the theme of death as a cleanser of corruption, as all the corrupt players are killed through unnatural means which ultimately restores the natural order of Denmark. As destined the characters receive the deaths they deserve. Thus the king dies in Hamlets hand as well as being poisoned like the queen, whereas Hamlet dies in a soldierly fashion being provided the respect a soldier deserves. Inevitably death is seen as the ultimate resolution for immoral injustice. Death is not only seen as a cleanser of corruption but according to Hamlet death carries various meaning involving freedom, inevitability and the fact that death renders life meaningless. It is evident that Hamlets obsession with death works in three stages: death as a means of escape or freedom, his circle of life theory and the physical decay of death which proves the futility of life. From the very beginning Hamlets seems to find the world weary, stale, flat and unprofitable. (I,ii,129-134) and would have ended his agony by committing suicide if the everlasting had not fixed his canon `gainst self-slaughter. ( I. ii. 129-134) Hamlet ponders over the means to handle his outrageous fortune(III,i, lines 58-70)and contemplates whether he should fight the slings and arrows (III,i lines 58-70) that life has thrown upon him or he should end the heart ache and a thousand natural shocks (III, i,lines 58-70) by killing himself. However he is afraid of the after life and chooses the nobler (III. i, 58-70) path to face the suffering of life in order to avoid the gruesome aftermath of death. According to Hamlet aftermath can also involve the grave where the person has to face worms and maggots feeding on him, evidently pointing out that death is a leveler which inevitably everyone is entitled for. Therefore he believes that life goes around in a circle because a man may fish with the worm that hath eat of a king, and eat of the fish that hath feed of that worm. (IV,iii, 30-32) Hamlet also believes that life is meaningless because after death all physical beauty is lost. So with Yoricks skull in hand he reminisces upon all the moments he spent with Yorick and what has become of him now. Likewise, regardless of how women emphasize on their beauty; as Hamlet states to this favor she must come. (V. i. 192-195) Evidently Shakespeare, through the voice of Hamlet proves that all the greed and lust for power eventually leads to nothing in the face of death. Shakespeares utilization of the significant intertwining themes of death, revenge and immorality, he is able to coherently elucidate how immoral injustice can never be restored and unless all the corrupt players are purged and a new king, in this case Fortinbras, is crowned. In addition Shakespeare also exposes that ultimately revenge is not the solution for internal peace but rather when committed it brings forth chaos and disorder within the society; forcing death to be the only resolution to cleanse the corruption and bring back peace and harmony to the state. In the process of the play these universal themes are dealt not in the conventional sense but in a reality based fashion which any human being can easily relate to, and this is what makes Hamlet such a tour de force.

Amerigo Vespucci Essay -- essays research papers fc

Vespucci was the one person for whom North and South America was named after. Vespucci had a wonderful life and found many things on his voyages. Amerigo Vespucci was born in Florence, Italy in March of 1451, and grew up in a considerable mansion near the river. As a young boy, Amerigo's happiest moments studying the stars. He excelled in mathematics and his hobby was copying maps. His dream as a young boy was to travel and get a better picture about what the Earth looked like. Amerigo spent half of his life as a business man hoping to strike it rich so he could explore. Amerigo was the third son, there were two older brothers, Antonio and Girolamo, the youngest was Bernardo. The parents were Stagio and Elisabetta Vespucci. Italy, at this time was not yet a civilized country. Italy was a bunch of city- states each self governed and looking for money for it's own purposes and not for the benefit of the country. Florence, where Amerigo was born and grew up, was in the city-state governed by the powerful Medici family. Later in Vespucci's life he ends up working for this family helping govern the city-state. Italy, at this time was not a good country as it is today. In 1492 Vespucci left Florence for Seville, Spain because Italy had the monopoly and didn't need, or want, exploration. Well into his forties, around 1495, Vespucci became the director of a ship company that supplied ships for long voyages. This was the first opportunity Vespucci had to make voyages and he was very ...

