Business Research Applications Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Business Research Applications Paper - Essay Example Research happens to be an integral part of any science and medicine related company. Merck & Co., Inc. is also a global research-driven pharmaceutical company. Established in 1891, Merck discovers, develops, manufactures and markets vaccines and medicines to address unmet medical needs. The stated mission1 of Merck is, "To provide society with superior products and services by developing innovations and solutions that improve the quality of life and satisfy customer needs, and to provide employees with meaningful work and advancement opportunities, and investors with a superior rate of return." With this mission the company has been carrying on the producing medicines for different needs. Core values with which the company operates its business are; v. Recognizing that the ability to excel -- to most competitively meet society's and customers' needs -- depends on the integrity, knowledge, imagination, skill, diversity and teamwork of company's employees. Company has affirmed its respect to these qualities and how it values these qualities most highly. Traditionally 'maximizing' profits has been considered to be the objective of any organization. Not any more.This criteria has been discarded. Now organizations are supposed to have multiple objectives, monetary as well as non-monetary. There are short-term objectives as well as long-term ones. Research is an important tool for long term objective strategies. It helps in value creation as well. Value addition is one of the best strategies to take on the competitors. The term "value" can be defined in different ways according to the adopted perspective of the analysis: it is possible to determine a "customer value", a "firm value", a "stakeholder value" (Mele and Colurci, 2006). Research Activities at Merck Merck has a shown its commitment to research and developmental activities. For example the company invested $4.8 billion towards Research and development investment in the year 2006. In a pioneering effort Merck has associated itself with HIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN), an international collaboration of scientists and institutions sharing all their trials and results in the field of aids medicine. This network is actively pursuing the research headed towards discovering a medicine for Aids. This network shares trial results of researches being carried out by different companies and scientist organisations. The HVTN also facilitates parallel and concurrent testing of the effects of new experiments and medicines. The HVTN is a unique hybrid combining the depth and diversity of the academic community and the flexibility of a commercial drug company like Merck. Working with industry and government, the HVTN seeks to expedite and coordinate the trial process, advancing vaccine candidat es and building a body of knowledge about HIV vaccine trials. This network is the most ambitious one in the industry with

Strategic Marketing Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

Strategic Marketing Management - Essay Example It is irrefutable that the business arena is evolving into a hypercompetitive environment characterised by the continuous by more intense rivalry among industry players associated with the growth of buyer leverage (Kotler 2002). This trend forces business organizations to rethink their strategies in order to compete more efficiently and more profitably. On the other hand, these developments in the market also present opportunities for business organizations especially in the way they market their products and services to their specific target markets. In order to choose the strategic path that a company should take, it should first identify the strategic marketing options available for it (Kotler 2002). The identification of strategic marketing options is aided through the use of different strategic management tools. Strategic management tools are essential instruments for managers and decision makers. The use of these tools does not only provide a diagnosis for the business organization but prescribe solutions and strategic responses as well (Thomson 2002). This report will look at the different strategic management tools used by business organizations in order to identify the feasible and available strategic marketing options. The first section will focus on the Ansoff Matrix and how it can be used to evaluate the strategic directions that the company can take. The second part will look at the other analytical tools and techniques which can be employed to develop marketing alternative marketing strategies. This paper will conclude with its findings. The Ansoff’s Matrixis is a tool in strategic management which is utilised in order to aid managers in deciding the product and market growth strategy of a business organization. After its publication in the Harvard Business Review in 1957 in an article entitled, ‘Strategies for Diversification,’ this strategic management tool has gained wide popularity and recognition in the marketing world.

