Employment contract Essay

To raise a grievance at work the first step would be to talk to your line manager, explain the situation and see if the problem can be solved informally. If, however, the grievance cannot be resolved informally then the issue can be raised formally using the following procedure: Stage 1 Employees may request in writing a formal meeting with the line manager to state the grievance. Where the issue involves the line manager, this request should be made to the manager’s manager (area manager). Grievances should be made as soon as possible and in any event within 3 months of the issue complained about taking place. A hearing will be arranged, normally within 10 working days, for the employee to discuss the issue with the manager. A decision will be made once the matter has been fully investigated and the manager will communicate their response in writing within 5 working days. This should include details of the employee’s right to appeal. Stage 2 If the employee is dissatisfied with the decision then they have received in stage 1 then they can take their grievance further and request in writing a formal meeting under stage 2 of the grievance procedure. This will be conducted by a manager other than the manager that carried out the stage 1 meeting. The employee will receive the decision of this hearing in writing within 5 working days. Stage 3 If the employee is still dissatisfied with the decision then they may appeal in writing to the Chief Executive of the Trust within 10 working days of receipt of the stage 2 decision. A further meeting will take place and the decision will be confirmed in writing within 5 working days of the hearing. The decision at stage 3 of the procedure is final, in so far as the Trusts internal procedures are concerned. Bv 1. Data Protection All confidential information should be kept secure by employees in order to protect customers and their families. Confidential information (e.g. customer support plans, support notes and medication administration forms) must not be left in a place where non-authorised individuals may view it. Data should not be passed on to anyone without the consent of the customer or their next of kin. 2. Grievance Any grievances should be reported to the line manager to try to resolve the issue informally. If, however, it is not resolved at this level then there is a grievance procedure in place which enables employees to pursue the matter formally. 3. Conflict Management If employees have a problem with another member of staff and it cannot be resolved between themselves then they should contact their line manager for assistance with resolving the issue. If the conflict involves the line manager or if the employee feels that they are not receiving adequate support then they should report to the area manager. 4. Anti-discriminatory Practice All employees are expected to act with dignity and respect towards each person’s individual beliefs and identity. Customers, accessing Oaklea care and support services, should not be treated less favourably based on their; age, sex, disability, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital status or pregnancy/maternity or gender. 5. Health & Safety All employees have personal responsibility in ensuring their own and others health, safety, and welfare at work. We are required to read and apply organisational policies and procedures regarding health and safety, undertake necessary training, wear personal protective equipment (PPE) provided, use safety equipment and safety devices where required and report any hazardous conditions to the line manager or Health and Safety Officer. 6. Confidentiality All information concerning customers and/or their families must be treated  with the upmost respect and all employees have an obligation to protect this information. Confidential information must not be disclosed to a third party either formally or informally (gossip). The sharing of information may be necessary for continuation of good care and support of customers (e.g. between other employees or professions). If employees are asked to disclose information about a customer and are concerned that doing so may breach confidentiality then clarification should be sought via the line manager. 7. Whistle blowing If employees need to raise concern about a risk, malpractice or wrongdoing that affects others such as customers, other staff members, the company or the public then the company’s whistleblowing procedure should be followed. The first stage of this procedure would be to raise concerns with the employee’s line manager either in writing or through a meeting. If the issue involves the line manager or if the employee has already raised their ~@ ?U: concerns with the line manager and feel that they have not been adequately addressed then the second stage of the procedure should be followed. At this stage, issues may be raised either in writing or through a meeting with a Director. If stage 2 has been undertaken and the employees concerns are unresolved or if they feel that the matter is so serious that it should be investigated by the Chief Executive immediately then concerns should be raised either in writing or via a meeting. Any employee raising concerns under the whistleblowing procedure has the right to remain anonymous. Bvi As a Community Home Carer, my role is to provide individualized care and support to people with social care needs so that they may continue to live in their homes and in the community. A care plan is in place for each customer that explains their specific needs and what care they require from us. My duties/responsibilities may include: Assisting customers with washing, bathing, personal hygiene, dressing, toileting, continence and catheter care. Meal and drink preparation and help with feeding where necessary. Helping customers to comply with their prescribed medication and fill out Medication Administration Records (MAR). Supporting customers  with cleaning, laundry, shopping and other household duties as required. Helping customers with mobility skills, transferring them safely where required (e.g. from bed to chair) and helping them to use aids and personal equipment. Providing end of life care. Documenting the care given at each visit in the Daily Support Notes (DSN). Liaising with other carers and health care professionals to ensure continuity of care. By carrying out these duties to a high standard and conforming to all policies, procedures and guidelines, customers will receive a quality service that will help them to maintain as much independence as possible in a safe environment within their own homes. The safeguarding carried out by carers is essential in protecting the health, wellbeing and human rights of vulnerable adults, and ensures that they live free from harm, abuse and neglect. It is our duty to report any safeguarding concerns to the appropriate person(s) so that action may be taken to protect the wellbeing of service users. Bvii a) Following best practice within my work role helps to safeguard vulnerable adults living in the community and ensures that they receive a quality service that promotes health and wellbeing. It is important that I stay within my job role, follow policies and procedures, keep up to date with changes in policies and legislation and keep up to date with training to develop my skills in the workplace. It is also important to work as part of a team, passing on skills where necessary (e.g. to new staff members) and gaining feedback from colleagues. Good communication skills are essential between team members and other professions involved in the care of the service user as this enables continuity of care. b) Failing to carry out the requirements of my role by not following policies, procedures and legislation and not complying with regulatory bodies endangers the health and wellbeing of service users and may put other team members at risk. Not following manual handling procedures, for example, would put me and the service user at risk of injury and not wearing personal protective equipment  when necessary may put me and others at risk of infection. Poor practice may also result in complaints from service users, disciplinary action and in severe cases it may lead to me losing my job, being prosecuted and/or prevented from working in the health and social care setting. Bviii As a Community Home Carer I must follow best practice within my work role and work to the company policies and procedures that mirror laws and legislation. There are also external factors which influence the standards that I must adhere to in my work such as the Care Quality Commission (CQC) essential standards, Skills for Care’s Common Induction Standards (CIS) which are the standards people working in health social care need to meet before they can safely work unsupervised (e.g. manual handling, first aid, health and safety training), the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) codes of practice and ADASS’ ‘Safeguarding Adults: A National Framework of Standards for good practice and outcomes in adult protection work’, which sets out a framework of best practice standards. Government initiatives also have an influence on the roles of carers such as ‘Our Care, Our Health Our Say’ which sets out policy goals to make health and social care ser vices that are designed around the patient rather than the needs of the patient being forced to fit around the service already provided. ‘Putting People First’ also aims for a personalised approach to the delivery of adult social care. Bix a) Two different representative bodies which influence my area of work are the care quality commission and the health and care professions council. b) The role of the care quality commission (CQC) is to regulate, inspect and review all adult health and social care services in the public, private and voluntary sectors in England and make sure that they are meeting national standards. These services include hospitals, care homes, GPs, dentists and services in the home (e.g. home carers). The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) are a regulatory body set up to protect the public by keeping a register of health and care professionals that meet their standards for training, professional skills, behaviour and health. If professionals fail  to meet these standards then they may be removed from the register and prevented from practicing. The HCPC replaced the General Social Care Council (GSCC) which was abolished in 2012.

