Life Before the Internet and After the Internet Essay

Life was very different before the advent of the Internet. Communication methods were limited, stores were the only place to buy goods and services, and physical libraries were the only place to find information and research. The three biggest changes caused by the Internet are in communication, sales, and access to information. The Internet has changed the way people communicate. It allows for instant and reliable communication between people across the street or across the globe. In the past, the only ways to send documents were via fax and postal mail. Faxes were limited because messages could only include two-dimensional text and graphics. The postal mail faced these same issues, as well as the problem with the time it took to send a document through the mail. With the Internet, documents with text, graphics, audio files, video files, and interactive objects can now be transmitted quickly to anyone with a simple click of a button. This has changed the way business is done and has made it easier for companies to expand into new markets. On a smaller level, the Internet has allowed people to reconnect with old friends or make new ones. Chat rooms and social networks such as MySpace. com are becoming increasingly popular as people enjoy the sense of anonymity. The second way that the Internet has changed the world is in the buying and selling of goods and services. With the ability to purchase products online, the business world has changed drastically. Online stores are competing for business, while established brick-and-mortar stores have set up web-based stores as well. Customers can now purchase nearly everything they need from the comfort of their own homes. The Internet has also allowed for quick and easy comparisons of the prices and quality of products and services. The final and most important impact of the Internet is in the access of information. In the past, if you needed to find information on the history of Latin America, you had to go to your local library. Then, you were limited by which books and resources the library carried. With limited budgets, libraries cannot be expected to carry the best sources for every topic. Today, you can access information on any topic from the Internet through academic journals, online encyclopedias, book reviews, and more. In addition, you can find information on every television and radio program, historical events, current events, health issues, scientific discoveries, sporting events, and theories on everything from biomedicine to parenting. Finally, being able to access information online has led to colleges and universities offering degrees where it is not necessary for students to ever step into a classroom. Lectures, PowerPoint slides, notes, and required readings are available on the Internet. In conclusion, the Internet has significantly changed the world in the way people communicate, do business, and learn. The rapidity with which these changes took place suggests that more drastic and exciting changes are still to come. New and innovative uses for technology are developed every day, and the Internet is a major focus of these developments.

Organizational Learning Essay

1. 0 Introduction The title of this journal is Organizational Learning Practices in the Project Management Environment. The author is Timothy G. Kotnour from University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA. This journal focuses on understanding how project managers continuously improve their project quality and performance by building knowledge through learning. Beside that, for the project organization to learn, organizational members must create, share and apply knowledge. The organizations members will create new knowledge for learning experiences. Learning-by-doing occurs when a problem solver associates plans and actions to accomplish positive results and avoid negative results (Anzai, 1987). While, the plan-duty-study-act (PDSA) cycle, is used to represent the learning process in a project environment. There have two learning cycle in this journal which is Inter-project learning cycle and Intra-project learning cycle. Inter-project learning is the combining and sharing of lessons learned across projects to apply and develop new knowledge. Tools to support inter-project learning include information technology tools and employee groups aimed at sharing knowledge across the organization provides a detailed example of an online system for recognizing, documenting, validating and making available lessons learned for an organization. While, intra-project learning is the creation and sharing of knowledge within a project. Intra-project learning focuses on tasks within a single project and supports the delivery of a successful project by identifying problems and solving them during the project. Learning take place when a project team members discuss approaches for completing a task or overcoming problems. The intra-learning occurs throughout routine reporting cycle such as weekly or monthly status and review meetings, project deliverables or major occurrences in the project. 2. 0 Research Methodology & Framework The research methodology involves a lessons learned oriented survey was completely by 43 project managers who were attending a chapter meeting of the Project Management Institute. The survey used to lesson learned terminology because it is more familiar to project managers than organization learning. The survey contained four question sets. The first set asked project manager their background in project management. The second set focused on how project managers produce lessons learned which is including when, what about, how know, what to produce a lesson learned about and what is included in a lesson learned. While, the third set asked respondent to describe, using five-point Likert scale ( 5 = strongly agree, 4 = agree, 3 = not sure, 2 = disagree, 1 = strongly disagree ), which is the degree to which they practice project management learning practices. Next the fourth set asked respondent to describe using a five-point Likert scale the degree to which their organization is achieving the learning outcomes. Factor analysis was performed on the third and fourth data sets. There are five general steps to factor analysis which is assessing applicability of the factor analysis process, determining the number of factors through factor extraction, grouping the variables into factors according to factor loading, producing weighted factor scores and lastly each factors reliability was computed using Cronbach’s alpha 3. 0 Framework, Independent Variable (IV) and Dependent Variable (DV) The learning framework offer an implications for a project manager to use in focusing the learning activities of a project team which is first, the opportunity for learning is an inherent part of the project management process. The project management process parallels the learning process. The steps in the process provide the foundation for learning. In a discussion with a project manager, most of the them viewed producing lessons learned as a valuable and important exercises. However, they felt that they did not have time to complete a formal lesson learned and viewed the learning as a separate activity. This situation showed that, there has a weak relationship between IV and DV. Second, the use of lessons learned can be conducted throughout a project life-cycle, not just at the end of the project. Using the intra-learning cycle, lesson learned can be produced for each cycle in a project to carry on learning to the next cycle and to the next project. And the lastly is the learning process can break down at any stage of the intra- or inter-learning PDSA cycle. For example, the break down can happened in the learning process if there have not using the project management process and tools in a systematic fashion on the model of intra- and inter-project learning. Other than that, the learning process also can fail in the â€Å"plan† step by not reviewing past plans and lessons learned to apply to the current project. In the â€Å"do† step, learning can break down as a result of the project team not following the plan or collecting data on the performance and changes to the plans. While learning also can fail in the â€Å"study† step by not analysing project performance with project tools and not competing lesson learned. Finally, in the act â€Å"step†, learning process can fail because there have no sharing with or incorporating lessons learned into the next project. 4. 0 Result of the Journal The results of survey analysis in this journal are divided into two areas. First, hypothesis testing is completed and second descriptive analysis is completed on how project managers produce lesson learned. Table III contains the result of regression analysis for hypothesis testing. [pic] 4. 1 Project Performance As shown in Table III, project management performance is positively associated with project knowledge. Having knowledge about what could be wrong, ways to ensure success and ways to avoid problems supports the organization in delivering better products and services and managing projects better regarding plan a project and meet cost, schedule and performance requirements. 4. 2 Project Management. As shown in Table III, intra- and inter-project learning practices are directly associated with project knowledge. Producing lesson learned is hypothesized to support the intra- and inter-project learning activities by providing a mechanism to reflect on the project and sharing the knowledge across the project. 4. 3 Learning Practices. Based on Table III, producing a lesson learned is related to inter-project learning. The important factor to increase inter-project learning is not just to produce a lessons learned but to conduct multiple activities for producing lesson learned. 4. 4 Learning Support According on Table III, learning support is needed for each of the learning activities such as inter, intra and lesson learned. Collecting data about the set of steps on a project supports intra-project learning by providing the data and information to compare against the plan and identify mistakes. Being willing to openly and honestly address the mistakes helps drive the learning for intra-project learning and produce lessons learned which can be shared across the organization through inter-project learning. 5. 0 Suggestion/Recommendation There have some recommendation for organizational practices in the project management environment. Project organizations are faced with continuously improving the quality and performance of their products and services to compete in the competitive environment. To learning such an integrated in the project management environments from project experiences to improve knowledge and performance, there must have provide a learning framework which defines the learning processes in a project management environmental. Beside that, analysing the survey result of practicing project manager’s perception on learning outcomes and practices. Other than that, by integrating and sharing the experiences and learning across project, the organizational will have a greater knowledge. While, project team members must need support for learning to enable them to learn from experiences. Next, for developed organizational practices in the project management environment, the factor analysis and reliability results for the project management learning practices should be provided. This included how project manager share knowledge from one project to next, how project managers create knowledge during a project and the action project managers take to support the learning process. There also recommend to provides the factor analysis and reliability results for the learning outcomes. There have 2 factors for learning outcome which is the increased knowledge by sharing lessons learned across projects and how to learning process helps the organization improve in managing a project and delivering products and services. 6. 0 Conclusions As a conclusion, project organization should focus on building knowledge because increased knowledge is associated with increased project performance. To support knowledge building the organization must focus on the learning both and between projects. However, the learning process needs to support by using management tools to plan and monitor results. There also needs to be supported with an environment which allows team members to admit mistakes and openly discuss solutions to problems. All of this needs to be completed to lead to project management success. 7. 0 References Kotnour, T. G. , Orr, C., Spaulding, J. and Guidi, J. (1997), â€Å"Determining the benefit of knowledge management activities†, 1997 International Conference on Systems, Man and Cybernetics, October 12-15, pp. 94-9. Anzai, Y. (1987), â€Å"Doing, understanding, and learning in problem solving†, in Klahr, D. , Langley, P. and Neches, R (Eds), Production System Models of Learning and Development, MIT Press, Cambridge, MA, pp. 55-98. Argyris, C. and Schon, D. A. (1978), Organizational Learning: A Theory of Action Perspective,Addison-Wesley, Reading, MA. Abdullah, H. S. Research Method Guide. Gido, C. Effective Project Management, 5th Edition.