Public Law assignment Scholarship Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Public Law assignment - Scholarship Essay Example % PIECE YOU HAVE EVALUATED: Mark TITLE Gordon Brown's Commons statement on reform of the constitution. AUTHOR Gordon Brown REFERENCE (citation) Carroll, a, Constitutional and Administrative Law (4b ed),London Pearson, Longman.2007 APPLICATION OF THE COCOA MODEL Coverage: The speech addresses the issue of the powers exercised by the Prime Minister and the Executive in the name of the monarchy without the people and their elected representatives being consulted. Objectivity: The piece represents one point of view that Prime minister and executive retain more powers and constitutional change is needed. Currency: The speech was made in 2007 after the Prime Minister Gordon Brown took office in 27 June 2007. Organization: The speech took place in the House of Commons. Authorship: The Author is the Prime Minister and leader of the Labour Party. POSITION OF THE AUTHOR The position of the Author as a Prime Minister and Leader of the Labour Party explains why he claims for new British constitutional settlement that entrusts more power to Parliament and the British people. CLAIMS made by the author and EVIDENCE provided (adjust numbering and space for this section as needed according to your chosen piece) Claim 1: The executive retain more power over the parliament Evidence: The government has the power to request the dissolution of Parliament and the power to restrict Parliamentary oversight of the intelligence services Comment: These powers exercised by the executive are great evidence on its over-mighty authority. Gordon Brown proposed that the House of Commons would have to approve a resolution for any dissolution of Parliament requested by the Prime Minister. Claim 2: The executive controls over the judiciary... 2. a brief summary of how the COCOA model works in relation to the piece (COVERAGE, OBJECTIVITY, CURRENCY, ORGANISATION and AUTHORSHIP) - see InfoSkills section 3 for more information on the COCOA model. (15 marks) This task contributes 5 per cent of your overall assessment for Legal Technique and Reasoning and there is therefore no individual pass-mark for this element (the overall passmark for LTR is 40 per cent). Coverage: The speech addresses the issue of the powers exercised by the Prime Minister and the Executive in the name of the monarchy without the people and their elected representatives being consulted. The position of the Author as a Prime Minister and Leader of the Labour Party explains why he claims for new British constitutional settlement that entrusts more power to Parliament and the British people. These powers exercised by the executive are great evidence on its over-mighty authority. Gordon Brown proposed that the House of Commons would have to approve a resolution for any dissolution of Parliament requested by the Prime Minister. Comment: Regarding this Gordon Brown proposed to start the debate and consult on empowering citizens and communities. Moreover to reinforce the neutrality of the civil service, the core principles governing it should be legislated by Parliament. That's why Brown assures that The Church of England is, and should remain, the established church in England.

Evaluating Eligibility Rules Essay Example for Free

Evaluating Eligibility Rules Essay In determining which eligibility rules can be associated with the Lakeland Police Department, it the objectives of such institution must be looked into before going through the details in which such rules apply. The institution provides public and security measures to the community it holds. They promote the welfare of the people around them under the parameters mandated by the law in the creation of such institution. With this, the eligibility rules that the agency uses revolves around the (1) eligibility by administrative rule and regulation, (2) eligibility by administrative discretion and (3) eligibility by judicial decision. To understand whether the eligibility rules advocated by the agency promotes a stigmatization, trade-offs or off-target benefits, each rule must be looked into in accordance to the application of such within the Lakeland Police Department. The eligibility by administrative rule and regulations creates â€Å"an advantage to client beneficiaries because it gives social workers and other human service staff members a means by which to administer the benefit or service program evenhandedly and reliably, so that people similarly situated are given similar benefits. (Chambers and Wedal, 2005, p. 112) This rule can be seen to create trade-offs within the system of Lakeland Police Department. Trade-offs is evident because of the situational circumstances in which this rule can be applied to citizens within the district. There are implications of such applications in the way the police department addresses the people. â€Å"On the other hand, administrative rules restrict the freedom of staff members to use their discretion that is to judge need for the benefit or service in individual circumstances. (Chambers and Wedal, 2005, p. 112) The next thing is the eligibility by administrative discretion. This discretion sees to it that all particular concerns within a system need to be addressed by the agency. â€Å"All general organizational policies and administrative rules must be interpreted and applied to individual situations, so it is important to understand that such interpretation and applications necessarily involve significant personal judgment on the part of the staff member. † (Chambers and Wedal, 2005, p. 14) With this, it can be seen that there is a stigmatization of benefits among members of the community handled by the Lakeland Police Department. Their capability to address situations of its citizens particularly concerning their welfare in accordance to the law and mandates of the city can clearly be seen. This creates benefits among locals on the assurance that their welfare is protected by the agency. Lastly, is the eligibility of judicial decision. This rule can also