Architectural Designing Firm Business Plan Marketing Essay

Architectural Designing Firm Business Plan Marketing Essay Contemporary Island Designers Associates (C.I.D.) will be an Architectural Designing as well as Cost Estimating, Building Construction, Project Management and Consultations business specializing in residential and small commercial structures in the Jamaican domestic and commercial market, temporarily based out of my home in the Kingston 10 Area of Jamaica. The business will provide consultation and Draughting services using technologically superior processes, providing greater value for clients and enhanced  design and construction. The target clients are segmented into three categories; potential and existing home owners and developers initially. Contemporary Island Designers competitive edge will be the knowledge of digital-based design resources, creativity and results orientated. Superior customer service will also be  a point of firm differentiation. First year profits are expected to reach $xxxxx and increase to $xxxxx by the third year of operation. We will be profitable within three years of starting. The most significant challenges ahead include: (a). securing a suitable location (b) establishing the initial client base and (c)  positioning the business to be able to have a presence in a larger market. This business plan outlines the objective, focus, and implementation of this start-up firm. 1.1 Mission Contemporary Island Designers Associates will offer a new type of digital interactive media for both the client and the builder. This media will clearly show the client and the builder exactly what the design will look like in a three dimensional (Animated) perspective and the method(s) of construction. With this new form of media, the client does not have to know anything about Architectural designing graphics or terminology (floor plans, sections, elevations construction documents) to have a clear understanding of what the end result will look like. This is possible through the use of computer-rendered images and interactive video. This media will be taken one step further by using it in the construction documents as well. The builder(s) may be provided with an interactive video rendering of the entire building containing both visual photographic quality images and construction specs. Specific details will be worked out in three dimensions in such a way that anyone who knows how to use a computer will be able to access and understand this new means of Architectural presentation. 1.2 Keys to Success Provide a service that is technologically superior to the competitions. Utilizing the skills and knowledge gained in a competent and efficient manner through a diverse staff of Architectural Technologist/Draughtsman to provide a wide variety of product styles. A large array of connections and associations with reputable professionals and business executives. Objectives To establish and keep satisfied a vast client base. To provide quality workmanship to satisfy costumer(s) needs and to sustain the reputation of designing and construction in the Jamaican industry. Sales of at least $540,000 in  Year 3  and $725,000 by Year 4. Market expansion of 20% per year via the  Internet and other mediums. Creating new niche in market by  Year 4  of three dimensional construction documents and interactive digital presentation to clients. Company Summary Contemporary Island Designers Associates will provide a service of Architectural designs via digital media to the limits of technology. This approach will  offer optimal efficiency to the firm and superior value, design processes, and construction methods to the client. 2.1Businnes Ownership Contemporary Island Designers will be created as a Kingston operation based initially in the Molynes Road area. It will be  owned by its principal investor and operator, Mr. Miguel Wood. 2.2 Start-up Summary Contemporary Island Designers start-up costs total $xxxxx. The most significant purchases needed are a plotter, office printer, and desktop and laptop computer. Five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) will be needed in cash to sustain the business for the first  year to cover rent and wages until a profit is made. 2.3 Company Locations and Facilities The  interim office of Contemporary Island Designers Associates will be located at my home at Tamarind Avenue, Kingston until dedicated office space is secured. Services Contemporary Island Designers Associates will provide many levels of service such as Architectural Designing and Planning, Cost Estimating, Building Construction, Project Management and Consultations to cater to large and small  corporations and entities, along with making it affordable for middle and upper socioeconomic classes. 3.1 Service Description In order for Contemporary Island Designers Associates to provide this new innovative service of digital media, the company will use high speed computers running programs such as AutoCAD, AutoCAD Architecture Rivet Architecture and 3D Max. To keep up with changes in technology, Contemporary Island Designers will investigate all up and coming software related to digital 3-D design to stay at the forefront of the market.   Again, this is a key strategic component to differentiate the firm and to optimize productivity and efficiency. Market Analysis Summary Contemporary Island Designers Associates will provide its service to home owners who are looking to start new construction, remodel, as well as  developers and contractors and other private parties in the domestic markets. Although we are going to cater to a relatively broad scope of customers, the business will decide what the target market is based on sales and trends experienced in the initial months of operation. 4.1 Market Segmentation Potential clients for Contemporary Island Designers Associates market are broken down into four categories: home owners, developers and contractors. Home owners and potential home owners are the largest group based on shear population and this will be emphasized in  all of the business marketing and promotional efforts. Targeting the remaining  two groups will be dependent upon establishing meaningful relationships, and responding and qualifying for request for proposals. 4.2 Service Business Analysis The Architecture/Designing business across the country is primarily made up of small- to mid-sized firms specializing in a particular architectural/design type. But there are also a few large firms that have almost dominated the design of large commercial and industrial facilities.   Initially, Contemporary Island Designers main competitors will be the small to midsized firms.   Strategy and Implementation Summary In the first year of business, Contemporary Island Designers will focus on the Kingston and St. Andrew and the Portmore area of St. Catharine. As the business grows, sales will expand throughout these areas and across the country, eventually spreading regionally. 