Barilla Spa Case Report

Executive Summary As per our conversation last week I would like to revisit the idea originally brought to life by Brando Vitali before he was promoted to head one of our company’s new divisions overseas. In order to address the issue which will be a direct result of introduction of JIT Distribution system, I would like to present the issues and my recommendations to you before our meeting with Marconi’s executives to discuss JITD proposal.As the meeting is scheduled for the of November I would like to hear your thoughts on JITD before the end of this month so I can make appropriate changes to address any issues you might foresee as a direct result of our proposal. The decision to adopt the Just-in-Time Distribution will most likely be met with our sales and marketing team’s resistance to change. Our old-fashioned distribution system has been nurtured since the early development of our channels of distribution.Promotions and advertising were key to our success of achieving a certain level of trust within our Supply Chain both internally and externally. I recommend a staged implementation of the JITD to allow our staff to adapt to our new philosophy. Our distribution networks could become more efficient rather than being all about relationships based on pushing the product out of our facilities. It appears that our Supply Chain executives are not looking for ways to reduce waste within our distribution channels as we are not even clear on how we measure our success.Applying Lean principles to our Supply Chain is misleading to our staff as they think their job security is on the line. This is met with internal resistance that needs to be addressed before we can communicate the advantages and benefits of JITD to our external distribution networks. I believe that Vitali’s approach will fit our new Supply Chain management strategy of Just-in-Time Distribution which will allow us to ship products as needed, rather than building enormous st ock to deal with volatile demand patterns.We need to break down the silos and secrecy of our distribution processes to our customers to allow for more efficient channels of distribution. A more transparent approach with fewer layers along the way will allow for a much more efficient Supply Chain. Working closely with our distributors will allow us to reduce our own inventory and manufacturing costs along the way. We also need to consider our own forecasting systems to built the trust within our channels of distribution.Scheduled monthly meeting will allow for an open dialogue between various groups that might be affected by this implementation. I believe that open lines of communication both internally and externally will contribute to the ultimate success of JITD implementation. We will have to address issues as they come up to ensure the peace of mind of those who will be affected the most. We need to be more flexible to address problems and bottle necks of our distributors as tha t would be crucial to success of JITD.The main idea we need to communicate across our Supply Chain is that JITD would allow us to eliminate waste and get rid of extra layers which our in the way of addressing our issue of volatile demand patters which result in stockouts. Giorgio Maggali, MBA, SCMP Director of Materials Management Barilla Fresh Products Group October 16, 2012 Barilla Spa Case Study Issue Identification As the decision maker in this case I believe that the main issue presented in this case study is resistance to change.To be more specific, DO’s (Organized Distributors) resistance to adopt a new Just-in-Time distribution (JITD) system which would replace the old-fashioned distribution system used by Barilla’s Supply Chain traditionally. This traditional distribution system has always been viewed as a successful one, as it worked for everyone within the channels of distribution supplying dry products to supermarket chains and independent supermarkets. The re was a certain level of trust achieved between the marketing group, sales reps and buyers who are a part of the Supply Chain built around trade promotions.DO’s expectations of frequent trade promotions were considered the only means to cost reduction during the â€Å"canvass† periods where distributors were able to buy as much product as desired to meet current and future needs. This is a well nurtured traditional system which took a lot of years to develop. Environmental and Root Cause Analysis Approximately 65% of Barilla’s dry products were supplied through outside distributors to supermarket chains and independent supermarkets who would eventually get the product into the hands of the ultimate user.Distributors would receive their product from one of the two Barilla’s central distribution centers (CDCs) where movement of product would be assessed based on its category which would be either â€Å"dry† or â€Å"fresh†. Barilla maintained different distribution systems for its dry and fresh products due to their differences in perishability and retail service requirements. Brando Vitali’s JITD proposal focused solely on dry products sold through Barilla’s distributors who I am going to examine. There is an industry culture around the supply and demand of Barilla products.Internal and external politics are at the root cause of the resistance to change around the distribution channels. There are issues that Barilla needs to address internally before the idea of JITD can come to life externally. Barilla’s sales and marketing personnel have expressed a range of concerns because this new philosophy could potentially cost some staff and executives their jobs from the bottom to the top of the sales organization as it is developed further. Sales executives are clinging to the idea of promotion based strategy which the old-fashioned distribution system is based around.This is not a good sign as efforts t o reduce costs should be made from all aspects of the Supply Chain Management. Executives should be concerned with efficiency of their supply chains from different tiers of suppliers all the way thru different tiers of their customers until the product reaches its ultimate user. Barilla executives are not looking for ways to reduce waste within their distribution channels as it’s not even clear how they measure success of their sales force. Barillas distribution network is only based around relationships, not necessarily around efficiency of their supply chain.They should be looking at ways to eliminate waste, even if it means â€Å"leaning out† their sales force and only keeping those who truly perform well. Staff will always resist change as it is uncertainty that scares everyone when new ideas are introduced within an organization, especially if it might put their job security on the line. Once the internal issues are addressed and the new philosophy starts taking p recedence they can effectively communicate JITD to their DO channels. Sales reps would be successful at communicating the ideas and benefits of JITD system to the buyers of the Organized Distributors.Those buyers would then facilitate the flow of this information from the bottom to the top of the organization before a meeting can take place with Marconi and other DOs. Alternatives and/or Options Giver the current situation, I believe there are only two options to consider here. First one is to remain status quo and run the risk of stockouts as the effect of fluctuating demand which due to variation in demand leads to cost increases. The other option would be to embrace the new philosophy of JITD internally and communicate it further down the supply chain to the DOs.Brando Vitali had it right all along with the idea he referred to as Just-in-Time Distribution (JITD) which was modelled after the renowned â€Å"Just-in-Time† manufacturing concept. His philosophy was to consider JITD as a selling tool rather that a threat to sales. Vitali’s view was that as a supply chain we should focus on demand from end user as that is the supply we trying to address at the time it’s required. In order to effectively address the issues of fluctuating demand we need to be able to respond to unexpectedly high demand from the end-consumer and the quickest way to do that would be to eliminate as many layers as possible.Additional inventories to dampen fluctuations costs money, costs of maintaining certain service levels should also be taken into consideration. Rather than filling distributors demand, according to their planning department, we should be looking at distributors data directly and only send what is needed rather than supply distributors with inventory they can hold to anticipate demand swings. By doing so, we would be able to improve operations for ourselves and our customers if we were responsible for determining the quantities and delivery schedu les.This will allow us to further reduce costs as transportation could be handled by our CDCs based on sales volume variations. Recommendation and Implementation I recommend the JITD system as it will address the stockouts issues we’re currently experiencing as the effect of fluctuating demand. Our distributors already carry too much inventory (see Exhibit 13) which doesn’t resolve the stockouts issues we’re seeing despite the fact that they are holding a couple of weeks inventory.We should be able to improve operations for our distributors if we were allowed to be responsible for determining quantities and delivery schedules based on end users demand. This would allow us to ship product as per demand required rather than trying to manufacture stock large enough to supply both of our facilities. Furthermore we would be able to reduce our own distribution, inventory and manufacturing costs and pass those savings onto our customers if we didn’t have to worr y about volatile demand patterns.Ultimately this will work the same way it does with Barilla sales representatives assisting with setting up in-store promotions analyzing competitive information including competitor’s prices, stockouts and new product additions. This would be effective because no one knows our product better than we do. If our sales reps are allowed at distribution facilities, they would be able to assist, gather and exchange a lot of valuable information about our needs and those of our DOs. The more we know about each other’s business the better off our Supply Chain will be.The fewer layers we have, the quicker we can get our product to our ultimate customers; reducing our own inventory and manufacturing costs along the way. We’ll have to improve our own forecasting systems of course as it is imperative to our business that our distributors have that extra confidence in our abilities. Monitor and Control This sort of an idea would require a lo t of back and forth communication both internally and externally. Cross functional teams would be required to address issues and concerns which might arise from this sort of implementation.The whole process should be done in stages to allow staff to adapt to the changes gradually. Keeping everyone informed would be key as the only way to reassure staff and address uncertainty would be to educate them on pros on cons of the system being brought to life. Regularly scheduled monthly meetings are an absolute must to address issues as they arise. New KPI’s should be clearly communicated to the sale reps. Our reps should be clear on all of the aspects of JITD implementation as they would play an important role of facilitating the flow of information down the Supply Chain.Once DOs are up to speed on JITD, a simulation should be considered with external distributors to demonstrate the benefits of the new distribution system once it is implemented. Inviting DO representatives to see o ur manufacturing facilities and addressing their concerns with solutions would go along way on establishing rapport and strengthening relationships. Probing and addressing bottle necks of our distributors with JITD would also be beneficial to everyone as our ability to eliminate wastes and get rid of extra layers would reduce costs across the Supply Chain.

Virgin Atlantic Airways Case Study

Critically assess how the organisation has employed e-business technologies to perform its key business processes and improve service levels for its customers To begin with, the online e-business model of Virgin Atlantic Airways is a business to consumer as the Virgin Atlantic Airways sells plane tickets directly to customers without passing intermediaries. Virgin Atlantic Airways implements the e business technologies to perform its key business processes and improve service levels for its customers by improving reservation online, provide all convenient services, flight data , route, cost saving ,more flight and news update and promotion. Reservation Online System First of all, Virgin Atlantic Airways (2012) stated that the reservation online enhance booking system and increase sales. This is because it is convenient for passengers to check dates and flight. No matters where passenger live, they can reserve online and make a payment directly to Virgin Atlantic Airways through credit cards. Secondly reservation online provide all level of services. So passengers can select the service to suit their need. Virgin Atlantic Airways provide services such as economy class, premium economy class as well as upper class. Convenient. B2C or Business direct to customer is quite convenient and efficient with airline business (Kotler, 2008) . This reduces the need of sell agents as intermediary. As a result of this, Virgin Atlantic Airways can sell plane ticket at a lower price. Furthermore, e-business technology can increase foreign passengers through Virgin Atlantic Airways booking system. This is because foreign passengers can check the route , flight data and prices to compare with other airline. However, if they find Virgin Atlantic Airways suit their need more , they will book directly with Virgin Atlantic Airways. Flight Data E-business technologies make a flight data more accurate and fast due to, the system is operated by computer. To demonstrate this, if one passenger book the plane ticket the system will show the seats availability left and if one change his or her mind by cancellation the system will responds very quick. Route E-business technologies could perform its key business processes and improve service levels for passengers by showing the flight route and provide alternative route for passengers to select. Therefore, passengers have varies option to pick the most convenient route and economical route. For a long flight, sometime passengers can pick an economical flight by choosing the flight that transfer at other airport or require couples stop. This enhance customers base and flight booking system. More Flight Virgin Atlantic Airways (2012) mentioned that online system can enhance more flight. This is due to if any flight or route is popular due to high demand or season factors. The system will suggests to possibility to increase more flight . Therefore, Virgin Atlantic Airways revenue and profit will rise as Virgin Atlantic can serve more demand. Cost Saving Cost saving is one of major key success of Virgin Atlantic Airways (Kotler, 2008) . The e business online system can save the cost effectively as there is less need for sell agents and intermediary . Also, the e-business system can manage ticket price effectively as well. This is because if the fuel price and tax price change , the system will adjust the selling price of plane ticket instantly. E –business system which is a computer system require less staffs working. Therefore, the system can save hiring cost. News update and Promotion. Virgin Atlantic website shows all news and promotion update. This is a fast way to communicate directly to passengers and it is quick because the company can just update instantly. This benefits both passengers and the Virgin Atlantic company due to passengers can compare the airways promotion with other airways or decide to purchase the promotion that suit their need instantly.