be seen as applicable to the Lakeland Police Department. After a program has been in operation for a period of time, it is very likely that a contention will arise about whether the enabling legislation or whether an administrative rule or discretionary judgment was faithful to the spirit and intention of the law under which the program or policy was established. † (Chambers and Wedal, 2005, p. 115) It can be seen that this categorization creates an important part of the Lakeland Police Academy. This creates a stigmatization of benefits among local citizenry. It may be true that the agency can exercise administrative discretion, however issues may arise between the proper execution and application of such initiative among members of the community. This rule seeks to create a check-and-balance among the members of the police force. It is true that the objectives are in-line with the rules and mandates of the law, however, the actual practice remains to be on the part of local enforcers and policeman. This creates a subjective interpretation of actions by enforcers that more often than not leads to judicial contention. Appeals to the judiciary for clarification of the law are routine and in the end they can become as important as the legislation or administrative rules themselves. † (Chambers and Wedal, 2005, p. 115) To determine whether there are weak rules in the system of Lakeland Police Department, the three eligibility rules again must be looked into. On the eligibility by administrative rule and regulation, there exists a problematic issue on how to effectively distinguish what are the different parameters for such actions. The agency may have difficulty in promoting the necessary measures present if such issue persists. â€Å"Therefore, it is important to know whether a certain entitlement rule originates with judicial decisions, administrative rule, or individual staff discretion, for on that fact depends the probability of change – staff decisions certainly are changed more easily than are formal rules and statutes. † (Chambers and Wedal, 2005, p. 112) On the other hand, the two other eligibility rules are described to be minimal in problems. This is due to their ability to sink within the system and serve as both a check-and-balance among local authorities under the Lakewood Police Department and an initiative to further create changes that the department needs to address the changing needs of the future. Eligibility rules are characterized to create a foundation for actions by people. In the case of Lakewood Police Department, it seeks to cater the needs of the locals in promoting security and their welfare. In the issue of such eligibility rules being fair, it can be argued that they are indeed fair overall since it is based from the mandate of laws and legislation. The only issue here is the actual application of such rules by people who supposed to be fit for the description. Sometimes, there is a subjective interpretation of how such rules can be applied. This creates the sense of disparity of opinions and practices to both local and enforcers of such rules. On the other hand, tackling the issue of sufficiency, yes, it can be argued that the rules applied during that time are sufficient to address the current need of the locals. However, it may not be the case in the future as new issues and challenges arise within the new system. That is why, changes in the system and rules are needed to further pursue the interests of people. For one, rules are and regulations are meant for the people to ensure their security and welfare within the community.

Royal Caribbean And International Travel Tourism Essay

Royal Caribbean And International Travel Tourism Essay The travel industry provides many positive aspects into leisure vacationing. It offers the ability to enhance ones self knowledge. A more cultural diverse knowledge will also broaden business choices. International travel has impacted businesses worldwide. Executives and employees increase their knowledge with different cultures, legalities and politics. This gained knowledge improves the corporations structure with financial, marketing, sales, management practices in addition to personal fulfillment. The cruise industry fits perfectly into this way of enhancement. Leisure travel and cruising has impacted many different economies, such as the United States and abroad. They do so by integrating and expanding regional markets, sales, supply, and demand across the globe. Purpose of Study This papers purpose is to explain the benefits of travel and the cruise industry in a corporate infrastructure. Royal Caribbean, the cruise industry and other travel methods will show how and why corporate executives choose to incorporate leisure into business. Some limitations of study would be the lack of knowledge and experience in managing an entire corporation in the United States or internationally. Also, the travel industry and cruise lines main focus is offering consumer vacations primarily to United States citizens. Only in the recent two decades have they embarked on becoming more globalized. Definition of Terms Terminology within this paper will be of common knowledge and common sense. Any unusual terms used will be explained in the section it resides. Review of Literature Organization of the cruise industry Annual cruise reviews from the Passenger Shipping Association (PSA), announced the cruise industry will grow after prior years of economic slowdown. Despite the slumping economy, Royal Caribbean has continued to expand its fleets, introduce new port of calls (stops and ship destinations) and itineraries. In addition to American growth, international growth has also been reported. The United Kingdom is expected to double its passengers in 2010. The increase in passengers is attributed to Royal Caribbean, Holland America, MSC and Maritime Voyages (Griffiths, 2010, p. 10). Since the late 1980s the United States accounts for two-thirds of the global cruise market. Also, Europeans and Asians are quickly capturing shares in this growing industry. This is shown by