Introduction to Equality and Inclusion in Health and Social Care

Diversity is the differences in values, attitudes, cultures, beliefs, skills and life experiences of an individual in any group of people. In the UK, frameworks emphasise that the importance of developing every child’s sense of individuality and encouraging an optimistic sense of pride in each child’s family origins. Children can develop a sense of belonging to the local community and begin to appreciate and respect less familiar cultures.Equalityâ€Å"Equality does not mean that everyone has to be treated the same.† Meggitt (2011, p.32) I agree with the above quote because it is telling you that just because most things in life are equal, it does not mean that everyone has to be treated the same. Everyone is their own individual self, having different needs, situations and ambitions. No child is equal and the same, everyone is different from one another. However, the aims of the practitioners are to have a part in the child’s life to support children to l ive in the way they value and choose, to be themselves but to be different if they wish to be. Every person in the world should have equality of opportunities.InclusionInclusion is all about making sure that equality of opportunity for all children and young people whatever their disabilities or disadvantages. This means that all children have the right to have their needs met in the best possible way for them. They are seen as being a part of the community even if they need particular help to live their full life within the community.DiscriminationDiscrimination is where people are treated in a less-favourable way because others have negative views on the characteristics of a person. Children may discriminate against others because of how different some people can be compared to themselves. This action takes form of being name-calling and teasing. It could be something as simple as someone being a little skinnier  than another child or if there is so many children with brown hair and there is just the one ginger. It could also be something as simple as the difference in clothing. 1.2 – Describe ways in which discrimination may deliberately or inadvertently occur in the work setting.There is always discrimination going on, deliberate or not, it is always happening. Children and practitioners get labelled and stereotyped all the time. Sometimes labels are given to children such as the â€Å"spoilt child† or the â€Å"attention seeker†. Some children are liked more than others because they might have a calmer attitude rather than the child that might be known as â€Å"mardy† because they are always moaning and crying etc. Children realise that things change and they realise differences in other people and make comments.There is a quite a few different ways in which discriminating may deliberately or inadvertently occur in the work setting. There is racism and racial discrimination which is the belief that some races are superior to others which is based on the idea that different characteristics such as skin colour or background children have make some people better than others. It is deliberately discriminating if a child is refused from the nursery place just because they are black.It is failing to address the needs of children from a minority religious or cultural group. It is also racist discrimination when travellers are failed a place in a nursery just because they do not celebrate festivals from the mainstream culture such as Easter and Christmas. There is also sexism and sex discrimination always going on. It may not be deliberate to discriminate the sex of somebody but it does happen.This occurs when people of one gender support the stereotype that they are greater to the other. This happens when boys are always offered to do activities such as football and physical sports that are rough. Whereas the girls are stereotyped to perform the more traditional ‘female’ tasks; such as washing, co oking, pushing the pushchairs and playing with the dolls. Another discriminating offence that can be deliberately made in placement is ageism and age discrimination.Negative feelings are expressed towards other people because of their age. It is usually in the western society the older people whereas young people are often excluded because they are thought to be too young to be able to participate in things. A good example is that people are not permitted to vote until the age of 18. Another act of discrimination is disablism and disability.Disabled people are seen as the  disability that they have, they are not seen as an individual with special needs. Children and young people that have disabilities or impairment are sometimes deprived of the equality of opportunity with their non-disabled class peers. For example; failing to provide the appropriate facilities and services in organising activities in a way that ignores the physical, emotional and intellectual needs of a certain child. There are many other stereotypes that can be leaded to discrimination deliberately and inadvertently such as concerning gay and lesbian groups in the work setting and also the people from low income groups and those who practise the minority religion.Explain how promoting equality and inclusion reduces the likelihood of discriminationWhen promoting equality and inclusion such as in books and displays in and around the work setting there should be positive images of children and young people that may have disabilities, or are from different cultures, gender roles.Doing the above does reduce the likelihood of discrimination very much because children grow up to understand as to why people are different. If a nursery did not do anything or promote anything about equality and inclusion then children would not know anything about disabled people or about different cultures so then if they saw someone different they may make a comment on the person and hurt that persons feelings wh ere as if they grew up to know that not everyone is the same and some people may need more help than others in things it would increase the amount of discrimination made and people would understand and accept that people are different but still a human being and was brought into the world the same way they was.When in the work setting if positive images are put across about people such as black people, a female women and a disabled person can take on the responsibility of active roles in society whereas a man can take on the caring and domestic roles then this helps children to develop the strong prospects about their life and their future. Making them then think about what they might want to achieve in their life.They will have optimistic ideas about the positions of effects and responsibility they will take on in the society whatever their ethnic, gender, cultural or social background or disability. 2.1 – Identify which legislation and codes of practice relating to equality , diversity and discrimination apply to own role. There are various pieces of legislation in place to promote equality and reduce discrimination.These  include:†¢ The Disability Discrimination Act 2005 †¢ The Special Educational Needs and Disability Act 2001 †¢ The Race Relations Act Amendment 2000 †¢ Convention on the Rights of the Child (UN, 1989) †¢ The Human Rights Act 1998 †¢ The Sex Discrimination Act 1975 †¢ Employment Equality Regulations 2003Describe how to challenge discrimination in a way that encourages change.If you see children discriminating against somebody else then you would challenge them about why they have done it and you would make them apologise. You then would explain to them as to why they are wrong and aware them as to why it is inappropriate. You should at all times refuse to laugh at jokes that are based on stereotypes.As a role model you should talk positively and handle a situation such as dealing with discrimination and bullying appropriately. You should listen to their views and opinions on things and then try and help change their views on things. Books, nursery rhymes, cultural activities can change how people see things. If the child is to say something that is not right you would immediately point it out and give the correct information.You would help the child learn from the situation, to see the consequences of their actions and help them to understand why their behaviour was cruel and inappropriate. Remember not to leave the child feeling upset or thinking that you dislike them because of the situation that has happened. Let them know that you do not tolerate the behaviour they have shown and the way they have made somebody else feel because of their actions but explain to them that it does not make you dislike them anymore than how you felt about them before.You would then support the child that has be in the object of discrimination reassuring them and supporting them to maintain the ir self-esteem. You can change children’s points and opinions on things by showing them things such as books and stories on people that are different and show the child why they are that way and as to why it hurts. You explain to them that the things they say can hurt other people’s feelings and explain to them and try and make them understand that they wouldn’t like it was them in the other person’s point of perspective.Identify a range of sources of  information, advice and support about diversity, equality and inclusionsThere are many sources of information that you can use for advice on equality, diversity and inclusion.There are:Managers and senior staff within each setting. You can get help from the settings policies and procedures on diversity, equality and inclusion.The internetContact outreach agencies, The NSPCC, Child line and local servicesDescribe how and when to access information advice and support about diversity, equality and inclusionT here are plenty of different methods of finding information on, diversity, equality, and inclusions. You can get access to websites, leaflets, booklets, journals and magazines to give advice and support about anything, they usually have ways of you contacting them such as phone number, email or even letters. There are all kinds of ways to get in contact for you to be able to get advice and support about diversity, equality and inclusion.You can contact certain groups, such as AGE UK, direct.gov and much more who can supply materials to hand out advice and support on discrimination, equality etc. There are lots of different ways on how and when to access information about a certain problem that you may have or some other individual but all ways of getting support and advice is really easy and simple for anybody. Support and advice is all around you, but professional help on certain problems such as diversity, equality and inclusion is mainly found in the government.

Motivation & Communication of Leadership Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Motivation & Communication of Leadership - Essay Example Some of the strategies are having vision and quick victories, setting personal examples, instilling optimism and self-confidence among others. Lastly, leadership is applicable in any situation because of its tremendous contribution in motivating followers and offering a communication channel (Charteris-Black, 2006). Hence, the role of leadership is applicable in nearly every place since it determines the success of an operation as well as the progress. Similarly, leadership can intervene in situations where followers are deviating from the course by giving direction and defining parameters (Draft, 2014). Motivation and communication topic is very essential because it informs the scholars and the public the importance of leadership. It helps in defining some of the roles people might not know as well as the importance of providing leadership through motivation and communication. More so, the topic is important in preparing students to become better leaders capable of meeting their

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Develop and describe your personal theory of human development, drawing from and citing the theorists and theories studied in classes - Essay Example The different clusters of theories provide useful insight among people and societies, in not only human growth or development, but also thought and behavior. Freud Sigmund was among the core proprietors of psychoanalytic theories relative to human development. Freud’s believe was that experiences as child affected a person’s overall development even as a youth. This belief influenced other psychologists who put additional effort on Freud’s theory. Consequentially, other psychologists came up with their own theories such as the eight-stage theory of human development by Erikson (Saul, 2013). Today, these theories are more prevalent and popular in cognitive development studies. Behaviorism, a commonly known school of thought today, became popular early in the 20th Century and after introduction in the faculty of psychology, learning theories have become prevalent too. The reason was that psychologists studying behavior felt the urge to put extensive attention on observable and quantifiable behaviors. This did not only create a different perception on human development but also made psychology appear as a more scientific discipline. Relatively, learning theories under a behavioral perspective focus on environmental influences that impact on human development. However, some of the behaviorists argue that erudition transpires only through developments of interaction and fortification. Bandura’s theories are entirely against this perception and lean mainly on the effects of observational learning. Lastly, the cognitive theories of human development focus on how the thinking process and psychological procedures stimulates a person’s development and transformation. Among the most renowned theorists of cognitive human development is Jean Piaget who formed her foundation on the notion that children do not receive information alone but are also scientists who have different perception of the world from their understanding and individually

Mergers & Acquisitions (Big focus on AECOM acquisition of URS) Literature review

Mergers & Acquisitions (Big focus on AECOM acquisition of URS) - Literature review Example Due to the wake of economic reforms, entities are viewing it prudent to restructure their operations around their principal business activities strategically through acquisition because of their burgeoning exposure to competition from both domestic and international arena. According to the existing literature, companies engage in mergers and acquisitions for myriad reasons. Some of these motives are view as being good since they are aimed at maximizing the shareholders wealth while others merge or acquire others for questionable reasons (Ferris & Petitt 2013). In essence, companies should pursue mergers and acquisitions only if such actions create value. In other words, companies should merge if they are working as a single unit as opposed to working individually offers a greater value. Ferris and Petitt’s (2013) study established that synergies take three forms namely financial, managerial and operating synergies. Financial synergies arise from lower financing cost because big companies have access to a broader and cheaper pool of funds compared to small companies (Malik et al., 2014, p. 528; Koi-Akrofi, 2014, p. 1812). When companies that carry out unrelated businesses merge, there is the reduction in risk that makes them increase their debt capacity and enable them to lower their before-tax financing cost. In this context, there is also the aspect of improved financing in the sense that companies facing financial problems may be forced to look for others that are financially stable to acquire them instead of going out of busines s or taking bankruptcy. The merger causes the firm to expand which makes it easily get access to debt and equity financing which was initially beyond its reach. According to an analysis done by the New York University Stern School of Business (2015) and Malik et al. (2014, p. 528) mergers

Qualitative methods assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Qualitative methods assignment - Essay Example Findings presented or conceptualised in a way that offers new insights/alternative ways of thinking Discussion of limitations of evidence and what remains unknown/unclear or what further information/research is needed The authors has exhibit a deeper knowledge and understanding on the topic that they are studying with. They were able to mapped out evidences and supported by literatures of previous studies and theories. The main goal of the study is to have a clear comparison between the content and the quantity competitive and organizational stressors in elite athletes. The limit of the discussions was clearly stated that the validated statements shall focus on the stress relating to sports, personal and other matters were not considered. FINDINGS a) Appraisal Questions b) Quality indicators (possible features for consideration) c) Notes on study being appraised 3 How well does the evaluation address its original aims and purpose Clear statement of study aims and objectives; reasons for any changes in objectives Findings clearly linked to the purposes of the study - and to the initiative or policy being studied Summary or conclusions directed towards aims of study Discussion of limitations of study in meeting aims (e.g. are there limitations because of restricted access to study settings or participants, gaps in the sample coverage, missed or unresolved areas of questioning; incomplete analysis; time constraints) The aims of the study were consistent and there were no reasons to alter it at the end. Findings were clearly based on the aims of the study and it clearly nailed down the very core purpose of the study. The concluding statements were clearly cited from the introduction, where aims and purpose... Furthermore, the strong statements in the results were based from previous studies and related literature, which was the cornerstone in their superb conclusions. Although evidence were not fully utilized and presented, the literatures made it credible. Credible/clear discussion of how findings have contributed to knowledge and understanding (e.g. of the policy, programme or theory being reviewed); might be applied to new policy developments, practice or theory The authors has exhibit a deeper knowledge and understanding on the topic that they are studying with. They were able to mapped out evidences and supported by literatures of previous studies and theories. Discussion of limitations of study in meeting aims (e.g. are there limitations because of restricted access to study settings or participants, gaps in the sample coverage, missed or unresolved areas of questioning; incomplete analysis; time constraints) The aims of the study were consistent and there were no reasons to alter it at the end. Findings were clearly based on the aims of the study and it clearly nailed down the very core purpose of the study. The concluding statements were clearly cited from the introduction, where aims and purpose of the study was introduced. Thus, the questions and uncertainties on the preliminaries were clearly answered and re-stated in the conclusions. The samples were taken from