Does the government do enough to punish cyber-attacks & criminals?

1.0 Introduction Cyber-attacks have become a significant problem for information systems (IS) worldwide. When referring to information systems, the term cyber-attack is used for denoting a malicious action that aims to result to specific benefit, usually financial, and which is developed through online routes as available in the Internet (Vacca, 2009). In the UK, the expansion of cyber-crime has been quite rapid the last few years leading to severe financial losses for the victims, individuals and businesses (Cabinet Office, 2011). The graph in Figure 1 shows the cost of the various types of cyber – crime to the UK economy. This paper explores the effectiveness of measures taken by the UK government in regard to the punishment of cyber-crime, aiming to show whether the current initiatives for the UK government for punishing the cyber-crime are sufficient or not. The paper also explains the key characteristics and the value of information systems (IS) security so that the potential of the UK go vernment to secure safety from cyber-crimes is evaluated. I will argue that the UK government does not enough to punish cyber-attacks and criminals. Moreover, the introduction by the government of stricter punishment for cyber-attacks has not resulted to the limitation of this type of crime, as explained below. Figure 1 – Cost of different types of cyber – crime to the UK economy (Cabinet Office, 2011, p.2) 2.0 Security of IS – characteristics and importance Security, as a term, can be related to different fields. In the context of information technology, the term security is used for describing ‘a power system’s degree of risk in its ability to survive imminent disturbances without interruption of customer service’ (Cuzzocrea et al., 2013, p.244). As for the term ‘IT security’, this term refers to three values/ characteristics of an IT system, such as: ‘confidentiality, integrity and availability’ (Katsikas, 2016, p.28). According to Mehdi (2014), the term IS security denotes ‘the protection of IS against unauthorized access’ (p.4310). It is explained that a secure IS can ensure that its data will not be modified or lost (Mehdi, 2014). Also, such system is able to detect early any security threat activating appropriate protection mechanisms (Merkow, 2010). At organizational level, IS security is ensured by using an IS security policy, i.e. a set of rules referring to the securit y standards that would apply in all IS of the organisation involved (Kim and Solomon, 2016). However, the demands of such policy can be many, a fact which is justified if considering the several types of IS threats (Cabinet Office, 2011; Figure 1). Organisations often need to hire an Information System Security Officer (ISSO) for ensuring IS security (Kovachich, 2016). 3.0 The punishment of cyber-attacks and criminals – government initiatives and effects3.1 Laws and policies focusing on IS security In the UK, the first law addressing cyber – crimes appeared in 1990 and aimed to cover the gaps of existing legislation in regard to the protection of IT systems from cyber-attacks (Emm, 2009). This was the 1990 Computer Misuse Act. The introduction in the UK of a legislative text focusing on cyber-attacks has been highly related to a cyber-attack incident: the unauthorized access, by two cyber-attackers, to BT’s Prestel service in 1984 (Emm, 2009). When dealing with the above case, the court used the 1981 Forgery and Counterfeiting Act, due to the lack of a legislative text focusing on computer-related crimes (Emm, 2009). In May of 2015, the Serious Crime Act 2015 came into action (Eversheds-Sutherland, 2015). The articles 41 up to 44 of the above law introduced stricter punishment for cyber-crimes. More specifically, in the context of the 1990 Computer Misuse Act the imprisonment for serious cyber-crimes could not exceed the 10 years. With the 2015 Act, the imprisonment for cyber-crimes has been significantly increased, reaching the 14 years and even, the life sentence in cases of cyber-crimes threatening national security (Eversheds-Sutherland, 2015). This, stricter, punishment for cyber-crimes could discourage cyber-criminals but only if the enforcement of the law was appropriately supported, so that all cases of cyber-crimes are brought before the courts (White, 2016). The National Cyber Security Strategy (CSS) of 2011 has been an effort of the British government to control cyber-crime (Shefford, 2015). The Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) is a national team that was established in 2014 for helping towards the achievement of the objectives of CSS (Cabinet Office, 