Library management system Essay

Introduction Library management system is an aspect or branch of information management system that keeps the records of both the library users, books in the library and the activities that is going on in the library, activities like borrowing books and returning books. Information management in general is the collection and management of information from one or more source and distribution of the information to one or more audience. This sometimes involves those who a stake in or right to that information. Management means the organization of and control over the structure, processing, and delivery of information. In short information management entails organizing retrieving acquiring and maintaining information. It is closely related to and overlapping with the practice of data management. A good library manager must be able to take of the following activities in the library; Keep records of books in the library, keep records of the library user, keep track of books borrowed by any library user, keep record of time a library user borrowed and return books and also after each day for decision making purpose, the library manager must be able to make analysis of books borrowed per day, analysis of the type of book people requested for per day and analysis of the author people read his/her book most per day. The emergence of the Internet, however, has led to the adoption of electronic catalog databases (often referred to as â€Å"web cats† or as online public access catalogs, OPACs), which allow users to search the library’s holdings from any location with internet access. This style of catalog maintenance is compatible with new types of libraries, such as digital libraries and distributed libraries, as well as older libraries that have been retrofitted. This proposed system is an offline access of library system or it doesn’t need to have an internet or web connection to run the program. It focuses on library transaction including borrowing of books, producing a library report in much accurate and easier way. In this system, the librarian doesn’t have to use a card catalog; all she has to do is search the specific name of the book, title of book, and/or author in the system. The reasons why the researcher chose to study the electronic library system are, to find out the effectiveness of the electronic library system in the place where it is implemented, to answer the problems encountered in the existing library systems and to show additional features that can be integrated for faster retrieval of data. Theoretical / Conceptual Framework An Integrated Library System (ILS), also known as library management system (LMS), is a resource planning system for a library, used to track and manage books in the library (Adebayo 2007). An ILS is usually comprised of a relational database, software to act on that database, and two graphical user interfaces (one for patrons, one for staff). Most ILS separate software functions into discrete programs called modules, which are then integrated into a unified interface. Examples of modules include: acquisitions (ordering, receiving, and invoicing materials), cataloging (classifying and indexing materials), circulation (lending materials to patron’s and receiving them back), serials (tracking magazine and newspaper and newspaper holdings), and the OPAC (Public Interface for Users). Each patron and item has a unique ID in the database that allows the ILS to track its activity. Larger libraries use an ILS to order and acquire, receive and invoice, catalog, circulate, track and shelve materials. Most sizable First World libraries use an ILS. Smaller libraries, such as private homes or non-profit organizations (e. g. churches and synagogues), often forego the expense and maintenance required to run an ILS, and instead use a library computer system. ILS was often known as library automation systems or automated system in the 1970’s and early 1980’s. Before the advent of computers, libraries usually used a card catalog to index its holdings. Computers were used to automate the card catalog, thus resorting the card catalog, keeping it up-to-date with respect to the collection, etc. Other tasks automated include checking out and checking in books, generating statistics and reports, acquisitions and subscriptions, indexing journal articles and linking to them, as well as tracking interlibrary loans. Since the late 1980’s windows and multitasking have allowed business functions to be integrated. Instead of having to open up separate applications, library staff could now use a single application with multiple function modules. As the internet grew, ILS vendors offered more functionality related to the internet. Major ILS systems now offer web-based portals where library users can log in to view their account, renew their books, and be authenticated to use online databases. Shibanda (2002) cited that integrated process of a computerized library system can keeps the track of all the books and periodicals and keeping the status updated. Apparently, there are â€Å"user IDs† and associated passwords to make an access in the system. This will keep all the information regarding the materials updated and monitored. The use of the computerized library system is a kind of technology that is popular in the developed countries. Perhaps, this is the right time for the developing countries to show any sign of development and progress even in the technological approach. A computerized library system among the universities is just a simple approach to change the approach of the schools in their one of most busy areas. Through the use of the necessary infrastructure and implementation of the process, the computerized library system can be effective. Stephen Abram (2009) said that traditionally, the library management system or integrated library system (ILS) was responsible for running libraries efficiently and effectively. Over the last few years, the role of the ILS has been expanding from meeting library needs to delivering user experience. Pandita (2004) in her paper â€Å"Collection Development in the Digital Era† examined the impact of electronic format on the collection development. She pointed out that the policy of content development needs to be worked out and re-designed. Mandal and Panda (2005) in their research paper titled â€Å"Collection Development in the Internet Age and the Need for a Consortium in the Engineering College Libraries in West Bengal: A Study† discussed the different dimensions of collection development. The existing state of library collection and infrastructural facilities of 17 engineering college libraries in West Bengal were examined. Author suggested the staff training, provision of adequate staff and funds, appropriate infrastructure in IT and a need based collection. This study requires data for books and borrowers which will be used for registration, checking records on the database, view and print book status. Output of the electronic system will be the releasing of the books, Issuance of receipt and prints other information. INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT Figure 1: Schema of the Study Statement of the Problem This study aims to find out the effectiveness of E – Library in the Municipal Library of Liloy, Zamboanga Del Norte during the calendar year 2012 – 2013. Specifically it intends to answer the following questions: 1. What is the status of the library system? 2. What are the problems encountered by the current library system? 3. What proposed system to be implemented? 4. What is level of functionality in terms of accuracy and speed? Significance of the Study. The study was focused only to improve the library system that helps the librarian, readers, and other concerned people in terms of borrowing books, transaction, managing data, saving records, produce reports and the time and effort statements of assumption. The electronic system manages and maintains records in a library of a certain borrower used to borrow books from a library. Transaction of books can be faster, and with the used of this system, there’s no need of manual recording by the librarian or any person who is in-charge to this system, which made the user of this system’s work lighter and convenience. The study is not intended to change all the principle details and methods of borrowing books from the library but rather to improve it in much accurate and reliable form. Scope and Delimitation: The scope of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of the computerized library system in order to support the continuous learning in various pedagogical settings. To achieve this primary goal, the study should consider the three objectives. First is to compare the existing library system from the traditional system. Second is to compare and contrast the  various schools or universities that successfully managed the computerized approach as new library. Third is to identify the weaknesses and potential threats to make a recommendation on how to strengthen the computerized library system. The study was limited on wide area networking which needs greater requirements on both system hardware and software and exclusively implemented in the Municipal of Liloy, Zamboanga del Norte. Definition of Terms In order to have clearer idea about the study, the researcher defines the following terms: Code. This pertain to the process of writing the necessary code required to develop the prototype Library Management System. LMS. Library Managements System, Software helps the users to manage a library. Database. This term mains a large, comprehensive, and significant collection of data carefully organized and recorded so that information may be derived from it. Librarian. The primary user of the system. In charge of user’s creation, book item creation, check –The one who borrow books from the library. Borrower. The one who borrow books from the library. Computerized. To enter, process, or store (data) in a computer or system of computers. Manually. Is done with the hands by human labor, not automatic. Library. A considerable collection of books kept for use, and not as merchandise. System. Is a group of elements that are integrate with the common purpose of achieving an object. Data. Is information in a form suitable for use with a computer. Report. Is a piece of information describing, or an account of certain events given or presented to sosmenone. Program Testing. Stage in program development process which the programmer is task to run and test to determine the program errors. Debugging. A process of fixing the errors in a computer program. Internet. Group of network computer connected around the globe. Chapter 2 REVIEW OF LITERATURE AND RELATED STUDIES In this chapter, literature and studies are presented. These are related to library management system. These are taken from various references and all of which have bearing with this study. Literature By exploitation of the computers in access and management of information, universities can now administer the library’s operational efficiencies and organizational effectiveness. The more informative system in libraries can efficiently aid the processing of knowledge by supplying the useful information. The computerized library system in universities is expected to lessen the burden on both librarian and students in searching for the appropriate books and information. Therefore, the new library system centers in the advantages in terms of accessing, retrieving, and sharing information most especially in a technologically oriented University environment (Shibanda, 2002). The integrated process of a computerized library system can keeps the track of all the books and periodicals and keeping the status updated. Apparently, there are â€Å"user IDs† and associated passwords to make an access in the system. This will keep all the information regarding the materials updated and monitored. The use of the computerized library system is a kind of technology that is popular in the developed countries. Perhaps, this is the right time for the developing countries to show any sign of development and progress even in the technological approach. A computerized library system among the universities is just a simple approach to change the approach of the schools in their one of most busy areas. Through the use of the necessary infrastructure and implementation of the process, the computerized library system can be effective. However, the country or the universities should answer the various challenges including the interactive connections (telephone and modem), the electricity problems, and the process of accessibility and privacy issues. In building the strengths among the universities, it is foremost important to address the issues that might affect the efficiency and effectiveness of the process. The idea of the computerized library system is supported with the interactive environment of the country. This will serve as an advantage of the country to implement and negotiate the movement towards the computerized library systems (David, 1996). In the Philippines, there are many universities that openly participated in the computerized library systems which add to their value of promoting the learning. However, it is obvious that most of the universities that managed this new system are private or semi-private institutions. The centralized reason that might contribute in this system is the large investments that the universities bound to provide. If all of the universities in the country successfully provide the library computerization, there is a possibility to place the learning in a most accessible and easiest way. Stephen Abram (2009) said that traditionally, the library management system or integrated library system (ILS) was responsible for running libraries efficiently and effectively. Over the last few years, the role of the ILS has been expanding from meeting library needs to delivering user experience. Change has been focused on innovation in user experience. That is a challenge because libraries vary and their online users and physical users are different. For example, in a public library the physical users tend to be transaction-focused or those with less IT access or experience. In contrast, the online users of public libraries tend to be more highly educated and computer literate. In academic libraries, the online access comes from places such as student housing while those who come into the physical library tend to have more complex problems and need help with filtering rather than finding information. Elisabeth Robson (2009) pointed out that, the catalogue has become a way to pull together disparate resources, including commercial resources and web links. Library management systems also allow circulation, including check in/check-out and enable libraries to purchase materials and track where they are. One of the biggest user requirements is usability. It has to be straightforward and has to do some of the searching for the user. It’s amazing how important the look and feel of the interface is. Users want simple interfaces with simple search boxes that do a lot behind the scenes – much like they are used to with Google. Librarians also say that users want to replicate the functionality that they see elsewhere. For example, when they search the catalogue they want to be able to see reviews of the items they are interested in before they borrow them. Oren Beit-Arie (2009) discussed that, many libraries are at a crossroads, reevaluating their businesses, missions and operations. The digital world will dominate more and more in the future, because of both mass digitization and born-digital content. Global economics also have an impact. Libraries want to do more with less where it matters. At the same time, the LMS is not just about the future and digital content but also about other types of content including physical. The move to digital doesn’t mean that libraries won’t have any physical resources to manage. They need to work with tools that support a hybrid environment. Good linking is very important. Our Primo tool was the first link resolver for the research community. Link resolvers enable users to click on a link and get to the article. It doesn’t sound complicated but it is, because of the range of access methods available over