IT - Virtual Reality Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

IT - Virtual Reality - Research Paper Example In view of the fact that it involves so many factors, hence it took a lot of time and efforts to build it what it is nowadays. In addition, the virtual reality is yet a great deal hyped term that carries people to consider on the eternal virtues of this rising technology and paradigm. However, with the passage of time we are observing a lot of real implementations of virtual reality appearing into life (VRS, 2009). This paper presents a detailed overview of virtual reality. In this scenario, this research will cover a lot of aspects which are related to virtual reality such as its history, its associated elements and advantages. History of Virtual Reality The idea of virtual reality has always been in under construction and optional for many years, even though the public simply became aware of it in the early 90s. Basically, the history of virtual reality can be traced back in the mid 50s; when Morton Heilig who was a cinematographer imagined a theatre experience that would excite al l his audiences’ senses, catching them into the stories more efficiently. For this purpose, he constructed a single client console in the 60s, which is known as the  Sensorama  that incorporated fans, a stereoscopic display, stereo  speakers, odor emitters  and a moving chair. In addition, he as well invented a head-mounted  TV to allow the people to watch TV in 3-D. In this scenario, users were passive viewers of the films, however a lot of Heilig’s ideas have discovered their way in the VR field (Strickland, 2012). After that Philco Corporation  engineers  developed the primary HMD in 1961 that is known as  Headsight. The helmet comprised a video screen and tracking system that engineers connected to a high-tech closed circuit camera system. They projected the HMD for utilizing in hazardous situations; a user could watch a real situation remotely, connected to the camera angle through turning his head. In 1965, a computer scientist Ivan Sutherland vis ualized what he named as Ultimate  Display. This Ultimate Display allowed the people to look into a virtual world that would come into view as a real world the user lived in. This idea directed almost all the developments within the areas of virtual reality (Strickland, 2012). In 1966, Sutherland built an HMD that was connected to a  computer  system. In this scenario, the computer was used to offer all the graphics for display. He used a deferment system to grip the HMD, as it was very heavy for a person to support comfortably. In addition, the HMD was able to show images in stereo, offering the delusion of depth, and it could as well follow the user’s head activities so that the field of sight would change suitably as the user looked about (Strickland, 2012). What is Virtual Realty Basically, the term Virtual Reality can be utilized in different scenarios with a lot of definitions. For instance, the majority of people consider VR as a specific set of tools and technol ogies such as a Glove Input Device, Head Mounted Display and Audio. Additionally, a lot of people use this phrase to add traditional books, pure fantasy, movies and thoughts.

Indian Arts and Clothing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Indian Arts and Clothing - Essay Example According to the research findings, it can, therefore, be said that Indian sculpture focuses towards the spirituality, elegance, magnificence and mysticism. All these are important factors for the Indian sculpture. In India sculpture over the years has been one of the most preferred medium for the artistic expressions. Sculptures have significant contributions in the context of Indian Arts. Wall painting is also an important part of the Indian Arts. It is a unique artistic concept which is highly regarded by the Indian as well global artists. Wall painting has very long presence in the rich tradition of Indian Arts. During prehistoric time there was a concept of rock painting from which the concept of wall painting has come into the picture. Indian wall paintings offer aesthetic continuum which showcases Indian historical reformations. Wall paintings of India are globally recognized by the various experts. Wall painting in the places like Ajanta and Ellora are highly attractive for t he global tourists. Miniature paintings are the integral parts of the Indian Arts. Generally these kinds of paintings’ are being done on the books, papers and in any small places. Indian miniature paintings are significantly classy and delicate in nature. It indicates prosperity and richness of Indian Arts. The concept of this Indian Art came from the state of Bengal. Slowly but surely this art has caught the attention of global arts lovers. All these paintings have multidimensional characteristics which indicate versatility of the miniature painting. In India cultural diversity is significantly evident; in their miniature paintings also those cultural diversities are clearly evident. Without jewelry, Indian Art is incomplete. Over the years jewelries have contributed significantly towards the Indian Arts. Its exotic styles and glitters have made this thing one of the most prominent Arts in the country. Indian jewelry has long tradition and history. Since the historical perio d up to independence the country has been ruled by the various kings. Jewelry designing also has gone through lots of reformations and changes. In jewelry designing, influences of diversified Indian arts and cultures are easily found.

A)The original concept of the NHS in 1948 was to improve the health of Essay

A)The original concept of the NHS in 1948 was to improve the health of the nation. It was perceived that this would result in - Essay Example Prior to this report, the biomedical definition of health held precidence, and this suggested that health need only be the absence of disease. This is not always the case, however, as an individual may state that they are healthy in biomedical terms, but their social class or lifestyle may cause them to be more susceptible to certain diseases or even just to have a lower quality of life than another individual. The aim of this essay is to discuss the effect that the NHS has had on the health of the UK and how these definitions of health have helped shape the British awareness of health and how it is to be maintained. This essay aims to explain how the success of the NHS has caused it to have more problems – the successful nature of the service has allowed people to live for such a long time that they now require more epensive medical care for longer than ever before. The NHS believed that it would reduce the need for provision, but instead has enhanced it. There are several as pects of an individual that determine the standard of health he/she can enjoy. These range from the unalterable – age, sex and genetic factors, for example – to the areas which health promotion aims to improve and which should not be an issue in the sphere of health – lifestyle, housing and social class. Age is evidently a determinant of health, in that the chronic diseases (cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, heart disease) that have come to define the modern West occur increasingly with age . Age is also generally associated with being slower and weaker and as such the elderly may believe themselves to be in ‘suboptimal health’ (Ubel et al., 2005, p1054) and be more inclined to seek healthcare. Sex is another obvious determinant of health, with various diseases affecting either sex more than others. Autism, for example, affects men more than women , but depression affects more women than men (Nolen-Hoeksema, 2001, p173). The same can be said for various cancers that simply cannot occur in a certain sex because of the missing anatomical parts. Hereditary factors such as genetic disease (Huntington’s, Fragile X) or genetic predispositions (posession of the BRC1 gene [Xu, 2008, p460], susceptibility to early-onset Alzheimer’s) also affect our health. However, it is those things that health promotion can have an effect over, such as lifestyle, housing and social class. Lifestyle is probably the biggest killer, with smoking, lack of exercise and over-eating still being common in the UK (Office for National Statistics, 2009) and the resulting diseases associated with these conditions being more deadly than ever. Housing and social class have less of an effect than in the past, with benefits and, of course, the NHS providing an equality of care for all people in the UK. Unemployment is also considered dangerous in the health stakes. This is due to the fact that it reduces longevity and health, particularly amongst m en (Carvel, 2002, p1). It is also reported that the NHS could help reduce unemployment by recruiting in the local area and thus save costs to itself. However, unemployment used to be a much bigger worry than it is today, with healthcare having to be paid for up front, making it particularly inaccessible to the masses of people on low income. However, this all changed with the start of the NHS and the availability of the

Sustainable Business Development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Sustainable Business Development - Essay Example , burning of coal and extraction of oil require abundant energy sources as well it places very high demands on water resources adding up to a huge and costly impact towards the production process (Nehring 2009, 3074). Pollution results as a by-product of the process and is considered as a negative externality. The production of fossil fuels resulting in air and water pollution is through oil spills, dumping of the waste materials into water sources  and emission of toxic gases into the environment. The more fossil fuel is produced, the more environmental pollution results (Levitan et al. 2014, 122). The company’s producing the fuels may bear some of the associated costs of pollution, but not all  and the remaining costs are borne by the society. Air pollution is associated with the production of greenhouse gases that are associated with climate change resulting in the occurrence of floods, droughts and loss of coastal land. It is important to have property rights imposed by the government to control pollution emission. The government should also be involved in introducing regulation rules, taxation and legislation in an effort of pollution control. This entails passing legislation such as clean air act to address the situation (Aydin et al. 2011, 201). The community should also be involved in reporting pollution matters to the authority to prevent negative externalities of pollution. The cost of fossil fuel production is very high. This entails the cost of labor of mining coal and drilling the oil, the cost involved in building the energy generating plants, cost of transportation of the oil into plants for processing and the cost involved in the manufacturing of the final products. As a result, the fuel prices become expensive to the consumer. Fossil fuel is a non-renewable source of energy, and the reserves are finite (Mohr & Evans 2010, par 1). According to the rate of extraction that takes place it will not take too long before the supply is exhausted. As a