5.1 Sales Strategy Sales in this  business is a direct result of exceptional client service. It is based on the firms  image and the referrals that result. The more clients this company pleases, the more referrals are given. We will work to provide a positive experience in all cases so our clients will refer and return to us for future work as well. 5.1.1 Sales Forecast Sales are broken down into three categories: Consultations, Design and Supervision of the construction. These three categories put together, may make up one architecture/design project. The totals for each project are based on a 10% cut from the total construction costs of each job. The following table and chart provides an overview  of our  forecast sales.   Actual sales could vary depending on the project size and budget. 5.2 Competitive Edge This business will have a competitive edge over both the larger and smaller firms because it will be composed of the  new generation of Architectural Technologists which are fluent in the digital world. Many firms today employ personnel of which find the computer 3D modeling a mystery, and most of those that do use the computer only have the ability to design in 2-D. Management Summary This business will start with one Architectural Technologists/Designer. In August of 2011, a clerical position will be added. By 2012, Other Architectural Technologists will be hired to compensate the increased work load. 6.1 Personnel Plan The following table summarizes our personnel expenditures for the first three years of operation. Financial Plan Contemporary Island Designers will increase growth and technology with cash flow as it increases through the years. Further money will be set aside to pay for further consulting as needed. 7.1 Important Assumptions The annual assumptions made in the following table are based on a stable economy. We will adjust these assumptions as changes occur in the now tumultuous economy the Bay Area is experiencing. 7.2 Key Financial Indicators The following benchmark chart indicates our key financial indicators for the first three years. 7.3 Break-even Analysis The following chart and table summarize our break-even analysis. Break-even Analysis Monthly Revenue Break-even $80,348 Average Percent Variable Cost 1% Assumptions: Estimated Monthly Fixed Cost $80,246 7.4 Projected Profit and Loss Net profit is virtually nonexistent for the first two years of operation, with respectable increases after that time. Our projected profit and loss is shown on the following table, with sales starting at $102,000 for the first year and climbing to $500,000 the third year. Pro Forma Profit and Loss 7.5 Projected Cash Flow Cash flow is vital to the well being of this company because of the duration of payment. The following chart and table below show cash flow projections. 7.6 Projected Balance Sheet The following table shows our projected Balance Sheet and net worth over the next three years. 7.7 Business Ratios Business ratios for the years of this plan are shown below. Industry profile ratios based on the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code 7383, Independent Artists (including Architects), are shown for comparison.

Optimal Economic Uncertainty Index

Optimal Economic Uncertainty Index Introduction Economic uncertainty states about the uncertain of future economic events. This means we cannot foresee what will happen to the country’s economic in the future and this is why this research is been investigate. There are many situations which caused the uncertainty to happen such as the changes in economic and financial policies, various views about the growth prospects, the productivity movements, wars and natural disasters (Bloom et al., 2013). The first innovative work which discussed about the effects of uncertainty is done by Knight (1921). Knight formalized a distinction between risk and uncertainty. Based on Knight’s research, risk was applies to the situations where is unpredicted but still can accurately calculate the odds. However, uncertainty applies to the situations where is unpredicted all the information we need with the purpose of set accurate odds. According to a theory of profit and entrepreneurship, Knight suggests that the function of the entreprene ur is to earn profit by undertaken the investments with uncertain outcome (Bewley, 2002). Thereafter, more and more researcher has constructed diverse models to investigate the uncertainty. Mises (1949) states that researchers never gave up in searching the best ways to reduce the problems which caused by the uncertainty. However, the results gain by most researchers which tested the uncertainty could not supply suitable and meaningful outcomes. This is because the researchers’ understanding and the modeling created has supply limited information from the empirical data and too much effort has been applied in explaining and estimating the characteristic of human beings under variety situations (Ellsberg 1961; Epstein 1999). However, an open question remains as to whether or not research in this area could better our knowledge of economic turbulences and other utmost uncertainties and improve the scientific accuracy of economic theory. There are fewer of empirical studies on the economic uncertainty index depend on normative analysis. This type of analysis creates value judgments about the economy or the goals of public policy to be archive. (Caplin and Schotte 2008). Thus, normative analysis cannot be used to refute the precision of the economic uncertainty index (Gan 2014). Monetary conditions indexes (MCI) have become famous in several countries over the past few years as a useful tool and indicator for the stance of monetary policy. Although MCI played as an alternative monetary policy rule sparked intense debate and yet whether a consensus can be reached remained unknown at the beginning however it has been losing its magnet effect on the economy from the past years. The main factor of this change would be exchange rate, which is merely determined by the market. Gan (2014) conducted a paper namely the optimal economic uncertainty index constructed is one of many in the economic uncertainty literatures, which the optimal form may reflect the true economic conditions. This study will apply two monetary policy rules which are MCI and OEUI in selected Asian countries to examine which rules would facilitate achieving the best economic outcomes and lead to rational and wise policy decisions through a comparison. Matters of the study The argument of monetary policy rules in an economic uncertainty A good monetary policy rule is very important to the economy. It can help the economy respond efficiently to economic upheavals by limiting the gap of actual economy activity from its equilibrium, without significantly changing the ultimate goals of monetary policy. As stressed by Svensson (2000), monetary policy rule can either describe a systematic response of policy instrument to events in the economy (e.g., changes in macro variables and changes in policy variables), or it can suggest a specific economic outcome, or it can target the central bank’s goals (e.g. output and/or inflation). This behaviour of the policy rule can be inferred only in the context of a full model that links the policy instrument to the targeting variables included in the rule. Levin, Wieland, and Williams (2001) investigated the performance of forecast-based monetary policy rules by using five macroeconomic models that present a wide range of views on aggregate dynamics. They categorize the characteristics of rules that are robust to model uncertainty. However, the