Royal Caribbeans global expansion strategy by easing ships into Asia. Since 2009, Asian passengers increased to one million due to the rise of the middle class. Royal Caribbeans expansion strategy has left a footprint for other cruise lines to follow. Adam Goldstien, President of Royal Caribbean acknowledges his job is to lead a brand that delivers the Wow! (Kolesnikov-Jessup, 2008, p. 12). Strategy and organizational architecture Strategic planning often involves working with the National Tourism Organization (NTO). Although it has been argued that the NTOs of different countries describe strategic planning as an overall government strategy its mission is to research, develop and promote tourism on an economic level. NTOs help organizations in several aspects such as improving organizational levels, management, and performance to provide the needs of the organization, the industry and itself (Soteriou and Roberts, 1998, p. 21). Different models of plan of action are used depending on the industry, economic environment and organizational needs. Royal Caribbean uses the most common type, known as the normative model. This strategy requires a proactive view in establishing and achieving goals, such as to observe environments and economic conditions, assess internal capabilities, and research and development (Soteriou and Roberts, 1998, p. 21). This proactive view consists of restructuring the organization. There are several factors that affect the organizations operations. These factors include, control systems, incentives, organizational culture, processes, and people. This is referred to as organizational architecture of a company. These five factors are divided into subunits often called product divisions, national operations and functions. These divisions provide the ability to improve on executive decision-making, integration of teams domestically and internationally, and the coordination of processes and activities. Processes are the method of how decisions are agreed upon and approved (Hill, 2009, p. 451). Internal capability Royal Caribbeans level of competency is a major determinant on whether the NTOs normative model will be successful. Some factors of competency are whether management understands the commitment to the past, present and future development of the organization. Other factors are time management, the ability to deal with disruptive crises, manage disruptions and the desire to focus on what is important to the organization (Soteriou and Roberts, 1998, p. 21). Royal Caribbean and the NTOs main focus are to become more globalized. Decisions on how to perform and achieve the ultimate goal is important. Most of the critical issues are centralized to hierarchy executives at the main headquarters in Miami, Florida. For example, strategic and financial decisions are primarily the responsibility of the President and board of directors. These major company changes and objectives need to be kept consistent, avoid cultural problems, and poorly repeated activities (Hill, 2009, pp. 451-452). International local offices have more of decentralized decision-making capabilities. Local offices in Italy, Germany, United Kingdom, Brazil, Spain, Australia and Singapore have better flexibility, control and professional freedom. For example, if there are employee, entertainment, ship safety and maintenance issues with ships in the Australia region, that local office has the ability to make quicker decisions in resolving problems (Hill, 2009, p. 453). Globalization of the cruise industry Globalization is important for most organizations to expand through the ever-changing world of technology. Over twenty years ago cruise ships were exclusively available to travelers of the United States. Royal Caribbean, the second largest cruise line behind Carnival Cruise foresaw globalization as a way to help lead the industry into the millennium (Griffiths, 2010). Significant changes and benefits have spanned over-seas. New emerging market industries have appeared in some European countries such as Germany and Italy. Royal Caribbean and other large cruise lines have invested time and money into these countries to utilize their prime locations and joint ventures for ship building. While Royal Caribbean expands their fleets, they are also helping to improve economies. Improvements can be seen in providing employment and wages to drawing attention to the European nations through tourism (WTTC, IFTO, IHRA, ICCL, 2002, p. 45). According to MaryAnne Howland of Black Enterprises, globalization encompasses mixing business with leisure. Whether your single or have a family, business trips do not require suffering through boring hotel stays and horrible food. With the ease of internet access, making reservations for the next business trip can also be you and your familys next mini-vacation (2004, p. 125). In addition to having quality time to yourself and saving costs to the company or client, business trips can now involve family, education and the chance to broaden your cultural diversity. Royal Caribbean and other cruise lines offer exactly this-with ports all over the world, amenities and activities for all age groups. While the family is enjoying themselves, conferences and meetings can be conducted with minimal interruptions with a more refreshed attitude. Globalization also provides more opportunities in obtaining new contracts, prospects, and clients enabling positive memorable first impressions with personal meetings (Mancini, 2004, p. 15). Although obtaining flights and hotels all over the world are the primary choice of conducting business and gathering new prospects and clients, cruising has offered a different option. For most executives, being away from the family and children is the first sacrifice when building an organization. Business trips can often span over several weeks of time especially when traveling overseas. Some business dealings are conducted via the internet and conference calls, but nothing makes a better impression than in-person meetings when closing the deal. This aspect proves why it is undeniable the ease