Acid Rain Essay Example for Free

Acid Rain Essay Acid Rain is rain, snow or fog that is polluted by acid in the atmosphere and damages the environment. When fossil fuels are burned they release mostly CO2, but they also release two harmful gases, sulphur dioxide and various nitrogen oxides. The sulphur dioxide, SO2, comes from the sulphur impurities in the fossil fuels. However, the nitrogen oxides are created from a reaction between the nitrogen and the oxygen in the air, caused by the heat of the burning. When these gases mix with clouds they form dilute sulphuric acid and dilute nitric acid. This then falls as acid rain. Cars and power stations are the main causes of Acid Rain. Acid Rain has effects on plants, soil and even buildings. The acid reacts with the limestone and then the limestone begins to erode. From previous knowledge, I know that limestone has the chemical formula CaCO3. Limestone, chalk and marble are all calcium carbonate. When an acid reacts with a metal carbonate (such as calcium carbonate) the fizzing shows that a gas is produced. That gas is carbon dioxide, CO2. Adding hydrochloric acid to a rock sample is one of the tests for a carbonate rock, like marble, chalk or limestone. It is also why these rocks are greatly affected by acid rain. The word equation is for this reaction between calcium carbonate and hydrochloric acid is: Calcium carbonate + hydrochloric acid calcium chloride + carbon dioxide + water The chemical formulae for this reaction between calcium carbonate and hydrochloric acid is: CaCO? + 2HCL CaCL2 + CO2 + H2O The rate of reaction can be calculated by measuring amount of Carbon dioxide gas that is obtained by the syringe. There were various types of apparatus which I included: Goggles Syringe Stop clock Measuring cylinder Spatula Hydrochloric Acid Marble-Powder and Chip Boiling tube Bung Preliminary experiment. Before actually beginning my investigation, I will firstly carry out a preliminary investigation. This will help me to see the improvements that I can make after the experiment. I will be able to see possible downfalls and failures in my method, work out appropriate quantities of chemicals to use and generally improve the quality of the final experiment. Below is the set up apparatus that I will use for the preliminary experiment and the actual experiment: The preliminary experiment is performed so that I can predict the volume of acid, the mass of the chip and powder and the length of time that I will be timing for. 1. Firstly, I set up the apparatus. 2. I will specify a curtain mass of marble using a balance and I will place it into the boiling tube. 3. Then, I will measure a quantity of acid and quickly add it to the boiling tube whilst after quickly placing the bung onto the top of the tube. 4. I will record the amount of CO2 gas which is given off, every curtain amount of time. This will produce a rate of reaction. For many experiments the rate of reaction can be changed by altering curtain variables. For this reaction there is no catalyst, therefore we cannot alter this variable. However there are three main variables that could be changed: Temperature of the acid this would be varied by starting off with the acid at room temperature (around 24i C) and then using acid with temperatures of 30i C, 40i C and 50i C. Concentration of the acid the concentration would be varied three times, using hydrochloric acid with concentrations of 0. 5M, 1M and 2M. Surface area of the calcium carbonate the surface area would be varied by using different sizes of calcium carbonate. I will predict that the 2m acid and the powder will be the fastest reaction as the acid is more compact with acid particles in the same volume of water. This helps more successful collisions take place between the particles. The more collisions there are the increased rate of reaction. I found out that I should use 1 gram of mass for the chip and powder marble and 30cmi of acid. This is because the reaction is not too fast or slow. I can get an acceptable number of results recorded. I will be using three different concentrations of acid, 0. 5m, 1m and 2m. (m=molar) The time I will be using will be starting at when the syringe starts to move up to 180 seconds. I will be keeping the amount of acid the same and the mass of the marble so that I conduct a fair test. The temperature was kept at 24i C-25i C. Results 0. 5m with chip 0. 5m with powder Mass of chip = 1. 0g Mass of powder = 1. 0g Time (s) Volume (cmi ) 10 2 20 4 30 5 40 6 50 7 60 8 70 9 80 16 90 17 100 18 110 20 120 21 130 22 140 24 150 25 160 26 170 27 180 31 Volume of acid = 30cmi Volume of acid = 30cmi Time (s) Volume (cmi ) 10 14 20 17 30 19 40 20 50 22 60 23 70 23 80 25 90 29 100 34 110 35 120 37 130 38 140 38 150 38 160 39 170 40 180 40 1 m with chip 1 m with powder Mass of chip = 1. 0g Mass of powder = 1. 0g Volume of acid = 30cmi Volume of acid = 30cmi Time (s) Volume (cmi ) 10 21 20 30 30 36 40 38 50 39 60 31 70 42 80 43 90 43 10 44 110 44 120 44 130 44 140 44 150 44 160 44 170 44 180 44 Time (s) Volume (cmi ) 10 4 20 5 30 6 40 9 50 12 60 15 70 18 80 21 90 24 10 27 110 31 120 34 130 37 140 40 150 44 160 47 170 50 180 52. 2 m with chip 2 m with powder Mass of chip = 1. 0g Mass of powder = 1. 0g Volume of acid = 30cmi Volume of acid = 30cmi Time (s) Volume (cmi ) 10 5 20 9 30 13 40 16 50 22 60 26 70 33 80 36 90 46 10 46 110 46 120 51 130 54 140 57 150 57 160 57 170 57 180 57 Time (s) Volume (cmi ) 10 0-60 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 10 110 120 130 140 150 160 170 180 Conclusion. After completing my experiment my results show me that as the concentration of the acid is increased, the reaction takes place faster and more gas is produced in a shorter space of time. Due to this I found that the 2M hydrochloric acid (the strongest concentration of acid I used) produced the most gas in the shortest time. The 0. 5M hydrochloric acid (the weakest concentration of acid I used) produced the least amount of gas in the longest time period. I can clearly see from the graph that the 2M hydrochloric acid gave the fastest reaction and produced the most gas in the shortest space of time, because the gradient of the curve is the steepest and goes far higher than the other curves showing that a larger amount of gas was produced because the gas produced axis is the y axis. The fact that the 2M acid had the steepest curve shows that the reaction was fastest because a large amount of gas was produced (high on the y axis) and in a short space of time (short on the x axis). This will give a steep gradient on the graph. The 0. 5M hydrochloric acid gave almost the opposite curve when the results were placed on a graph. Not much gas was produced in a long space of time and so the slope was very gentle and low on the graph. The 2M hydrochloric acid produced the most gas in the shortest amount of time and was generally a quicker reaction due to its significant difference in particle arrangement compared to the 0.5M and 1M hydrochloric acid. The more concentrated 2M hydrochloric acid has more acid particles in the same volume compared to the 1M and 0. 5M acid. This means there are more available acid particles to react with the calcium carbonate. The reaction will be quicker when using the 2M acid because there are more particles available to react with. The calcium carbonate particles can react with more acid particles quickly as they are easily accessible, whereas in the 0. 5M acid, there are few acid particles in a volume and so some calcium carbonate particles will have no acid particles to react with, causing the reaction to be slow and uneventful. All reactions will only occur if there is enough energy to make it happen. This minimum energy is known as activation energy. Activation energy is the minimum energy for which two reacting particles must collide for a reaction to take place. When particles collide they slow down, stop, and then fly apart again. This will occur regardless of whether they have enough energy to react. In an unsuccessful collision the particles separate unchanged, but in an effective collision the activation energy barrier is crossed and the particles that separate are chemically different from those that came together. I think my results are definitely sufficient to support my prediction. They equal everything I predicted and I am very pleased at how well they turned out. Evaluation I think that the experiment went very well. All my results matched my prediction and everything went according to plan. The gas produced by each acid had a steady increase however; there were a few rogue points. Overall I achieved what I set out to do. I would have liked more time on the experiment to make sure everything was perfect, though. Due to the short time limit we were quite rushed in completing the experiment. There were a few aspects of the experiment that could have been improved to make the experiment even more accurate. For a start the experiment was undertaken over a few days. Each day had a different temperature and so this would have affected the results. If one day had been hotter than the others the heat would have influenced one reaction to take place faster. Also due to the fact that the experiment lasted a few days, different equipment was being used each day. Some gas syringes were slightly stiffer than others and so wouldnt move out as fast. If on one day you had a very stiff gas syringe that wouldnt move very easily and on another day you had a very loose gas syringe, then the results would be very different as the loose gas syringe would give results that say that the reaction happened very fast and the stiff gas syringe would give results that say the reaction was slow. To prevent this from happening the experiment should have been undertaken and finished on the same day, using exactly the same equipment as you started with for each acid. The initial part of the reaction when the acid first reacts with the calcium carbonate is very fast. A lot of gas is produced at the beginning of the reaction. However the way the apparatus are set up means that when you pour the acid onto the calcium carbonate, there are a few seconds when the gas is able to escape before the gas syringe is connected to the test tube. To avoid this from happening a test tube containing the calcium carbonate should be placed inside a beaker containing the hydrochloric acid. They must not be touching, as the reaction would then start. Then the gas syringe will be connected to the beaker. When the reaction is ready to start, the beaker is knocked so that the test tube falls over, consequently causing the reaction to take place as the acid and carbonate would mix. Then when the initial gas is produced it will all be caught as the gas syringe is already in place. The surface area of the calcium carbonate should also have been kept equal. The same number of equally weighted chips should have been used. E. g. all 1g chips. This way the reaction is fair and accurate, as a large surface area will cause the reaction to take place faster. Keeping all the surface areas the same would have kept the experiment fair. However to do this would have taken a long time and we only had a limited amount of time. Another way of keeping the temperature the same would have been to do the experiment in a water bath. This would have allowed us to do the experiment over a few days as well.