the web. The article can be available in several places. Which is best for the users depends on what subscriptions have been negotiated by their institution. It is a complicated web of many-to-many connections. Marshall Breeding (2011) pointed out that, in this time of tight budgets where libraries face difficult decisions regarding how to invest their technology resources, it’s helpful to have data regarding how libraries perceive the quality of their automation systems and the companies that support them. This report, based on survey responses from over two thousands libraries, aims to give some measure of how libraries perceive their current environment and probes at their inclinations for the future. Some libraries may refer to the results of this survey as they formulate technology strategies or even consider specific products. I urge libraries not to base any decision solely on this report. While it reflects the responses of a large number of libraries using these products, I hope this survey serves more as an instrument to guide what questions that a library might bring up in their considerations and not to make premature conclusions based on subjective responses. Especially for libraries with more complex needs, it’s unrealistic to expect satisfaction scores at the very top of the rankings. Large and complex libraries exercise all aspects of an automation system and at any given time may have outstanding issues that would naturally result in survey responses short of the highest marks. The survey results also aim to provide useful information to the companies involved in the library automation industry. While each company likely performs its own measures of client satisfaction, this survey may show perceptions in different ways. I hope that the rankings in each category and the published comments provide useful information to help each of the companies hone in on problem areas and make any needed adjustments to their support procedures or product directions. This year marks the fourth time that I’ve carried out this survey. Each year I have received around 2,000 responses, and a few more libraries responded this year than in any of the previous iterations. In very broad terms, the survey results are similar this year, but with some interesting new trends. Al-Ansari and Al-Enezi (2001) conducted a study to assess the current status of health sciences libraries in Kuwait. Study was titled 16 â€Å"Health Sciences Libraries in Kuwait: A Survey of Their Resources, Facilities, and Services†. Library facilities, use of IT, information services and co-operation were the various facets explored. Survey revealed that majority of the library staff was non-professional. Libraries were offering only basic information services and a significant number of libraries were not automated. Joshi (2001) â€Å"Veterinary College Libraries in Maharashtra. † Information was gathered about libraries through questionnaire. Book collection was found inadequate to meet information needs of the users and its growth was very slow. Journal subscription was not satisfactory, libraries were understaffed. Author recommended that Indian Council for Agricultural Research and Agricultural Universities should regularly organize orientation programmes for librarians. Similarly, Veer (2004) carried out a study titled â€Å"College of Education Libraries in Maharashtra: A Survey. † It is an unpublished Ph. D. thesis. Gautam and Srivastava (2006) examined the prevailing position of documentation and information services of libraries of 30 agricultural universities in India under title â€Å"State-of-the-Art of Documentation and Information Services in SAU Libraries in India†. It had been found that all libraries were providing CAS and bibliographical services. Adebayo (2007) conducted a study to examine the implementation of library service standards in the colleges of education in Nigeria under name â€Å"Library Services Standards Implemented in Colleges of Education in Nigeria†. Data was collected through structured questionnaire. Results of the study revealed that libraries were rendering basic services as recommended by National Commissions for Colleges of Education. These were not providing indexing and abstracting services. Partap (2007) conducted a survey of the libraries of 18 colleges of education in 3 districts of Punjab. He found that collection size of the libraries varied considerably and comparatively older colleges had large collections. Majority of the libraries were being kept open for 6 to 7 hours a day. He suggested for the introduction of user education programme and stressed on the need to increase the range and depth of collection and services. Sujatha and Mudhol (2009) in the paper titled â€Å"Evaluation of Electronic Information Services in the Fisheries College Libraries in South India: A Study† described the electronic information services in four fisheries college libraries. Authors also discussed the challenges the libraries and information centers were facing. Thornton (2000) â€Å"Impact of Electronic Resources on Collection Development, the Roles of Librarians, and Library Consortia†. Study was conducted to find the impact of electronic resources and the 21 Internet on collection development and discuss the changing role of librarians, library co-operation and collection development. It had been concluded that consortia will become more important sources in electronic information world. Pandita (2004) in her paper â€Å"Collection Development in the Digital Era† examined the impact of electronic format on the collection development. She pointed out that the policy of content development needs to be worked out and re-designed. Mandal and Panda (2005) in their research paper titled â€Å"Collection Development in the Internet Age and the Need for a Consortium in the Engineering College Libraries in West Bengal: A Study† discussed the different dimensions of collection development. The existing state of library collection and infrastructural facilities of 17 engineering college libraries in West Bengal were examined. Author suggested the staff training, provision of adequate staff and funds, appropriate infrastructure in IT and a need based collection. Mulla and Chandrashekara (2006) â€Å"E-Resources and Services in Engineering College Libraries – A Case Study†. Study was conducted to examine the efforts made by the engineering college libraries in Karnataka to build electronic resources. Results of the study revealed that collection and service infrastructure of the libraries in sampled regions were not up to the mark and libraries were struggling to build digital collection and in disseminating digital information due to lack of ICT infrastructure, IT trained manpower and paucity of finances, etc. 22 Adekanmbi and Boadi (2008) in study titled, â€Å"Problems of Developing Library Collections: A Study of Colleges of Education Libraries in Botswana† ascertained the availability and use of collection development policies in the college of education  libraries, in Botswana. In addition to using questionnaires, interviews were conducted to gather information from senior librarians, deputy principals of colleges and board of the affiliated institutions of the University of Botswana. Study brought to notice that majority of the libraries did not have collection development policies. Lack of constant training for librarians, inadequate staff, lack of support from administration and unavailability of collection development policies were some of the major problems found. It was further found that majority of the libraries did not involve their users in formulation of policies and did not implement these for collection development. Study revealed the need to train librarians on collection development. Mary and Sankar (2008) â€Å"Collection Evaluation of PSN College of Engineering and Technology Library and PET Engineering College Library in Tirunelveli District†. Authors described the various techniques of evaluating the document collection in academic libraries and evaluated the collection development practices of two engineering colleges. Sharma et al. (2008) evaluated the collection development in libraries of 38 engineering colleges of Orissa under title â€Å"Collection Management of Engineering College Libraries of Orissa: An Evaluative Study†. Information was collected from libraries using questionnaires. 23 Study concluded that growing dissatisfaction of the users arising from non-availability of needed documents and lack of provision of services could be boiled down to some extent, by rendering at least CAS or current contents or information about latest addition to users. Mallaiah and Gowda (2009) in paper â€Å"Collection Development inMangalore University Library: A User Study† discussed the usefulnessof collection development in a university library and attempted to findwhether the UGC-INFONET E-journals were meeting the users information needs. Chapter 3 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY This chapter presents and describes the research design, research environment, research instrument and the research procedure. Research Design The study utilized a description method reviewing a library database as basis to come up with the design on prototype Library Management System. The researcher decided to use Microsoft Visual Basic 6. 0 as the programming language in the entire system and Microsoft Access as the database wherein it will store the records of the borrower’s, books etc. Research Environment This research is focused at Municipal library of Liloy, Zamboanga Del Norte. Liloy is a 3rd class municipality in the province of Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines. It embraces 37 barangays with a total land area of 12,843 hectares with a total estimated population of 36,948 in 1995. It is mainly as agricultural community whose existing economy relies mostly on crop production such us corn, rice, coconuts, peanuts, and root crops. Liloy is a fishing ground of the northwestern towns of the province of Zamboanga. It is also known as â€Å"The Peanut Capital of ZaNorte†. Liloy is one of the most promising of the twelve towns of the 3rd Congressional District of Zamboanga del Norte. It was once a barrio of Municipality of Sindangan. It was created and become a duly constituted municipal corporation by virtue of Executive Order No. 469 issued by President Elpidio Quirino on August 22, 1951 but was unorganized and inaugurated on December 16, of the same year. [1] A huge portion of the territorial jurisdiction of Liloy had been taken away as a result of the creation and separation of Salug in 1959 and later in Tampilisan in 1978. Now the total land area is only 12,843 hectares, seventy-eight percent of the land area is agricultural planted to coconuts, corn, rice, and root crop. Residential area is sixty-five (65) hectares. Commercial area at present is nine (9) hectares; Industrial area is found in Barangay Timan and Sta. Cruz with a total land area of (10); institutional land is fifty (50) hectares and the rest comprise the open space and road right of – way. What may be considered urban land according to the records in the assessor’s office are eight hundred sixty hectares and this increasing very fast with the approaching full operation of Liloy’s wharf. Map of Liloy, Zamboanga Del Norte Research Instrument There where two sets of sources of data which will be used in this study: The borrower’s data which include the borrower’s ID, Borrowers name, Place and contact. And the book data which include the books no. ISBN, book title, author, category and the year it has been published. Research Procedure The procedure of the study was, the researcher secured permission from the Municipal library, Interviewed library staff and gathered important data’s to be use in the study, then the next logical steps followed, The researcher also analyzed and designed the solution for the system, coded the solution into a programming language, tested the running system and prepared detailed specification of the study for the benefit of the primary user of the system. BIBLIOGRAPHY Achonna, A. U.  (2008), â€Å"Awareness, Access and Usage of EJournal Resources of the Library, by the Students of Yaba College of Technology, Yaba –Lagos Nigeria†, Samaru Journal of Information Studies, Vol. 8, No. 1, PP. 26-34. Available from http://www. ajol. info/viewarticle. php? jid=335&id= 44510&layout=abstract (06-03-10). Adebayo, E. L. (2007), â€Å"Library Services Standards Implemented in Colleges of Education in Nigeria†, Pakistan Journal of Social Sciences, Vol. 4, No. 2, PP. 279-281. Available from http://medwelljournals. com/fulltext/pjss/2007/279-281. pdf (18-01-10). Adekanmbi, Arinola Rebecca; and Boadi, Benzies Y.(2008), â€Å"Problems of Developing Library Collections: A Study of Colleges of Education Libraries in Botswana†, Information Development, Vol. 24, No. 4, PP. 275-288. Available from http://cat. inist. fr/ ? aModele=afficheN&cpsidt=20877276 (14-05-09). Adikata, Adnan Ali; and Anwar, Mumtaz A. (2006), â€Å"Student Library Use: A Study of Faculty Perceptions in a Malaysian University†, Library Review, Vol. 55, No. 2, PP. 106-119. Available from http://www. emeraldinsight. com/10. 1108/ 00242530610649602 (20-02-09). Agaba, D. ; Kigogo-Bukenya, I. M. N. ; and Nyumba, J. B. (2004), â€Å"Utilization of Electronic Information Resources by Academic Staff at Makerere University†, University of Dar es Salaam Library Journal, Vol. 6, No. 1, PP. 18-28. Available from http://www. ajol. info/viewarticle. php? jid=164&id=16357&layout =abstract (02-03-10). Ahmad, Moin; and Haridasan, Sudharma (2006), â€Å"Use of Periodicals by the Scholars at National Library of Veterinary Sciences: A User’s Survey†, IASLIC Bulletin, Vol. 51, No. 2, PP. 05-17. Al-Ansari, Husain A. ; and Al-Enezi, Sana (2001), â€Å"Health Sciences Libraries in Kuwait: A Survey of Their Resources, Facilities, and Services†, Bull Med Libr Assoc., Vol. 89, No. 3, PP. 287-293. Available from http://www. ncbi. nlm. nih. gov/pmc/ articles/PMC34562/ (24-02-10). Anasi, S. (2006), â€Å"Internet Use Pattern of Undergraduate Students at the University of Lagos, Nigeria†, University of Dar es Salaam Library Journal, Vol. 8, No. 1&2, PP. 1-15. Available from http://www. ajol. info/viewarticle. php? jid=164&id=37030& layout=abstract (17-01-10). Atakan, Cemal; Atilgan, Dogan; Bayram, Ozlem; and Arslantekin, Sacit (2008), â€Å"An Evaluation of the Second Survey on Electronic Databases Usage at Ankara University Digital Library†, The Electronic Library, Vol. 26, No. 2, PP. 249-259. Available from http://eprints. rclis. org/14501/ (22-03-09). Atilgan, Dogan; and Bayran, Ozlem (2006), â€Å"An Evaluation of Faculty Use of Digital Library at Ankara University, Turkey†, The Journal of Academic Librarianship, Vol. 32, No. 1, PP. 86-93. Bansode, Sadanand Y. ; and Pujar, Shamprasad M. (2008), â€Å"Use of Internet by Research Scholars at Shivaji University, Kohlapur†, Annals of Library and Information Studies, Vol. 55, No. 2, PP. 123-126. Biradar, B. S. ; Kumar, P. Dharani; and Mahesh, Y. (2009). â€Å"Use of Information Sources and Services in Library of Agriculture Science College, Shimoga: A Case Study†, Annals of Library and Information Studies, Vol. 56, No. 2, PP. 63-68. Carr, Reg (2006), â€Å"What Users Want: An Academic ‘Hybrid’ Library Perspective†, Ariadne, No. 46. Available from http://www. ariadne. ac. uk/issue46/carr/intro. html (23-03-09). and Lochhart, Brian (2005), â€Å"Library User Survey: Resources, Facilities and Circulation Service†, Report on survey results. Available from http://www. paradisevalley. edu/library/assessment/LibraryUserSurvey Results. pdf (01-02-09). Choukhande Vaishali G.; and Kumar, P. S. G. (2004), â€Å"Analytical Study of Information Needs and Use Pattern of Faculty Members and Research Scholars of Amravati University†, ILA Bulletin, Vol. 40, No. 3, PP. 23-31. Chowdappa, N. ; Chandrashekara, M. ; and Ramasesh, C. P. (2009) â€Å"Impact of Electronic Information Sources on the Academic Users in Mysore: An Analytical Study†, SRELS Journal of Information Management, Vol. 46, No. 2, PP. 155-162. 77 Fatima, Nishat; and Ahmad, Naved (2008), â€Å"Information Seeking Behaviour of the Students at Ajmal Khan Tibbiya College, Aligarh Muslim University: A Survey†, Annals of Library and Information Studies.