performance of monetary policy rule in an economic uncertainty is still under debate. Dotsey and Plosser (2012) examine the design of monetary policy rules in an environment. The argument is lingering around the issue that people have only an imperfect knowledge of the economy to confront challenges arising from various forms of economic uncertainty. The inadequate of non-optimal monetary policy rules in an economic uncertainty Simple monetary policy rules – non-optimal – such as Taylor (1993) may involve a reaction to variables other than conventional variables such as inflation gap and output gap, which are considered intuitively relevant to the conduct of monetary policy. Generally, these rules are similar to those discussed in Clarida et al. (1998). The great virtue of the simple rules is simplicity, which makes them easy to understand. Simple rules still can be used in central bank communication, although the public would not be able to verify the exact rule that is being followed. The rule can perform well in a wide range of models, which makes it robust to model uncertainty (Taylor, 2000). As stressed by Orphanides (2007: 11), some useful elements of policy design surface from historical analysis of TR: (i) good stabilization performance have a strong relation to the inflation’s reaction; (ii) good performance is associated with policy rules that show considerable inertia; (iii) a strong reaction to incorrectly measured output gaps has historically proven counterproductive; (iv) successful policy could still usefully incorporate information from real economic activity by focusing on the growth rate of the economy. Additionally, financial market analysts, scholars and central banks’ staff have been using monetary policy rules increasingly to forecast interest rates and to evaluate and describe central bank actions. Despite the fact that simple policy rules can often provide a good approximation to fully optimal policy under perfect information and are typically more robust to uncertainty (Cateau, 2007), simple rules have a number of weaknesses. Although their performance is rarely disastrous, they can involve large welfare losses relatively to fully optimal rules (Nikolov, 2002). In the similar vein, Svensson (2003) argued that a commitment to a simple instrument rule might be far from optimal in some circumstances. Crucially, simple rules are rarely optimal. Some studies, for example, Batini, Harrison and Millard (2003) argued that Taylor-type rules are not robust to open economy features. Taylor (2007) recognized that the TR is not supposed to be followed mechanically, but he also argued that monetary policy might deliver better results in terms of low inflation and output variability by staying closer to the rule. The failure of monetary conditions index Generally an MCI is a measurement of demand pressure; demand pressure is often measured by the output gap (output gap is the difference between current output and the estimated output in equilibrium level). The MCI is simple economic uncertainty measure because it involves gap variables in estimation; any estimation of gap variables is subject to considerably uncertainty (Gan, 2014). The equation of MCI[1] is a combination of interest rate gap[2] and exchange rate gap[3]. Thereby, increases in interest rates as well as increases in exchange rates[4] indicate a higher MCI figure and, therefore, tighter monetary conditions rested here. The estimation of the weights of the two variables in the MCI is at the heart of calculating of the MCI. The ratio of these weights would encode whether an appreciation in interest rates can be compensated along with depreciation in the exchange rate. The weights also reflect the relative impacts and changes of the interest rates as well as in the exchan ge rate affected on monetary conditions. Therefore, the MCI is generally viewed as a summative and informative tool for the public; meanwhile it serves as an early indicator for the central banks. However, the benign MCI played as an alternative monetary policy rule still sparked intense debate and yet whether a consensus can be reached remained unknown. Noticeably, the MCI has been losing its magnet effect on the economy from the past years. The most contributive factor of this change would be exchange rate, which is merely determined by the market. Further, the MCI mixes up two variables that are situated on two fundamentally different stages of the transmission process. The evidences can be briefly summarized by the application of the two MCI formerly leading advocates, the Bank of Canada (BOC) and the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ). Since the early 1990s, BOC officially used MCI as an operating target (operating target is variable that the central bank influences directly by its monetary policy instruments[5]); however, the BOC did not directly control both the interest rate and the exchange rate simultaneously, but merely focused on the control of the interest rate. This means that central bank adjusted its interest rates to modify monetary conditions directly, which in turn is assumed to affect the exchange rate in various systematic approaches (usually via uncovered interest parity – UIP).[6] Due to its inability to target the exchange rate under MCI’s mechanical way, The RBNZ in 1999 gave up the concept of MCI may. The recurrent depreciation during the crisis and the evocable changes in the MCI were interpreted as signals of upcoming tightening that can cause long-term interest rates to rise and consequently exacerbate recessionary forces (Ito and Hayashi, 2004). To sum up, the concept of the MCI had lost a great part of its initial attractiveness in the end of the 1990s. The RNBZ abandoned published an MCI in March 1999 and concentrated its policy statements on a short-term interest rate. While the BOC continues to publish the MCI, its role in taking monetary policy decisions was reduced to that of many other indicators in recent years. The perform of optimal economic uncertainty In economics, optimal analysis is a normative analysis. It studies what the economic ought to be. However, the study about the optimal economic uncertainty is very limited. Most of the empirical studies are approximate form but not optimal. The optimal analysis is very common in most of the economic study such as the studies of monetary policy rule and others. In the late 1970s, the Federal Reserve stabilized the country’s economy by using the optimal Taylor Rule in the monetary policy. However, the Taylor Rule has misplaced the policy makers to face the real time data (Orphanides, 2003). This is because the optimal Taylor Rule only can perform better in the interest rate function. Giannoni (2000) investigated optimal policy rule in a simple forward-looking model, when the policymaker faces uncertainty about model parameters and shock processes. Other than that, Dieppe et al. (2004) examined the optimal monetary policy rule in the model of the euro area which is known as the ECB’s Area Wide Model, including a high degree of intrinsic perseverance and a restricted role for forward-looking anticipation. The optimal economic uncertainty index constructed by Gan (2014) is one of many in the economic uncertainty literatures, which the optimal form may