Anthropology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Anthropology - Essay Example In this essay, we will discuss the culture of Mormons, who share beliefs, values, and practices that are different from those of the United States. Most believers adopt particular political and cultural beliefs because of their religious doctrines. According to Givens (2007, p25), Mormonism is not only a culture but also a religion. Most people are serious with their religious beliefs and faith, which influence the way they live and relate with others. Most believers adopt political and cultural beliefs based on their religious views. For instance, an evangelic who believes that abortion is unethical based his/her beliefs on cultural and political views that flow in the religious convictions. Although not all evangelicals who oppose abortion, those who do base their arguments on religion point of view. As many analyze the culture and religion of Marmon, it is evident that there is war that exists in this cultural group and other groups in the United States. According to Davies (2000, p33), the biggest problem is the different interpretations of life that exists in this cultural group. Often, the culture have backed some local decisions and ignored some discussions discussed in the nation. For instance, while the majority support abortion in cases when the mother’s health is in danger, this culture believes that abortion is illegal at all given chances. The history and culture of the Mormon cannot be understood without an understanding of the Mormon religion. The great migration that occurred in 1846-1847 was one-step in the quest of the religious growth and freedom (Givens 2007, p66). The Mormon religion also known as the Church of Latter Day Saints; was established in 1830 by Joseph Smith. The founder had a strong vision in, which he claimed that he saw an angel who buried gold plates. From the vision, the founder believed that angels are spiritual beings who work hard to protect us from the harm in the society. In this case, the gold plate symbolized a ny material wealth that hinders and individual to live a fulfilling life. Mormon practices and beliefs such as polygamy contributed to an increasing intolerance for some Illinois citizens. The reason many criticize this subculture is that at some point, Joseph Smith announced that he received a revelation from God on allowing polygamy. It took great courage to expose this subject to the public bearing in mind most religions criticize this concept. Most believers were willing to enter into the agreement set by the founder and many did this after much praying and anguish. Unlike other subcultures in the United States, the outside world was hostile to the plural marriage. Regardless of the challenges faced, the church gave its way to preserve the existence of the faith. There have been contentious issues regarding this subject in the 20th century. According to Yorgason (2003, p22), there are over 30, 000 people practicing polygamy in Arizona, Montana, Idaho, and Uta who believe that th ey are preserving Mormon customs and beliefs. In essence, many have adopted that this is the best way of life based on the teachings of the church. For the past years, the Utah government has criticized polygamy and in turn, this has affected Mormon culture. The government believes that polygamy should not be allowed at any given cost as it promotes immorality and adultery. The American government has also taken

Stress Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Stress - Essay Example The board ruled that the human resource and technical departments would be restructured to accommodate new employees from acquired firms as well as fresh recruits who were required to support expansion. Some employees were laid off on the basis of qualifications and suitability to the new agenda, and the board was also recomposed to accommodate high-ranking members of acquired organizations. During this period, a majority of employees were faced with uncertainty regarding the security of their jobs and constantly sought reassurances from their supervisors. Having realized that a new organizational blueprint required new approaches, the board adopted various leadership strategies to support the change. First, all employees were given prompt notifications of impending changes and advised on how to conduct themselves in the face of restructuring. Through managers, the board ensured that all employees understood the implications of the new changes. In addition, a transformational leadership style was used to manage staff by keeping them motivated in spite of feelings of job insecurity. The changes took almost a year to implement, mainly because the acquisitions were numerous and also involved complex regulatory and commercial factors. The positive results of this change were greater market share for the company, more international recognition, an increase in shareholder value, an expanded human resource and technical capacity, and greater access to financing. The negative results were negative connotations created by the laying off of workers, increased bureaucratic challenges inspired by a bigger organizational profile, and more regulatory challenges and scrutiny necessitated by the numerous acquisitions carried out within a short period. Having found it difficult to adapt to new workplace dynamics and faced with the uncertainty of the changes taking place, I started behaving

Hospitality management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 2

Hospitality management - Essay Example In general, job stress of managers and frontline personnel has been well documented in the hospitality and tourism literature (Hahn et al., 1999). Job burnout studies were originally conducted on people working in human services and education (Maslach et al., 2001 ). The topic continues to be of interest in various fields including hospitality academia. Within hospitality and tourism, most existing studies have investigated causes of burnout with a focus on the work environment including role stressors, organizational structures, and job characteristics. Specifically, role ambiguity, role conflict, poor management, poor communication, difficult customers, lack of autonomy, and work overload have been reported as precursors of hospitality job burnout (Allen and Mellor, 2002). Therefore, the purpose of this study is to identify the role of personality dispositions in understanding hospitality employees’ job burnout in the hotel work setting. The Five-Factor Model of personality, which in recent years has received significant support among personality experts, is used. In the literature section, the five personality dimensions and the antecedents of job burnout are described in detail. A group of psychologists consider job burnout as a type of stress, which is one dimensional (Maslach et al., 2001 ). Others view it as multi-dimensional (Allen and Mellor, 2002 ). The current consensus is that job burnout is composed of three sub-constructs: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal accomplishment. Emotional exhaustion refers to a lack of energy and a feeling that ones emotional resources are used up because of excessive psychological demands. Depersonalization is characterized by treating others as objects rather than people through cynical, callous, and uncaring attitudes and behaviors. Diminished personal accomplishment denotes a tendency to evaluate oneself negatively because of failure to produce

Nursing Theory as Framework for Research Coursework

Nursing Theory as Framework for Research - Coursework Example An example of such studies that lack a theoretical framework is that of Bond et al. (2010) that involves a descriptive analysis of articles published a decade ago. Though the study itself seeks to identify the use of theoretical frameworks among articles published in the past five years from 2010, it lacks a theoretical framework to guide its research. A theoretical framework impacts numerous aspects of the study. Simply because a theoretical framework guides a research by offering a reference basis for the observations, definition of ideas, research design, interpretations, a lack of it implies that the study lacks organization. Therefore, this study lacks organization. According to McEwen and Wills (2014), a theoretical framework guides the researcher in interpreting the study results. In this case, Bond et al. (2010) are not guided by any theory in their collection and interpretation of the data results. Additionally, this also implies that the researchers lack a connection with the existing knowledge. This study also lacks an explanation of existing theoretical assumptions as it does not respond to questions on â€Å"how† and â€Å"why† (McEwen & Wills, 2014).

The most effective channel structure Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

The most effective channel structure - Essay Example Specification of distribution tasks in order to achieve the set objectives was done using the five task groups namely physical distribution, after sale service, channel support, selling and risk assumption. The next stage involved selecting alternative channel structures using the channel levels, intensity and intermediary levels after which evaluation of the alternatives was done using the weighted factor score approach. This helped to determine the effective channel strategy which was to provide accommodation services so as to reduce costs for tourists hence attract them. This is to differentiate Webjet from the competitors and gain sustainable competitive advantage. An implementation plan was then designed to achieve the results needed. Table of Contents Executive summary 1 Table of Contents 2 List of Tables and Figures 4 1. Introduction 5 1.1 Authorization 5 1.2 Limitation 5 1.3 Scope of Report 5 2. Case Background 6 2.1 Company Background 7 2.2 Channel Design Decision Paradigm 7 3. Major Case Issues 9 4. Situation Analysis 9 4.1 Internal AND EXTERNAL Analysis 9 4.2 INTERNAL ANALYSIS 10 4.3 External Analysis 11 4.4 Setting and Coordinating Distribution Objectives 11 4.5 Distribution Tasks 12 4.5.1 Selling 12 4.5.2 Channel Support 13 4.5.3 Physical Distribution 13 4.5.4 Product modification and after-sales services 14 4.5.5 Risk Assumptions 14 5. Identifying Alternative Channel Structures 14 5.1 Number of Channel Levels 15 5.2 Intensity at Each Level 16 5.3 Types of Intermediaries 16 5.4 Alternative Channel Structure Strategy 16 6. Evaluation of Alternative Channel Structure 17 6.1 Company Variables 17 6.2 Market Variables 18 6.3 Product Variables 19 6.4 Intermediaries Variables 20 6.5 Weighted Factor Score Approach 20 7. Recommended Strategy 21 8. Implementation plan 21 9. Conclusion 22 10. List of References 24 List of Tables and Figures Figure A- Channel Design Paradigm Adapted from (birch, 2006) 9 Figure B - Channel levels in travel agency Adapted FROM ( Holma, 2010) 15 1. Introduction 1.1 Authorization This report has been authorized by Mr. David Clarke to outline the most effective channel structure for Webjet Limited. In the production of the report, the seven steps of the channel decision paradigm will be utilized. 1.2 Limitation Various limitations were noted while conducting research and producing the report. One of the major limitations was not having a clear timeline for completion of the report. This meant the report could be delayed due to lack of urgency and timeline leading to outdated information which has been overtaken by events and also delays in implementation which could lead to severity of the problem. Another limitation was lack of useful and relevant information from the literature and inability to obtain timely communication from Webjet. 1.3 Scope of Report This report examined a number of ways on how to create or modify the channel design of Webjet Limited. This involved looking into the existing channels and determining if they are suitable for the organization and what could be done to improve on them. This was to assist Webjet to recognize the need to make a decision on the channel design. This involved undergoing the seven channel design stages to come up with the right channel for Webjet. Firstly, a brief background was given for the company selected (Webjet) containing company profile, locations, products and company history together with the channel design