Agriculture in the Amazon Rainforest Essay Example for Free

Agriculture in the Amazon Rainforest Essay Throughout a hundred centuries people have worked hard to sustain productive agriculture and dense human populations. Certain forms of agriculture are possible, and should be considered sustainable, for the economic development of tropical rainforests. For thousands of years humans have created a disturbance in the rainforests by creating areas of concentrated diversity of species within the landscape. The Indigenous people of the Amazon fostered palm forests, groves of Brazil nuts and fruit trees, and vine forests near ancient Amazonian settlements. Environmentalists could argue that rainforests can be â€Å"saved† by through the restriction of economic growth, but it is vital to realize that the local communities will not approve parks and reserves, as it is in their interest to conserve the rainforest. The shifted cultivator who forces small farmers into the forest to begin new farmlands causes about 60% of deforestation in Amazon. Researchers have warned if we continue to change the use of the land it can affect the region’s climate, and the absorption of carbon dioxide in the Amazon. By converting forests into cropland there is a pronounced ecological and climate impact than land conversions because it involves the complete removal of land biomass, including tree trunks, stumps and woody roots. † (Mike Bettwy of NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center). A better approach to addressing the increasing problem of deforestation in the Amazon is to follow the methods that have been used by indigenous forest dwellers for thousands of years. Many cleared forest areas used for agriculture can be salvaged by cultivation techniques. Annual crops, pasture land, are some examples of what can be done to increase agricultural productivity and to reduce the destruction in many rainforests. Effects of human population on the Ecosystem Over 20% of the Amazon Rainforest has been destroyed, in addition to the Amazon Rainforest is gone forever. Unfortunately with human population, the Amazon Rainforest has had effects with loss and harm to the population of wild species. A lot of the land is being clear for cattle ranches, mining operations, logging and subsistence agriculture. According to Raintree (1996) â€Å"Experts estimates that we are losing 137 plant, animal and insect species every single day due to rainforest deforestation. That equates to 50,000 species a year. As the rainforest species disappear, so do many possible cures for life-threatening diseases. Currently, 121 prescription drugs sold worldwide come from plant-derived sources. While 25% of Western pharmaceuticals are derived from rainforest ingredients, less that 1% of these tropical trees and plants have been tested by scientists. If this was happening in 1996, we can only imagine that in 2012 it is so much worst. Sustainability and Conservation Overpopulation causes many problems to the Amazon rainforest. More than 20% of Earths oxygen is produced in this area. As the area is reduced more carbon dioxide will be found the atmosphere. Carbon dioxide is important to this issue because plants need it to give off oxygen, which humans need to survive, not only for oxygen but also for food and nutrition for out health. Carbon dioxide is not necessarily a bad thing unless a large amount pollutes the air we need to breathe. Not only can overpopulation of the Amazon affect the air we breathe, but it will also affect the wildlife, water, and food we need to survive. There are over 200 species of trees in on hectare of the Amazon. This is important because there are so many possible cures for life threatening diseases. The Amazon is home to mare species of plants and animals than any other terrestrial ecosystem on the planet. Some interesting animals live in the Amazon and a lot of them are very rare. For example, a new species of freshwater fish, brown-spider monkey and a frog called â€Å"cowboy frog†, were some of the amazing animals discovered in the Amazon. The animals found in the Amazon are endless. It is amazing the new discoveries that have happened over the years and the new ones to come. The animals in the Amazon have live there longer that humans have lived on this planet. The Amazon is one of the largest natural resources and with overpopulation more and more rainforest are becoming non-existent.