reflect the true economic conditions. Since the economic uncertainty index is not observable. The rule of optimal economic uncertainty index suggests optimal economic uncertainty index can be computed by using grid search method based on small open economic model; a small open economic model is very close to a true economic model and it is not partial economic model. Motivation of the Study What is the response of optimal economic uncertainty to macro variables and policy variables? Until today, there are no policymakers (hereafter, central banks) have publish the optimal economic uncertainty index, for the reason they might be unwilling to publish such an index, or such an explicit formula simply does not exist. As stressed by Bernanke (2010a), economic engineering to address economic uncertainties needs to be improved. Optimality in this study can be given by particular specifications of the central bank’s loss function. Therefore, an optimal rule is the one that derived by minimizing a loss function. Two models are practically employed here. The first model is an optimal economic uncertainty index, which is proposed by Gan (2014). The second one is MCI concept which is based on the theoretical works by De Wet (2002). Thereby the optimal monetary responses can be derived. What is the welfare gain from taking into account the external variable? In order to answer this question, the study attempts to compare the derived optimal economic uncertainty index to a set that assumes with the exchange rate variable and a set that assumes without exchange rate variable. In line with this measure, one feasible approach is to measure the difference in the loss function values. For this purpose, the study would derive the optimal economic uncertainty index for a small open economic model in two setting, in other words, a model with the exchange rate variable and a model without the exchange rate variable. Objectives The objective is to examine the optimal economic uncertainty index (see Figure 1.1) while including the role of external variables – normative analysis. Specifically, this model is augmented and examined with exchange rates. The first model is the MCI of Bank of Canada is a variant of economic conditions rule, which can serve as a competitive rule; this rule consists exchange rates, interest rates and past output. The second model is the optimal economic uncertainty index based on a small open economy model, which was proposed by Gan (2014). Since the basic idea is to keep the rules at constant, i.e., MCI (De Wet, 2002) and optimal economic uncertainty index (Gan, 2014), these optimal rules would bring the economy back to its long-run equilibrium; the process can be indicated by MCI (i.e. an indicator that encompassed the total effects of interest rates and exchange rates), and by optimal economic uncertainty index (i.e. an indicator that encompassed the total effects of inter est rates, exchange rates, inflation and output at optimal level). This study also examines the dynamic profiles of monetary policy rules through a comparison. Eventually, this would enable us to draw an inference regarding which rules would facilitate achieving of the best economic outcomes and lead to rational and wise policy decisions and aid in assessing the behavior of the economic uncertainty in the future. Figure 1.1 Analytical Frameworks (theoretic framework of optimal economic uncertainty index) Figure 1 (a) 3D macro model and the optimal economic uncertainty index at zero uncertainty level of macroeconomic conditions. (b) 2D field of view of the optimal economic uncertainty index with zero uncertainty level of macroeconomic conditions. (c) 2D field of view of the negative-optimal economic uncertainty index with economic contraction. (d) 2D field of view of the positive-optimal economic uncertainty index with economic expansion. Significance of the Study The attainment of these objectives will certainly benefit the central banks. With the growing international mutual consent, both in academia and among central banks, maintaining the medium to long-term price stability is the overriding goal of monetary policy (Asian Development Bank, 2008). Research provides strong support in maintaining low and stable inflation, ultimately; this is beneficial for overall economic outcome (Mishikin, 2008). In line with this consensus, the proposed economic uncertainty index based on a small open economic model – suggested in this study may be considered by the central banks as an alternative framework with the end view of coming up with an improved and more effective economic policy strategy. This study provides exploration of two types of monetary policy rules in an economic uncertainty, the MCI of Bank of Canada and optimal economic uncertainty index based on a small open economic model of Gan (2014), where a set of parameters inducing different decision rules are determined. This study encompasses two macro variables (i.e., output and inflation) and two policy variables (i.e., interest rates and exchange rates) in the optimal model. Not only does this facilitate a better understanding of current policy actions, but it permits markets to better forecast the central bank’s future actions. The optimal policy in one setting may not be optimal policy in some other setting because there is no agreement on the best model of the economy (Plosser, 2008). The rules derived in this study can be contrasted. The optimal economic uncertainty index may outperform other rules (e.g., the Taylor rule and MCI rule) as it can be useful for the central banks. The proposed rule can serve asa policy of inflation targeting that in line with a welfare maximizing policy aiming at minimizing the output gap and inflation gap. This rule is superior that maintaining public confidence while giving monetary authorities to achieve the best economic outcomes in an optimal way. Conclusion This thesis is divided into five chapters. The current chapter sets the background and motivation for the thesis. Chapter 2 explores the theoretical and empirical literature on monetary policy rules with the aim of highlighting two research gaps that motivate the present study. Chapter 3 examines the MCI rule â€Å"true† policy reaction function through optimal TR, while Chapter 4 furthered the MCI rule by employing optimal economic uncertainty index based on a small open economic model. Lastly, Chapter 5 summarizes the major findings of the thesis and their implications, together with some recommendations for future study. [1] [2]Interest rates in the current period minus interest rates in the base period, i.e., changes in interest rates. [3]The level of the effective exchange rate minus the effective exchange rate in the base period divided by the level of the base period. i.e., changes in exchange rates. [4] A positive value for indicates appreciation of the domestic currency. [5] Cf. Burton and Lombra (2006: 671) and Thomas (2006: 608) for textbook definition. [6] Interest-rate-parity theorem states that the interest rate differential between two countries will be equal to the difference between the forward-exchange rate and the spot-exchange rate (equation), in other words, interest differential between two countries should be equally expected in term of the exchange rate change.