How Nafta has been framed since inception Research Paper

How Nafta has been framed since inception - Research Paper Example While discussing treaties and agreements, it is essential not to leave out the diverse types of agreements which are considered the most important and imperative. Some of these essential conformities include International Investment Agreement, International Taxation Agreements and most importantly Trade and Commerce Agreements. The most widespread term that we see when trade agreements are discussed, is â€Å"NAFTA†. The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) is one of the most important accords signed by the American government. This agreement has been shared with the governments of two most central bordering areas of the United States i.e. Mexico and Canada. This agreement came into power on January, 1994. The administrative centers of this agreement are in Mexico City, Ottawa, and Washington, D.C. NAFTA was signed between President George H. W. Bush of US, Prime Minister Brian Mulroney of Canada and Mexican President Carlos Salinas. Following were the advantages and motivations of the generation of this agreement: NAFTA was signed by the three countries to amplify the trade the trade process so that more and more items could be imported and exported to and from these countries. It was about time that the trio apprehend and grasped the magnitude of trade for their realms. As Tamarkin and Bayer have clarified that â€Å"The lifeblood of global connections is world trade. There is evidence of human trading from prehistoric times.† (288) and this specifies the importance of trade and dealing for countries. As far as the area of benefit is concerned when it comes to the state of Mexico, signing this agreement was important because the NAFTA agreement ostensibly eggs on superior colonization among the trio. The increased immigration from Mexico to the US has become even more of a flashpoint. Although this is not the case when it comes to the relationship between Canada

Is brain dead really dead Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Is brain dead really dead - Essay Example The brain involves a mutual interaction with all the other parts, but the coordination and functioning specific body organ is integrative and independent unit. Therefore, a tenable rationale that equates brain death to a complete halt in the functioning of the whole body is physiologically and ethically mal-practiced in many brain examination, diagnosis, and treatment fields of medicine (David, 2009). (Key words: brain death, medical ethics, integrated organs, rationale, death). Introduction Brain death is a condition in which the role and functioning of the brain halts, and it is in a state of complete destruction. Therefore, the functioning of other organs directly or indirectly related to the brain enters into a state of limited performance or inevitable and imminent cessation. Brain death may result to total malfunctioning of the respiratory system, cardiac performance among other functions of the organs in the body. As a result, the direct control of these organs by the brain le d medical physicians to argue that failure of the brain results to failure of all other parts of the body. This persuasive argument concluded that when a human brain dies, then the rest of the organs come to a complete death too. Irreversible cessation of the brain results to pronouncement of death for all functions of the brain, and thus, the victim is said to be dead (David, 2009). This has brought controversial arguments among medical practitioners based on whether pronouncement of death is really, because of the brain malfunctioning. Other medical practitioners argue that statutory recognition of death in the basis of brain death is ethically undesirable especially in the field of medicine. Technical Aspects Ethical consideration of death on neurologic criteria lays a certainty on death of a person who meets clinical diagnosis test that shows total destruction of the brain, really, resulted to his or her death. The examination of a human body that shows un-receptiveness, missing spontaneous movements and unresponsiveness as well as poor and disorderly breathing functions with reflexes and dilated pupils are not evidence that a person died from brain cessation. Autopsy reports have showed that widespread destruction of the brain results to anticipated failure and destruction of other organs, including heartbeats and cardiac disorders, as well as, cellular destruction detected during morphology tests do not conclude that a brain failure resulted to the death of a human being. Intracranial blood flow is another technical aspect by which medical practitioners base their evidence (David, 2009). This isotopic technique shows how subsequent flow of blood in a necrosis and liquefaction manner in the brain leads to total failure of the brain. The technique shows how the brain is affected, but organs that fully depend on the control by the brain remain unaffected. Spinal reflexes and cerebral unresponsiveness in apneic patients showed that when appropriate diagnosti c procedures were met, as well as proper therapeutic techniques used to exclude the reversible condition, would have affected the brain to total destruction. The Collaborative technique shows that chances of the brain to affect spinal related organs had little or no effect at all (David, 2009). The various organ disorders found in the apneic patients did not necessarily result from the etiological factor

Travel, Tourism, Lodging, Food & Beverage, Content and Application Essay Example for Free