2014, p.13). The CERT team provides to organisations in the private and the public sector critical information for the protection from cyber-attacks (Cabinet Office, 2014). Additionally, in the context of CSS, educational initiatives focusing on cyber security are developed by institutions across the UK; these initiatives are funded by the government and aim to achieve two targets: First, to increase the awareness of the public in regard to cyber security. Second, to help individuals to acquire skills which are necessary for supporting cyber security and for facing cyber-attacks (Cabinet Office, 2014; Figure 2). The Cyber Security Challenge (CSC) is a programme developed by the UK g overnment for helping young people to understand the risks from using their cyber skills in the wrong way; the programme includes competitions and other schemes that can motivate young people to use their cyber skills in a proactive way and not for the commitment of cyber – crimes (National Crime Agency, 2017). Figure 1 – Initiatives/ measures of the National CSS for facing cyber-crime (Cabinet Office, 2014, p.22)3.2 Cyber-attack incidents in governmental and non-governmental organisationsThe number of cyber-attacks against governmental and non-governmental organisations in the UK is continuously increased (White, 2016). From January to October of 2016, 75 cyber-attacks have been reported against banks in the UK, while in 2014 these attacks were just five (White, 2016). In 2013, three individuals in Britain were convicted to jail, from 6 months up to 22 months, for unauthorised access of sensitive private data stored in ‘PayPal, Visa and Mastercard’ (McTague, 2014). The above punishment was considered as too soft compared to the seriousness of the crime. In 2014, the government decided to initiate the modification of existing punishment for cyber-crimes, so that future perpetrators are discouraged from committing a cyber-crime (McTague, 2014). Pultarova (2016) argued tha t banks in the UK face cyber-attacks quite regularly but they avoid reporting the specific incidents trying to protect their market image. In November of 2016, Chancellor P. Hammond noted that critical infrastructure units of the UK, such as airports and gas facilities, are threatened by ‘cyber-attacking techniques developed by other countries’ (BBC News, 2016). It was noted that the protection from such attacks would be a priority for the UK in order for the country’s security, at national level, to be ensured (BBC News, 2016). In 2011 the general police officer in the e-crime department of Scotland-Yard argued that the punishment of cyber – crimes in the UK is too soft if considering the actual damage that these crimes cause (BBC News, 2011). It was explained that the annual damage on the UK economy from cyber-crimes reaches the ?27bn (BBC News, 2011). In 2016, the National Crime Agency of the UK published a report for showing the status of cyber-crimes, in terms of occurrence/ rate of appearance. According to the above report, the cyber – crime represents a major part of criminal activity in the UK, reaching the 36% among all crimes developed in the UK. At the same time, the crimes related to computer misuse reached the 17% among the country’s total crimes (National Crime Agency, 2016). The above figures and facts indicate the inability of the UK government to control cyber-crime. The introduction in 2015 of stricter punishment for cyber-crimes has been an important initiative by the UK government for controlling cyber-crime. However, this initiative should be combined with other measures, at national and at community level. In a speech in mid-February of 2017, Chancellor P. Hammond noted that in the previous three months a total of 188 severe cyber-attacks had been reported; these attacks aimed to cause severe damage to governmental services, infrastructure and businesses (Cole, 2017). A similar issue has been raised by Lord West of Spithead who noted in 2010 that in 2009 the UK had to face ‘300 significant attacks’ on the IS of the government (Doward, 2010). According to Lord West, this problem had become quite serious, denoting that the UK had been targeted by cyber criminals worldwide, as these attacks seemed to be supported by foreign governments, as Lord West noted (Doward, 2010). The above arguments verify the existence of gaps in the existing national framework for the protection from cyber-attacks, as this framework constitutes the national legislation and national policy for the control of cyber – crime. The facts presented above further verify the inability of the UKâ€℠¢s policy to reduce the occurrence of cyber-crime. Guitton (2012) developed an experiment, using