of flights and hotels as a primary choice of conducting travel. With all success comes sacrifice and in most instances it is the personal lives of family that carries that burden. This inevitably creates stress for the executive in addition to the family dynamic. Stress not only affects the family dynamic, but will also transfer into the workplace. This is where Royal Caribbean comes into the picture. They provide a choice of combining work and pleasure. The family no longer has to always sacrifice personal happiness and growth for the sake of better careers and higher incomes. It is true, families can fly to worldly destinations on business trips, but unless they are familiar with the country, location and culture most often they are stuck in the hotel. With Royal Caribbean and other cruise lines, this is no longer a problem. Safety is their number one priority in addition to reaching the different age groups of providing fun and entertainment. Everything is inclusive, from staterooms (sleeping quarters), food, pools, gyms, daycare to bars, casinos and shopping (Mancini, 2004). Regional economic impact on global economies The United States and international economies are in dire need of recovery. According to the Travel Trade Gazette business travel is on the rise and will be an important factor in repairing global economies. Corporations such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise among other large companies are trying to achieve that competitive edge. A survey recently revealed that approximately seventy-nine percent of organizations prefer a more personal approach in conducting business. Eighty-nine percent of business executives believe face-to-face interaction is crucial to finalize the deal. It is essential for executives to visit and personally interact with people and analyze new market industries, especially in a recession (Travel Trade Gazette, 2010, p. 11). The cruise industry has impacted many different economies in addition to the United States. The most well known areas are Mexico, Alaskan, Hawaiian, Bahamian and Caribbean locations. More recently a new trend has emerged. Several countries offer unexplored and untouched regions. Despite pirate-infested waters, Royal Caribbean among other larger cruise lines is adding new routes to their itineraries. Some itineraries include Asia to Europe, South and West Africa, Australia, Mediteranian and Singapore to Rome. Each different port offers several offshore excursions. These lesser-explored areas create excitement to the consumer. For example, Africa currently offers heritage tours remembering past slave trades. National parks, exquisite beaches, chimpanzee and hippopotamus sanctuaries are only a few of the choices consumers have, while cruising with Royal Caribbean and other cruise lines. These underdeveloped, international areas have increased in revenue because of the cruise industry r evenue from tourism that would not have normally been accessible other than by air (Jainchill, 2010, np). Despite recent port additions Royal Caribbean felt the hard reality of three key factors in the early 1990s. These three factors affected most of the cruise industry; the war in the Middle East, the United States recession and increased costs of supply, primarily fuel. Glenn Withiam of Cornell Hotel and Restaurant Administrations cited from analyst Arthur Little that the United States recession was affecting the cruise industry, tourism and international economies worse than the war (1992, p. 1). Although the early 1990s looked bleak, four encouraging factors were offering a positive outlook leading up to the year 2010. The four factors were; the consumers continued interest in adventure and cultural diversity, the cruise industries earned reputation from word of mouth of having the best customer satisfaction, decreasing production schedules on fleet expansions and cost control because newer ships run more efficiently. Other interrelated lesser, encouraging factors will continue to be higher air fares, more conservative lending institutions and the slowing of supply due to space constraints in shipyards (Withiam, 1992, p. 9). Cultural diversity and impact Royal Caribbean offers luxury and lavish attention which can be enjoyed by vacationers and executives on business trips. Cruise ships offer interesting and exciting destinations and an excellent way to visit several different geographic areas in a short period of time. In addition to meeting new prospects on port-of-calls, cruise ships have the most cultural diversity within its passengers (Magic at sea: The cruise industry, 2005). When vacationing or conducting business on or off the ship, it is important to be aware of different societies and their shared values and norms. The last thing desired is to offend societies or possible new customers or business partners (Hill, 2009, p. 89). Religion and ethical systems (or moral principles) play a large part in shaping cultures (p. 96). Royal Caribbean embraces cultural diversity. They believe in employing a well rounded workforce and inspiring other cruise lines to adopt the same way of thinking. They often choose to employ people from the different country and island destinations that are on the itineraries. Employing people from local cultures exposes passengers and fellow employees to new learning experiences (Our Company, 2010). According to the International Council of Cruise Lines (ICCL) the cruise industry employs about eighty five to ninety percent of people from international countries. As Royal Caribbean is providing new cultural experiences for everyone onboard, these international or local workers are gaining financial independence, personal autonomy, economic, social and cultural equality. Extensive training and education required for all company personnel provides a sense of pride and empowerment not otherwise gained in the country of origin (WTTC, IFTO, IHRA, ICCL, 2002, p. 48). In addition to providing a more diverse environment on ships, it has been proven that cultural dining and entertainment is exciting to consumers. For