Travel, Tourism, Lodging, Food Beverage, Content and Application Essay Abstract In this very competitive world of business like in hotel and restaurant, it is not only about customer service is important but more importantly it is about safety and design of the hotel is very important.   Rehabilitation that not only gives security for its guest and even rehabilitation of guestrooms would give added enticement for guest to come to the hotel.   This is also the main aim of this paper, which is to provide the different factors that should be done in order to achieve effective rehabilitation and maintenance in the hotel. Introduction In this continuous effect if globalization, many businesses are not only continuous to rely heavily on research on how they can perform quality service and also on how they can effectively manage human resources in the organization.   But, for hotel and restaurant business, it is more than just superior quality service or satisfying its manpower that needs to the main priorities.   Since hotels and restaurants are there to entice guest, most especially foreign guests, their safety and comfort is another aspect of the business that cannot be compromised. Safety, not only with regards to terrorist attack but safety with regards to maintenance and rehabilitation of the building itself is the one that needs to be done.   For superior comfort and satisfaction among its guest, design is another aspect that guest would always feel to come back to the hotel and restaurant that has created more than just satisfaction for them, but it is more of total relaxation and peace whenever they visit and these are the main focus of this paper.   This paper also provides some relevant information that would really help hotels or restaurant to achieve these very important aspects of this type of business. Main Thesis Rehabilitation is truly one of the most important aspects of ensuring guest that safety is also a priority in every hotel business in order to achieve superior quality service.   This has also become a common practice and a shared responsibility of the housekeeping, maintenance, and engineering department of all hotels.   Housekeeping because with excellent housekeeping, it can help guest to be organized since the hotel is also organized, effective advice on where and when to use facilities and other hotel service will be observed.   Maintenance is also another aspect for this paper because it also a vital department for assuring quality in the hotel, this department does all the fixing that need to be perform in the hotel before it becomes worst if not attended properly. One excellent example for maintenance is electrical maintenance within the hotel, possible leak problems also.   These are just some of the problems that may arise if maintenance department will not be pro-actively anticipating these problems.   Lastly, engineering department within the hotel is also another team that will be vital for the success of rehabilitation; engineering team will be used to formulate a more of long-term plan for the hotel in order to achieve longer and stable security and assurance for safety within the hotel.   One good example here is when they implement control system for disaster and safety devices that will be used for emergency situations. III. Related Topics In the actual rehabilitation of the facilities in the hotel, there are many roles that need to be involved.   Not only roles or duties are involved but also additional cost is also involved. Facility Systems Facility systems are one of the major aspects of rehabilitation that is always a concern within the hotel.   It involves the following facilities: (1) safety and security, (2) water and wastewater, electrical, (3) heating, ventilating and air conditioning, (4) lighting, (5) laundry, (6) food service equipment, lastly, (7) building structure, finishes and site system.   These are the different facility system that has to be the main focus for rehabilitation and maintenance.   Starting from safety and security, alarm signals are just one of the most common facilities involved in security.   This sometimes creates peace of mind for most of the guest since it makes them feel that the hotel can always be ready for any disaster. This also directs guests to directions and paths for safety in case disaster happens, an example guide here is the fire exit and fire extinguishers, and these are just two common examples.   For water and wastewater systems, it involves how waster is properly managed within the hotel.   This is one of the most important facility systems within the hotel that can create big dissatisfaction among its guests, because waster can affect health and it can cause other problems like environment as well.   Waster control like proper garbage collection and disposal are just some of the common priorities in this area.   But, more importantly is water; water system should also be maintained at all times since it is the source for cleanliness within the hotel.    Maintaining it like always checking the water holes and reserves, most especially for disaster situation is importantly be monitored and checked round the clock.   The third is electrical system, this is no question that has to be maintained as well since most buildings like hotels, electrical related disasters are always the issue for fire in the buildings. Some of the common priorities in order to minimize if not totally eliminate this problem is that it needs to check the smoke and fire detectors, also includes here is the safety guidelines for safe electrical tips within the hotel.   Guest should always be well educated for every situation that would occur that relates to electrical issues within the hotel, because this not only would create problem for the guests but also for the owners most especially.   The fourth facility that needs to be well maintained and rehabilitated is lighting, lighting creates better ambiance for the hotel which creates a relaxing mood for the guests. Lighting focuses more on the design of the hotel rather than for security and safety of the guests.   For the fifth and sixth facility systems, laundry and food service equipment, starting with the laundry, these are very important for long stay guests, laundry services and facilities are essential most especially in terms of drying services for laundries. There are laundry services that have no driers available and this can create dissatisfaction for the guests.   The sixth facility services of food equipments, many facilities that falls in this category are common facilities within the hotel, food equipments are sometimes in common areas where these equipments must also be checked if it is enough for its guests, like for example doe micro wave ovens are enough for the guests. Or will there be any facility that would give guest the chance to cook in their own room in case they want it.   Lastly, is building structure, does the building is well maintained yearly, does the structure is string enough to sustain the number of floors with the total number of guest and what if the number exceeds this numbers. Or what if there will be disaster like earthquake, will the building can sustain that unexpected disaster, does the building has been checked regularly on how its structure can sustain disaster.   This is very important because it does not only create a worry-free for customers or guests but also a concern for business if in case the owners would really focus on not just satisfying their customers with their design but most of all safety of everyone. Facility Design The design for hotels establishments is also another priority for maintenance and rehabilitation.   Design is always a recipe for competition among hotels, it also one major aspect on how it can entice more guests depending on how relaxing and how inviting the design of interiors it maybe.   One of the major designs driven part of the hotel is the lobby or the guest rooms.   This is where quest considered as king and queen of the hotel.   This can create an environment of high respect for its guests.   Maintaining this part of the hotel is considered a mandatory action that needs to be done all the time.   From the superior design of lightings, interiors, furniture and even up to the uniform that is worn by hotel personnel are all part of the design that would attract more and more guests to visit the hotel. In the design priority within the hotel, there are three most common design factors that always need to prioritize in the hotel: lodging planning and design, food service planning and design, and lastly, other renovation design.   Lodging planning design is again part of this is the guest room, reception or lobby design area, where this section should always be well attractive to the guests.   Again, most of the time it is not only the design itself that is being focus here but part of it are also the people who are working within this special section of the hotel.   Usually, only the most charming, intelligent and articulate persons of the hotel works in this section, which not only to educate guests about the security, safety as well as how they can enjoy other facilities are explained.    Lodging planning design also involves the way the rooms are designed which primarily focus on how they can effectively welcome guests with the design and well presented gifts and service that guests can always feel respected.   For food planning design, this is more of how personalized service is given for guests, like the usual breakfast in bed or if the guests are in the buffet area, a design for presentation of food where the guests will be able to be given freedom of choosing what ever food he or she wants.   A design that would not always make the guest feel bored, even a smile from the waitress and a warm offering of additional coffee or with additional towel even before the end of meal are an important gestures that need to be carries out and will always be part of the design of the food planning of the hotel. For other renovation design, there are also other parts of the hotel that are usually in need of design improvements or maintenance.   This includes facade of the hotel or even the design of facilities of the hotels like swimming pools and saunas.   This could also add value to the service that the hotel provide from its guest, most especially if the hotel always tried its best to be more personalized as possible, that would give additional appreciation from the guests.   (Stipanuk, D, 2006, pp. 89-201). Involvement in Safety Organization through Training and Seminars It is also important for hotels to be able to really measure the success and achievement they have when it comes to safety or design is to be involved in known and respected organizations.   Like in the case of safety OSHA Us Department of Labor (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), this organization is one of the well respected institution when it comes to safety and health administration in all types of organization.   For hotels, it is important that they are well monitored and followed the best guidelines of this organization in order not only use the company investment effectively but also would give its owners most especially their customers the assurance that they are compliance to real safety and health procedures that are presented by such well respected institution like OSHA. As lone good example in this paper is where there was a recent partnership or alliance between the workers of the US Virgin Islands Hotel and Tourism Association and the US labor Department’s OSHA.   This alliance will promote safety and health trainings for hotels and hospitality workers of the Island.   This alliance will focus on three aspects: fire protection, hazard communication and the use of personal protective equipment.   This training not only gives the worker more confidence as to how they would react and act on certain situation pro-actively, most especially in situations that are unexpected. The training will also give the workers enough information on hoe they will identify the hazardous information that they might encounter on the job and how they can respond and act on it.   OSAH will also provide best practices and processes on the safety and health administration that can be applied in the hotel which is mandatory for all hotel businesses.   This was also considered a big investment not only for future business benefit but also knowledge gain for all the workers in the hotel business around the island.   With this initiative, the workers will be more confident in performing their jobs and also can increase quality service for its customers in the island.   (Fitzgerald, T, 2007). Infusing New Ideas In the side of design, there are both innovative and economical ideas that can be perform in the hotel business.   This also could help minimize or if effectively implemented could eliminate disaster in the hotels.   Like the infusion of better lighting systems and designs within the hotel.   One of the most well respected organization in the United States that focuses on inventing and finding new innovative ideas when it comes to lighting is the American Lighting Association.   These organizations are formed to assist home owners or hotel business owners on how they can design a lighting system that not only costly but also can provide an enticing design for guests.    Sometimes it is really important for hotel owners not only to seek designs that are presented by internal hotel experts but also can come from experts that are purely specialized into a specific subject, like in this case lightings.   The American lighting Association has a group of experts in lighting that are experienced with expertise in imagination.   They are tag to developed not economical design but also beautiful to the eyes. This is very essential in the success of the hotel because it does not only help the business in minimizing the cost but more importantly can be an option for design improvements and rehabilitation process in the hotel which is the main subject of this study.   (What does it mean when a store is a member of the American Lighting Association, n.d.). Conclusion In this study, it only shows that for hotel any hotel business, maintenance and rehabilitation is not just making sure that customer will be satisfied but also would help its owners and employees to know the right processes that needs to be perform in the hotel businesses.   Processes like in terms of facilities and design, facilities that would make the business performs based on the effective guidelines that is advised and mandated by respected organizations like the US Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration.   This can help boost the business not only will favor the employees but most especially their customers as well, since they can always make sure that the service being rendered are in accordance with the policies. In this study, it also showed that design is not just for beautification that needs to be done in the hotel, but it can also create economical ideas that can also comes from not just from the internal experts of the hotel but also from reliable organizations like American Lighting Association, which not only provides expertise for beautification through lighting but also gives convenience for owners as well since cost will be less.   Trainings are also encourage to be perform of hotel businesses since there are some cases that learning the processes within is not enough, most especially as time goes on, new implementation needs to be followed in order to be sure that processes are still applicable. References Fitzgerald, T. New Alliances will Promote Safety and Health Training for Hotel and Hospitality Workers in the US Virgin Island’s Hotel Tourism Association Joins with the US Labor Department’s OSHA. US Department of Labor – Occupational Safety Health Administration. 20 February 2007, http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_table=NEWS_RELEASESp_id=13781, Retrieved 13 July 2008. Stipanuk, D. (2006). Hospitality Facilities Management and Design 3e. US: Educational Institute of the American Hotel. What does it mean when a store is a member of the American Lighting Association. American Lighting Association. N.d, http://www.americanlightingassoc.com/home.php, Retrieved 13 July 2008.