To What Extent Does Personality Predict Employee Performance Essay

To What Extent Does Personality Predict Employee Performance - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that the identification of the potentials of employees to respond to the demands of their role can be characterized as one of the most critical challenges for managers in modern organizations. Moreover, it has been proved that employee performance can be depended on various factors; securing high employee performance can be a difficult task even for highly experienced HR managers. The literature developed in regard to this subject verifies the intervention of personality in the prediction of employee performance. However, the terms of involvement of personality in the prediction of employee performance are not standardized, being influenced by the organizational environment and the psychological characteristics of individuals, as analyzed below. In any case, the value of personality as a means for predicting the performance of individuals in the workplace cannot be doubted. In fact, the research developed in this field proved that personali ty is a strong indicator of an individual’s behavior in all aspects of his daily life, no matter his economic or social status. In regard to the above, the following issue should be also explored: is the prediction of employee performance using personality fully accurate or not and how the relevant risks can be limited? Personality, as a concept, refers to various aspects of human behavior. In practice, it has been proved that the personality characteristics, or else traits, of individuals, are likely to be incorporated into five, major, categories. The relevant model of personality is known as the ‘Five Factor model’. The categories of the particular model are presented in the paper. Different explanations have been given in the literature in regard to the involvement of personality in employee performance. The Big Five model, as presented above, can be used for measuring employee performance, both in regard to specific individuals and in regard to groups. In th e last case, the personality characteristics/ traits of each group’s individuals would be ‘gathered and evaluated as a total for identifying the group’s performance’.

Ordinary Courage Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 1

Ordinary Courage - Essay Example The army was originally created on June 14, 1775, and most of the Continental Army was disbanded on November 3, 1783 after the treaty of Paris. A small residual force continued at West Point and some other frontier outposts, until Congress created the United States Army by their resolution of June 3, 1784. Joseph Plumb Martin truly and personally understood how difficult the soldier’s life was. After joining the militia himself in 1776 at 16 years old Joseph Plumb Martin served in the Continental Army, and in 1830 wrote a memoir which presented a truthful portrait of war, about the traversing of the mid-Atlantic colonies, from Connecticut over to Pennsylvania and down through Delaware with his compatriots, and describing what the war was like from the point of view of an ordinary person. Joseph Plumb Martin (1760-1850), it should be noted, was a mere Private in the army, and his account does not involve the usual heroes of the Revolution. Joseph Plumb Martin’s opinion of the leadership of the Continental Army is somewhat negative, in that he did not feel the leaders held very idealistic concepts concerning the war. However he tells that he respected them in that he found them to be brave and courageous, as he thought everyone who had participation in (that) war was; that it was their strength and perseverance which held the men strong. So although he did believe they were a quintessential part in the leading, fighting, and success of the war, I believe that he also somewhat felt negatively towards them. Martin felt that they were â€Å"†¦very austere†¦and kept us constantly employed day and night; there was no chance of escaping from†¦their†¦vigilance.† (p.24). Martin describes of the suffering that was experienced by himself and his fellow men, as he names ‘Fatigue, hunger, and cold’ as constant companions to these raggedy soldiers. He also recalls that whenever the leaves and

Gender and Culture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Gender and Culture - Essay Example All throughout my college life, I always used to depend on others view and advise to make any decision. Everything changed once I entered the organization. My boss always believed that people should make their own decisions and work on them. He expected the same from us. He made sure that I attended all the meetings with the clients and handled them single handedly. After the meetings, I was asked for opinion on the client. Initially I found it difficult and felt that my Boss was testing my performance. As days went on, I found that I started making my own decisions. This affected me personally as well as professionally. I was given the real freedom to make my choice. I transformed from being a dependent person to an independent person. I did not wait for approval from others and I enjoyed the responsibility which was placed on me. This effort by the people of the organization helped me a lot to make my own decisions and stand by them. It has influenced me in a positive way both in m y professional and personal life. Gaining Confidence During my college days, I feared to express myself, my views and ideas to everyone. The confidence in me was missing. My organization gave me more responsibilities which helped me increase my confidence level. People around me always told me that I was very talented and can do better than what I was doing. I was asked to lead a group of talented individuals for an important proposal. The outcome was that our organization won that proposal and I gained confidence on myself. Now I am willing to be defeated by the world since I have the confidence that I can win in any situation. Their way of teaching and giving me responsibilities is betterment for me and helped me a lot. This was one of the most important phases of my life since confidence and belief in my abilities helped me in my work. Sign of transformation from a Boy to Man. Facing my Fears People in my organization always believed in taking risks to succeed. For a person who a lways used to hide from fears, this thinking was never in synchronization with me. I always had doubts on my ability and was feared whether I could face the people and world around me. My organization conducted the â€Å"Innovative idea† session every three months where everyone had to present a new idea which would help the business grow. Initially I feared and did not perform well. Looking at this, my colleagues spoke to me and made me rehearse the presentation every time before I made the presentation. After few days, I was asked to do a similar presentation ad I fearless like never before. This technique by the people in my organization helped me in a long way. I now have a habit of taking risk to succeed without fearing what the outcome could be. This has changed compared to my college days where I feared my failures and never expressed my ideas. My organization has helped me in a way where I have transformed from a Boy to a Man. Controlling emotions These sequences also helped me to control my emotions. I learnt that no matter what happens, one should keep their emotions in check. Happiness and sorrow are the two faces of life and one should meet both equally without fear. People in my organization played a huge role in developing me. From being a feared, low on confidence and dependent person, my organization’s values have made me a confident and independent person. With the ever increasing competition to succeed, this transformation is important for everybody. They need to be strong if they are