The Process of Respiration Essay -- Science

Aerobic: in general 1. occurs in presence of oxygen. 2. CO2 and water is produced 3. lot of energy is liberated (38 ATP) 4.occurs in plants' and animals' cells 5. C6H12O6 --> CO2 + H2O + ATP (Energy) ATP from aerobic respiration of glucose For longer periods of exercise muscle cells need oxygen supplied by the blood for aerobic respiration. This provides far more energy (36 molecules of ATP from each molecule of glucose), but the rate at which it can be produced is limited by how quickly oxygen can be provided. This is why you can’t run a marathon at the same speed as a sprint. Anaerobic: 1. occurs in absence of oxygen 2. Lactic Acid or Alchol is produced 3. relatively small energy is liberated (2ATP) 4. occurs in many anaerobic bacteria and human muscle cells. 5. in muscles, lactic acid is produced while bacteria as Yeast produces Alcohol (Ethanol) 6. C6H12O6 --> Lactic acid / C2H5OH + ATP ATP from anaerobic respiration of glucose Anaerobic respiration doesn’t provide much ATP (2 ATP molecules for each glucose molecule),but it is quick, since it doesn’t r...

Desire of the Fourteenth Century Women Essay -- Feminist Feminism Angl

Desire of the Fourteenth Century Women Is not what we desire, the most hard to get? It has always been this way. Unfortunately, women’s rights and abilities have been underestimated over the centuries. In the fourteenth century, the status and condition of a European woman depended on her husband’s position. Women had to endure arranged marriages, abuse and male dominance. During that time, Geoffrey Chaucer wrote The Canterbury Tales and taught us about one extraordinary woman whose name is Dame Alisoun. Alisoun is called The Wife of Bath, and she defines what women desired most in fourteenth-century England. She believes that women wish for power over their husbands, and I personally agree with her opinion. The Wife of Bath, a cloth maker, gets rich after her husbands die and leave her their fortunes. Even though medieval women were still far from being powerful, and had to obey their husbands, Alisoun states that she has power over her men’s bodies and property all her life: â€Å" I have the power during al my life, Upon his proper body, and nat he†(line 164). Alisoun is an exception to the rule because she marries five times and is widowed five times. It is important to mention that there was no divorce for women in the fourteenth century: â€Å"She was a worthy woman al hr live. Husbondes at chirche dore she hadde five, Withouten other compaignye in youthe† (line 461). The three first husbands are old, rich and loyal to her. The fourth husband has a mistress: â€Å"My ferthe housbonde was a revelour. This is to sayn, he hadde a paramour† (line 459). The Wife of Bath learns that it is very important for a woman to satisfy her man, and she knows how to act to make him obedient and less powerful... ...nder difference will still have an impact on women’s lives six hundred years from now. What do you think? Credits: Abrams M. H, et al. The Norton Anthology of English Literature. 7th ed. New York: W. Norton & Company, 2000. Fell, Christine. Women in Anglo-Saxon England and the Impact of 1066. Bloomington: Indiana University Press, 1984. Catholic Encyclopedia. Online. October 24, 2000. http://www.newadvent.org Harvard University. Online. October 24, 2000. http://www.icg.fas.Harvard Luminarium Organization. Online. October 22, 2000. http://www.britannia.com/history/biographies/guinever.html http://www.icg.fas.harvard.edu http://www.legends.dm.net/kingarthur http://www.georgetown.edu/labyrinth/subjects/women/women.html http://www.r3.org/life/articles/women.html http://www.luminarium.org/medlit/chaucer.htm http://www.infoplease.com

Egyptian Math Essay -- History Mathematics Research Papers

Egyptian Math   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The use of organized mathematics in Egypt has been dated back to the third millennium BC. Egyptian mathematics was dominated by arithmetic, with an emphasis on measurement and calculation in geometry. With their vast knowledge of geometry, they were able to correctly calculate the areas of triangles, rectangles, and trapezoids and the volumes of figures such as bricks, cylinders, and pyramids. They were also able to build the Great Pyramid with extreme accuracy.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Early surveyors found that the maximum error in fixing the length of the sides was only 0.63 of an inch, or less than 1/14000 of the total length. They also found that the error of the angles at the corners to be only 12", or about 1/27000 of a right angle (Smith 43).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Three theories from mathematics were found to have been used in building the Great Pyramid. The first theory states that four equilateral triangles were placed together to build the pyramidal surface. The second theory states that the ratio of one of the sides to half of the height is the approximate value of P, or that the ratio of the perimeter to the height is 2P. It has been discovered that early pyramid builders may have conceived the idea that P equaled about 3.14. The third theory states that the angle of elevation of the passage leading to the principal chamber determines the latitude of the pyramid, about 30o N, or that the passage itself points to what was then known as the pole star (Smith 44). Ancient Egyptian mathematics was based on two very elementary concepts. The first concept was that the Egyptians had a thorough knowledge of the twice-times table. The second concept was that they had the ability to find two-thirds of any number (Gillings 3). This number could be either integral or fractional. The Egyptians used the fraction 2/3 used with sums of unit fractions (1/n) to express all other fractions. Using this system, they were able to solve all problems of arithmetic that involved fractions, as well as some elementary problems in algebra (Berggren).