The History And Origins Of Conference Industry

The History And Origins Of Conference Industry This chapter assumes a literature review of the conference industry. It begins by establishing the scene of conference through the history and origins of industry, and a reflection about industry structure. Furthermore a review the industry growth is taken into consideration. It follows with a close examination of conference impacts such as economic, environmental, technological, social and cultural, also a consideration on employment generation. Finally, it analysis the future challenges of the conference industry. 2.2 The history and origins of Conference Industry Conference has been existed for a long time as there have been people, the meeting has been happening. Researches and investigations of ancient cultures, archaeologists have found evidences of primitive ruins that has been used by people to meet and to discuss interests, or either celebrations (Spiller, 2002 p. 3). A launch event of contemporary conference was held from June 1814 to September 1814, called Congress the Vienna. The purpose of Congress de Vienna was to establish the territorial divisions of Europe at the end of the Napoleonic Wars, and representatives included all of the major world powers of the day (Rogers, 2008; Davidson and Cope, 2003). Industrialisation spread throughout the Western Europe and America during the late nineteenth and early twentieth. The development of industry and commerce increases the need of meeting between businesspeople and professionals, aimed to discuss and exchange ideas (Spiller, 2002 p. 5-6). The origin of the conference industry is very recent, hardly 50 years of age in North America and Europe, in addition in the most rest of the world still very younger. However, conference and meetings of people have happened since early days of civilisation progress (Rogers, 2003). Nowadays, conference sector is believed to be one of the most lucrative and attractive sector of tourism industry, despite partly to the high economic benefits for the hosting community (Crouch and Louviere, 2004). The conference sector of the business industry is valued in a hundreds of billions of pounds per year on a global scale (Rogers, 2003). Since earlier 60s, conference sector has been supported by investments received in the whole infrastructure, helping to a steadily growth during the 90s, which was a decade with one of the highest sustained investments recorded. Even if the industry is maturing fast, due to its vigorous, a lack of some necessary description needs to be more established, such as appropriate training and education structure, and well-defined terminology. The conference industry has to address these weakness to claim a deserve position (Rogers, 2003). 2.3 The Suppliers In response to an extensive and diverse demand for meetings and conferences of all kinds, suppliers have to offer a wide variety of services, facilities and infrastructures to attend the great variety of events (Davidson and Cope, 2003). These have augmented in diversity and quantity, at the same speed the industry has grown over the past 50 years (Rogers, 2003). However, quite few of these suppliers are committed to the conference industry only (Rogers, 2003; Leask and Spiller, 2002). Rogers (2003) has separated the industrys supply into three leading type of venue as subsequent. 2.3.1 The Venues Venues are the places where business tourism events take place, in theory almost any type of building could be promoted as a conference venue (Swarbrooke and Horner, 2001). Additionally in Britain there are over 3500 venues supported as suitable for meetings and conferences (Rogers 2008). However, according to Leask and Spiller (2002), for venues develop an input of the conference industry, they should have certain characteristics, such as offers a purpose-built facilities that present multiple usages, flexibility in their design and having suitable lighting system and breakout space. Nevertheless, Rogers, 1998 and Leask and Spiller, 2002 emphasis that many venues such as hotels, academic venue and unusual venues do not focus on the conference segment entirely. The figure below represents an analysis of the different types of conference venues in the UK. Figure 2.1 Analysis of the UKs conference venues and type Source: Adapted from British Association of Conference Destinations (BACD) in Rogers, 2008. 2.3.1.1 Hotels Despite the increase of many different forms of venue, hotels are predominantly vital to the corporate market sector, creating around two-thirds of all conference venues (Rogers, 2003; Davidson and Cope, 2003). The advantages of holding an event in a hotel are that guests can easily walk to the meeting rooms, which costs for transportation can be avoided (Allen, 2000). A vast range of hotels can both offer accommodation and quite a few conference and meeting-style facilities (McCabe et al., 2000). Rogers (2003) come across that hotel represents two third of all conference venues, being mainly significant to the corporate market sector and the main types of hotel active in the conference market are showed in the table below. Table 2.1 Main types of hotel active in the conference market Hotel Characteristics Central business district hotels A hotel located in the central business district of the town tends to be business-oriented, provides quality conference and meeting facilities and capable to handle corporate business. Additionally, hotels located close to large conference centres are also able to provide delegate accommodation whilst major conferences are hold. For several companies, the central location of venues is very attractive, as they comprise an effortlessly access to business offices, restaurants and entertainment. Resort hotels These types of hotels are liable to be popular for the reason that they are situated in advantageous locations with both recreational and sporting facilities in close proximity, therefore to provide an opportunity for delegates to include extra pre-and- post conference activities. In many resort hotels, the conference sector recompense the seasonality of the leisure tourism, and is acknowledged as a high-spend and high-yield business. Airport hotels Airport hotels have the prospective contribution of an additional time-saving advantage, were originally most has been built to lodge clients staying for a night, who those having a stop before, after, or in between flights. However, many companies are increasingly use them as a cost-effective way of provide a meeting for delegates travelling from between state. Also airport hotels are growing in popularity for the reason that many people are using low-cost airlines. Despite from the benefits of competitive price, convenience, and location they also provide excellent choices of meetings and conference rooms and supporting business services. Source: Adapted from McCabe et al., 2000; Rogers, 2008; Davidson, 1994; Lawson, 2000; Gosling, 2003. 2.3.1.3 Purpose-built conference centres Purpose-built conference centres can be residential and non-residential, usually provides designed areas to host meetings and conferences of large numbers of people, sometimes including an exhibition. In additionally, they normally provide halls with appropriate infrastructure to hold exhibitions and trade shows, some large rooms for plenary sessions, variety of meeting rooms, breakout areas, banqueting facilities, a business centre, offices and administration space. They also provide catering facilities simultaneously with a trained professional meetings and conference team to hold the event (McCabe et al., 2000; Davidson and Cope, 2003). Furthermore, it is argued that the future for purpose conference venues is bright (Whitfield 2007; Lau et al., 2005; Litvin, 2003), in addition, a conference venue plays an important responsibility in recovering the destinations economy as well as recuperating its neglected areas (Lawson, 2000; Laslo and Judd, 2004; McNeill and Evans, 2004; Clark, 2004; Fenich, 1992). It become visible the reason why many destinations around the world are investing in the expansion or development of their convention facilities (Laslo and Judd, 2004), and it is identify that the conference industry offers a variety of opportunities at all possible levels, national, as well as organisational or individual (Getz 2005). 2.3.1.4 Academic and civic venues An increase number of academic venues, such as universities, colleges and public schools, which are investing in the construction of quality conference facilities and accommodations, are available throughout the year during the students holiday, (Walker, 2004; Rogers, 2008). Although Rogers (2008) complete saying that many of those accommodations are equivalent to considerable 3-star hotel standards. As can be seen in McCabe et al. (2000) the cost of accommodation in academics venues are liable to be inferior than in hotels, and consequently they tend to be mostly attractive to some non-profit organisations and associations that have limited budgets. In many places civic venues include council chambers and committee rooms, town halls and other civic facilities are also available for external hire (Rogers, 2003). In UK, academic venues particularly universities are playing a considerable responsibility in both responding and stimulating to the growth of the conference and meetings market, despite the fact that earning income for educational establishments (Davidson and Cope, 2003). 2.3.1.5 Unusual venues Unusual venues have been characterized as involving an ample range of facilities that are used for conference and meetings, including art galleries, museums, historical houses (Leask and Hood, 2000 in Davidson and Cope, 2003). In additional, cultural and entertainment venues, such as theatres, sporting venues, television studios; tourist attractions, such as historical sites, theme parks, castles and heritage centres as well as transport venues, including cruise ships, ferries, steam trains and canal barges can also be included as an unusual venue (Rogers, 2003). The attraction of those venues is that they can provide an event with a special appeal, which can create it memorable experience for delegates. Although some venues have high-quality conference and meeting facilities, others can be more limited in this aspect, however the setting in which the event is being organized tends to recompense for such limitation (Rogers, 2008; Davidson and Cope, 2003). As far as most of venue types has been highlighted. The table below compare the advantages and disadvantages of those venues. Different factors regards as the conference and meetings been hold in a high quality from the corporate sectors point of view and better value for money from the associations points. 3.1 Advantages and disadvantages of venues Type of venue Advantages Disadvantages Hotels Everything under on roof All inclusive quotes Airport hotel: time saving Mixing leisure and business guest Can appear to frivolous Unsuitable for large events Lack of flexibility with syndicate rooms, etc. Purpose built-conference centres Space for large events Extensive range of technology available, plus technical know-how Many offer exhibition space May not always be suitable for the growing number of smaller events No on-site accommodation Universities Good value for money Learning ambience Everything on site Ancient/modern styles Range of sizes of meeting rooms Lack of comfort and facilities May be limited to holiday periods Large sites problems of orientation between buildings Unusual venues Memorable, novelty value Cruise ships: all-in prices Limited by design restrictions due to primary function Unlike to be used several times by same client novelty value fades No on-site accommodations Source: Davidson and Cope, 2003 2.4 The Growth of conference industry The industry has experienced outstanding growth from 1960s due to a number of features from the demand and supplier sides. Regards a larger demand for conferences and meetings, various specific aspects has contributed to the industry development. Such as the growth of multinational corporations, expansion of government and quasi-governmental organization has brought the need for meetings in a public and private sector (Spiller, 2002 p. 5-6; Lawson, 2000; Davidson and Rogers, 2006). The conference industry is growing and maturing very fast, it is youthful and vibrant. In America and Europe it is hardly 50 years old and even younger in the most part of the world. Nowadays the industry itself claims to be the worlds largest, helped with international investments in large scale infrastructure projects have been undertaken all through Asia and Pacific, East European countries such as Czech Republic and Hungary, in a number of African countries, in the Middle East (Rogers, 2008). The growth of the industry is demonstrated in Rogers (2008), the evaluation of the industrys major trade shows, which is held in Barcelona. The European Incentive and Business Travel and Meeting Exhibition (EIBTM) shows that in 1988, 54 countries were represented as exhibitors, the exhibition was held in Geneva; in 2005 the numbers has doubled to 95 countries held in Barcelona. Although, the number of visitors in the same period increased from 2850 in 1988 to 5689 in 2005. 2.5 Impacts of conference events Positive and negative impacts can be generated by the conference industry. The conference sector has been generally accepted for it is high-yield, year-round market and the possibility of gathered substantial economic gains that characterize the main motivation for many destinations to follow the conference market (Davidson and Rogers, 2006). Employment Generation Stimulation of Investment Contribution to Government Revenue Foreign Exchange Earnings Positive ImpactsAccording to McCabe et all (2000) the conference sector is an important generator of tourism expenditure, foreign exchange earnings, investment and employment. The figures below show the positive and the negative impacts of the conference industry. Figure 2.1 Positive impacts of the conference industry Source: Adapted from Davidson and Rogers, 2006 The figure above reviews some of positive impacts that conference industry can generate to the community development. In additionally, it can be see that conference sector is well accepted for a high-yield year around market boosting substantial economic gains (Davidson and Rogers, 2006). However, while the positive impacts of conference are normally noticeable and progressively more claimed by the conference industry itself, a number of unfavourable effects related to hidden cost of developing and operating conference industry and affects the host community (Rogers, 2008). The diagram below represents the negative impacts of the conference industry. Negative Impacts Infrastructure Costs Promotional Costs LeakageFigure 2.2 Negative impacts of the conference industry Source: Source: Adapted from Davidson and Rogers, 2006 2.5.1 Economic impacts The conference industry has been considered as the healthiest and well growth-orientated segment of the tourism industry. Business people and professional travel all throughout the year to attend conferences and meetings, affecting considerably in particularly tourism and hospitality industry. The reason is the need of those participants to meet, eat and sleep. However, many other direct impacts can be seen, such as cultural and sporting activities place, tourism attractions, restaurants, local shops and transport facilities (McCabe et all, 2000). The conference market is critically in nature and vulnerable to change in the business environment. The current slow-down in the global economy and recession can decrease numbers of conference and meeting activity (Weber and Chon, 2002). 2.5.2 Environmental impacts The value of the environment is vital to the successful performance of the conference and business industry (Rogers 2008). Constructive environmental impacts at basic levels, towns and cities hosting conferences need to ensure that the physical environment is maintained in a clean, tidy and healthy condition. Delegates will be expecting to find conference localities at least clean and attractive, and this is particularly when there is a motivational component to the conference (Davison and Rogers 2006). Davison and Cope (2003) say that customer concern in excess of possible and actual unconstructive impacts of mass tourism ahead the natural, built and human environments of purpose is achieving importance. Business Travel have an effect on towns and cities where conventions and exhibitions take place, open the citys potential for professional and business location and development. These are the causes why almost all big cities have situated convention centres in close combination to a high-amenity, creating a good impression to delegates. However, awareness groups are placing increasing force for conference industry to bring in more environmental consciousness. Moreover, Swarbrooke and Honer (2001) say that there are important certifies that conventions and exhibitions centres are functioning in an environmentally friendly approach, and supporting environmental schemes. 2.5.3 Technological impacts The future of the conference industry has a midpoint on the technology issues; the concern is if the advantage technology such as videoconferencing, virtual trade shows and webcasting will replace the need of face-to-face meetings (Weber and Chon, 2002). However studies suggest that has been a slow reluctance to establish state-of-the-arte technologies, simply because it often comes without adequate training staff and suitable backup support by the IT providers in difficult circumstances (Weber and Ladkin, 2001 in Weber and Chon, 2002). Thus, according to McCabe et al. (2000), the significant communication services that are available to organisers and participants of conference events are showed in the table below. Table 2.2 Communication services SERVICE CARACTERISTICS videoconferencing an electronic medium that transmits the picture of the speaker, product, or explanatory graphics teleconferencing enables sharing of ideas in real time with enhanced audio and graphics electronic data transfer allows transfer of large amounts of data between computers separated by long distances Facsimile enables quick and accurate transmission of large documents virtual exhibitions computer simulations and human computer interfacing, this takes place through a combination of visual, audio and kinetic effects Source: Adapted from McCabe et al., 2000; Medlik, 2003; Rogers, 2008. Furthermore, it is clear that information technology (IT) can be generate massive benefit for those who operating function of conference organiser and the conference venue itself, also can be noticed at operational, tactical and strategic level, Consequently, it appear that the technology, predominantly the Internet, have substituted the traditional conference diaries or filing and paper trail systems (McCabe et al., 2000). 2.5.4 Social and cultural impacts Different generation are emerging into the conference industry, those who having grow up and spending much time on the PC and using email. They are bringing very different approach to communication and require a different learning style (Weber and Chon, 2002). Another issue related to social impacts are the trend toward an aging population. An increase number of people are chosen to retired early; also many of those may decide to engage in associations (Weber and Chon, 2002). 2.5.5 Employment The industry creates an increase level of business and improvement of employment opportunities. It is seen as an attractive employment area for those who may become employees for the first time or a looking for a carrier change. It is view as dynamic industry and one that offer many career opportunities and the expectation for fast career development. The industry is responsible for a significant part of the jobs found in the transport and hotels sector, such as specialist conference professions related to the suppliers (McCabe et all, 2000; Davidson and Rogers, 2006). However the industry is not resistant to the high staff turnover and shortages in labour supply found within the tourism and hospitality industry (McCabe et all, 2000). Fenich (2005) claims the employment benefits of conference industry can stimulate construction or renovations of hotels, restaurants, retail units and entertainment facilities. Because of the stimulus a range of skilled and unskilled job opportunities are created For example, these would include meeting planners and marketers, hotel and convention sales, and promotion staff, secretarial and business services, catering staff, retail clerks, taxi drivers and security staff etc. The impact of employment may vary between cities, town and countries due to the structure of the economy. 2.6 The future of the conference industry Predictably, many people outside and inside the conference industry attempt to forecast the industry growth, and whether in the years it will experience growth or decline, even through many issues can be come across due to unpredicted circumstance those can affect conference industry (Rogers, 2008; Swarbrooke and Horner, 2001). The present slow-down in the global economy and recession has the potential to diminish conference and meetings activity in the future. Many others factors impact the current growth and health development of the segment such as social, economic, technological and environmental trends (Rogers, 2008; Weber and Chon, 2002). 2.6.2 Social trends In terms of social trends, changes happen into the work population, including an increasing number of womens conference delegates, older delegates or coming from diverse cultural, ethnic and religious backgrounds. Additionally, many employers are developing a wide range of work-life options, for example tele-working or taking portfolio careers (Rogers and Davidson, 2006) Different generation are emerging into the conference industry, those who having grow up and spending much time on the PC and using email. They are bringing very different approach to communication and require a different learning style. Another issue related to social impacts are the trend toward an aging population. An increase number of people are chosen to retired early; also many of those may decide to engage in associations. All these social trends are going to have several implications for the conference industry (Weber and Chon, 2002; Rogers and Davidson, 2006). 2.6.3 Economic trends Despite on-going divergences and continuous intimidation of terrorist attacks worldwide, the global economy should continue to recover over the next five years, which is excellent news for the conference industry as it clearly depends on the worldwide economic situation (Davidson, 2004). In addition, the economies of Central Europe maintain expanding; Western European countries will fairly certainly experience an augment in business travel from the new EU member countries (Rogers, 2008). The expenditure on business travel and tourism in Europe, according to the World Travel Tourism Council reached $190 billion in 2003, representing 39%of the worldwide total of $488.8 billion. Although, is expecting an increase spending on business travel in Europe by approximately 75% over the next 10 years, reaching by 2013 roughly $ 330 billion (Mintel, 2003). 2.6.4 Technological trends The 21st century is involved especially about Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Buhalis (2008). Technological trends will continue to develop at the remarkable speed. It will contribute to the industry offering important prospective and benefits to buyers, suppliers and intermediaries (Rogers, 2008) However, the industry has been using ICT for many years, with e-mail and the Internet. Conferences organisers can take advantage to reach potential delegates by using email addresses or to set a web site related to the event, conference or exhibition. Nowadays, registration for various events can be possible done on-line, permitting the organisers to be and keep the web information up-to-date, also contact any delegate by their email addresses (Davidson et al, 2002; Buhalis, 2008). By the end of this decade, the conscientious for cost saving and efficiency in distribution will affect the industry (Davidson and Rogers 2006). The preferred distribution channel for making reservations, check in, registration to a conference also many other forms of business travel will be done by the internet (Cline, 2001). A report from IBM business consulting service, forecasted that on-line travel bookings would roughly double between 2004 and 2007 (OÂ ´Connor and Piccoli, 2003). The future of the conference industry has a midpoint on the technology issues; the concern is if the advantage technology such as videoconferencing, virtual trade shows and webcasting will replace the need of face-to-face meetings. However studies suggest that has been a slow reluctance to establish state-of-the-arte technologies, simply because it often comes without adequate training staff and suitable backup support by the IT providers in difficult circumstances (Weber and Chon, 2002; Weber and Ladkin, 2002). 6.4.5 Environmental trends The value of the environment is vital to the successful performance of the conference and business industry (Rogers 2008). Constructive environmental impacts at basic levels, towns and cities hosting conferences need to ensure that the physical environment is maintained in a clean, tidy and healthy condition. Delegates will be expecting to find conference localities at least clean and attractive, and this is particularly when there is a motivational component to the conference (Davison and Rogers 2006). Firstly, considering the damage of environmental issues like global warming, carbon emissions and others cause to the planet. Swarbrooke and Horner (2001) criticized negative impact on the environment, particularly in terms of transport sector. For example, pollution and fuel costs of air travel and the use of private car to take the business traveller from one destination to another. Regarding International legislation, airlines have already done a lot to reduce their environmental impacts. Davison and Cope (2003) argument saying it is obvious that the majority international business journeys are made by air, the extremely polluting form of transportation. Aviation is identified to be the highest increasing source of greenhouse gas emissions and key donor to climate change. They also criticize the police of aircraft and aviation fuel an airline tickets are zero rated for value-added tax (VAT), this means that society contribute is subsiding air transport. It should be discuss how those issues are becoming usual worries and challenges inside conference and convention industry (Rogers, 2008). Cassar (1995) mention the environmental concern will continues indoors the conference venues. It is essentially how about venues can congregate their responsibilities to anxiety for conferences and exhibitions. The positive environmental impacts generate the desires for municipalities to preserve eminence of their built and natural environment, the conference industry in addition has the potential to produce beneficial results on the environment of destination by contributing to environmental development and conservation. The conference industry has as well added large appraise to urban conservations programme, particularly during the replacing into conference centres of buildings that perhaps have been destroyed. Innumerable examples of architecturally precious buildings have been saved by their renovation into conference amenities (Davison and Rogers 2006).