The relevance of Mutual Funds & their development over time Literature review

The relevance of Mutual Funds & their development over time - Literature review Example Whereas no legal definition exists for the phrase â€Å"mutual fund†, it is regularly used to refer only to those combined vehicles mostly under regulation and that the general public can buy. Mutual funds are at times known as â€Å"registered investment companies† or â€Å"registered companies†. It is important to note that hedge funds cannot be called mutual funds since they primarily cannot be bought by public (Bogle, 2010). Open-ended funds-these are funds that are accessible for subscription and therefore can be redeemed on a constant basis. These types of mutual funds are usually accessible for subscription all through the year and hence investors can trade the units at NAV correlated prices. Open-ended funds lack a fixed or a definite maturity date and one of the key aspects of them is liquidity. Close-ended funds on the other hand are funds that have a defined or definite maturity period such as 3 to 6 years. Close-ended funds are thus open for subscription for a particular period at the point of first launch. Normally, these funds are usually listed on a renowned stock exchange (Northcott, 2009). Interval funds-these funds merge the aspects of close-ended and open-ended funds. Interval funds can be traded on stock exchanges and are usually open for redemption or sale at preset intervals on the existing NAV. The following are types of funds that are on the basis of investment objectives. These include; Equity/growth funds-these funds invest a main part of their corpus in stocks and represent the biggest class of mutual funds. Nevertheless, there are numerous kinds of equity funds since there are several various kinds of equities. Equity funds can be categorized on the basis of either the size of the firms invested in or the manager’s investment style. They can be classified as value, growth and blend. Value in this case may

Terrorism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Terrorism - Essay Example If one kills another human being due to self-defense—there is some purpose to it. However, if the attacker deliberately takes a live of someone to instill their radical views—that is ethically wrong. During terroristic attacks, human beings get treated as mere objects rather than creatures of life. Kant himself mentioned that people often induce terror â€Å"to treat them as ends in themselves and not simply as means to one's own ends.† Here it may seem complicated and puzzling, but Kant clearly here depicts the true agenda that is molded in human morality. Another reason why terrorism is not a justified means of achieving a particular is aim is due to the fact that it takes the lives of innocent citizens. One cannot diminish the fact that terrorism leads to innocent lives of victims. The victims in terrorist attacks are killed merely because they were present at that moment. The attack was not focused in military personnel or anyone, which makes the attack seem illogical. The victims are taken simply because they were present at that moment even though they were not associated Lastly, the use of terrorism is wrong because it uses violence as a way to justify the means of conducting violence. Terrorist attacks are no doubt a violation of human dignity.

Case Analysis Paper #2 Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Analysis Paper #2 - Case Study Example Therefore, based on my reasonable experience, I would support the innovation as an effective approach for heart surgery in view of extended application of minimally invasive techniques. The case study provides the progress, which Cardio Thoracic Systems have gone in the past two decades. From the analysis I have done of the progression of the systems, I would admit most innovators in this field have done impressive work. Despite that, not everything they did is perfect for some innovations have yielded to complications that are more severe. The CABG procedure was the initial approach used for heart surgery during that period (before 1996). This system proved effective in most cases though during surgery system would not give surgeons accessibility to some vessels, which they entailed to replace. Additionally, it resulted to severe complications such as trauma, complications associated with sternotomy and threats of chest infection among others. Moreover, the system was costly and resulted to a patient staying in hospital for so long (43days) after surgery (Chang 3). Certainly, these loopholes presented by the CABG system called for innovation of another system. Hence, this led to the contraption of Balloon Angioplasty and Stenting. The system, according to the case study, intrigued many surgeons for it was a less-invasive method as a remedy for coronary artery disease. Additionally, it did not require incision in the chest, thereby making it a perfect alternative for CABG system. Despite all the advantages, the innovators failed to control re-narrowing of the arteries (restenosis). Its worse state emerges after 6 months of surgery whereby restenosis would occur resulting to the formation of a similar plaque in the artery (Chang 4). Fortunately, physicians developed the stent, which significantly reduced restenosis occurrence though it did eliminate the

Case Study - Strategic Leadership Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 2

- Strategic Leadership - Case Study Example Maytag always thrived on quality and remained customer-focused for its strategic predispositions. If a firm is operating along diverse business lines with a wide portfolio of products but not able to assure quality, even the broad line strategy fails because the proposition satisfies organization’s business and profit motives. On the contrary, if a firm operates in a single line of business and allows multiple communication streams to its customers, chances of its success are more likely on the grounds of focus on core competencies, clear vision and craving for customer loyalty by means of enhanced quality and performance every time. The strategy of Maytag matched this philosophy where its planning was aligned with supplier collaboration, involving other business entities in the decision making process of the company and a streamlined supply chain with monitoring and control at all levels. Such factors accounted for the unprecedented growth and superior performance of Maytag C orporation. Question 2 Earlier also, Maytag tried to carry on with the farm machinery and refrigeration business in conjunction with its laundry business. However, the move at that time was not accompanied by need of growth and expansion as was done during 1980s. Saturation of the laundry market compelled Maytag to revisit its decision of expanding its product line and foraying into related appliance market. Though refrigeration and home appliances were the two options available for Maytag to diversify, the latter seemed more lucrative as refrigeration had already been dropped off by Maytag. This might have made the former proposition cloudy and doubtful for Maytag. Secondly, the major rationale behind Maytag’s entering into the appliance market was to encash the availability of numerous technological advancement opportunities and bargaining power from suppliers prevailing. Maytag was already a reputed name in the market and had close connection with suppliers, better control of consumer psyche and brand image of a quality and price conscious company. These factors would definitely help Maytag replicate the legendary performance in the appliance sector as it had done in the laundry business. As such, with resources intact, Maytag should proceed to broaden its product line. In doing so, Maytag can provide greater number of connecting points to its customers with that of its business propositions and fill in the gaps with its value added products. Its collaborative relationships with suppliers and inter-functional departments will help in maximizing revenues and reducing costs through business excellence and experience. Question 3 Broad line strategy emerges after a company has performed well in serving a single market of the entire segment. In Maytag’s case, it is the Numero Uno leader in laundry segment of the home appliance market and its strategic competencies of superiority, customer-oriented philosophy, in-house production capabilities and co st economies are but obvious. Unlike laundry business, other appliance segments are characterized by technology, investment and changing consumer demands. In this light, Maytag has the alternative of either going for a licensing venture or a strategic alliance or acquisition. In the case of former, licensing will enable Maytag to concentrate on

Study of a leader in business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Study of a leader in business - Essay Example ere a psychological profile that identifies a leader, and if so are there different psychological attributes that can identify a great leader If these traits can be somehow quantified, are there other qualities which are present in differing degrees that determine a business leader. ... he mood and temper of the people as well as the critical components inherent in the objectives Or are leadership qualities constant, displaying inherent characteristics that in differing degrees can be found in examples of leadership throughout history Is it something that a person is born with, inherits, or is learned Is there a psychological profile that identifies a leader, and if so are there different psychological attributes that can identify a great leader If these traits can be somehow quantified, are there other qualities which are present in differing degrees that determine a business leader. Is it style, intelligence, insight, a Midas touch, or elements of luck Could it be that the qualities that determine a successful business leader are attributes one is born with, or is it the ability to respond to the demands of the consistently changing business climate by finding solutions which enable one to work through vicissitudes and come out on top One common thread which is obvious in all great leaders, be they revered or scorned, is that they viewed the world, events, history, the present as well as the future in ways that were different from their contemporaries, and in such a manner that distinguished them in their era. What great leadership is, how it manifests itself in certain individuals is a subject which could entail considerable debate, thus the examination shall limit itself to one particular individual and determine if we can understand what and why this person has exhibited and demonstrated the attributes which cause us to view him in such a manner. This study shall look at Sir Richard Branson as an example of leadership in that he represents a contemporary individual who rose from modest means to become one of the world's most successful

Cameron International Corp Essay Example for Free

Cameron International Corp Essay The three major issues facing Cameron International (CAM) are acquisitions, environmental, and competition risk. Cameron International is primarily involved in the manufacture of petroleum production equipment, compression and power equipment to direct flows of oil and gas wells. Acquisitions The company is formerly known as Cooper Cameron Corporation. The company growth depends on the availability of natural resources. To be able to be competitive in the industry, it needs to analyze the existing processes and identify the best production method for harnessing oil and gas, and adjusting it manufacturing operations towards the identified need. The Company made significant investments in improving its services and products over the years. During 2004 to 2005, the company has acquired Petreco International and Dresser Flow Control Businesses. Also, â€Å"Recently CAM paid approximately $44 million to acquire DES Operations Limited, a Scotland-based supplier of production-enhancement technology, which will enhance the subsea operations within the Drilling and Production Systems segment† (value line). Subsea operations is the new direction to which the company is heading. In fact, the company is currently working on more than 15 major subsea projects using motors and other equipment made by an aerospace-industry contractor (Factiva Wall Street Journal). These projects will require a longer time, a large increase in financial scope, a need in substantial engineering, and it will also involve the application of existing technology to new environments or new technology (CAM 10K 2006 p. 7). Because this new operations are larger and more complex than traditional operations, the Company may not be prepared for meeting the expertise and technical requirements of the projects. Failure to meet client’s expectations does not only lead to loss in revenue, but also to loss of the significant financial investments committed by the company towards this innovation. The company has had both success and failures in this new endeavor. Subsea operations account for eight percent (8%) of the company’s revenue in 2006 (CAM 10K 2006 p. 7). According to Fortune magazine, the company has raised earnings by producing an array of subsea valves, wellheads and blowout protectors which are currently on high demand. The result is expected to make Camerons profits to climb thirty-nine percent (39%) this year. On the other hand the company experienced backlogs on the projects, amounting to as much as four hundred eight million dollars ($408 millions). Based on these figures, it is clear that the new operations of the Company can be lucrative and risky. As mentioned above, the new operations involve the following risks: not meeting client’s expectations, incurring delay, loss of revenue, loss of opportunity and loss of capital. Environmental Litigation The Company has a strong policy on environment sustainability and has implemented measures to ensure the quality, safety and reliability of its products. It utilizes an all electric sub-sea production system which is designed to reduce environmental contamination risks. It line of compression products offer greater efficiency and reduced emission levels. (Annual report 2006 p. 9) The company has conducted oil risk spills analysis through the OSRA models originally developed by Smith and company, which has been enhanced over the years and uses realistic data fields of winds and ocean currents in the GOM (OCS Report 2007). However, it may be noted that with Cameron’s policy to pursue an electric sub-sea production system, the risk of oil spills is reduced and the likelihood of it being involved in a major oil spill is reduced. In addition to this, the company has exerted efforts towards managing environmental risks involved in subsea operations by contributing in the development of a shut-off device called Environmental Safe Guard. This device has been proven successful in operation under 2000-m water (Simondin, et. al. 2005). Competition Risk Cameron International has maintained a track of growth in the oil industry, from 1833 up to the present. It currently manufactures 50 different brands of drilling and production systems. Growth can be expected to continue. As pointed out in the Company’s annual report (2006), sales of equipment like compression systems has registered a steady increase with the greatest share of revenues accruing from sales outside the United States. The Company has maintained an excellent revenue growth rate at thirty-nine point sixty-seven percent (39. 67%). It also has a net income growth rate of eighty-one point eighty-eight percent (81. 98%), while maintaining a good debt to equity ratio of forty-three point fifty-two percent (43. 2%). Debt to equity ratio is good compared to the industry average of 63% (Corn 2007). A comparison of the company’s ratios with others in the fields provides a clearer picture of its performance in the industry. The company’s touted revenue growth rate is ranked fifteenth (15th) in the industry and is extremely small compared to the leading company. Its long term growth rate is assessed as twenty-one percent (21%), also fifteenth in the industry. These ratios show us that the company’s performance is not the leading company in its industry but it does perform respectably compared with the other players. In its 10K, the company claims that it has a growing global market (CAM 10K p. 7). Some financial analysts agree with this statement. The CEO of Clear Indexes LLC and Clear Asset Management LLC claims that there is an increasing demand for oil in China and India and the Company is â€Å"ideally placed† in supplying the demand for increased production (Corn). However, because of the ties of Corn’s own company with CAM, this statement should not be taken at its face value. In the 30 April 2007 issue of Fortune, the company is only seventh in the industry with Halliburton ranking first. On a positive note, the company did climb up the Forbes 500 list with a present ranking of five hundred fifty-third (553rd) from last year’s six hundred eighty-fifth (685th). (Fortune 500 annual ranking) Based on the analysis above, the company’s performance is acceptable but not stellar. The changes made by the company towards subsea operations may be the wave of the future, providing not only a significant portion of the company’s revenues but also lowering environmental liability risks that are necessarily included in the company’s operations. The move, however, is not without its disadvantages. Subsea operations requires the commitment of large amounts of capital and expertise, expertise that the company has not fully mastered. The failure of the company in this endeavor will adversely affect the company’s growth for years to come.