example, employing European, Japanese and Mexican chefs offer the chance to taste the very best cuisine that would normally be available only in four-star restaurants and hotels. Foreign entertainment coordinators also provide unique experiences in traditional and exotic shows. Cultures are never constant and are always changing through the decades thus providing an endless array of different styles of entertainers and entertainment (Our Company, 2010). Discussion Review of Findings Royal Caribbean has helped lead industries into a new way of vacationing and business travel. Their global expansion strategy, positive impact on the United States, international economies and cultural diversity has been noticed by many different industries and corporations worldwide. Smaller cruise lines have also noticed how globalization has affected the market. Unfortunately due to their lack of capital, fleets (numerous ships) and vision they are unable to effectively compete with the large corporations like Royal Caribbean. These smaller organizations are primarily localized in small city-limit areas and are often privately owned and operated. These limitations keep them from expanding. Working with the NTO, Royal Caribbean has improved on several internal levels of the organization such as, management and performance. Their strategy focuses on a proactive view when making decisions in regards to company goals, research, development and internal capabilities. Although determinants sometimes exist such as lack of competency, commitment and conflict management skills, most of these abilities can be learned through experience, proper training and role models. Globalization has been a key part of the cruise industrys success in the last three decades. Creating new itineraries and new foreign relations has helped Royal Caribbean and their leading competitor Carnival Cruise to expand their fleets and improve the United States and international economies. To keep a competitive edge on industry markets, executives from all over the globe have the choice to utilize cruise ships to achieve a more personalized first impression to confirm and close the sales deal. Nearly ninety percent of organizations prefer a personalized method. Royal Caribbean and the cruise industry continually strive to improve different economies, increase supply, demand, and boost revenue to countries that would not normally obtain the benefits of tourism. Interpretation/Analysis of Findings Economic slowdown will continue to occur in the future. This affects all economies and markets, including the travel and cruise industry. Since the conception of Royal Caribbean in the 1970s, they showed ambition and promise for a bright future. In the 1980s Royal Caribbean among other large cruise industries accounted for two-thirds of the globalized cruise market, even though this ratio had not yet included the growing interest in European and Asian countries. The National Tourism Organization appears to be of great help to large corporations trying to break into globalization. Their strategic planning and general know-how seems to be having an overall positive effect for Royal Caribbean. Their internal levels of; management, research, development and financial restructuring has helped them lead the industry and influence other corporations. Their market strategy, entrepreneurial spirit and NTO support helps guide them. Strategy changes such as their target market of GenerationX and Baby Boomer age groups, adopting new accounting methods, and implementing new financial practices like the Dupont system of analysis (Block, S., Hirt, G., Danielsen, B., 2009), has proven to be successful and going in the right direction. Although, snapshots of their stock fluctuates and is currently showing a slight drop of .07% according to the Wall Street Journal (Company Research: RCL Stock Quote, 2010), internal organizational changes to become more globalized has increased their asset turnover and return on assets in addition to their enthusiasm (Block et al, 2009). Their belief in cultural diversity within the workforce has created wonderful experiences for vacationers and executives alike. Providing a more diverse environment has proven to be successful in maintaining the excitement of consumers. Exotic entertainment and destinations, to four-star dining experiences has set Royal Caribbean apart from the average cruise line. The goal of creating that Wow! factor appears to be working. Summary and Conclusions Royal Caribbean will continue to grow, as they have for the past four decades. Keeping a competitive edge and continuing to strive for more globalization while being proactive in decision making will ensure their successful existence in the cruise industry for years to come. Although the National Tourism Organizations strategy planning is considered a government plan by most countries, they have significantly helped Royal Caribbean and the travel industry in becoming more globalized. Working with the NTO will also help them stay focused on the continual improvements with their internal levels and capability of the organization. Globalization is the key to Royal Caribbeans success. Although they probably would have continued to stay in business it would have been at a smaller scale. Their expansion into European countries is what has cemented their legacy in the new millennium. Building local offices in countries like Italy and Australia, in addition to ship-manufacturing joint ventures in areas such as Finland, Germany and France has improved cultural diversity, increased fleets and intensified economies with employment, wages and tourism. Royal Caribbean has also provided another choice for executives to mix business and the family dynamic. In this dire need of economic recovery, the executives or owners of other companies and industries should be Royal Caribbeans next demographic to strongly focus on. Leisure travel and cruising has impacted many different economies, such as the United States and abroad by integrating and expanding regional markets, sales, supply, and demand across the globe.