The Customer Satisfaction In The Airlines Industry Tourism Essay

The Customer Satisfaction In The Airlines Industry Tourism Essay The main aim of this chapter is to review the theories and previous research papers which are mainly concentrated on the evaluation of customer satisfaction in the airlines industry. Shaw, S. (2004) has defined the consumers are those people who actually travel. They make existence clear by reporting for flights and their requirements. They are therefore usually given a great deal of attention by marketers in the airlines business. However, the consumers may not be the decision-makers about the things that matter. In the marketing theories, such decision makers are defined as Customers. Furthermore, there are three customer decisions which must be analyzed: This decision is mainly aimed to the business travelers. For many firms today, the cost of travel is a major item of cooperate expense. Especially, in the recessionary period, most of the firms will attempt to reduce expenditure in order to minimize the effect of recession. In such situation, the business trips will be replaced by other methods such as the phone, video-conferencing or email. There are different choices for passengers to select for their air ticket class in the cabin with different kinds of services and price such as First Class (mostly selected for the long-haul flights), Business Class, Economy Class or Coach Class. Additionally, the business travelers will have a little or no say in the decision as to which class will be purchased. Because most of the firms have their travel policy whereby very senior executives are allowed to take First Class, those in the middle rank in Business Class, and the junior employees have to be satisfied with Economy Class. Interestingly, during recessionary periods, most of the firms have to be downgraded their travel policy in order to save money so that the First Class and Business Class travel being eliminated. The question of the choice of the airline is obviously a crucial one. In the leisure air travel, many airlines focus on selling the blocks of seats to tour operators and travel agencies so that the individual travelers will have very little say in the airlines that they fly with. Otherwise, in the business air travel, during the time 1990s, more and more companies centralized travel purchasing in order to gain access to cooperate discounts from airlines. Such policies narrowed the choice which the individual travelers could exercise, even if they were not restricted to using a single airline. Finally, the choice of airlines still depends on the person who has to travel and the airline schedule as well. If the airline schedule is suitable, the passengers will choose to fly with the airline as their choice. The comprehensive definition of customer satisfaction is given by Oliver (1997); Customer satisfaction is the consumers fulfillment judgment that a product or service itself, provided (or is providing) a pleasurable level of consumption- related fulfillment, included level of under-or over fulfillment. Today, the airlines have to face with the significant competition within the industry so that level of customer satisfaction becomes more important. Besides that, the passenger satisfaction includes the various types of services which are related to the airlines industry such as the satisfaction of the online check-in service, ground handling service and the quality of food on board as well. Next, the customer satisfaction factor plays a major role in the airlines industry and it also impacts directly to the profit of an airline company. At the same time, according to Yi (1991), customer satisfaction may be defined into two basic ways: either as an outcome or as a process (table 1.1) Definition The buyers cognitive state of being adequately or in-adequately rewarded for the sacrifices he has under gone An emotional response to the experience provided by (or associated with) particular products or services purchased, retailed outlets, or even molar patterns of behavior, as well as the overall marketplace An outcome of purchase and use resulting from the buyers comparison of the rewards and the costs of the purchase in relation to the anticipated consequences An evaluation rendered that the experience was at least as good as it was supposed to be An evaluation that the chosen alternative consistent with prior beliefs with respect to that alternative The consumers respond to the evaluation of the perceived discrepancy between prior expectations and the actual performance of the products as perceived after its consumption Approach Satisfaction as an outcome Satisfaction as a process Figure 1.1: Definition of customer satisfaction (Yi, 1991) Source: Adopted from Grigoroudis Siskos (2010, p.4) Otherwise, losing customers would mean that the airline organizations would have to win new customers to keep the business going, by doing so, the cost of promotions and attracting new customers would cost the airline organizations more money, Hill, N. and Alexander, J. (2000). The report by Kazim, S, K. (2005), starts with the introduction to Emirate Airlines and its innovation in the in-flight products to achieve the high level of customer satisfaction. Next, Emirate Airlines has mainly focused to develop the onboard connectivity for ultra long haul flights (8-14 hours). This is important especially for in the cases of business travelers and cooperate travelers as these ultra long haul flights can be a very attractive proposition for them because of the accessibility and fast connection from one end of the world to another. The reports result is that Emirate Airlines has a successfully innovated to build up their market positioning and achieve the high level of customer satisfaction through the onboard connectivity. 3.2) Measuring the customer satisfaction in the airlines industry: This part is mainly focused on the measurement of customer satisfaction in the airlines industry which is based on the tangibles of service and the intangibles of product. Besides that, these important elements will be used in the questionnaires and will be analyzed as a part of this research papers objective to indentify customer satisfaction motivating factors in the aviation industry. 3.2.1) Why is customer satisfaction measured? Hill, N. Brierley, J. and MacDougall, R. (1999), explains the reasons why the customer satisfaction factor needs to be measured. A customer satisfaction measurement (CSM) programme will therefore enable us to understand how customers perceive your organization and whether your performance meets their expectations. Furthermore, the airline organizations are able to understand their passenger expectations so that they will have their own strategies and methods to achieve those passengers requirement. At the same time, if the airline companies manage the customer satisfaction measurement well, they will be able to set the goals for their service improvement and monitor progress against a passenger satisfaction index. Likewise, the airlines can increase their profits through improved the customer satisfaction, customer loyalty and retention. Business Success Customer Loyalty Customer Satisfaction Figure 1.2: Business performing modeling Source: Adopted from Hill, Brierley MacDougall (1999, p.7) There are many airline organizations and especially the in the USA have recognized the significance of CSM so that they have developed the business performance model (see figure 1.2), enabling them to forecast financial performance from shift in their CSM data. Some can even take the model back as far as employee satisfaction. Based on the figure 1.2 above, it shows us the relation between customer satisfaction and customer loyalty and then both factors are linked closely to the success of business. Next, the diagram above would mean that the airline organizations should achieve the high level of passenger satisfaction and therefore they will also be able to maintain effectively the passenger loyalty and it will lead to the success in business of those airline organizations. Additionally, these elements would contribute to add up to a customer satisfaction level and retention. By understanding the non-traditional customer satisfaction elements such as the below could allow the airline organizations to adopt and improve on their customer retention methods. 3.2.2) Elements of service require for satisfaction: This portion shall be based on the theory of Parasuraman, Zeithaml and Berrys (1988) which is presented the five elements of reliability, assurance, responsiveness and empathy which makes up service quality. The SERVQUAL model above (see figure 1.3) is essentially an instrument for measuring how customer perceived the quality of service they receive. Furthermore, the evaluation is based mainly on the five elements of services which are expected from the air passengers. The Reliability: The airlines services must be dependable and consistent in their performance, it includes accurate in their performance. Besides that, it also means the airline companys employees should perform the desired services correctly in the first time round. For example: providing the check-in service for passengers effectively. The Responsiveness: It means the airlines services should deliver the services such as the on-board services and services at the airport promptly to passenger (rather than ignores the passengers and leaves them waiting). Besides that, the airlines employees are always willing and ready to serve and help the passengers. E.g. the air hostess should be always ready to serve quickly when the passengers query has been made. The assurance: The air service staffs have to assure that they have the knowledge, skills, abilities and courtesy to perform their duties. E.g. knowledge of the air hostess about the destinations, reputation of the airline organizations and security. Staff empathy: This service element is related to the airlines staffs ability to provide passengers with individual attention. Next, the airlines employees need to treat individually and need to show their concern, caring to passengers as well. E.g. recognize the regular passengers name, learning passengers specific requirement. Tangibles: This element is considered as the physical evidence of service. For example: appearance of personnel, the equipment used to provide the service. 3.2.3) Elements of product require for satisfaction: In this portion, I would like to mention to the five elements of product which associate with customer satisfaction within the aviation industry. Moreover, I would include these elements into my questionnaires later to ask the respondents rank accordingly for their satisfaction level. Quality of services: The quality of airlines services such as check-in service, food and beverage on board and ground handling service impacts directly to the passengers decision making. Especially, some passengers will select the airline for its good services even though the air fare is higher than other airlines? Location: The location of airline offices and its authorized agencies should be convenient and easy to access for passengers. Airfares price: The airfares price is considered as the most important factors for a specific airline to compete with their competitors. Next, the airfare should offer with reasonable price. Layout, decoration and entertainment service: This portion is to mention to the interior design of the air craft and the uniform of air hostess which are considered as the cultural factors for an airline company. Next, some additional on-board entertainment services (videos, music and games) are also the competitive elements in the aviation industry. Loyalty program: This part is to emphasis the functions of VIP cards or other methods that are used by the airline organizations to bring back passengers through discount, vouchers, higher priority and free gift. For example: the Golden Lotus Program of Vietnam Airlines and SIAs Kris Flyers program. 3.3) Understanding the passenger requirements: This part is concentrated to understand the passenger requirements in the business travel market so that the airline organizations will be easier to achieve the higher level of customer satisfaction and also to improve the service quality efficiently. Shaw, S (2004), airlines do not just have to be indentify the passengers needs but they also have to prioritize. Below is are the options to the nature of passengers needs and the discussion shall be divided between the corporate and independent sub-segments of business travel demand, and between short and long hauls routes. 3.3.1) Short-haul and long-haul routes: 3.3.1.1) Frequency and Timings: In the airlines industry, the frequency and timings factors are very important to the air passengers, especially for the short-haul markets. Today all the business travelers are extremely busy and their plan is rescheduled often at the short notice. And therefore, an airline offering them a high frequency will have crucial advantages. Besides that, frequency will ensure that business travelers can fly out for the meeting shortly before it is due to begin and return to their offices or homes very soon after it has been completed. Moreover, the flights timings are also a vital consideration and there should be extensive opportunities on short-haul routes for business travelers to make day-return trips. And therefore most of the flights need to be concentrated in the early morning and evening periods. 3.3.1.2) Punctuality: The flights punctuality is a crucial importance to the business travelers and there is no airline dare to hope to obtain a big number of passengers if they perform a poor punctuality reputation. Likewise, the flight delays meaning inconvenience, missed appointment and perhaps the loss of customers. Especially, almost of the long-haul passengers are the connecting passengers and they are usually taking the transit or stop-over flights so that this factor becomes extremely significant for them. Once delay, it will annoy the point-to-point travelers and may destroy their entire flight itinerary. 3.3.1.3) Ticket flexibility: Seat accessibility is considered as a piece of aviation jargon which refers to the probability of passengers who are being able to grab a seat shortly before the flight is due to depart. Next, it is a crucial product need for business travelers. The short-haul passengers requirement about ticket flexibility is a little bit unfair for the airlines because many business travelers expect the right to no-show for the flight, and then to be re-booked on the next flights out later without any penalty being charged. Of course, because of this, airlines have to face with so many difficulties and issues. Nonetheless, these factors are lower importance on the long-haul routes and the last minute availability of seat is less important on the long-haul flights. Normally, the long-haul passengers will take note carefully for their flights three days before the departure date due to the its lower frequencies and high cost of penalty when missing the flight. 3.3.1.4) Frequent flyer benefits: Today, almost of the airlines operate their own frequent flyer programme or the passenger loyalty schemes to gain the re-support of their regular passengers. At the same time, the frequent flyers will have chance to accumulate the number of mileage points and then they can use those points to exchange to some kinds of benefit such as rewards, hotel or restaurant vouchers, free gifts or free air ticket for the next time travelling. Nevertheless, there is a difference of the attitudes to frequent flyer points between short and long-haul markets. On the long-haul route, substantial numbers of points are stake. In fact, for many programmes, the passengers are taking the long-haul flights with a particular airlines (at least in the First or Business Class), they could earn sufficiency mileage for a short-haul flight on that airlines network with free of charge. Because of this issue, so many long-haul passengers have selected the airlines whose frequent flyer points they are supporting; even they are not really satisfied with the flight timing or frequency. 3.3.1.5) Ground service: It is not surprising that the airport service should be a significant factor in select of airline decisions. Of course, all the business travelers will wish to spend as less time as possible in the airport. Besides that, they wish to check-in very late for the flight, by using the separately check-in counters as well. And so that, the airport service provided should be very effective and helpful to satisfy the demand of air passengers. However, the offer of very late check-in time for the long-haul passengers is less important. Besides that, most of the long-haul passengers prefer to check-in earlier than those in the short trips because of the greater penalty of missing flight and lower frequencies as well. 3.3.1.6) In-flight service: On the short-haul routes, the fact that the flight duration is short so that in-flight service often assumes a lower priority than frequency, punctuality and airport service in selection of airline decisions. However, it still can extremely important and directly influent to the passengers in-flight experiences. On the other hand, there are differences between the expectations for in-flight service on long and short haul flights. On the long-haul routes, the seating comfort on board, a separate cabin to allow for sleep and work, meal quality and in-flight entertainment are taken more concern from the passengers. 3.3.1.7) Direct flights for long-haul routes: Especially, a significant consideration alongside the frequency is often that there should be direct and non-stop flights available for the long-haul routes. In the competitive aviation industry, that is no longer the impossible expectations, as aircrafts manufactures have innovated with aircraft having longer and longer ranges so it has become possible to fly greater and greater number of the worlds air routes on a non-stop basic. Today, there is really no way for an airline operating a stopping service to compete for the high-yielding traffic with the competitors which are able to offer the direct, non-stop flights. 3.3.2) The differences between cooperate and independent travelers: This portion would differentiate the requirements of cooperate business travels and independent travelers. First of all, for the independent business travelers, the terms of frequency, timings, safety, punctuality, seat accessibility and ticket flexibility need to remain the same. Moreover, the independent travelers are more concern about the airfares cost than other factors such as standard of seating comfort and quality of in-flight meals. Next, the independent travelers will normally trade off the cheaper airfare because the tickets cost is coming out from their own pocket. Secondly, for the cooperate travelers, the attractive perk of the job and providing opportunities to enjoy free leisure flights are considered more important than the benefits of frequent flyer points. 3.4) Form the alliances to enhance customer satisfaction: In this part, it mainly concentrates on the airlines alliance which is the important factors to improve the customer satisfaction and develop the airlines business. Otherwise, the theories are based on the explanations of reliable authors and other academic articles on the same researchs topic. 3.4.1) Introduce to airlines alliances: Shaw, S (2004), the air carriers have usually preferred the comfort of co-operative rather than competitive relationships. In 1993, KLM and Northwest Airlines announced their desire to create a strategic partnership. Then, the United States government gave them immunity from the US Anti-Trust laws, which it did following the signing of an Open Skies agreement between the US and Netherlands governments. After that, the two national airways, Lufthansa and United Airlines proposed to join hand with KLM and Northwest Airlines to become the Star Alliance in 1995. Again, the Anti-Trust was available between US and Germany governments. In additional, Star Alliance grew rapidly in terms of the number of members it had, with it currently consisting of 27 member airlines in 2010. Alongside the available of Star Alliance, there were other formations of airlines alliance such as One World alliance and Skyteam alliance. Likewise, the formation of One World alliance by British Airways (BA), American Airlines (UA) and Cathay Pacific (CX) was announced in one year after the establishment of Star Alliance. Besides that, the evaluation of the modern alliance was completed in 1999 when Air France and Delta Airlines formed the Skyteam Alliance. Otherwise, Thompson, A. and Strickland, A, J. (2004) stated that airlines which enter alliances to gain competitive advantage. These are the following main motivations to make the airline companies enter alliances. To gain the technology knowledge and experience To enter a new markets To better exploit economies of scale Having said this, it is quite obvious that airlines which enter into co-operative alliance relationships are seeking cost reductions. Next, if the alliance members can negotiate together, this may help to increase their power to bargain with the suppliers of airport services. Next, According to Chareonsup, N. (2006), the strategic alliances become increasingly important in the very competitive aviation industry. This study mainly focuses on key success factors in managing strategic alliances for Thai Airways International as member of Star Alliance. Particularly in the global airlines industry, the strategic alliances enable the small firms to face with the difficulties, while also the large firms are still able to obtain their benefits, while remaining small. As the small airline carrier of the Star Alliance, Thai Airways is considered as an available opportunity to understand and investigate strategic alliances in clearer picture. Lastly, upon the result of this research, it can be concluded that Thai Airways has a high potential to adapt itself in a big alliances. 3.4.2) Definition of airlines alliances: According to Yoshino, M, Y. and Rangan, U, S. (1995), alliances are defined as the long-term beneficial relationship between two or more airline organizations. Besides that, these airline companies have agreed upon achievement to meet a critical business need while staying independent of each other. Next, it is a synergistic agreement between two or more airline organizations agree to cooperate in carrying out of business activity where each brings different strengths and abilities to the agreement. Moreover, Sawler, J, H. (2000), has tried to define of strategic alliances in a clearer picture. It is defined as the relationship between two or more airline firms that involves the sharing of resources: capital, technology, experience, distribution network, etc., in which is involved with cooperative activities which go beyond ordinary arms length transaction, but fall short of mergers. 3.4.3) The benefits of customer from airlines alliances: Kleymann, B. and Seristo, H. (2004), this part will get an idea of the Alliance Markers views and analyze how the airlines alliances bring more benefits to their customers. Besides that, this portion is based on the interviews with senior airline executive (Vice-president up to Deputy CEO Levels) involved in alliancing. Bob Ayling, Chief Executive of British Airways, said: his customers have shared with him they prefer airlines to work together to increase the standard of services across the world. Furthermore, alliances bring together leading airlines to maximize the benefits for customers, employees and shareholders. Don Carty, Chief Executive of American Airlines, said: the purposes that they started the alliance are to enhance the travel experience for the customers, improve the competitive position of their respective airlines and thus provide opportunities for their employees, as well as create value for their shareholders by building the worlds premier airline network. Kevin Benson, Chief Executive of Canadian Airlines, said: One world alliance will deliver unrivalled benefits across our partner airlines, ensuring that the customers are recognized across all airlines as if they were their own. David Turnbull, Chief Executive of Cathay Pacific Airways, said: This alliance is superb news for Cathay Pacifics customers and those of our partner alliances. Customers travelling on Oneworld will receive the highest levels of services and product available. James Strong, Chief Executive of Qantas Airways, said: Oneworld alliance will provide each of them with a great opportunity to provide worldwide high quality service to customers through airline partners acknowledged as world leaders in the airlines industry. In additional, Doganis, R. (2001), stated that the airlines alliances produce more benefits for the air-passengers such as arise from higher frequencies, offer more available destinations with on-line connections with airlines in the same alliance, improve the transfer times and levels of in-flight and ground service, as well as more attractive of loyalty schemes. As so far, alliance may lead to lower operating cost for the airlines through the realization of cost synergies, so that customers will likely have chance to grab the lower airfare easier if any cost saving are reflected in the lower fare. This portion is ended with the case study of Airlines industry partnership which also analyzed the customers benefits from airlines alliances clearly. Customer benefits from partnership include seamless travel with association between connections, sharing of airport lounges, and cross-use of frequent flyer programmes where customers will have chance to enjoy the lower average airfares from airlines within the alliances due to the power of partnership as well. Besides that, the latter open-skies model of partnership has facilitated the reduction in fares through cooperative pricing which gives a certain amount of benefit to each partner. At the same time, most of the partnership shares routes and operates the code-share routes (passengers could buy a ticket for one airline and end up on a plane of the other partners) so that customers may have chances to enjoy travel experiences with different airlines in the same alliance. (Donaldson, B. and Toole, T, O. 2007). 3.5) Competition leads to the development of service quality: 3.5.1) Definite the competition: Pride, W, M. Hughes, R, J. and Kapoor, J, R. (2008), business competition is essential a rivalry among businesses for sales to potential customers. Moreover, competition also ensure that the airlines will survive only if it is able to serve and satisfy customers well by providing products and services that meet needs. 3.5.2) Porters Five Forces framework: Porter, (1998), the five forces comprises threat of new entrance, bargaining power of suppliers and buyers, threat of substitute as well as competitive rivalry, as show in the figure 1.4. Furthermore, the framework helps to identify the sources of competition in the airlines industry as to facilitate the development of service quality for the airlines to serve passengers better. New Entrants Deregulation of airlines More airlines serving the region Emergence of budget carriers Bargaining Power of Supplier Aircraft Manufacturers Travel Agent Internet Fuel suppliers Buyers Power Wide choice of airlines (low switching costs for passengers) Customers have stronger bargaining power Rivalry in the Industry Increasing number of international flights Load factors utilization Price wars due to load factors Advertising campaigns Substitutes Teleconferencing and video conferencing Email Interstate transportation modes for domestic carriers rail, bus, car Figure 1.4: Porters Five Forces Framework Industrial Analysis Source: Adopted from Porter, M, E., Competitive strategy: Techniques for analyzing industries and competitors. 3.5.2.1) Threat of new entrants: In the airlines industry, the threat of new entrants is low due to the barriers to entry such as high capital, costs of training and differentiated products. On the other hand, opening sky policy contributes to stimulate the potential cross passenger service between the airlines and the new entrants. 3.5.2.2) Bargaining power of supplier: Buyers are more willing to switch suppliers due to low switching cost and diverse source of supply that is available (Grant, 2005). Today, airlines are willing to switch between two giant suppliers, Airbus and Boeing due to the expectation in modern aircrafts in term of high load factor, less fuel consumption, CO2 emission and quieter engines. 3.5.2.3) Bargaining power of buyers: Although customers are able to book the air-tickets online due to the high technology systems, travel agencies constitute a major portion of the customer base to the industry. Besides that, these travel agencies have the strong chances to influent customers who have no strong brand preferences as to what travel decision they should make. Next, travel agencies understand their advantage position in the industry therefore they use their high bargaining power with airlines to get the better deals in area such as extra commission. Moreover, due to the bargaining power, travel agencies have the authorization to offer some special kinds of fare which customers are unable to book by other ways. Like, for a group of travelers, customers will have chance to book the GV2 tickets (from 2 passengers and above take the same return flight and date) or GV10 tickets which is offered specially by Singapore Airlines (from 10 passengers and above take the exactly same return flight and date). And of course, the airfares cost should so much be cheaper compare with the basic single air ticket. Finally, travel agencies are using their bargaining power effectively to earn extra commission and help the travelers to get better deals with airlines as well. 3.5.2.4) Threat of substitute: The improvement of technology is also one of the threats to the airlines industry today. Likewise, the online business communication technologies are considered as an alternative to travel. Next, the high usages of international calls lead to the reduction in business travel as well. 3.5.2.5) Competitive rivalry: The rivalry among existing players in the market is the dominant force in the framework. The intensity of rivalry which is the most obvious of the five forces in t