UV Visible Spectrophotometry and Solution Absorption

UV Visible Spectrophotometry and Solution Absorption All molecules absorb light at certain wavelengths.   The absorption of light by a solution may be used to determine the concentration of a solute or a mixture of solutes in solution. The Beer-Lambert law refers to the linear relationship between absorbance (A), and concentration (C) of an absorbing species. According to the two fundamental principals that govern the absorption of light by a solution, the absorption of light passing through a solution is exponentially related to the number of molecules of the absorbing solute, and thus the solute concentration, and the length of the absorbing solution. These principals are combined, and when working in concentration units of molarity, the Beer-Lambert law is as follows: For part A of this experiment the ÃŽÂ µ value at the à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ¬max for Vitamin B12 was determined by measuring the absorbance of a known concentration of Vitamin B12 and by using the above Beer-Lambert formula. Vitamin B12 is a compound of significant nutritional and clinical importance. Assaying and understanding absorption of vitamin B12 helps with diagnosis of defects in humans that can lead to hematological and neurological complications. For part B of this experiment chlorophyll concentration of a leaf extract was calculated. In context to the experiment, eukaryotic green plants and algae, and prokaryotic cyanobacteria contain chloroplasts which have several pigment types, the most abundant of these being chlorophyll a. Green and blue-green coloured chlorophyll a absorbs maximum light energy at the photosynthetic reaction centre (during the light reaction of photosynthesis) at wavelengths in the blue (à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ¬max 420 nm) and red (à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ¬max 663 nm ) regions of the visible spectrum. The green-yellow coloured chlorophyll b is also present in all green plants and has an absorption spectrum (red à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ¬max 645 nm and blue à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ¬max 435 nm) slightly different from chlorophyll a. Normally the ratio of chlorophyll a:b is 3:1. As with most biological molecules chlorophyll is synthesised by biochemical pathways, and one intermediate molecule in the synthesis pathway is protochlorophyllide (à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ¬max 626 nm) which is eventually converted into chlorophylls a and b. The amounts of chlorophyll and other pigments in plants can be determined using a spectrophotometer following extraction with various organic solvents. Based on the Beer-Lambert Law and a knowledge of absorption coefficients of pigments dissolved in particular solvents, equations have been derived to directly determine the concentrations of common pigments following extraction by measurement of the absorbance (A) of the solution at a given wavelength (à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ¬max) in a cuvette.   For part 3 of the experiment, protein concentration was determined by use of UV and Visible spectrophotometry, and Construction of a Standard Graph.   The estimation of protein concentration is an important measurement in biological sciences. For pure samples of proteins absorbance measurements at 280 nm can be used to directly determine protein concentration; all proteins absorb in this region of the spectrum due to their aromatic amino acid residues (tyrosine, tryptophan and phenylalanine).   For protein mixtures, very dilute solutions, or for proteins with interfering chromophores, colourimetric methods must be used. These involve subjecting a pure protein standard of known concentration to a colourimetric reaction, and measuring the absorbance of the coloured end product. The sample protein of unknown concentration is subject to the same colourimetric reaction. The concentration of the sample protein can be read directly from a standard curve.   The Lowry assay involves the production of a blue (phosphomolybdate-tungstate) chromophore, from a copper-protein complex.   In this part of the practical, Lowry and direct absorbance methods were compared for the determination of the concentration of lysozyme in solution. The first of the methods makes use of a ÃŽÂ »max in the UV part of the spectrum and the other in the visible part of the spectrum.   Aims   To competently use a spectrophotometer and accociated cuvettes (cells) To relate absorbance of a solution to concentration using the Beer-Lambert law To determine the molar absorption (extinction) coefficient of vitamin B12 and compare its value with that from a standard reference table. To calculate the chlorophyll concentration in a leaf extract using absorbance values at defined wavelengths and a formula applicable to the solvent extraction medium. To measure protein concentration using direct absorbance and, following construction of a calibration curve, by a colourimetric method. Methods Part A To begin the experiment, the spectrophotomer was calibrated in accordance to the information given in the instrumentation booklet (p. 35, viii). Using distilled water in a plastic cuvette at a wavelength of 550 nm the spectrometer was then placed on zero. Using the provided Aqueous Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) solution at a stock concentration of 0.15 g dm-3 (relative molecular mass = 1.355 x 103 i.e. 1,355 Daltons ), The A value was measured and recorded at ÃŽÂ »max at 550 nm. The A value was Placed on the results sheet. The vitamin B12 solution concentration was converted from g dm -3 to mol dm-3 and then using this data the ÃŽÂ µ value for Vitamin B12 was calculated (see calculations). Part B For the second part of the experiment a sample of pigments extracted from dandelion leaves homogenized in an aqueous acetone extraction medium (80%) was provided. A clear pigment solution was needed for the test and so a check was carried out to ensure that there was no plant debris that may have interfered with light passage before the absorbance of the sample was measured. Using a Pasteur pipette, the clear extract was transferred into a clean quartz cuvette. The spectrophotometer was placed on zero using a quartz cuvette filled with an aqueous acetone mixture (80%) set at a à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ¬max wavelength of 663 nm and the absorbance of the pigment solution was measured at 663 nm. The spectrophotometer was again placed on zero using the acetone solution (80%), however it was set at a à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ¬max wavelength of 645 nm before the absorbance of the pigment solution was measured. The spectrometer was placed on zero for a third time and set at à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ¬max wavelength of 626 nm. The absorbance of the pigment solution was again measured and all three sets of data were recorded. Part C (a) Direct absorbance A quartz cuvette was filled to the level with H20 and used as a standard to set the spectrophotometer at zero. Using another quartz cuvette the A value of the lysozyme solution of unknown concentration was measured at a ÃŽÂ »max of 280 nm. The value obtained was recorded. Having measured the A280 value of the unknown lysozyme sample, the concentration of lysozyme was calculated taking into consideration that ÃŽÂ µ280 of lysozyme = 3.65 x 104 dm3 mol-1 cm-1 and using the Beer-Lambert Law. The concentration of the lysozyme sample was then changed from mol dm-3 to à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ­gcm-3. (b) Colourimetric Lowry Assay (Preparation and Use of a Standard Curve) Using a stock reference standard BSA solution containing 250 à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ­g cm-3 protein, a series of dilutions of the stock were prepared accurately, as per the table below: Tube No: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 BSA stock (cm3) 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 5.0 H2O (cm3) 4.0 3.5 3.0 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 0.0 Note that the dilution factors for each tube were used to enable calculations for final concentrations of BSA in tubes 1- 8 inclusive (see calculations). These values are then used to plot a standard curve. Standard solution (1.0 cm3) prepared in the above table was placed in 8 clean, dry test tubes. unknown lysozome sample (1cm3) was placed into test tube 9, and H2O (1.0 cm3) was placed in test tube 10 as a water/reagent blank control. A solution of Lowry C (alkaline copper reagent) was made up by mixing Lowry B1 (0.5 cm3) with Lowry B2 (0.5 cm3) and lowry A (50 cm3). A solution of lowry D (Folin Ciocalteus phenol reagent) was then made up by diluting Folin reagent (5 cm3) with distilled H2O (10 cm3). Lowry C reagent (5.0 cm3) was added to all ten test tubes. The solution was mixed and left for 10 minutes. Lowry D reagent (1.0 cm3 ) was then added to each test tube and mixed well. All tubes were left for 30 minutes at standard temperature (37oc) for reaction and colour development to occur, after which time the test tube contents were thoroughly mixed. For test tubes 1-9, the A value at à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ¬max 750 nm was measured. Test tube 10 was not measured as it was used as a H2O/reagent blank to zero the spectrophotometer. Calculations Part A Due to the fact that a known amount of solute has to be dissolved in a given volume of solvent to obtain a solution of the required concentration, the number of moles of the solid can be calculated from the following equation: n = Mass of solute Relative molecular mass To convert the Aqueous Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) solution from g dm -3 to mol dm-3 one must consider that the stock concentration is 0.15 g dm-3, and the relative molecular mass of Vitamin B12 is 1.355 x 103 . 