The Importance of Blake in Today’s World :: Biography Biographies Essays

The Importance of Blake in Today’s World      Ã‚   William Blake, who lived in the latter half of the eighteenth century and the early part of the nineteenth, was a profoundly stirring poet who was, in large part, responsible for bringing about the Romantic movement in poetry; was able to achieve "remarkable results with the simplest means"; and was one of several poets of the time who restored "rich musicality to the language" (Appelbaum v). His research and introspection into the human mind and soul has resulted in his being called the "Columbus of the psyche," and because no language existed at the time to describe what he discovered on his voyages, he created his own mythology to describe what he found there (Damon ix). He was an accomplished poet, painter, and engraver.    Blake scholars disagree on whether or not Blake was a mystic. In the Norton Anthology, he is described as "an acknowledged mystic, [who] saw visions from the age of four" (Mack 783). Frye, however, who seems to be one of the most influential Blake scholars, disagrees, saying that Blake was a visionary rather than a mystic. "'Mysticism' . . . means a certain kind of religious techniques difficult to reconcile with anyone's poetry," says Frye (Frye 8). He next says that "visionary" is "a word that Blake uses, and uses constantly" and cites the example of Plotinus, the mystic, who experienced a "direct apprehension of God" four times in his life, and then only with "great effort and relentless discipline." He finally cites Blake's poem "I rose up at the dawn of day," in which Blake states,    I am in God's presence night & day, And he never turns his face away (Frye 9).    Besides all of these achievements, Blake was a social critic of his own time and considered himself a prophet of times to come. Frye says that "all his poetry was written as though it were about to have the immediate social impact of a new play" (Frye 4). His social criticism is not only representative of his own country and era, but strikes profound chords in our own time as well. As Appelbaum said in the introduction to his anthology English Romantic Poetry, "[Blake] was not fully rediscovered and rehabilitated until a full century after his death" (Appelbaum v). For Blake was not truly appreciated during his life, except by small cliques of individuals, and was not well-known during the rest of the nineteenth century (Appelbaum v).

Measuring Reliability

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is one of the most popular personality tests in the world today.   However, data reviewed from more than twenty MBTI research studies has indicated that the test has inadequate validity.   In other words, MBTI does not adequately measure what it is meant to measure.   Moreover, MBTI has reported reliability coefficients for its four scales on general population samples in the ranges from 0.61 to 0.87.   Experts on psychometric testing reveal that reliability coefficients for short personality tests should actually be in the range of 0.7 to 0.8 (Psychometric Success). Does this mean that MBTI is unreliable? – No.   While this important personality test sometimes reveals a lower reliability coefficient than the other personality tests, even when its reliability coefficient is close to 0.61, the test is said to give us a dependable measure of the constructs it measures at least 61% of the time.   To put it another way, at least 61% of the people who use the MBTI once would see that their scores on the different constructs of the test would not change on a second testing session and all subsequent testing sessions. Reliability is also known as â€Å"repeatability† or â€Å"consistency.†Ã‚   A test with perfect reliability has a coefficient of 1.0.   A test with no reliability whatsoever has a coefficient of 0.   A test with perfect reliability is one which gives us absolutely consistent results with the same sample.   The higher the reliability, the better is a test, scientifically, given that we can trust the results of this test with confidence, knowing that they will not change drastically through retesting (Trochim, 2006). With MBTI, we can be confident that the test would show us a true picture of an individual’s personality at least 61% of the time.   Although this value is better than 50%, MBTI would have  given us greater confidence in terms of its measurement if its reliability coefficient always fell in the range of 0.8 to 0.9.   This would have led us to believe that MBTI is most definitely a trustworthy measure of an individual’s personality type. References 1.Psychometric Success. â€Å"Myers-Briggs Widely Used But Still Controversial.† Available at http://www.psychometric-success.com/index.htm. (31 January 2007).    2. Trochim, William. (2006). â€Å"Theory of Reliability.† Research Methods Knowledge Base. Available at http://www.socialresearchmethods.net/kb/reliablt.php. (31 January 2007).