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The science of mathematics was further advanced in Egypt in the fourth millennium BC than it was anywhere else in the world at this time. The Egyptian calendar was introduced about 4241 BC. Their year consisted of 12 months of 30 days each with 5 festival days at the end of the year. These festival days were dedicated t... ...alking about. If they found some exact method on how to do something, they never asked why it worked. They never sought to establish its universal truth by an argument that would show clearly and logically their thought processes. Instead, what they did was explain and define in an ordered sequence the steps necessary to do it again, and at the conclusion they added a verification or proof that the steps outlined did lead to a correct solution of the problem (Gillings 232-234). Maybe this is why the Egyptians were able to discover so many mathematical formulas. They never argued why something worked, they just believed it did. Works Cited: Berggren, J. Lennart. "Mathematics." Computer Software. Microsoft, Encarta 97 Encyclopedia. 1993-1996. CD- ROM. Dauben, Joseph Warren and Berggren, J. Lennart. "Algebra." Computer Software. Microsoft, Encarta 97 Encyclopedia. 1993-1996. CD- ROM. Gillings, Richard J. Mathematics in the Time of the Pharaohs. New York: Dover Publications, Inc., 1972. Smith, D. E. History of Mathematics. Vol. 1. New York: Dover Publications, Inc., 1951. Weigel Jr., James. Cliff Notes on Mythology. Lincoln, Nebraska: Cliffs Notes, Inc., 1991

What Is the Relationship Between Social Change and Changes in Space and Time?

What is the relationship between social change and changes in space and time? Illustrate with examples drawn from at least two of : changes in cities, changes in media, changes in intimacy. In looking at the relationship between social change and changes in space and time. We first require understanding of what social change is. Sociologists from every school of thought agree that social change is inevitable within our society. Social change is a highly diverse debate that has been analysed by theorist’s looking at the effects of social change on society. Anything that is socially constructed can be altered. Little changes are triggered by larger changes taking place. Urban life changed and progressed toward an industrial society. Space and time has been reordered. The working day was determined by the seasons, and by the amount of daylight there was. This however has changed, and the working day is now structured around clock time. Space within the home has changed. With family units not as large as previously had been and the availability of better housing conditions, families do not spend the same time together. In looking at some of the theories that have been documented with regards to changes in media and changes in intimacy we begin to acquire an understanding of how sociological change has had an impact. The new media phenomenon holds a lot of potential for benefiting society. â€Å"Belonging to a digital culture binds people more strongly than the territorial adhesives of geography† (Mackay pg. 123) Many who are not able to use conventional methods of communication are given an outlet whereby they can. Many are unable to visit places of interest to them and ICTs host many features allowing people to view and learn about places they would in most cases not be able to physically visit. â€Å"Internet communities – which are seen as binding people together in some sort of common culture in which imagined realities are shared† ( Hugh Mackay pg. 159) The new ICTs can also be contested in that with having no physical contact can leave individuals feeling alone, isolated from others and could produce a desire for the physical presence of others. Together, today’s networks constitute a new form of society† (Hugh Mackay pg. 141). Internet does not alienate between creed, colour, ethnicity or disability and therefore it can be suggested that this multicultural society brings with it a form of social structure and community without any prejudice. There is no stigma attached to it. Castelles views the new technological devices of our society as the beginning of a rev olutionary change. Globally the new forms of media have transformed the ways of communication and the availability of information. Timeless time and the space of flows† (Hugh Mackay pg. 141). By this he means that with new technology being made available there is no longer a need or reason for waiting time to exist. Everything is instantaneous, and can be acquired at the touch of a button. Snail mail has been replaced with e-mail. We are able to access many things at any time of the day or night. Also there is no physical space taken up. Cyberspace allows the exchange of all forms of information without the requirement of physical documentation. If the nineteenth century was the age of the telegraph and telephony, and the twenty – first century becomes that of biotechnology, it is not necessarily the case that the intervening era of late modernity is to be conceived as the ‘information age’† (Golding pg. 129) Golding does not agree with Castells view that there is a revolutionary change taking place due to the development of ICTs. His view is that social changes throughout the years are due to evolutionary developments. â€Å"Brief history of the electric telegraph shows that significant reordering of time and space began long before the internet† (Mackay pg. 142). He suggests that communication with others via e-mail hosts the same enthusiastic doctrine as is held by those wishing to write in the conventional way. Also the enthusiasm held by the introduction of ICTs was just the same as had been with the invention of the semaphore telegraphs. â€Å"In the future, it is claimed, ICTs will unlock the door to a society of unlimited resources. The plentitude of the information economy will end deprivation and need. † (Golding, pg. 130). Golding does not foresee this happening as the use for ICTs will always require manufactured upgrades and money being spent to ensure the running of them. The only form of media that he views as having ‘consistently high penetration’ (Golding pg. 130) is television. The cultural imperialism thesis looks at the media expanding throughout the world. It is generally assuming that the exportation of different cultures from West to East is not beneficial within society. Schiller denotes that this approach is pessimistic. â€Å"Cultural exports not only restrict other countries’ development of their own production industries, but also, quite insidiously, manipulate and shape cultural values. (Mackay pg. 145). He does not believe that any good can come from knowledge being shared in this way. There is in his view, an adverse effect on different cultures generated by this method. Negroponti is optimistic about the introduction of the media sources. Internet allows us to have access to anything at any time of night or day. Everything in his view will flourish. He sees those entering the sector will grow and get better with time as the creation of new technologies advances through time. It has become easier to communicate with each other regardless of location. There has been an increase in dating sites which can be accessed at any time and by anyone. There has been a transformation from traditional conventional ideologies about what is termed intimacy. Due to media there are many more public arenas for the discussion of both personal and public relationships. â€Å"Cyberspace offers the possibility of the increased development of personal relationships in an apparent disembodied space† (Woodward pg. 191). There are fewer secrets held within the boundaries of relationships. This generates a freedom of self in a way whereby people can decide their identity. It can be suggested that this manner of communication allows those within society to talk openly about their lives as the information given is received by a faceless audience. This however does not always prove to be a beneficial factor as there is a threat of undesirable people choosing to become part of a society they would not ordinarily live within the realms of. There is no threat as to ones true identity, no questions require truthful answers. Intimate relationships were at one time kept secret from the public domain what went on behind closed doors stayed there. â€Å"Selling – point is the minutiae of the daily lives and personal relationships of the rich and famous†( Woodward pg. 186). Magazines make the most profit when they are selling stories about celebrities and the scandals associated with them . Giddens â€Å"transformation of intimacy† (Woodward pg. 201) shows that there has been a change socially within the realms of intimacy. He looks upon marriages as only being beneficial to the participating partners for as long as they gain fulfilment from it. He sees an increase in equality within marriages. â€Å"Relationships between women and men which aspire to the pure relationship are more equal, with men as well as women being concerned with the emotional quality of the relationship and being prepared to make investment in this form of intimacy† (Woodward pg. 201)Another factor suggested by Giddens is what he denotes as â€Å"Plastic sexuality† Women can decide if they want to reproduce and by what method they want to reproduce by. They are free to enter into sexual relationships without the threat of becoming pregnant. â€Å"This search for personal satisfaction through intimate relationships leads to greater reflexivity. † (Woodward pg 202. ) Giddens does not however, document accounts of those within ethnic minorities, or make reference to relationships whereby intimacy is achieved without closeness for example with the use of prostitution, thus not holding true to his assumptions on pure relationships. Intimacy can be between friends, it does not always involve partners having a sexual relationship. Lynn Jamieson believes that inequalities still remain within society. As she states â€Å"There are significant disjuncture between public and private stories about personal relations, especially in the context of the more optimistic variants of idealized discourses of transforming intimacies. (Woodward pg 203. ) Unlike Giddens she does not see equality within partnerships. Material circumstances account for much of the unhappiness that exists. Divorce rates are still high and in the majority of cases are instigated by the women. Another factor that challenges Giddens theory is that she suggests domestic violence is still concurrent and therefore shows the depths to which inequalities lie. In conclusion, we can see that social change has altered the organization of society. â€Å"Changes in the boundaries between public and private space. These boundaries are not fixed in time and space but are continually being redrawn and transgressed† (Woodward pg. 186). People adapt to changes and accustom themselves to their presence. From looking at the changes within space and time we can see how there has been a move from rural to industrialised society to the developing technology. We as a nation are aware of what is happening globally and it is easy to contact and communicate with others worldwide. We can acquire information about almost anything that interests us. There are no longer boundaries or space that can stop interaction with others. Time is no longer a barrier. Although there lies many debates and questions regarding social change the only thing that can be agreed upon is that there will always be changes within our society. Reference: Hugh Mackay cited in â€Å"Social Change† edited by Tim Jordan and Steve Pile, Open University Press, Milton Keynes 2002 Kath Woodward cited in â€Å"Social Change† edited by Tim Jordan and Steve Pile, Open University Press, Milton Keynes 2002 Lynn Jamieson, @From â€Å"the family† to sex and intimacy (1998) cited in â€Å"Social Change† edited by Tim Jordan and Steve Pile, Open University Press, Milton Keynes 2002 Word Count: 1550 approx

Health Care System in Korea