0.15 / 1.355 x 103 = 0.11 x 103 To find the ÃŽÂ µ value (wavelength absorption coefficient) of vitamin B12 the Beer-Lambert law must be applied: A= 0.827 L= 1cm C= 0.11 x 103 dm3 mol-1 cm-1 at ÃŽÂ »max of 550 nm ÃŽÂ µ = unknown As A= ÃŽÂ µLC, the equation can be rearranged as follows to make ÃŽÂ µ the subject: ÃŽÂ µ = A/C Therefore: ÃŽÂ µ = 0.827/0.11 x 103 = 7.51 x 103 Part B Chlorophyll Concentration determination The following formula was used to calculate the concentration of pigment in the extract. Chlorophyll a = 12.67A663 2.65A645 0.29A626 Chlorophyll b = 23.6A645 4.23A663 0.33A626 Protochlorophyllide = 29.6A626 3.99A663 6.76A645 The absorbance (A) is the respective wavelengths obtained directly from the spectrophotometer with the use of a 1cm light path length cuvette. Chlorophyll a = (12.67 x 0.934) (2.65 x 0.390) (0.29 x 0.321) = 10.71 ug cm-3. Chlorophyll b = (23.6 x 0.934) (4.23 x 0.390) (0.33 x 0.321) = 20.29 ug cm-3. Protochlorophyllide = (29.6 x 0.934) (3.99 x 0.390) (6.76 x 0.321) = 23.92 ug cm-3. Part C (a) Direct absorbance Concentration of lysozyme was calculated using the Beer-Lambert law as follows: A = 0.177 ÃŽÂ µ = 3.65 x 104 dm3 mol-1 cm -1 L = 1cm C = Unknown The Beer-Lambert law can be rearranged, making C the subject of the equation. Therefore the value of C can be calculated as: C = A / ÃŽÂ µ C = 0.177 / 3.65 x 104 = 4.84 x 10-6 mol dm-3   The concentration of the lysozyme sample was then changed from mol dm-3 to à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ­gcm-3 Using the following formula: n= M / RMM 14.31 x 103 x 4.84 x 10-6 = 0.069g To change this from g to à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ­g it must be multiplied by 1000,000 as follows: 0.069 x 1000,000 = 69000 To then change this calculation from dm-3 to cm-3 it must be divided by 1000 as follows: 69000 / 1000 = 69 à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ­g cm-3 (b). Preparation and Use of a Standard Curve for Lowry Assay: Concentration (à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ­g cm-3) was calculated using the below figures: Tube No: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 BSA stock (cm3) 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 5.0 H2O (cm3) 4.0 3.5 3.0 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 0.0 Test tube 1. BSA stock (cm3) = 1.0 H2O (cm3) = 4.0 1.0 + 4.0 = 5 1.0 / 5 = 0.2 0.2 x 250 = 50 Test tube 2. BSA stock (cm3) = 1.5 H2O (cm3) = 3.5 1.5 + 3.5 = 5 1.5/5 = 0.3 0.3 x 250 = 75 Test tube 3. BSA stock (cm3) = 2.0 H2O (cm3) = 3.0 2.0 + 3.0 = 5 2.0 / 5 = 0.4 0.4 x 250 = 100 Test tube 4. BSA stock (cm3) = 2.5 H2O (cm3) = 2.5 2.5 + 2.5 = 5 2.5 / 5 = 0.5 0.5 x 250 = 125 Test tube 5. BSA stock (cm3) = 3.0 H2O (cm3) = 2.0 3.0 + 2.0 = 5 4.0 / 5 = 0.6 0.6 x 250 = 150 Test tube 6. BSA stock (cm3) = 3.5 H2O (cm3) = 1.5 3.5 + 1.5 = 5 3.5 / 5 = 0.7 0.7 x 250 = 175 Test tube 7. BSA stock (cm3) = 4.0 H2O (cm3) = 1.0 4.0 + 1.0 = 5 5.0 / 5 = 0.8 0.8 x 250 = 200 Test tube 8. BSA stock (cm3) = 5.0 H2O (cm3) = 0.0 5.0 + 0.0 = 5 5.0 / 5 = 1 1 x 250 = 250 Results 1. Molar absorption coefficient of vitamin B12: Absorbance reading at ÃŽÂ »max of 550nm (A550nm) 0.827 2. Absorption Pigment type A Value Absorption Concentration Chlorophyll a A663nm 0.934 10.71 Chlorophyll b A645nm 0.390 20.29 Protochlorophyllide A626nm 0.321 23.92 Fig. 1. a table showing the A value of three different pigment types found in a leaf extraction, and the measured absorbance and calculated concentration of each. 3. Lysozyme Concentration Determination: (a) Direct absorbance reading at ÃŽÂ »max of 280 nm (A280nm) 0.177 (b). Preparation and Use of a Standard Curve for Lowry Assay: Discussion Part A A). Using the data collected, the experimental the ÃŽÂ µ value (dm3 mol-1 cm-1) calculated during this experiment was compared to that of an ÃŽÂ µ value obtained from  commercial standard references data. ÃŽÂ »(nm) ÃŽÂ µ(dm3 mol-1 cm-1) Standard ÃŽÂ µ value 550nm 8.55 x 103 Experimental ÃŽÂ µ value 550nm 7.51 x 103 Fig. 4. a table to show a comparison between standard and experimental ÃŽÂ µ values. As the above data indicates, the experimental ÃŽÂ µ value obtained during this experiment differs from that of the standard ÃŽÂ µ value. B). Other than human and experimental errors, one possibility that could explain the differences in the ÃŽÂ µ values is that to a certain degree different spectrophotometers in the laboratory give different readings. If the standard ÃŽÂ µ value was recorded using a different spectrophotometer this could cause anomalies within the results. A second possibility is that the solution used to find the experimental ÃŽÂ µ value was not at a stock concentration of exactly 0.15 g. This would affect the calculations and hence a different result would be obtained to that of the standard ÃŽÂ µ value. Part B 1(a).The % of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and protochlorophyllide in the leaf extract can be calculated in the following way: chlorophyll a concentration = 10.71 ug cm-3 chlorophyll b concentration = 20.29 ug cm-3 protochlorophyllide concentration = 23.92 ug cm-3 10.71 + 20.29 + 23.92 = 54.92 Percentage of chlorophyll a = 10.71/54.92 x 100 = 19.5% Percentage of chlorophyll b = 20.29/54.92 x 100 = 36.9% Percentage of protochlorophyllide = 23.92/54.92 x100 = 43.6% 1(b).It can be seen from the above percentages that 43.6% of the leaf extract is composed of protochlorophyllide. This is the largest percentage present within the leaf extract and therefore it can be considered as the predominant pigment type. 2(a). The percentages obtained can also be used to calculate the ratio of chlorophyll a:b in the leaf extract. In the case of this experiment the ratio of chlorophyll a:b in the leaf extract was 2:1. 2(b). The determined value to be expected when calculating the ratio of chlorophyll a:b in the leaf extract was 3:1. One would expect this as there are three pigments in the leaf extract, that ideally should contribute evenly. However, The results from this experiment vary from the standard data as they show a ratio of 2:1 between chlorophyll a and b. The most probable reason for this variation is not due to anomalies in results or calculations, but the fact that not all leaf extracts will contain the standard amount of pigments. In some cases pigments may be present in a higher percentage of one than the other, as is this experiment where protochlorophyllide was the predominant pigment type. 3). Although the above ratio is only dealing with percentages of chlorophyll a and b present in the leaf extract, one must consider that the presence of protochlorophyllide must be allowed for in the formulae and hence in the calculations. This is because there are three pigment types involved in the leaf extract and so one must consider that the ratio of the whole leaf extract is actually 3:2:1 where the ratio of chlorophyll a:b is 2:1. 4). The use of a formula related to a given extraction solvent is a convenient method for determining the concentration of chlorophyll. However, making use of the Beer-Lambert Law the concentration of chlorophyll could also be found by preparation and use of a standard curve. Part C Determination of Protein Concentration by UV and Visible Spectrophotometry, Construction of a Standard Graph Proteins have aromatic side chains such as tryptophan tyrosine and phenylalanine which absorb light at 280nm. The Lowry method is based upon a combination of the biuret method and the oxidation of tyrosine and tryptophan residues. The biuret reaction involves the binding of Cu2+ under alkaline conditions to nitrogen found in the peptide bonds of proteins. This reaction gives off a deep blue colour. The folin reagent contains phosphomolybdotungstate acids which are reduced to tyrosine, tryptophan and polar amino acids. This creates an intense blue-green colour. (a). The data collected was used to create a graph, plotting a standard curve of A (Y axis) against BSA concentration (X axis) in à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ­g cm-3 (See fig.3). This graph, shown in fig.3., was effectively constructed assuming that the relationship between absorbance (A) and concentration (C) must be linear to satisfy the Beer-Lambert law. However, the Beer-Lambert relationship between absorption and concentration deviates from lineariy in the case of more concentrated solutions. Linear BSA standard curves are only obtained at low protein concentration and so therefore to decrease possible anomilies in the results, timing of both residue addition and mixing were crucial. Using the A value from test tube 9, it was possible to use the graph to determine the concentration of the unknown lysozyme sample in à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ­g cm-3. Results from the graph show that. (b) By examining the lysozyme concentration results obtained (in à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ­g cm-3), it is possible to make a comparison between the results for the colourimetric assay and the direct absorption technique. Results show that Lysozyme concentration for colormetric assay were (m/rmm thing) Lysozyme concentration results for direct absorbance technique were..(graph) These results are same/different. Due to the fact that different proteins have widely varying characteristics, there may be considerable errors within the data. With the colormetric assay any non-protein component of the solution that absorbs UV light could interfere with the assay, resulting in the production of colour by substances other than the analyte of interest. This would cause the results to vary from that of the direct absorbance technique. (c). For this experiment three different methods were used for concentration determination, each of which had different strengths and weaknesses with respect to their sensitivity, accuracy and convenience. The first of these methods was the use of a formula, to determine chlorophyll concentration. Using a formula gives a very accurate theoretical result but it is not particularly convenient as for calculations to be correct it can take a great deal of time and effort. Obviously with such calculations, they are not sensitive as there is no outside interference to affect results. Direct absorbance is not as sensitive as the colormetric method, but as it requires the use of a spectrophotometer, it is an accurate assay method. This also makes the method relatively convenient for determining the concentration of lysozyme present in a given solution as changes in absorbance of the lysozyme could be clearly seen and recorded using the spectrophotometer at a particular wavelength. The colourimetric method was also used to determine the concentration of lysozyme during this experiment. One benefit of using the Colormetric method is that it is extremely sensitive (down to a protein content of 20ug ml-1) and it is also moderately constant from one protein to another. However, with respect to accuracy, this method is subject to interference from a wide range of non-protein substances including many organic buffers. The choice of an appropriate standard is important as the intesnsity of colour produced for a particular protein is dependant on the number of aromatic proteins. As different proteins have a different number of aromatic residues, the Lowry assay is considered more of a qualitative measure of protein content more than quantitative method of determining protein concentraion. This method is not as convenient as the direct absorbance method in that it takes a lot longer to perform and there is a higher frequency of anomalies that must be accounted for. (d). The measurement of protein levels is of significant diagnostic importance in both clinical and veterinary medicine. In clinical medicine there are a wide variety of biomedical tests involving the measurement of protein levels, such as the detection of abnormal protein levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), suggesting that there is an abnormal process occurring in the central nervous system. Protein levels in urine samples are tested to monitor and evaluate kidney function, and essentially to detect and diagnose kidney damage and disease at and early stage. Serum protein tests are also important as they concern measurement of protein levels of albumin and globulin in the blood. Such tests are also important in veterinary medicine. According to reports from Cornell universities college of veterinary medicine, protein tests have been developed to accurately indicate canine liver failure caused by the toxin aflatoxin. (e). Another way in which protein concentration can be measured, other than by the use of a formula or a spectrophotometer is gel electrophoreses. This technique uses charged protein molecules to separate physical properties, as they are forced through a gel by an electrical current.