Our Day Out by Willy Russell Essay examples -- English Literature

The play Our Day Out by Willy Russell. "Our Day Out" The play "Our Day Out" by WillyRussellraised many questions about education, school trips, and how teachers react to different and less able kids. In my C.E.L. I shall answer two important questions that I feel were raised in this play, and explain how the writer made me aware of these issues. I shall also explain clearly my response to these issues. "Mrs. Kayscans the beach, Carolcannot be seen." This is something whichdefinitelywould not happen on a school trip nowadays. A pupils lost. The first question raised in the play was whether school trips are dangerous or worth the risk. Mrs. Kay was supposed to take a group of kids to Conwy Castle however on the way there they visited a zoo, a funfair, and the beach. This is something which simply wouldn't be allowed to happen on a modern day school trip as there are too many rules and restrictions to follow and teachers have no freedom with the kids on school trips which I feel is perhaps wrong. Some of the kids on the trip in "Our Day Out" had never seen the sea and wouldn't have know what it was if they hadn't been on that trip. I think that all pupils who have never been to the sea, a museum, or a gallery should be given the chance to go so that they can experience the same as everyone else. All trips nowadays are thought to be dangerous and teachers must fill in lots of forms and make justifications and assurances just to take pupils out on a simple trip to a museum. This puts many teachers off going on school trips. If the trip from the play occurred today, which it wouldn't, the teachers would probably lose their jobs. I feel teachers should be allowed more opportunity to take kids n this sort ... ...ll in benefit forms, write letters, and fill in job applications instead of being taught pointless things such as history as they will never use those skills. Teaching the less able kids how to fill in simple forms will set them up for the real world where there are no teachers to help them with everything. This sort of education would give these pupils a chance in life so they could survive on their own. Even though "Our Day Out" was quite a simple, easy to read play it raised many questions about education, teachers and most of all school trips. The play also raised many points of discussion which my class spoke about for several hours, this, I feel is one of the main merits of the book. I feel one of the main weaknesses of the book was the simple language used. However this play made me think more about education and I feel it was well worth reading.

Dracula :: essays research papers

CHAPTER 1 1876 Summary Chapter 1 starts with the main persona, Jonathan Harker; a solicitor clerk making a journey to Transylvania at he behest of a client Count Dracula. Jonathan starts making entries in his journal on May 3. He leaves Munich and arrives at Vienna Budapest. He stops at Hotel Royale, where he has dinner but his night is restless as he has queer dreams. He starts out again in the morning boarding the train at Bistritz. As directed by the Count, he goes to Golden Krone Hotel, where Dracula gives him a letter. On May 4, his next entry tells about the fear on the faces of is landlord and wife. They refuse to tell him much about Dracula and instead try to dissuade from going, telling him that it is the eve of St. George’s Day, when all the evil things in the world have full sway. The Landlord’s wife puts a rosary around on his neck. The Count’s coach arrives for Jonathan. On May 5, in the castle, the driver, the landlord and his wife, and a small crowd point two fingers at Jonathan and make the sign of the cross. Jonathan is later told that this is to word of evil. The driver and Jonathan arrive earlier than schedule time. The driver urges Jonathan to go back. Before Jonathan can react, a tall man with along brown beard and a great black hat comes along. The other driver makes a sign of the cross and leaves in a hurry. The tall man drives his carriage away towards Dracula’s castle. At about midnight a dog begins to howl followed by many others. The horses nervously strain and rear but the driver pacifies them almost magically. The howling sounds nearer and nearer and this time it is the baying of the wolves. Suddenly, Jonathan sees a faint flickering blue flame. The driver sees it and jumps down and disappears into the darkness. He reappears again, the flames seems to have disappeared. Again it appears but does not seem to illumine the place. Once a strange optical effect happens, where the driver stands between the flame and Jonathan and does not obstruct it. The howling of the wolves continuously follows the carriage. The horses jump and rear in terror, but the driver is in full command. After some time, they finally stop in the courtyard of a vast ruined castle with tall black windows through which no light penetrates.

To His Coy Mistress by Andrew Marvell and Our Love Now by Martyn Essay

To His Coy Mistress by Andrew Marvell and Our Love Now by Martyn Lowery both see men trying to use methods of persuasion to get what they want. How successful are they? I have recently studied ‘To His Coy Mistress’ by Andrew Marvell, written in the 17th Century and ‘Our Love Now’ by Martyn Lowery, written in the 19th century. Attitudes to love have changed a lot since the 17th Century. When ‘To His Coy Mistress’ was written, men were in charge of the relationship. It would take a lot longer for this relationship to progress than it would today. The man would court the woman for months before anything progressed. He would write her letters and poems, and then eventually, if he loved her, he would ask her to marry him. They would not make love until they were married, as sex outside of marriage was frowned upon. However, today a relationship before marriage can be any length of time and there is no one in charge of it as men and women are more equal in today’s society. ‘To His Coy Mistress’ is a poem about a man trying to persuade a shy woman to have sex with him. In the first section he romances her, convinces her that he respects her, tells her she is beautiful and how he adores her. In the second section he scares her. He says that life is short and all they have to look forward to is death. In the third part he persuades the woman by telling her that she should make the most of time and to speed it up, not waste it. ‘Our Love Now’ is a poem about a man trying to persuade a woman that they should persevere with their relationship. He uses metaphors as a key method of persuasion. However we have the woman’s reply, and she clearly does not feel the same way, she thinks their relationship is over. Ev... ... very strong, consistent argument, allowing no time for the woman to sort out in her own head, her feelings for him. The way the argument is constructed implies he is forcing her to have sexual relations. He does not give her a choice, but uses his power over her to get his own way. I think he almost bullies her into making love to him as he never stops bombarding her with his opinions. In ‘To His Coy Mistress’ the poet uses a variety of methods. The way the poem is constructed makes it sound as if it is written flippantly, but the reader can see through him. I don’t think the woman would see this as it is covered by clever examples. However, after studying the poem you can see this. He makes her feel secure, makes her think he loves her and tells her what he wants yet does not put it so bluntly that in undermines his otherwise very successful persuasions.