data related to cyber-attacks that occurred between 2003 and 2010 in businesses located in three European countries: Germany, UK and France. It was revealed that the relationship between attribution and deterrence is strong only in cases of individuals of individuals who are aware of the existing legislation for cyber-crime and who can realise the actual effects of their actions. These individuals represented the 1/3 of the cases reviewed by Guitton (2012). In opposition, it was found that most individuals involved in cyber-crimes are not fully aware of the relevant legislation and they tend to ignore the effects of their actions. For these individuals, the control theory which emphasises on the power of attribution, as held by the state, to ensure deterrence is not applied, as Guitton (2012) argued. In the context of the above study, the potential of the British government to control cyber-crime is limited. This fact, even it would be ac cepted, could not affect the view on the government’s efforts to confront cyber-crime. The update of the terms of punishment of cyber-crimes just in 2015 and the lack of effective control mechanisms for identifying and reporting cyber – attacks verify the failure of the government to ensure the punishment of cyber-attacks and criminals. 4.0 Conclusion and Recommendations It is concluded that the UK government does not make enough to punish cyber-attacks and criminals. First, a significant delay has been identified in the introduction of appropriate/ fair penalties. Indeed, the introduction of strict punishment for cyber-crimes took place just in 2015, as explained above. The facts and views presented in this paper lead to the assumption that for many years, the government has avoided confronting cyber-attacks as a criminal activity, a fact that led to the radical increase of cyber-attacks against IS systems in governmental services and in financial institutions. At the same time, IS security has several aspects, meaning that eliminating cyber – crime is rather impossible. The soft punishment framework for cyber-crimes, as used in the past, has led to the severe deterioration of the problem across the UK. The increase of effectiveness of current legislation, as from May 2015, on cyber-attacks could be achieved through certain practices, such a s: First, events and seminars would be organized at community level for informing individuals on the characteristics of cyber-attacks and the available measures for protection; these seminars would also provide guidelines to entrepreneurs in regard to the value of IS security policy, as part of business strategy. Second, incentives would be provided to entrepreneurs for pursuing the certification of their business according to the information security management standards, such as the ISO/IEC 27000 standards. Third, an independent authority would be established for controlling the performance of governmental and non-governmental organisations in regard to IS safety. Finally, the investment on IS security in governmental and non-governmental organisations would be increased. Security frameworks, such as the ‘Intrusion Detection System’ (IDS), could be employed in these organisations for ensuring IS security in IS systems that manage and store high volume of private data (Stair and Reynolds, 2015, p.460). 5.0 Personal reflections This project has been related to a critical issue: the findings in regard to the study’s subject have been contradictory. More specifically, the UK government has tried to confront cyber-attacks through legislation and relevant policies but the punishment for these crimes has been characterised as soft, at least up to 2015, while the number of cyber-attacks in the UK is continuously increased. Under these terms, I had to face a dilemma: how should the performance of the UK government in facing cyber-crime would be evaluatedBy referring to the initiatives taken or by emphasising on the actual results of these initiativesReflection has helped me to face the above problem. Indeed, reflection can help the researcher to have ‘an objective sense of things’ (Gillett et al., 2013, 85). Moreover, using reflection I tried to estimate the balance between the positive and negative aspects of government’s efforts to punish cyber-crime and to understand which aspect of t he government’s strategy against cyber-crime is more related to the research question: this paper aims to explain whether the government has done enough on the punishment of cyber-crime. Through reflection, I understood that the occurrence of cyber-attacks in the UK should be preferred as the criterion for answering the research question. Ventola and Mauranen (1996) explained that reflection can help the researcher to identify the research findings that are closer to the research question, a fact that allows the researcher to use the right material for answering the research question. Additionally, I used reflection during the development of the study for managing time and for tracking research gaps, which have been covered after the completion of the project. The above tasks have been supported by a research diary (Day, 2013), in the form of notes, where daily progress in regard to research and writing was reported. Thus, the use of reflection while developing this project h elped me to control risks, in regard to the project’s structure and content, and to manage time more effectively, covering all aspects of the research question. 6.0 References BBC News (2016) UK must retaliate against cyber-attacks says chancellor. Available from: http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-37821867 [Accessed 15 March 2017]. BBC News (2011) Cyber criminals ‘should get tough sentences’ say police. Available from: http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-15680466 [Accessed 15 March 2017]. Cabinet Office (2011) The cost of cabinet crime. Available from: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/60943/the-cost-of-cyber-crime-full-report.pdf [Accessed 15 March 2017]. Cabinet Office (2014) The UK Cyber Security Strategy. Report on Progress and Forward Plans. Available from: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/386093/The_UK_Cyber_Security_Strategy_Report_on_Progress_and_Forward_Plans_-_De___.pdf [Accessed 15 March 2017]. Cole, H. (2017) UK Government and businesses are hit by two ‘serious’ cyber-attacks a day. The Sun. Available from: https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/2857508/uk-government-and-businesses-are-hit-by-two-serious-cyber-attacks-a-day/ [Accessed 15 March 2017]. Cuzzocrea, A., Kittl, C., Simos, D., Weippl, E. and Xu, L. (2013) Availability, Reliability, and Security in Information Systems and HCI: IFIP WG 8.4, 8.9, TC 5 International Cross-Domain Conference, CD-ARES 2013, Regensburg, Germany, September 2-6, 2013, Proceedings. New York: Springer. Day, T. (2013) Success in Academic Writing. Oxford: Palgrave Macmillan Doward, J. (2010) Britain fends off flood of foreign cyber-attacks. The Guardian. 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(2016) Information Systems Security: Facing the information society of the 21st century. New York: Springer. Kim, D. and Solomon, M. (2016) Fundamentals of Information Systems Security. Sudbury: Jones & Bartlett Publishers. Kovachich, G. (2016) The Information Systems Security Officer’s Guide: Establishing and Managing a Cyber Security Program. Oxford: Butterworth-Heinemann. McTague, T. (2014) Computer hackers face life in prison under new Government crackdown on cyber terrorism. Mail Online. Available from: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2649452/Computer-hackers-face-life-prison-new-Government-crackdown-cyber-terrorism.html [Accessed 15 March 2017]. Mehdi, K. (2014) Encyclopedia of Information Science and Technology. Hershey: IGI Global. Merkow, M. (2010) Security Policies and Implementation Issues. Sudbury: Jones & Bartlett Publishers. National Crime Agency (2017) Cyber – crime: preventing young people from being involved. Available from: http://www.nationalcrimeagency.gov.uk/crime-threats/cyber-crime/cyber-crime-preventing-young-people-from-getting-involved [Accessed 15 March 2017]. National Crime Agency (2016) Cyber – Crime Assessment 2016. Available from: http://www.nationalcrimeagency.gov.uk/publications/709-cyber-crime-assessment-2016/file [Accessed 15 March 2017]. Pultarova, T. (2016) UK banks under constant cyber-attack but don’t report incidents. Engineering & Technology. Available from: https://eandt.theiet.org/content/articles/2016/10/uk-banks-under-constant-cyber-attack-but-dont-report-incidents/ [Accessed 15 March 2017]. Shefford, M. (2015) What is the UK government doing about cybersecurityDatonomy. Available from: http://datonomy.eu/2015/04/01/what-is-the-uk-government-doing-about-cybersecurity/ [Accessed 15 March 2017]. Stair, R. and Reynolds, G. (2015) Fundamentals of Information Systems. 8th ed. Belmont: Cengage Learning. Vacca, J. (2009) Computer and Information Security Handbook. Burlington: Morgan Kaufmann. Ventola, E. and Mauranen, A. (1996) Academic Writing: Intercultural and textual issues. John Benjamins Publishing. White, L. (2016) British banks keep cyber-attacks under wraps to protect image. Reuters. Available from: http://uk.reuters.com/article/us-britain-banks-cyber-idUKKBN12E0NQ [Accessed 15 March 2017].