Health Care System in South Korea. Health Care system can be defined as the care and service which is been given to any individual by the help of medical and health related professionals. Health care also means to treat, manage and prevent the health of all humans. Health care is an important aspect of life as every individual needs to be healthy, and without health care it is not possible to remain fit. In South Korea National Health Insurance (NHI) compulsorily provides health care.Even the foreigners who reside in South Korea and are registered with the National Health Insurance corporation gets the equal medical benefits and care as the nationals over there get. All the people residing in the country are eligible to health care without considering any nationality or profession. General hospitals, oriental hospitals, public health centre’s and also the private hospitals provides a high quality health services. South Korea is experiencing the sharply increasing life expectan cy. Traditionally people find it a burden to look after the elders in their houses.To tackle with this situation government has launched a Long Term Care Insurance program in July 2008, in almost all the places in South Korea as a Pilot Implementation study. As a result of health financial deficit and increase in the number of elderly population, South Korea is becoming an aging society faster than any other country. Along with the increased number of elders there is a faster increase in the medical expenditure for chronic degenerative diseases, this has become a burden socially. To reduce the burden, especially on the young generation the government is endeavoring, through health care reforms.Increment in the health care facilities and introduction of various other Insurances are the measures undertaken by The MIHWAF. Access to medical care services in South Korea should be addressed due to the regional inequalities. In urban areas there are many private medical facilities located, where as only 79. 7% of population lives in urban areas but there are 92. 1% of physicians and 90. 8% of hospital beds in urban areas. For low income households The Medical Aid Program was launched in 1979 after the promulgation of the Medical Act in 1977.In this program all the expenses on the health care was paid by the government for all those who were not able to afford the expenditures. The Medical Aid Program covered the patients with rare, intractable, and chronic diseases also the children under the age of 18 (after 2004). The government now is facing some difficulties to provide the health care services for the low income people so it has joined hand with the National Health Insurance program for funding the Medical Aid Program. The inequality in the utilization of medical care by cancer patients of south Korea according to the type of medical facilities and survival duration.The cancer patients of high incomes used all the high prices medical services, inpatient and outpa tient care more than the patients with low income. The major tertiary hospitals was very famous for providing better medical care than any other hospitals so all the high income people got them selves treated over there. The inequality in the cancer care expenditure was only in the favor of the high income people as the low income people could not afford it. In conclusion, the income of a person affects the health care system and the facilities they get. Health Care System in Korea Health Care System in South Korea. Health Care system can be defined as the care and service which is been given to any individual by the help of medical and health related professionals. Health care also means to treat, manage and prevent the health of all humans. Health care is an important aspect of life as every individual needs to be healthy, and without health care it is not possible to remain fit. In South Korea National Health Insurance (NHI) compulsorily provides health care.Even the foreigners who reside in South Korea and are registered with the National Health Insurance corporation gets the equal medical benefits and care as the nationals over there get. All the people residing in the country are eligible to health care without considering any nationality or profession. General hospitals, oriental hospitals, public health centre’s and also the private hospitals provides a high quality health services. South Korea is experiencing the sharply increasing life expectan cy. Traditionally people find it a burden to look after the elders in their houses.To tackle with this situation government has launched a Long Term Care Insurance program in July 2008, in almost all the places in South Korea as a Pilot Implementation study. As a result of health financial deficit and increase in the number of elderly population, South Korea is becoming an aging society faster than any other country. Along with the increased number of elders there is a faster increase in the medical expenditure for chronic degenerative diseases, this has become a burden socially. To reduce the burden, especially on the young generation the government is endeavoring, through health care reforms.Increment in the health care facilities and introduction of various other Insurances are the measures undertaken by The MIHWAF. Access to medical care services in South Korea should be addressed due to the regional inequalities. In urban areas there are many private medical facilities located, where as only 79. 7% of population lives in urban areas but there are 92. 1% of physicians and 90. 8% of hospital beds in urban areas. For low income households The Medical Aid Program was launched in 1979 after the promulgation of the Medical Act in 1977.In this program all the expenses on the health care was paid by the government for all those who were not able to afford the expenditures. The Medical Aid Program covered the patients with rare, intractable, and chronic diseases also the children under the age of 18 (after 2004). The government now is facing some difficulties to provide the health care services for the low income people so it has joined hand with the National Health Insurance program for funding the Medical Aid Program. The inequality in the utilization of medical care by cancer patients of south Korea according to the type of medical facilities and survival duration.The cancer patients of high incomes used all the high prices medical services, inpatient and outpa tient care more than the patients with low income. The major tertiary hospitals was very famous for providing better medical care than any other hospitals so all the high income people got them selves treated over there. The inequality in the cancer care expenditure was only in the favor of the high income people as the low income people could not afford it. In conclusion, the income of a person affects the health care system and the facilities they get.