Khaled Hosseini Essay

A single event can shape the rest of a lifetime. Redemption is a way that makes up for the cause of the guilt. The Kite Runner is very much a â€Å"novel of redemption. † The main character, Amir, has to find a way to redeem himself after having betrayed Hassan. Sanaubar, likewise, must find redemption. Baba resolves his past guilty by doing good deeds First, Amir redeems himself by steps into courage and rescues the son of his brother Hassan Redemption is the act of saying or being saved from sin, error or evil, which the main character Amir seems to need the most. Amir lives with the guilt he has built up over the years because of one incident from his childhood. Amir’s father’s words still echo through his head â€Å"A boy who won’t stand up for himself becomes a man who can’t stand up to anything. † Pg (24). Although Amir destroyed the lives of many people, and he has had more than one opportunity to redeem himself of his guilt, he is not the selfish little boy he once was. Before Amir can go on the road to redemption, Amir must realize that he can’t go back and change what he has done as a child, and he must find inner peace. Although if it was not for Amir’s actions as a child, Sohrab never would have needed to be saved in the first place but by saving Sohrab, the last piece of Hassan’s life, does make a difference. From the moment he chose to turn his back on Hassan, there were many chances where â€Å"There’s a way to be good again† (238). For all his wrongdoings, but he chose not to take any of these. Sohrab was his last and only chance for redemption. â€Å"I have a wife in America, a home, a career and a family†. But how could I pack up and go back home when my actions may have cost Hassan a chance at those very same things? And what Rahim Khan revealed to me changed things. Made me see how my entire life, long before the winter of 1975, dating back to when that singing Hazara woman was still nursing me, had been a cycle of lies betrayals and secrets† (238). Amir finally became the man who stood up for himself and his sins. Throughout his childhood, Amir looked for his father’s affection and he never could get it. His father had said â€Å"I’m telling you, Rahim, there is something missing in that boy (24). Amir’s father would have been proud of him at this very moment because that was all he had wanted from him. The guilt that was built over the years was finally put to rest at the safety of Sohrab. In Afghanistan when Amir stood up for Sohrab and Assef aggressively beat him up, Amir had said â€Å"My body was broken just how badly I wouldn’t find out until later but I felt healed. Healed at last. I laughed. † (289) which showed Amir had come to terms with what he had done as a child and was finally felt relieved. Although he was getting beat up, it did not matter anymore, he just wished he had stood up to Assef years ago, and maybe he would have earned his redemption in that alley. Second, In the novel Baba Seeks redemption by treating Hassan well and always remembering his birthday. Amir and Baba were planting tulips, when Amir had asked Baba if he’d ever consider getting new servants And Baba said ‘’Hassan’s not going anywhere, he’d barked. He’s staying right here with us, where he belongs. This is his home and we’re his family. He had wept, wept, when Ali announced he and Hassan were leaving us. † (237).

Deception Point Page 18

My God, she whispered. What is this place?20The CNN production facility come forwardside of Washington, D.C., is one(a) of 212 studios worldwide that link via sitellite to the globular headquarters of Turner Broadcasting arranging in Atlanta.It was 145 P.M. when Senator Sedgewick Sextons limousine pulled into the parking lot. Sexton was feeling smug as he got out and strode toward the entrance. He and Gabrielle were greeted inside by a pot- tam-tamied CNN worldufacturer who wore an effusive smile.Senator Sexton, the producer said. Welcome. Great intelligence operation. We undecomposed found out who the White stomach sent as a outfit partner for you. The producer gave a premonition grin. I hope you brought your game baptistery. He motioned through the production render out into the studio.Sexton looked through the glass and virtu all(prenominal)y fell everywhere. Staring back at him, through the smoky haze of her cigarette, was the ugliest pointt in politics.Marjori e Tench? Gabrielle blurted. What the hell is she doing hither?Sexton had no idea, further whatsoever the reason, her presence hither was fantastic news-a cleared sign that the professorship was in despair mode. Why else would he send his ripened adviser to the front lines? chairperson Zach Herney was curlicue out the big guns, and Sexton welcomed the opportunity.The larger the foe, the life-threateninger they fall.The senator had no doubt that Tench would be a sly opponent, besides gazing straight at the wo while, Sexton could not second but tailork that the chairwoman had do a serious error in judgment. Marjorie Tench was hideous looking. At the moment, she sat slouched in her chair, smoking a cigarette, her set arm moving in languorous rhythm back and forth to her thin lips wish a giant praying mantid feeding.Jesus, Sexton thought, if there was ever a daring that should stick to radio.The few quantify Sedgewick Sexton had contriven the White House cured advis ers jaund methamphetamine hydrochlorided mug in a magazine, he could not believe he was looking at one of the closely powerful faces in Washington.I dont a kindred this, Gabrielle whispered.Sexton barely heard her. The much than he considered the opportunity, the more he want it. Even more fortuitous than Tenchs media-unfriendly face was Tenchs reputation on one describe issue Marjorie Tench was extremely point-blank that the Statess leadership role in the upcoming could only be secured through scientific superiority. She was an avid supporter of high-tech giving medication R D programs, and, roughly important-NASA. galore(postnominal) believed it was Tenchs behind-the-scenes pressure that kept the President positioned so staunchly behind the impuissance space agency.Sexton wondered if perhaps the President was now punishing Tench for all the bad adv frappe about supporting NASA. Is he throwing his senior adviser to the wolves?Gabrielle Ashe gazed through the glass at Ma rjorie Tench and felt a growing uneasiness. This woman was smart as hell and she was an unexpected twist. Those two facts had her instincts tingling. Considering the womans side on NASA, the President sending her to face-off against Senator Sexton seemed ill-advised. But the President was certainly no fool. Something told Gabrielle this interview was bad news.Gabrielle already perceived the senator salivating over his odds, which did little to capture her concern. Sexton had a habit of waiver overboard when he got cocky. The NASA issue had been a welcome boost in the polls, but Sexton had been pushing very hard lately, she thought. Plenty of campaigns had been lost by candidates who went for the cup of tea when all they needed was to finish the round.The producer looked eager for the impending blood match. Lets place you set up, senator.As Sexton headed for the studio, Gabrielle caught his sleeve. I know what youre thinking, she whispered. But just be smart. Dont go overboard. Overboard? Me? Sexton grinned. call back this woman is very good at what she does.Sexton gave her a suggestive smirk. So am I.21The cavernous master(prenominal) chamber of NASAs habisphere would have been a extraneous sight anywhere on earth, but the fact that it existed on an Arctic ice shelf made it that much more difficult for Rachel Sexton to assimilate.Staring upward into a futuristic dome crafted of gabardine interlocking triangular pads, Rachel felt like she had entered a colossal sanatorium. The walls sloped downwards to a floor of solid ice, where an forces of halogen lamps stood like sentinels around the perimeter, casting unembellished light skyward and giving the exclusively chamber an ephemeral luminosity.Snaking across the ice floor, black foam carpetrunners wound like boardwalks through a maze of take-away scientific work stations. Amid the electronics, thirty or forty white-clad NASA personnel were hard at work, conferring happily and talking in unrestraine d tones. Rachel immediately recognized the electricity in the room.It was the thrill of new discovery.As Rachel and the executive circled the outer edge of the dome, she noted the move looks of displeasure from those who recognized her. Their whispers carried clearly in the reverberant space.Isnt that Senator Sextons daughter?What the hell is SHE doing here?I cant believe the decision set aboutr is even speaking to herRachel half expected to see voodoo dolls of her father dangling everywhere. The anger around her, though, was not the only emotion in the air Rachel also sensed a distinct smugness-as if NASA clearly knew who would be having the last laugh.The administrator led Rachel toward a series of tables where a lone man sat at a ready reckoner work station. He was dressed in a black turtleneck, wide-wale corduroys, and heavy boat shoes, rather than the matching NASA weather lurch everyone else seemed to be wearing. He had his back to them.The administrator asked Rachel to wait as he went over and spoke to the stranger. After a moment, the man in the turtleneck gave him a grateful nod and started shutting down his computer. The administrator returned.Mr. Tolland will take it from here, he said. Hes another(prenominal) one of the Presidents recruits, so you two should compensate along fine. Ill join you later.Thank you.I assume youve heard of Michael Tolland?Rachel shrugged, her brain distillery taking in the incredible surroundings. summons doesnt ring a bell.The man in the turtleneck arrived, grinning. Doesnt ring a bell? His voice was resonant and friendly. Best news Ive heard all day. Seems I never get a chance to make a first impression anymore.When Rachel glanced up at the newcomer, her feet froze in place. She knew the mans handsome face in an instant. Everyone in America did.Oh, she said, blush as the man shook her hand. Youre that Michael Tolland.When the President had told Rachel he had recruited top-notch civilian scientists to authen ticate NASAs discovery, Rachel had imagined a group of wizened nerds with monogrammed calculators. Michael Tolland was the antithesis. One of the opera hat known science celebrities in America today, Tolland hosted a weekly documentary called tremendous Seas, during which he brought viewers face-to-face with hypnotic oceanic phenomena-underwater volcanoes, ten-foot sea worms, killer tidal waves. The media hailed Tolland as a cross in the midst of Jacques Cousteau and Carl Sagan, crediting his knowledge, unpretentious enthusiasm, and lust for adventure as the formula that had rocketed Amazing Seas to the top of the ratings. Of course, most critics admitted, Tollands rugged good looks and self-effacing personal magnetism probably didnt hurt his popularity with the female audience.Mr. Tolland, Rachel said, inapt the words a bit. Im Rachel Sexton.Tolland smiled a pleasant, crooked smile. Hi, Rachel. Call me Mike.