Holdens Lonliness Catcher In the Rye :: essays research papers

Many young people often find themselves struggling to find their own identity and place in society. This search for self worth often leaves these young people feeling lonely and isolated because they are unsure of themselves. Holden Caulfield, J.D. Salinger's main character in the book The Catcher In the Rye, is young man on the verge of having a nervous breakdown. One contributor to this breakdown, is the loneliness that Holden experiences. His loneliness is apparent through many ways including: his lack of friends, his longing for his dead brother, and the way he attempts to gain acceptance from others. To Holden, everyone is either corny of phony. He uses these terms to describe what a person is if they do not act naturally and follow other people?s manners and grace. Holden dislikes phonies and thinks of them as people who try to be something they are not. He loathes people who showed off because it seems unnatural every time they do not act like themselves. Holden does not allow himself to have friendship because of his dull attitude. In the beginning of the book, the reader knows that Holden is lonely when he separates himself from the rest of the Pencey students by watching the football game from Thomsen Hill and not the grand stands. Holden is not a very sociable person partly because he finds himself better than many others. He dislikes his roommate because of his generic leather luggage. His next door roommate Ackley does not seem to want a friendship with him either. Holden finds Ackely?s zit crusted face ridiculous and doesn?t want him in his room at first. This shows the reader that Holden is a lonely person because he chooses to be lonely and does not want anything to do with people who do not fit into his perception of normal. Holden?s loneliness is apparent in more than just his lack of friends. His loneliness is made apparent by the way he misses his deceased brother, Allie. Holden makes several references to Allie and how the two used to get along and acted more like friends than brothers. Holden deeply misses his brother and even talks to him out loud to comfort himself because he still feels a void inside of him. Holden misses his brother more than others because Holden never had the final closure to his brother?s death, Holden never went to Allie?s funeral, and because Holden didn?

Web Credibility :: Teaching Technology Internet Papers

Web Credibility Visualize the following scenario for a moment: You have entered what appears to be a library. The tens of thousand of rows and stacks of books seem endless. They are the focal point, an overwhelming, cartoonish image. The shelves seem ever-expanding by turns, and sag under the weight of the multi-colored volumes represented by all colors, forms and textures imaginable. There are some signs on the shelves that call out topics: Medicine, Science, Literature. Something is missing though, and the sheer number of books—the lure to peruse, to begin pulling and skimming is making it hard to concentrate on what it is; but it becomes apparent soon enough. There are no librarians and no help desks. No databases, library catalogs, no guidance at all. There is nothing to do but read, and once you open the books many seem to be missing the first several pages. At first reading, it may seem untoward to compare this surrealist library to the Internet, but consider the Internet by characteristics; by what it is, and what it isn’t, as a tool for research gathering, and it's not so far a reach. Choosing to begin a paper with an image rather than statistics, is a scheme to avoid the known, and to begin to promote consideration of what educators may or may not recognize about Web page credibility or the identification of credible Internet sources, why they should take the initiative, and what information they should utilize when educating their students, just as they would if undertaking a fundamental composition assignment. The Why of Teaching the Internet Now we have the Information Age, whose poster child is the internet. It seems to be all things to all people and thus can't be quantified or subjected to easy ethical questions. It is new territory, and the uncertainty of Internet ethics is far reaching. The Internet is for the most part unmanaged, unedited, unsupervised; anyone can post information on the Internet for all to see. Opinions can parade as hard facts; people with far-flung ideas can easily find an audience; photos, jokes and drawings of any ilk can be published†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ (Emmans ) This quote, from 2000, along with strong notions of overall growth, of sources and users, represents, for most educators, the known of the Internet. It highlights the ever-expanding shelves in the library above; the lack of available expertise when choosing sources, the absence of publishers, reviews (in the missing front pages of the books) and clear paths through the maze of open choice.

Memorable Moments with My Sibling Essay

A relationship with a sibling is everlasting: last longer than the bond with a spouse, parent, or friend. Have you ever thought about the times you have spent with your siblings? Those are memorable moments that I would always cherish. The bond with my sibling taught me many lessons in life. My childhood relationship with my sibling has changed since I became an adult. The communication and the people we associate with had changed between us. During any oppression we had gone through, our love still remains the same. Since adolescence my younger sister, Genesis, and I were inseparable. We were like the cartoon characters Tom and Jerry. Genesis used to tell me everything; I was like her secret diary. For example, Genesis would come home to our two bedroom apartment from Attucks Middle school and used to tell me how wonderful or miserable her day went. When she had a delightful day coming home would be satisfying and a little annoying for me. She would tell me how stunning a boy was in her class and was disturbing for me. I didn’t want to hear about her Prince Charming. However, you could tell when she had a dreadful day, she would come home slamming the front door and leaving an echo in the vague hallway. She would run to our cluttered room and jump on her twin size bed. Walking towards her I could hear her calling my name â€Å"Eric†. I said â€Å"Genesis are you feeling ok, what’s wrong? † Genesis said â€Å"There is a boy in my math class calling me a nerd. † I would then comfort her by giving her a hug and tell her not  to worry. You know what they call nerds in the future? Boss! † I said. Genesis always felt safe around me I was there to protect her from any harm like a father figure. However, I joined the United States Army; our molded relationship became more distant. I would only see her physically when important events occurred. For instance, I saw her three months after I graduated from basic training in Fort Jackson, South Carolina. Communicating through Skype and the six hours difference between Germany and Florida makes it difficult to talk my sister. Our daily conversation about are experiences since we were younger became weekly or monthly as we matured. Overall, age and the distance between us had caused our connection to fade. When I was younger I used to consider Genesis annoying, because of her eager desire to hang out with my friends living around Coolidge Street, Florida. For example, when I got invited to house parties, Genesis assumed she was automatically invited. Of course she was wrong; a house full of 18 year old teenagers partying had no business interacting with a 14 year old girl. As I got older Genesis became a young adult; the age difference didn’t seem to matter anymore. Now that Genesis became mentally matured, she is acceptable to be in my group of friends. A couple of my friends spend time with my sister watching movies and taking her to different vicinities. My sister and friends took a trip to Rapids Water Park in West Palm Beach, Florida. They enjoyed having a blast in the refreshing pool and the water coasters. In brief, since my sister and I share common friends, we socialize more than the past. The love between my sister and I will remain the same. Even through any tribulation that had occurred toward us, we would always be there for each other. For example, my sister would try to hide the fact that she had a fear of crossing the road every morning to the bus stop; I had an intuition that she was, so every morning at 5 o’clock I would walk my sister five blocks and cross  the street with her to the bus stop, sacrificing two hours of my sleep to ensure that she would arrive safely and according to schedule. Genesis is currently nineteen years old, she had two car accidents and is going through some hardships because she is unemployed and her insurance bill went up. I manage to help her financially until she’s on her feet. Vice versa she also helps motivate me with her encouraging words and accomplishments. She graduated top ten percent of her graduating class and did early admissions while in high school. I was discouraged to enroll into University of Maryland University College while being in the military; by her achievements I was inspired to enroll into UMUC and take a writing 101s course. As you can see, during any discomfort Genesis and I will go through, we will always take care of each other. In conclusion, since childhood my relationship with my sister has changed, our communication had faded over time. Some of the friends we spend time with, are the same. When we had gone through any problems, we would help each other. Why is our bond so strong? We had been there for each other our whole life. Even the distance between us, would never break our love for one another.

International Memo Report Essay

The purpose of this memo is provide an understanding of the Tongans and the culture and values that they carry. The reason why this study is necessary is because before meeting any of the Tongan, there is a need to ensure that you too follow the same values and beliefs as them and do not offend them in any manner. Following are some of the major topics under discussion such as the clothes you should wear, the gestures and the attitude you should maintain and many more. Appropriate Dress According to research, the Tongans wear their traditional dress every where, be it to work and at formal occasions. In order to understand the Tongan dress, the following excerpt has been taken: â€Å"Tongan people are still wearing traditional dress. Tongan men wear a tupenu, a cloth skirt-like that goes around their waist, and it goes below their knees. It is worn to work and on formal occasions.† (Internet, 1999[1]) Social Customs The Tonga residents believe that family is of utmost priority. Even though the young people would be noticed calling their older people by their first name, the love and the care that they have incorporated into their culture is the essence of Tonga. Tongans are known to celebrate and get together with their family when they here any kind of news. This is the culture that they hold and this is the kind of culture that should also be held in any coversation. Till the Tongans do not feel like they are with a family, they will not feel comfortable and may not cooperate as required. Eating The eating habits of the Tongan residents is very simple, however, the way they prepare their food is a little different. They are interested in eating meat, vegetables and fruits; however, they cook pork on big occasions only. They usually cook their food is a large underground oven that they make on their own and they have their own techniques of serving food in banana or other kinds of leaves. Gestures and Attitudes The most common way of greeting a Tongan is by either shaking the hands or by providing a verbal greeting. In the native language of Tonga, ‘Malo e lelei’ means hello and this is this greeting is usually provided with a shake hand. What you must ensure is that Tongans believe in comforting unwelcome guests. This means that they have a custom to drop by anyone’s house and expect to be treated with hospitality.

Travel Writing Coursework

The Volvo estate came slowly to a halt outside a boarded up old farm house. A middle aged man and three adolescents clambered out the car to be met by the fresh rural air. The sun shone brightly onto them as they examined the landscape. They were surrounded by fields with a long gravel path lying behind them. They all took a corner and hoisted the khaki Canadian canoe from the top of the estate then carefully lay it on the grass beside them. One of the boys asked the man which way they were going and he replied by pointing down the gravely path which slowly merged into woodland in the distance. The man locked up the car checking it again by pulling the handle and gestured to his son to help lift the canoe. They lifted it up with a heave and began to carry down the path and into the woodland followed by the boys two friends. The cows grazing in the field opposite the farmhouse mooed as they continued down the path. The four of them took turns in helping carry the canoe. The woodland became more thick and the stinging netals brushed at there bare ankles. The bushes and trees were littered with beer cans and plastic bags left by youths. The mans son considered what this was doing to the animals habitat and felt a slight sense of guilt as he new he had done exactly the same in the past. The sound of the river became clearer and the forest came to a ‘T' junction . The man led the way with the canoe and took the right turning. After about a hundred yards they came to a stop carefully placing the boat on the ground again. Before them lay the river. Three or four anglers stood at the side of the bank, one of them acknowledging them by saying what a lovely summer's day it was. The man was a keen fisherman himself and asked if the other man had caught anything. He replied by shaking his head he said ‘The fish don't like warm weather'. The rivers are far too over fished he thought to himself, it's such a shame that some of the rarer fish were dying out. He then shook his head and told the boys to sit in the boat. They did so and he pushed the boat with his might into the murky green water. The boat wobbled about and then stabilized itself, the boys pulling it to the side. The boys laughed nervously. The man then wobbled the boat vigorously to show that it would take a lot to tip it over, the boys shouting at him to stop. He laughed and stopped. Then he handed the boys their paddles and gave them a few last words of advice. The boys waved him goodbye and he shouted at them to ring him when they wanted picking up. They were on their own now, at one with nature. They directed the boat round the first corner past a few branches in the water. Reeds grew either side of the river and made their path very narrow. The boys struggled to direct the boat around the winding corners trying not to crash into the reeds around them. Bracken and stinging netals were visibly close up ahead and the man's son told them to go straight through the middle as they lay either side sprouting through the reeds. The larger of his two of his friends began to paddle without informing the other one and the boat headed straight into the bracken and netals. They all panicked shouting not to tip the boat over. The boat went straight into the side and they were all stung and pricked by the thorns but the boat stayed stable and they sighed with relief. The river opened up and the banks became wider and had no reeds or bracken at the side. They relaxed and let the river drift the boat down stream by itself. The boys basked in the sun and chatted about football and women. Floating on the waters surface lay more cans of beer bobbing up and down. The larger boy contemplated the reason why these people just through their litter into the river. He came to the conclusion that it was a mixture of laziness and thoughtlessness. He pondered what the effect the beer had on the water and what an animal would do if it became trapped in one of the cans. He was snapped out of his thoughts by a hissing swan and the shouts of his friend as he politely told it to go away. His friend slapped his paddle at it as the other two rowed the canoe away from the animal. They all relaxed again as the swan disappeared back into the distance. Everything was calm again and the boy that had swung his paddle at the swan was now happy. A big white boat was now coming at them head on and the boys swerved the boat around it like an adder through water. They boy thought what the fumes coming of the back of the white boat would be doing to the water. He thought of how the fish were being poisoned and the air around the river was being turned into the kind of warm hazy air you'd expect in a city centre. The boat drew closer to its destination and one of the boys asked a walker on the bank if they new how far it would be to the pub. ‘Just around the corner' they answered and the boys thanked them and were happy they were nearly. They paddled the boat around the corner and the pub came into sight. They approached it slowly scanning the bank for a place to park the boat. They spotted a gap in between a large patch of reeds and paddled into it. The boy at the front climbed out first followed by the man's son and the tall boy. They all grabbed a section of the boat and yanked it as hard as possible out the water and onto the bank. They lifted the boat of the ground and made the short walk with it to the pub. They sat down in a heap off exhaustion on one of the wooden tables outside the pub. They ordered a plate off chips and reviewed their hard days work. The plate was empty and the boy's dad had arrived to take them home. They placed the canoe on top of the car again and strapped it in place. They all got inside the car and the boy's dad had asked if had went well. They all agree it had been a good laugh and it was a lot of fun. In front of them a man opened his window and dropped out a hand full of rubbish. The boys all thought to themselves what were we doing to the environment and how we were ruining it for our next generations and animals. The car drove off and the boys sat there in silence just thinking.

Pollution and Beautiful Sea Corals

Pollution Pollution is an issue of concern in the modern world that we live in today. There are many types of pollution, namely air, water and noise. Pollution in our environment will undoubtedly affect our quality of life. Our naturally beautiful world becoming ugly because it is suffering from the effects of environmental pollution. Pollution can also cause various health problems and other negative effects. Air pollution is caused by the emission of toxic gases from vehicles, factories and open burning. Nowadays, there are more and more vehicles on the road as society gets more affluent.More and more people strive to have a better quality of life by having the convenience of driving to their destinations instead of taking public transportation. Automobiles provides transport to millions people around the world to enable them to travel to their workplace, school and other places, therefore, the air around us is getting more polluted by the carbon dioxide that is emitted. Carbon mon oxide is another type of gas which harmful to the environment as it can cause the reduction of oxygen in the bloodstream. Another example of contributor to the air pollution is the manufacturing factories.The manufacturing of products in factories to meet the growing demand of society is also causing air pollution. Factories release toxic gases to the environment. Some factories also use coal to generate heat and energy. As a result from the burning of coal, carbon dioxide is released into the environment. Besides factories, many people are still practising open burning as a way of disposing their household wastes. Although burning our household wastes is a convenient way of getting rid of our rubbish, it is harmful to the environment as it contributes to the worsening of the air quality.As a result, air pollution causes people to suffer from health problems such as chest pain and asthma. In extreme cases, people can contract lung cancer. Water pollution is also a problem that we ar e currently facing. The marine life is the first to suffer from water pollution as they depend on the nutrients in the water to survive. As a result, we are robbed of beautiful sea corals and unique species of fishes. Besides ruining our marine heritage, the disappearance of marine life will affect the livelihood of fishermen, not to mention our source of food.Water pollution is caused by harmful waster from industries, farms and sewerage systems which are dumped into our sources of water such as rivers and lakes. This irresponsible act contaminates our drinking water and can cause serious health problems and can even culminate in death. Noise pollution is another form of pollution. Noise from heavy machinery and vehicles can cause hearing problems and in extreme cases, deafness. As there is growing number of vehicles on the road, we are exposed to noise pollution every day.The government in advanced countries encourage their citizens to take the public buses and trains by providing an affordable and efficient transportation system. This effort discourages people from driving their private vehicles and consequently reduces the number of vehicles on the road. We must work together to reduce pollution so that the future generations can live in a healthy, unpolluted environment. As the saying goes, precaution is better than cure. Lets hands on hands together by recycle and conserve the world for the better future.

Looking for Alibrandi Essay

â€Å"I’ll run one day. Run for my life. To be free and think for myself. Not as an Australian and as an Italian and not as an inbetween. I’ll run to be emancipated.† The novel ‘Looking for Alibrandi’ explores the senior years of Josephine â€Å"Josie† Alibrandi with her struggle in forming her identity, falling in love with Jacob Coote and the unexpected arrival of her father Michael Andretti. Through each of these important ideas the character of Josie, Jacob and Michael, grow to understand and achieve their emancipation. Being faced with hardships in life in life result in understanding of identity and knowledge. The character of Josie in the novel ‘Looking for Alibrandi is exposed to the secret of Nonna Katia’s secret affair. â€Å"Our lives, just like our names are lies.† Through the use of first person narration we are open to the frustration and confusion Josie is contemplating. â€Å"I’ve figured out that is doesn’t matter whether Im Josephine Andretti, who was as Alibrandi, who should have been a Stanford, who may never be a Coote.† This dialogue displays the maturity and understanding Josie receives in her identity and understanding of her emancipation. Through this momentous challenge the character now realises their freedom. Furthermore, Josie immaturity lead her to believe that one day she would be emancipated. â€Å"I’ll run one day. Run for my life. To be free and think for myself. Not as an Australian and as an Italian and not as an inbetween. I’ll run to be emancipated.† This dialogue displays the childlike behaviour Josie has lost on the outlook of her life. Through the novel, her self-knowledge grew as she stated, â€Å"My emancipation didn’t happen like I’d expected it to.† Through this first person narration the understanding of being a mature adult was shown towards Josie. Overcoming challenges allows the self-growth of an individual. When a character is faces with a hardship, the way in which they deal with it allows them to grow in themselves. Jacob Coote shared a romantic relationship with Josie which opened his out look on life. â€Å"I have never had to go out with an ethnic girl before.† Through this dialogue the audience is confronted with the different cultures and views Jacob believes compared to Josie. â€Å"I want all the things in life that John Barton wanted but he was too  scared to step out of his circle. But I cant do that with you.† The use of this dialogue clearly makes evident the maturity Jacob has gone through in undertaking his relationship with Josie. A characters self-knowledge is pushed to the limits through challenges. The confrontation of events allows growth through self-worth and family. Josie’s father, Michael Andretti revealed himself unexpectedly with no idea that he had a daughter. Through anger and confusion, both Josie and Michael are faced with hardships. â€Å"How dare you think that I want to be in your life!† The use of dialogue supports the frustration and hurt the character Josie is experiencing. Throughout the novel, the relationship between Michael and grows to a completely opposing, supporting and caring one. â€Å"I’d be so proud to be an Andretti†¦Dad.† Through this dialogue, it supports Michael and Josie’s discovering of their identity and outlook on life. Freedom is depicted from many struggles resulting in self discovery and self-worth. From your emancipation, to hidden family secrets, to an understanding of love, to discovering your father, all of these important undertakings result in self-knowledge and identity. Josephine Alibrandi, Jacob Coote and Michael Andretti are all characters of â€Å"Looking for Alibrandi† by Melina Marchetta who were not afraid to confront challenges within their lives.