Advantage Of Star Topology

Advantage Of Star Topology Star Topology: In a typical star topology, all computers/ stations are connected to a central device, usually a switch. They are connected to this central device via cable segments. Such cable segments are Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) and Shielded Twisted Pair, as well as, fibre optic cabling. http://www.inetdaemon.com/img/topology_star.gif Advantage of star topology: With the star topology, if one cable of device goes down, the rest of the network is not affected (fault tolerance). Disadvantage of star topology: However, because management of communication is centralized, if the main switch or hub goes down the whole network goes down. Extended Star Topology: As the name implies, it is a bit more advanced than the typical star topology. In this topology, there is also a central device, usually a switch, in the middle of the network. However, instead of computers being directly connected to this central switch, other switches or hubs are connected to its ports. Computers and other peripherals are then connected to these switches or hubs, forming other stars; hence an extended star is the final result. http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:O2WYXsb8K_NPNM:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/ro/b/b5/Extended_star_topology.png Advantage of extended star topology: As a result of there being a central switch, it is easy to locate and troubleshoot any problematic areas. Disadvantage of extended star topology: Again, because of the use of the centralized switch, once the switch goes down it creates problems for the entire network. Ring Topology: In this particular network topology, each computer/ station is directly connected to the next one in line and ends at the very first computer/ station, resulting in a circular formation/ arrangement of the cables. Each computer has the responsibility of retransmitting communication messages. The communication messages all travel in one direction and as a result of having no end in the circular formation, there is no real need for termination. http://www.inetdaemon.com/img/topology_ring.gif Advantage of ring topology: Due to the topologys structure, there is no need for terminators. Disadvantage of ring topology: Any break or fault in the cable can disrupt communications. Bus/ Linear-Bus Topology: This structure utilizes a single cable segment which connects all the computers in a single straight line. All computers in this topology share this single cable segment and as a result a terminator is needed. This is due to the fact that the signals need to be absorbed as they reach the end of the bus in order to free the network for fresh and newer communications. http://www.inetdaemon.com/img/topology_bus.png Advantage of bus topology: This is an inexpensive topology to install. Disadvantage of bus topology: With all the devices sharing the same backbone cable, communication speeds are lowered. Tree Topology: Logically, this is an extension to the less complex bus topology. www.networkdictionary.com states that The transmission medium is a branching cable with no closed loops. The tree layout begins at a point called the head-end, where one or more cables start, and each of these may have branches. The branches in turn may have additional branches to allow quite complex layouts. It is often referred to as the star- bus topology. Available from: www.networkdictionary.com/networking/lanat.php [Date accessed: October 24th 2009] graphics/04fig11.gif Advantage of tree topology: This topology allows point to point wiring for individual sectors. Disadvantage of tree topology: A break in the main backbone cable will affect the entire network. Mesh Topology: In the mesh topology, each device in a network is connected to every other device in the particular network. The mesh topology is typically used to connect several LANs together to create a WAN (it is more WAN based technology) e.g. the internet is a perfect example of a mesh topology. http://www.google.tt/images?q=tbn:MKaJ7Z8cc3BUJM::www.erealmedia.com/cms102/uploads/NetworkingPrinciples/Chapter1/1_23_MeshTopology.jpgt=1h=196w=176usg=__QGrcgQACaPCnhXDPW-hE9X5a-Rw= Advantage of mesh topology: Due to the fact that all devices are interconnected to each other, there are various alternate routes, which improve fault tolerance. Disadvantage of mesh topology: Managing and troubleshooting this architecture is very difficult, complex and expensive. 1.2.0 Advantages and Disadvantages of LAN media The media used in a typical LAN (Local Area Network) are Coaxial cables, Twisted-pair cables (Unshielded and shielded twisted pair) and Fibre Optic cables. 1.2.1 Advantages of Coaxial cables: Appropriate for Broadband system: Coaxial cables possess adequate ranges of frequency that can support several network channels and as a result of such capability, allows for much greater throughput. Better bandwidth: Compared to twisted pair cables, coaxial offers a better bandwidth system wide, as well as, better bandwidth for each network channel. As a result of this, there is support for a diverse range of service. Network functionalities such as data, voice, video and even multimedia can profit from the improved capacity. An even better spacing between amplifiers: Due to the cable shielding possessed by coaxial, there is a reduction in noise and crosstalk, thereby allowing amplifiers to be spaced farther apart. Lower error rate: Noise resistance is enhanced because the inner conductor is in a wire mesh and coaxial has lesser error rates. Better channel capacity: Extensive capacity is offered from each of the several channels. Disadvantages of Coaxial cables: Installation can be expensive Prone to damage from lightning strikes: People residing in areas, in which lightning strikes frequently occur, must be cautious. If the lightning is conducted by a coaxial, chances are that the equipment connected to the end of that particular coaxial, may be fried. Noise: The path of return has noise exertion and the end apparatus requires additional aptitude to deal with error control. Deployment architecture problems: The bus topology in which the coaxial is set up is vulnerable to noise, clogging and security can be jeopardized. Bidirectional (two-way) upgrade is required: In countries where there is a history of cable television, these systems are designed and built for broadcasting, not interactive communications. For a service provider to offer a subscriber any form of two-way communication services, the current network system needs to be upgraded to a Bidirectional system. 1.2.2 Advantages of Twisted pair cables: The cost of installing twisted pair on site is low High availability: Billions telephone subscriber lines established on twisted-pair have been set up and because it is already in the ground, the telecommunication companies will use it. Low cost for local moves, additions and changes in places: Individuals can swap twisted-pair terminating in a modular plug with another jack. This can be done without a service technician, given that the wiring is already in place. Disadvantages of Twisted pair cables: Frequency spectrum is limited: The total serviceable frequency spectrum of is about 1MHz. High error rates: It is extremely susceptible to interferences in signal communications, caused by EMI (Electromagnetic Interference) or RFI (Radio Frequency Interference). Data rates are limited: The longer the distance the signal travels over cable, the lower the data rate will be. At 30 feet (100m), twisted-pair is capable of carrying 100Mbps. At 3.5 miles (5.5km), the data rate can drop to 2Mbps or possibly less. Short distances are required between repeaters. 1.2.3 Advantages of Fibre Optic cables: Fibre optic cables have higher bandwidth compared to other mediums. It is impossible to tap into fibre optic cables. This makes them much more secure compared to other mediums. One can add equipment to provide extra capability over a fibre without having to change it. No electricity passes through the cables what so ever, and as a result they do not conduct lightning strikes They are light weight Disadvantages of Fibre Optic cables: They are more fragile compared to other mediums. Installation of the cables is quite expensive. Termination of fibre optic cables is quite complex and requires special tools 1.3.0 Recommendation After much investigation of the various LAN topologies and media, I have gathered comprehensive information and have come to a conclusion which topology and media type should be used. With respects to the LAN topology, I strongly recommend that the extended star topology be implemented. The extended star offers fault tolerance in that, if failure in one cable or device occurs, it doesnt pose as a threat to the rest of the network. If at all there are problems with particular cables or devices, the task of locating them is quite easy. Management is centralized due to the use of the centralized switch and it is easy to add devices as the network expands. Also, it can be upgraded for faster speeds and better performance, not to mention that it is the most widely used, so much support is available. Such a LAN topology proves to be quite costly but with all its benefits it is worth the expense. With regards to network media, if the extended star LAN topology is to be in use, the unshielded twisted-pair cables are a suitable medium. The installation costs are low and in addition, any changes or additions are cheaper compared to other media types. Furthermore, telecommunication companies will use subscriber lines that already exist, so there is no need for additional costs of running lines. Bibliography K. Wilson Jarrett and L. Goleniewski, (Oct. 12th, 2007), Traditional Transmission Media for Networking and Telecommunications. (Coaxial Cable) www.informit.com/articles/article.aspx?p=683070seqNum=2# [Date accessed: October 24th 2009] K. Wilson Jarrett and L. Goleniewski, (Oct. 12th, 2007), Traditional Transmission Media for Networking and Telecommunications. (Twisted-Pair) http://www.informit.com/articles/article.aspx?p=683070 [Date accessed: October 24th 2009] K. Wilson Jarrett and L. Goleniewski, (Oct. 12th, 2007), Traditional Transmission Media for Networking and Telecommunications. (Fibre Optics) http://www.informit.com/articles/article.aspx?p=683070seqNum=5 [Date accessed: October 24th 2009] Network Dictionary, (2004-2010), LAN Architectures and Topologies: Bus, Star, Ring and Tree. www.networkdictionary.com/networking/lanat.php [Date accessed: October 24th 2009] Task 2 a) 2.1.0 Internet services required 2.1.1 E mail: The abbreviation for electronic mail; this is a system of exchanging information/ messages digitally via the internet. 2.1.2 Voice/VoIP: The abbreviation for Voice Over internet Protocol; this is a system used in telecommunications for the transmission of voice traffic/phone calls over any network based on IP (Internet Protocol) e.g. the internet. 2.1.3 FTP: The abbreviation for File Transfer Protocol; this is the TCP/IP standard used for the transferring of files from one computer to another. 2.1.4 TELNET: This is the TCP/IP standard used for remote terminal services. It allows users at one site to transparently interact with a remote system or network at another site, whilst appearing as a local terminal. 2.1.5 Video communication: J. Wilcox Pg.3 states, Video communication is real-time exchange of digitized video images and sounds between conference participants at two or more separate sites. 2.2.0 Required connection speeds 2.3.1 With regards to Audio and Data communication, 64 Kbits/s is sufficient enough for use of this service. In the case of Video communication, bandwidth of 2Mbits/s or more may be required for proper transmission. Furthermore, www.whichvoip.com states VoIP requires anywhere from about 24Kbits/s to about 90Kbits/s. Overall, once serviced with an appropriate broadband package, these requirements will be addressed. Available from: http://www.whichvoip.com/voip/speed_test/ppspeed.html [Date accessed: October 27th 2009] 2.3.0 Internet Service Providers (ISPs) In Trinidad, there are various internet service providers from which one can subscribe for broadband services. Blink, Flow, and Lisa Communications are such ISPs. 2.3.1 Blink Packages 2.3.2 Flow Packages 2.3.3 Lisa communications 2.4.0 Recommendation After investigations on ISPs in Trinidad regarding their services and prices offered, I have seen favourable packages with one particular ISP, Flow. Flow offers its customers bandwidth speeds ranging from 512k/1Mbps to 3Mbps/9Mbps. Also they provide free static IP addresses and email addresses, and the number of IP email addresses one receives depends on the package one chooses. The packages are as follows: