Job analysis on complex and senior job roles Essay

Job analysis on complex and senior job roles - Essay Example According to the research findings job analysis is the practice whereby job descriptions as well as the requirements of a particular job are put into perspective. To conduct successful job analysis, it is vital that data on various jobs are collected and analyzed. Analysis of leadership capacity among senior officials has indicated to be an uphill task for many officials in the organizations and Byham, et al. It is in light to this argument that, a myriad of assessment tools have been devised over the years. This essay shall aim at giving the definition of job analysis and the importance of conducting job analysis on complex and senior job roles. Job analysis as discussed above is a task that cannot be alienated if the organization or business has to succeed. Carrying job analysis of senior positions is really worth and applicable to the contemporary workplaces. According to Oswald job analysis takes shape in three forms. First, the job tasks have to be clearly outlined by the employ ers prior to employment, then the job duties well stipulated, and finally the job responsibilities given to the employees. A clear understanding of these attributes creates a situation whereby there will be minimal confusion on what functions each employee is supposed to serve in the course of carrying the duties in the workplace. An application of job analysis on employees of senior positions can equally benefit form clear depiction of job description, responsibilities, and duties. Through these, the senior employees will have a clear understanding of what confines they ought to operate within and what steps to take if the terms put in place are breached. This is according to Valet & Palmer (2001) who hold the belief that no organization can operate without the inclusion of the systematic gathering of information that pertain to giving a clear outline of what employees need to do in a particular job. Job analysis among the senior employees, according to Wilson & Dierdorff (2005) is useful for planning in terms of human resource and counseling the employees on issues regarding their careers. As discussed earlier, job analysis is inclusive of job descriptions and job duties. It is only through job analysis that employees specify at what levels they expect to be promoted and what they are willing to offer to attain such levels. Employees of senior job roles can benefit in such instances as they have specific roles to play and have to report on the kind of job they have completed after a specific time period. In this case, therefore, it becomes easier to weigh the ability of specific senior employees and the roles they perform. Additionally, it becomes easier to assess promotion methodologies on such employees performing such senior roles. Job analysis is useful for training employees in the organization. Job analysis is vital for making decisions regarding the training needs of the employees (Wilson & Harvey, 2000).This can be done through

Australian Economic Review Essay Example for Free

Australian Economic Review Essay The calculation of poverty lines are published in the year 1987 and latest in the year 1996. (Australian Economic Review) Melbourne Institute analysis of poverty states that as per the year 2005, June first quarter, household disposable income per head stands at $477. 73 per week. View on Australia poverty states that there are 340,000 unemployed people and nearly 800,000 children are growing in jobless families (ACOSS). Payments for unemployed people are very low as just $200 per week for a single parent / jobless people continue to live in poverty. Poverty is evident in Australia due to various reasons such as single-parent families, inadequate education for people in families, unawareness of career opportunities and computer technology or lack of opportunities for employment or under development in suburban areas of Australia where people are not utilizing the resources of job opportunities or disinterested in advancing ahead with good standards of economic living, for all these reasons, in a macro perspective, G8 summit was focused on poverty all over the world. Poverty is prevalent all over the world, where it is quite apparent in some parts of the world and unseen in other parts of the world although the problem of poverty is persistent in gripping the lives of people. It is important here to define ‘poverty’ for clear understanding and demarking the poverty line. Widely accepted definition poverty states that â€Å"an enforced lack of socially perceived necessities†(ACOSS) which means that people are disabled or have deficient money flow to buy enough food, pay rent and stay in a good accommodation, good clothes, lack of clean water and electricity for non-payment of government charged bills which otherwise drive people to compromise and adjust with whatever comes in a way either by choice or by chance and compels to stay satisfied. Alleviation of poverty is a long-term process and mostly it is recurring in several states. In order to completely eliminate poverty, strong laws of social welfare and status of living standards must be construed in order to ensure economic growing of living as a whole in all nations particularly in Australia as this paper discusses. A thorough study and survey, research must be made in order to conclude and identify the ground reasons of poverty. ACOSS view on Australia poverty states that, firstly it is required to raise the income levels of people which will help parents and children to the process of thinking in making good opportunities and also offers satisfaction and comfort in living. Families with low education get placement in lower cadre jobs which carry low salaries, which otherwise emphasize that good and appropriate education is much more important to draw a bigger pay to meet the challenges of life style and family needs. This can never be reversed at any point of time. In Australia there are 11. 3 unemployed people who are not holding even a high school certificate as compared with 3 per cent of people who have a bachelor degree. This would further leaves greater impact on children such that, if 15 per cent of children are doing well whose parents have completed 10 STD, 44 per cent of children are outstandingly doing well whose parents have completed university education. This point clearly indicates that parents need good education, good job, good pay which in turn would help to lead children into a greater success areas. This cannot be achieved by a community or a societal organization whereas from the ground level, the work must begin i. e. from federal government and politicians who have to work hardly in bringing an efficient industries, developing infrastructure and creating employment areas and encourage people to advance in career and education for betterment of economic growth and also in satisfying the basic requirements of its people. In fact, for all governments of all nations, people and meeting the needs and basic demands must be its priority with the fact that, without people’s happiness, there cannot be healthy and prosperous nations. There is a huge gap between rich and wealthy people and poor people, which means that wealthy people continue to expand riches whereas poor and needy people continue to live in deteriorated poverty which is unacceptable and should not be encouraged keeping the future generations of children. A study of UNICEF confirms that Australia has 56. 2 per cent of children who are living with solo mothers which provides a fact that, how difficult it is for single mothers to make a status for living and in settling children. This is further confirmed by Australian Democrats, â€Å"Overall, the results demonstrate that unemployment continues to be a major cause of poverty in Australia and that employment only provides an escape when it comes in the form of a full-time job. Because many of the new jobs created over the last two decades have been either part-time or casual, they have not been sufficient, by themselves, to protect workers and their families from poverty†. (Peter Saunders of Social Policy Research Centre )

Moses as an Inspiational Figure Essay -- essays research papers

I think Moses was a very inspirational character and in this essay I am going to talk a bit on the message of Moses and why by the world's major religions he is seen as an inspirational figure and one of the best leaders and prophets. He was born in Egypt to a Jewish mother, Yochevet. When Moses was born the Hebrew?s were slaves in Egypt. Pharaoh was afraid of them because he thought they might take over his country. He ordered that all Hebrew baby boys be killed at birth so that they would not grow up and fight against him. To save Moses his mother made a plan. She hid him in a basket by the side of the River Nile. Moses' sister Miriam watched over him until Pharaoh's daughter came to the river to wash. She found Moses in his basket. Miriam told her she knew a woman who could be a nurse for the baby. It was his mother. Pharaoh's daughter took him back to live with her as though he were her son. Moses grew up as an Egyptian prince, but he never forgot he was a Hebrew. One day Moses lost his temper and killed an Egyptian who had beaten a Hebrew slave to death. This proves he...

Chapter 8 Flight of the Fat Lady

In no time at all, Defense Against the Dark Arts had become most people's favorite class. Only Draco Malfoy and his gang of Slytherins had anything bad to say about Professor Lupin. â€Å"Look at the state of his robes,† Malfoy would say in a loud whisper as Professor Lupin passed. â€Å"He dresses like our old house elf.† But no one else cared that Professor Lupin's robes were patched and frayed. His next few lessons were just as interesting as the first. After Boggarts, they studied Red Caps, nasty little goblin-like creatures that lurked wherever there had been bloodshed: in the dungeons of castles and the potholes of deserted battlefields, waiting to bludgeon those who had gotten lost. From Red Caps they moved on to Kappas, creepy. water-dwellers that looked like scaly monkeys, with webbed hands itching to strangle unwitting waders in their ponds. Harry only wished he was as happy with some of his other classes. Worst of all was Potions. Snape was in a particularly vindictive mood these days, and no one was in any doubt why. The story of the Boggart assuming Snape's shape, and the way that Neville had dressed it in his grandmother's clothes, had traveled through the school like wildfire. Snape didn't seem to find it funny. His eyes flashed menacingly at the very mention of Professor Lupin's name, and he was bullying Neville worse than ever. Harry was also growing to dread the hours he spent in Professor Trelawney's stifling tower room, deciphering lopsided shapes and symbols, trying to ignore the way Professor Trelawney's enormous eyes filled with tears every time she looked at him. He couldn't like Professor Trelawney, even though she was treated with respect bordering on reverence by many of the class. Parvati Patil and Lavender Brown had taken to haunting Professor Trelawney's tower room at lunch times, and always returned with annoyingly superior looks on their faces, as though they knew things the others didn't. They had also started using hushed voices whenever they spoke to Harry, as though he were on his deathbed. Nobody really liked Care of Magical Creatures, which, after the action-packed first class, had become extremely dull. Hagrid seemed to have lost his confidence. They were now spending lesson after lesson learning how to look after flobberworms, which had to be some of the most boring creatures in existence. â€Å"Why would anyone bother looking after them?† said Ron, after yet another hour of poking shredded lettuce down the flobberworms' throats. At the start of October, however, Harry had something else to occupy him, something so enjoyable it more than made up for his unsatisfactory classes. The Quidditch season was approaching, and O1iver Wood, Captain of the Gryffindor team, called a meeting on Thursday evening to discuss tactics for the new season. There were seven people on a Quidditch team: three Chasers, whose job it was to score goals by putting the Quaffle (a red, soccer-sized ball) through one of the fifty-foot-high hoops at each end of the field; two Beaters, who were equipped with heavy bats to repel the Bludgers (two heavy black balls that zoomed around trying to attack the players); a Keeper, who defended the goal posts, and the Seeker, who had the hardest job of all, that of catching the Golden Snitch, a tiny, winged, walnut-sized ball, whose capture ended the game and earned the Seeker's team an extra one hundred and fifty points. Oliver Wood was a burly seventeen-year-old, now in his seventh and final year at Hogwarts. There was a quiet sort of desperation in his voice as he addressed his six fellow team members in the chilly locker rooms on the edge of the darkening Quidditch field. â€Å"This is our last chance — my last chance — to win the Quidditch Cup,† he told them, striding up and down in front of them. â€Å"I'll be leaving at the end of this year. I'll never get another shot at it.† â€Å"Gryffindor hasn't won for seven years now. Okay, so we've had the worst luck in the world — injuries — then the tournament getting called off last year.† Wood swallowed, as though the memory still brought a lump to his throat. â€Å"But we also know we've got the best — ruddy — team — in — the — school,† he said, punching a fist into his other hand, the old manic glint back in his eye. â€Å"We've got three superb Chasers.† Wood pointed at Alicia Spinner, Angelina Johnson, and Katie Bell. â€Å"We've got two unbeatable Beaters.† â€Å"Stop it, Oliver, you're embarrassing us,† said Fred and George Weasley together, pretending to blush. â€Å"And we've got a Seeker who has never failed to win us a match!† Wood rumbled, glaring at Harry with a kind of furious pride. â€Å"And me,† he added as an afterthought. â€Å"We think you're very good too, Oliver,† said George. â€Å"Spanking good Keeper,† said Fred. â€Å"The point is,† Wood went on, resuming his pacing, â€Å"the Quidditch Cup should have had our name on it these last two years. Ever since Harry joined the team, I've thought the thing was in the bag. But we haven't got it, and this year's the last chance we'll get to finally see our name on the thing†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Wood spoke so dejectedly that even Fred and George looked sympathetic. â€Å"Oliver, this year's our year,† said Fred. â€Å"We'll do it, Oliver!† said Angelina. â€Å"Definitely,† said Harry. Full of determination, the team started training sessions, three evenings a week. The weather was getting colder and wetter, the nights darker, but no amount of mud, wind, or rain could tarnish Harry's wonderful vision of finally winning the huge, silver Quidditch Cup. Harry returned to the Gryffindor common room one evening after training, cold and stiff but pleased with the way practice had gone, to find the room buzzing excitedly. â€Å"What's happened?†, he asked Ron and Hermione, who were sitting in two of the best chairs by the fireside and completing some star charts for Astronomy. â€Å"First Hogsmeade weekend,† said Ron, pointing at a notice that had appeared on the battered old bulletin board. â€Å"End of October. Halloween.† â€Å"Excellent,† said Fred, who had followed Harry through the portrait hole. â€Å"I need to visit Zonko's. I'm nearly out of Stink Pellets.† Harry threw himself into a chair beside Ron, his high spirits ebbing away. Hermione seemed to read his mind. â€Å"Harry, I'm sure you'll be able to go next time,† she said. â€Å"They're bound to catch Black soon. He's been sighted once already.† â€Å"Black's not fool enough to try anything in Hogsmeade,† said Ron. â€Å"Ask McGonagall if you can go this time, Harry. The next one might not be for ages –â€Å" â€Å"Ron!† said Hermione. â€Å"Harry's supposed to stay in school –â€Å" â€Å"He can't be the only third year left behind,† said Ron. â€Å"Ask McGonagall, go on, Harry –â€Å" â€Å"Yeah, I think I will,† said Harry, making up his mind. Hermione opened her mouth to argue, but at that moment Crookshanks leapt lightly onto her lap. A large, dead spider was dangling from his mouth. â€Å"Does he have to eat that in front of us?† said Ron, scowling. â€Å"Clever Crookshanks, did you catch that all by yourself?† said Hermione. Crookshanks; slowly chewed up the spider, his yellow eyes fixed insolently on Ron. â€Å"Just keep him over there, that's all,† said Ron irritably, turning back to his star chart. â€Å"I've got Scabbers asleep in my bag.† Harry yawned. He really wanted to go to bed, but he still had his own star chart to complete. He pulled his bag toward him, took out parchment, ink, and quill, and started work. â€Å"You can copy mine, if you like,† said Ron, labeling his last star with a flourish and shoving the chart toward Harry. Hermione, who disapproved of copying, pursed her lips but didn't say anything. Crookshanks was still staring unblinkingly at Ron, flicking the end of his bushy tail. Then, without warning, he pounced. â€Å"OY!† Ron roared, seizing his bag as Crookshanks sank four sets of claws deep inside it and began tearing ferociously. â€Å"GET OFF, YOU STUPID ANIMAL!† Ron tried to pull the bag away from Crookshanks, but Crookshanks clung on, spitting and slashing. â€Å"Ron, don't hurt him!† squealed Hermione; the whole common room was watching; Ron whirled the bag around, Crookshanks still clinging to it, and Scabbers came flying out of the top — â€Å"CATCH THAT CAT!† Ron yelled as Crookshanks freed himself from the remnants of the bag, sprang over the table, and chased after the terrified Scabbers. George Weasley made a lunge for Crookshanks but missed; Scabbers streaked through twenty pairs of legs and shot beneath an old chest of drawers. Crookshanks skidded to a halt, crouched low on his bandy legs, and started making furious swipes beneath it with his front paw. Ron and Hermione hurried over; Hermione grabbed Crookshanks around the middle and heaved him away; Ron threw himself onto his stomach and, with great difficulty, pulled Scabbers out by the tail. â€Å"Look at him!† he said furiously to Hermione, dangling Scabbers in front of her. â€Å"He's skin and bone! You keep that cat away from him!† â€Å"Crookshanks doesn't understand it's wrong!† said Hermione, her voice shaking. â€Å"All cats chase rats, Ron!† â€Å"There's something funny about that animal!† said Ron, who was trying to persuade a frantically wiggling Scabbers back into his pocket. â€Å"It heard me say that Scabbers was in my bag!† â€Å"Oh, what rubbish,† said Hermione impatiently. â€Å"Crookshanks could smell him, Ron, how else d'you think –â€Å" â€Å"That cat's got it in for Scabbers!† said Ron, ignoring the people around him, who were starting to giggle. â€Å"And Scabbers was here first, and he's ill!† Ron marched through the common room and out of sight up the stairs to the boys' dormitories. * ****** Ron was still in a bad mood with Hermione next day. He barely talked to her all through Herbology, even though he, Harry, and Hermione were working together on the same Puffapod. â€Å"How's Scabbers?† Hermione asked timidly as they stripped fat pink pods from the plants and emptied the shining beans into a wooden pail. â€Å"He's hiding at the bottom of my bed, shaking,† said Ron angrily, missing the pail and scattering beans over the greenhouse floor. â€Å"Careful, Weasley, careful!† cried Professor Sprout as the beans burst into bloom before their very eyes. They had Transfiguration next. Harry, who had resolved to ask Professor McGonagall after the lesson whether he could go into Hogsmeade with the rest, joined the line outside the class trying to decide how he was going to argue his case. He was distracted, however, by a disturbance at the front of the line. Lavender Brown seemed to be crying. Parvati had her arm around her and was explaining something to Seamus Finnigan and Dean Thomas, who were looking very serious. â€Å"What's the matter, Lavender?† said Hermione anxiously as she, Harry, and Ron went to join the group. â€Å"She got a letter from home this morning,† Parvati whispered. â€Å"It's her rabbit, Binky. He's been killed by a fox.† â€Å"Oh,† said Hermione, â€Å"I'm sorry, Lavender.† â€Å"I should have known!† said Lavender tragically. â€Å"You know what day it is?† â€Å"Er –â€Å" â€Å"The sixteenth of October! ‘That thing you're dreading, it will happen on the sixteenth of October!' Remember? She was right, she was right!† The whole class was gathered around Lavender now. Seamus shook his head seriously. Hermione hesitated; then she said, â€Å"You — you were dreading Binky being killed by a fox?† â€Å"Well, not necessarily by a fox,† said Lavender, looking up at Hermione with streaming eyes, â€Å"but I was obviously dreading him dying, wasn't I?† â€Å"Oh,† said Hermione. She paused again. Then — â€Å"Was Binky an old rabbit?† â€Å"N — no!† sobbed Lavender. â€Å"H — he was only a baby!† Parvati tightened her arm around Lavender's shoulders. â€Å"But then, why would you dread him dying?† said Hermione. Parvati glared at her. â€Å"Well, look at it logically,† said Hermione, turning to the rest of the group. â€Å"I mean, Binky didn't even die today, did he? Lavender just got the news today –† Lavender wailed loudly. â€Å"?C and she can't have been dreading it, because it's come as a real shock –â€Å" â€Å"Don't mind Hermione, Lavender,† said Ron loudly, â€Å"she doesn't think other people's pets matter very much.† Professor McGonagall opened the classroom door at that moment, which was perhaps lucky; Hermione and Ron were looking daggers at each other, and when they got into class, they seated themselves on either side of Harry and didn't talk to each other for the whole class. Harry still hadn't decided what he was going to say to Professor McGonagall when the bell rang at the end of the lesson, but it was she who brought up the subject of Hogsmeade first. â€Å"One moment, please!† she called as the class made to leave. â€Å"As you're all in my House, you should hand Hogsmeade permission forms to me before Halloween. No form, no visiting the village, so don't forget!† Neville put up his hand. â€Å"Please, Professor, I — I think I've lost –â€Å" â€Å"Your grandmother sent yours to me directly, Longbottom,† said Professor McGonagall. â€Å"She seemed to think it was safer. Well, that's all, you may leave.† â€Å"Ask her now,† Ron hissed at Harry. â€Å"Oh. but –† Hermione began. â€Å"Go for it, Harry,† said Ron stubbornly. Harry waited for the rest of the class to disappear, then headed nervously for Professor McGonagall's desk. â€Å"Yes, Potter?† Harry took a deep breath. â€Å"Professor, my aunt and uncle — er — forgot to sign my form,† he said. Professor McGonagall looked over her square spectacles at him but didn't say anything. â€Å"So — er — d'you think it would be all right mean, will It be okay if I — if I go to Hogsmeade?† Professor McGonagall looked down and began shuffling papers on her desk. â€Å"I'm afraid not, Potter,† she said. â€Å"You heard what I said. No form, no visiting the village. That's the rule.† â€Å"But — Professor, my aunt and uncle — you know, they're Muggles, they don't really understand about — about Hogwarts forms and stuff,† Harry said, while Ron egged him on with vigorous nods. â€Å"If you said I could go –â€Å" â€Å"But I don't say so,† said Professor McGonagall, standing up and piling her papers neatly into a drawer. â€Å"The form clearly states that the parent or guardian must give permission.† She turned to look at him, with an odd expression on her face. Was it pity? â€Å"I'm sorry, Potter, but that's my final word. You had better hurry, or you'll be late for your next lesson.† ****** There was nothing to be done. Ron called Professor McGonagall a lot of names that greatly annoyed Hermione; Hermione assumed an ‘all-for-the-best' expression that made Ron even angrier, and Harry had to endure everyone in the class talking loudly and happily about what they were going to do first, once they got into Hogsmeade. â€Å"There's always the feast,† said Ron, in an effort to cheer Harry up. â€Å"You know, the Halloween feast, in the evening.† â€Å"Yeah,† said Harry gloomily, â€Å"great.† The Halloween feast was always good, but it would taste a lot better if he was coming to it after a day in Hogsmeade with everyone else. Nothing anyone said made him feel any better about being left behind. Dean Thomas, who was good with a quill, had offered to forge Uncle Vernon's signature on the form, but as Harry had already told Professor McGonagall he hadn't had it signed, that was no good. Ron halfheartedly suggested the Invisibility Cloak, but Hermione stamped on that one, reminding Ron what Dumbledore had told them about the Dementors being able to see through them. Percy had what were possibly the least helpful words of comfort. â€Å"They make a fuss about Hogsmeade, but I assure you, Harry, it's not all it's cracked up to be,† he said seriously. â€Å"All right, the sweetshop's rather good, and Zonko's Joke Shop's frankly dangerous, and yes, the Shrieking Shack's always worth a visit, but really, Harry, apart from that, you're not missing anything.† ****** On Halloween morning, Harry awoke with the rest and went down to breakfast, feeling thoroughly depressed, though doing his best to act normally. â€Å"We'll bring you lots of sweets back from Honeydukes,† said Hermione, looking desperately sorry for him. â€Å"Yeah, loads,† said Ron. He and Hermione had finally forgotten their squabble about Crookshanks in the face of Harry's difficulties. â€Å"Don't worry about me,† said Harry, in what he hoped was at, offhand voice, â€Å"I'll see you at the feast. Have a good time.† He accompanied them to the entrance hall, where Filch, the caretaker, was standing inside the front doors, checking off names against a long list, peering suspiciously into every face, and making sure that no one was sneaking out who shouldn't be going. â€Å"Staying here, Potter?† shouted Malfoy, who was standing in line with Crabbe and Goyle. â€Å"Scared of passing the Dementors?† Harry ignored him and made his solitary way up the marble staircase, through the deserted corridors, and back to Gryffindor Tower. â€Å"Password?† said the Fat Lady, jerking out of a doze. â€Å"Fortuna Major,† said Harry listlessly. The portrait swung open and he climbed through the hole into the common room. It was full of chattering first-and second-years, and a few older students, who had obviously visited Hogsmeade so often the novelty had worn off. â€Å"Harry! Harry! Hi, Harry!† It was Colin Creevey, a second year who was deeply in awe of Harry and never missed an opportunity to speak to him. â€Å"Aren't you going to Hogsmeade, Harry? Why not? Hey –† Colin looked eagerly around at his friends — â€Å"you can come and sit with us, if you like, Harry!† â€Å"Er — no, thanks, Colin,† said Harry, who wasn't in the mood to have a lot of people staring avidly at the scar on his forehead. â€Å"I — I've got to go to the library, got to get some work done.† After that, he had no choice but to turn right around and head back out of the portrait hole again. â€Å"What was the point of waking me up?† the Fat Lady called grumpily after him as he walked away. Harry wandered dispiritedly toward the library, but halfway there he changed his mind; he didn't feel like working. He turned around and came face-to-face with Filch, who had obviously just seen off the last of the Hogsmeade visitors. â€Å"What are you doing?† Filch snarled suspiciously. â€Å"Nothing,† said Harry truthfully. â€Å"Nothing!† spat Filch, his jowls quivering unpleasantly. â€Å"A likely story! Sneaking around on your own — why aren't you in Hogsmeade buying Stink Pellets and Belch Powder and Whizzing Worms like the rest of your nasty little friends?† Harry shrugged. â€Å"Well, get back to your common room where you belong!† snapped Filch, and he stood glaring until Harry had passed out of sight. But Harry didn't go back to the common room; he climbed a staircase, thinking vaguely of visiting the Owlery to see Hedwig, and was walking along another corridor when a voice from inside one of the rooms said, â€Å"Harry?† Harry doubled back to see who had spoken and met Professor Lupin, looking around his office door. â€Å"What are you doing?† said Lupin, though in a very different voice from Filch. â€Å"Where are Ron and Hermione?† â€Å"Hogsmeade,† said Harry, in a would-be casual voice. â€Å"Ah,† said Lupin. He considered Harry for a moment. â€Å"Why don't you come in? I've just taken delivery of a Grindylow for our next lesson.† â€Å"A what?† said Harry. He followed Lupin into his office. In the corner stood a very large tank of water. A sickly green creature with sharp little horns had its face pressed against the glass, pulling faces and flexing its long, spindly fingers. â€Å"Water demon,† said Lupin, surveying the Grindylow thoughtfully. â€Å"We shouldn't have much difficulty with him, not after the Kappas. The trick is to break his grip. You notice the abnormally long fingers? Strong, but very brittle.† The Grindylow bared its green teeth and then buried itself in a tangle of weeds in a corner. â€Å"Cup of tea?† Lupin said, looking around for his kettle. â€Å"I was just thinking of making one.† â€Å"All right,† said Harry awkwardly. Lupin tapped the kettle with his wand and a blast of steam issued suddenly from the spout. â€Å"Sit down,† said Lupin, taking the lid off a dusty tin. â€Å"I've only got teabags, I'm afraid — but I daresay you've had enough of tea leaves?† Harry looked at him. Lupin's eyes were twinkling. â€Å"How did you know about that?† Harry asked. â€Å"Professor McGonagall told me,† said Lupin, passing Harry a chipped mug of tea. â€Å"You're not worried, are you?† â€Å"No,† said Harry. He thought for a moment of telling Lupin about the dog he'd seen in Magnolia Crescent but decided not to. He didn't want Lupin to think he was a coward, especially since Lupin already seemed to think he couldn't cope with a Boggart. Something of Harry's thoughts seemed to have shown on his face, because Lupin said, â€Å"Anything worrying you, Harry?† â€Å"No,† Harry lied. He drank a bit of tea and watched the Grindylow brandishing a fist at him. â€Å"Yes,† he said suddenly, putting his tea down on Lupin's desk. â€Å"You know that day we fought the Boggart?† â€Å"Yes,† said Lupin slowly. â€Å"Why didn't you let me fight it?† said Harry abruptly. Lupin raised his eyebrows. â€Å"I would have thought that was obvious, Harry,† he said, sounding surprised. Harry, who had expected Lupin to deny that he'd done any such thing, was taken aback. â€Å"Why?† he said again. â€Å"Well,† said Lupin, frowning slightly, â€Å"I assumed that if the Boggart faced you, it would assume the shape of Lord Voldemort.† Harry stared. Not only was this the last answer he'd expected, but Lupin had said Voldemort's name. The only person Harry had ever heard say the name aloud (apart from himself) was Professor Dumbledore. â€Å"Clearly, I was wrong,† said Lupin, still frowning at Harry. â€Å"But I didn't think it a good idea for Lord Voldemort to materialize in the staffroom. I imagined that people would panic.† â€Å"I didn't think of Voldemort,† said Harry honestly. â€Å"I — I remembered those Dementors.† â€Å"I see,† said Lupin thoughtfully. â€Å"Well, well†¦I'm impressed.† He smiled slightly at the look of surprise on Harry's face. â€Å"That suggests that what you fear most of all is — fear. Very wise, Harry.† Harry didn't know what to say to that, so he drank some more tea. â€Å"So you've been thinking that I didn't believe you capable of fighting the Boggart?† said Lupin shrewdly. â€Å"Well†¦yeah,† said Harry. He was suddenly feeling a lot happier. â€Å"Professor Lupin, you know the Dementors –â€Å" He was interrupted by a knock on the door. â€Å"Come in,† called Lupin. The door opened, and in came Snape. He was carrying a goblet, which was smoking faintly, and stopped at the sight of Harry, his black eyes narrowing. â€Å"Ah, Severus,† said Lupin, smiling. â€Å"Thanks very much. Could you leave it here on the desk for me?† Snape set down the smoking goblet, his eyes wandering between Harry and Lupin. â€Å"I was just showing Harry my Grindylow,† said Lupin pleasantly, pointing at the tank. â€Å"Fascinating,† said Snape, without looking at it. â€Å"You should drink that directly, Lupin.† â€Å"Yes, Yes, I will,† said Lupin. â€Å"I made an entire cauldronful,† Snape continued. â€Å"If you need more.† â€Å"I should probably have some again tomorrow. Thanks very much, Severus.† â€Å"Not at all,† said Snape, but there was a look in his eye Harry didn't like. He backed out of the room, unsmiling and watchful. Harry looked curiously at the goblet. Lupin smiled. â€Å"Professor Snape has very kindly concocted a potion for me,† he said. â€Å"I have never been much of a potion-brewer and this one is particularly complex.† He picked up the goblet and sniffed it. â€Å"Pity sugar makes it useless,† he added, taking a sip and shuddering. â€Å"Why –?† Harry began. Lupin looked at him and answered the unfinished question. â€Å"I've been feeling a bit off-color,† he said. â€Å"This potion is the only thing that helps. I am very lucky to be working alongside Professor Snape; there aren't many wizards who are up to making it.† Professor Lupin took another sip and Harry had a crazy urge to knock the goblet out of his hands. â€Å"Professor Snape's very interested in the Dark Arts,† he blurted out. â€Å"Really?† said Lupin, looking only mildly interested as he took another gulp of potion. â€Å"Some people reckon –† Harry hesitated, then plunged recklessly on, â€Å"some people reckon he'd do anything to get the Defense Against the Dark Arts job.† Lupin drained the goblet and pulled a face. â€Å"Disgusting,† he said. â€Å"Well, Harry, I'd better get back to work. See you at the feast later.† â€Å"Right,† said Harry, putting down his empty teacup. The empty goblet was still smoking. ******** â€Å"There you go,† said Ron. â€Å"We got as much as we could carry.† A shower of brilliantly colored sweets fell into Harry's lap. It was dusk, and Ron and Hermione had just turned up in the common room, pink-faced from the cold wind and looking as though they'd had the time of their lives. â€Å"Thanks,† said Harry, picking up a packet of tiny black Pepper Imps. â€Å"What's Hogsmeade like? Where did you go?† By the sound of it — everywhere. Dervish and Banges, the wizarding equipment shop, Zonko's Joke Shop, into the Three Broomsticks for foaming mugs of hot butterbeer, and many places besides. â€Å"The post office, Harry! About two hundred owls, all sitting on shelves, all color-coded depending on how fast you want your letter to get there!† â€Å"Honeydukes has got a new kind of fudge; they were giving out free samples, there's a bit, look –â€Å" â€Å"We think we saw an ogre, honestly, they get all sorts at the Three Broomsticks –â€Å" â€Å"Wish we could have brought you some butterbeer, really warms you up –â€Å" â€Å"What did you do?† said Hermione, looking anxious. â€Å"Did you get any work done?† â€Å"No,† said Harry. â€Å"Lupin made me a cup of tea in his office. And then Snape came in†¦Ã¢â‚¬  He told them all about the goblet. Ron's mouth fell open. â€Å"Lupin drank it?† he gasped. â€Å"Is he mad?† Hermione checked her watch. â€Å"We'd better go down, you know, the feast'll be starting in five minutes They hurried through the portrait hole and into the crowd, still discussing Snape. â€Å"But if he — you know –† Hermione dropped her voice, glancing nervously around, â€Å"if he was trying to — to poison Lupin — he wouldn't have done it in front of Harry.† â€Å"Yeah, maybe,† said Harry as they reached the entrance hall and crossed into the Great Hall. It had been decorated with hundreds and hundreds of candle-filled pumpkins, a cloud of fluttering live bats, and many flaming orange streamers, which were swimming lazily across the stormy ceiling like brilliant watersnakes. The food was delicious; even Hermione and Ron, who were full to bursting with Honeydukes sweets, managed second helpings of everything. Harry kept glancing at the staff table. Professor Lupin looked cheerful and as well as he ever did; he was talking animatedly to tiny little Professor Flitwick, the Charms teacher. Harry moved his eyes along the table, to the place where Snape sat. Was he imagining it, or were Snape's eyes flickering toward Lupin more often than was natural? The feast finished with an entertainment provided by the Hogwarts ghosts. They popped out of the walls and tables to do a bit of formation gliding; Nearly Headless Nick, the Gryffindor ghost, had a great success with a reenactment of his own botched beheading. It had been such a pleasant evening that Harry's good mood couldn't even be spoiled by Malfoy, who shouted through the crowd as they all left the hall, â€Å"The Dementors send their love, Potter!† Harry, Ron, and Hermione followed the rest of the Gryffindors along the usual path to Gryffindor Tower, but when they reached the corridor that ended with the portrait of the Fat Lady, they found it jammed with students. â€Å"Why isn't anyone going in?† said Ron curiously. Harry peered over the heads in front of him. The portrait seemed to be closed. â€Å"Let me through, please,† came Percy's voice, and he came bustling importantly through the crowd. â€Å"What's the holdup here? You can't all have forgotten the password — excuse me, I'm Head Boy –â€Å" And then a silence fell over the crowd, from the front first, so that a chill seemed to spread down the corridor. They heard Percy say, in a suddenly sharp voice, â€Å"Somebody get Professor Dumbledore. Quick.† People's heads turned; those at the back were standing on tiptoe. â€Å"What's going on?† said Ginny, who had just arrived. A moment later, Professor Dumbledore was there, sweeping toward the portrait; the Gryffindors squeezed together to let him through, and Harry, Ron, and Hermione moved closer to see what the trouble was. â€Å"Oh, my –† Hermione grabbed Harry's arm. The Fat Lady had vanished from her portrait, which had been slashed so viciously that strips of canvas littered the floor; great chunks of it had been torn away completely. Dumbledore took one quick look at the ruined painting and turned, his eyes somber, to see Professors McGonagall, Lupin, and Snape hurrying toward him. â€Å"We need to find her,† said Dumbledore. â€Å"Professor McGonagall, please go to Mr. Filch at once and tell him to search every painting in the castle for the Fat Lady.† â€Å"You'll be lucky!† said a cackling voice. It was Peeves the Poltergeist, bobbing over the crowd and looking delighted, as he always did, at the sight of wreckage or worry. â€Å"What do you mean, Peeves?† said Dumbledore calmly, and Peeves's grin faded a little. He didn't dare taunt Dumbledore. Instead he adopted an oily voice that was no better than his cackle. â€Å"Ashamed, Your Headship, sir. Doesn't want to be seen. She's a horrible mess. Saw her running through the landscape up on the fourth floor, sir, dodging between the trees. Crying something dreadful,† he said happily. â€Å"Poor thing.† he added unconvincingly. â€Å"Did she say who did it?† said Dumbledore quietly. â€Å"Oh yes, Professorhead,† said Peeves, with the air of one cradling a large bombshell in his arms. â€Å"He got very angry when she wouldn't let him in, you see.† Peeves flipped over and grinned at Dumbledore from between his own legs. â€Å"Nasty temper he's got, that Sirius Black.†

Marginal Revenue and Profit

?In order for a company to be able to reach its full potential financial management must be in place. This management needs to be aware of at least the basics of financial plans which are revenue, cost and profit. These three things can make or break a company. Each of these things must be understood and considered before plans can be laid to create or better a company. Revenue is the amount a company receives (Marginal Revenue, 2009). If a company is in the business of sales, revenue is the amount of money the company receives per unit sold. Marginal revenue is the amount of money a company receives for the last unit sold. This is found by dividing the change in revenue by the change in quantity sold. For companies that compete with one another marginal revenue is not very important. This is because in a competitive environment most products are sold at a set price so that marginal revenue is equal to the set sales price of the product. For a monopoly on the other hand, marginal revenue is very important. Monopolies have a decreasing marginal revenue curve (marginal Revenue, 2009); for a monopoly the marginal revenue is less than the sales price. This is because a monopoly must have a lower sales price in order to increase the amount of product sold. Total cost is the amount of money it costs to operate at a particular rate of production (Baker, 2000). There are two types of cost: variable and fixed. Fixed costs are those that remain the same regardless of production and variable costs are those that change with production. Marginal cost is the addition either to total cost or total variable cost resulting from one more unit of output (McConnall & Brue, 2008). Usually this is found by dividing the change in total cost by the change in quantity. Profit is the positive gain from an investment or business operation after subtracting expenses (Profit, 2009). Profit maximization is the idea that people will try to create as high a profit as possible given the circumstances. Since marginal revenue is the amount of revenue an additional unit will bring in and marginal cost is the amount the additional unit will cost to produce, then profit maximization is the point where marginal cost and marginal revenue are equal (Profit Maximization, 2009). So as long as marginal cost is lower than marginal revenue there is profit, but if marginal cost ever exceeds marginal revenue the last unit should not be produced. If the marginal revenue is higher than the marginal cost, the company can produce more units. Business owners and managers need to be able to make a profit. Whenever people think of profit, they are aware that profit is the amount of money left after the expenses are paid and most people know the greater the profit the better off they will be. Most people do not know that profit maximization requires the knowledge of marginal cost and marginal revenue. In order to determine when a company is no longer profiting from production of extra units, one must know that profit maximization is the point where marginal revenue equals marginal cost. Refernces (2009). Marginal revenue: Fundamental finance. Retrieved July 16, 2009, from fundamentalfinance. com Web site: http://economics. fundamentalfinance. com/micro_revenue. php Baker, S. (2000). Cost concepts. Retrieved July 16, 2009, from Economics interactive tutorial Web site: http://hspm. sph. sc. edu/COURSES/ECON/Cost/Cost. html (2009). Profit. Retrieved July 16, 2009, from investorwords. com Web site: http://www. investorwords. com/3880/profit. html Profit Maximization. Retrieved July 16, 2009, Web site: http://www. econ. ilstu. edu/ntskaggs/eco105/readings/profit-max. htm McConnell, C. , & Brue, S. (2008). Microeconomics 17th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill Irwin.

Making it Big Case Study

Making it Big Case Study Introduction Building strategies is necessary for efficient running of any business Company. The kind of strategy built and implemented determines the level of progress within the Company. Strategies are usually built based on various conditions which may include; the current status of the Company, the Company’s policies and ability to focus ahead based on competitive moves and business approaches.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Making it Big Case Study specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The company’s management must have action plan that enables them have competitive advantage over other related companies within the industry. This case study focuses on the strategies that Make It Big Company took for the purposes of increasing the Company’s market share and stabilizing its financial base. The effects and implications of the chosen strategies are explored based on business and marketing principles (Winn 185-196). Identification of key elements of MIB strategy One of Make It Big (MIB) Company’s strategies used to bring back customers is the use of mail order roster and increased use of internet where the Company’s product portfolio is posted. The company also embarked on printing more catalogs and went into the business of exchanging mailing lists with other companies. All the strategies applied by MIB focused on growth of the business, attracting more buyers, achieving specific performance targets and also for the purposes of effective competition within the market. Strategies used in the initial stages were based on independent decision making. This was done by MIB CEO. She never made any consultations because she believed in her own leadership capabilities (Winn 185). MIB focused on operations-driven activities which enabled achievement of its goal. These activities included means through which quality of products could be improved, reinforcement of customer service relations and the processes undertaken on resource management (Winn 185-190). The selection of the management team in MIB was basically based on experience and educational background (Winn 194). Identification of the strategies MIB uses Make It Big Company used the idea of partnership, mail order concept and catalogs in accomplishing its goals. The Company’s targets were the fat and oversize women within the society. This shifted their focus to making clothes that could serve the interests of fat people besides making them attractive and more acceptable within the community. The company’s strategy included some political aspect that fought against discrimination based on people’s body size. The strategy focused on improving the self-esteem of the oversize women by providing them with comfortable type of clothing.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The company also focused on using skilled employees, for example the CEO employed one of her friend who was very experienced and skilled in sewing. The company utilized the abilities of expert seamstresses through whom they hired more other employees to work for the company. These services offered by other workers provided sufficient work force to the benefit of MIB (Winn 189-190). Make It Big (MIB) Company embarked on manufacturing clothing on order, this was based on different seasonal colors which provided customers with variety of choices. On the other hand the building financial base for MIB depended on personal savings and credit obtained from banks; this enhanced its financial capability. MIB had the initiative of using the mail order in expanding the company’s business operations. The advertising strategy used at the start of operations was through the word of mouth and posters which were placed along the road, this ensured the expansion of the mailing list, and hence led to improvement of sales (Winn 190). Frequent attendances on trade shows by the CEO gave the company ability to up-date its manufacturing services and locate new product designs. This made it possible for MIB to obtain materials from different sources based on consumer desires and needs. The Company targeted main categories of wear starting from career, sports, casual amongst other cloth’s categories. MIB sold most of its merchandise through catalogues, sales from website was majorly through the same loyal customers (Winn 192-193). MIB up-graded it’s advertising strategy to incorporate radio and newspaper. They also targeted house parties which helped in improving the company’s sales. In order to counter the high rise of independent retailers within the industry, they resorted into consolidation and strict branding of their products; this idea gave clear identification as well as distinction from other products within the market. Other than branding they focused on regulating prices of their goods and improving the nature of service delivery they rendered to consumers. However, other competitors had invested in the new technology of using computers to give and keep detailed information on customers which assisted in easy mailing since consumers were contacted directly (Winn 192). Personal information on loyal customers was easily accessed and this also created channels on how to reach bulky customers. Incorporation of team building and communication programs were good strategies that helped employees within the company to work as a team, hence driving towards common goal. The good relation amongst employees and between MIB and other business partners favored the Company in terms of cash flow. This contributed towards easy marshalling of resources and the installation of efficient communication and operating system that made it easier for the management to carry out their activities with lots of ease (Winn 192).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Making it Big Case Study specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Evidences that the strategy is or is not working The strategy of beefing up information at the website did not materialize since it only attracted people who never turned up to purchase any of the advertised items (Winn 185). The Company’s CEO commented that she couldn’t manage improving the Company’s performance on her own despite many trials. She needed the help of other advisors from the Company ranks. The CEO realized the necessity of bringing on board fresh blood that could help in making the Company’s prime decisions. MIB proves not to be bottom- line performer since the CEO considered strategy management as secondary to other issues. These strategies at some point were realized not to be in agreement with the Company’s vision (Winn 193). Make It Big had difficulty in predicting what would sell at spec ific season of the year (Winn 190). The issue of using partnership failed to work at the start since both the partners had conflicting interests and goals, this made Cynthia to buy back her partners shares to allow her be in full control of MIB businesses (Winn 191). The apparel industry experienced great competition from various manufacturers who were interested in making super size range of clothing, most of the Companies operated as joint ventures. This gave a big challenge to MIB since it operated solely under one manager and later recruited other managers who were required to focus only on production processes. The other duties of financial management and overall sales were under the supervision of the CEO. The CEO became ignorant of her main duty of making and creating strategic plans for the benefit of MIB Company (Winn 193). However, her abilities on financial management assisted the company to carefully monitor cash-flow hence keeping the company’s resources in good check. MIB strategy of recruiting committed and qualified employees ensured efficient implementation of strategies, good management and profitable progress within the company. The managers had the ability of undertaking multiple tasks and responsibilities which at times prove costly on production process due to fatigue. The other contribution of the new management was the up-dating of the computer network which made it easier to operate with customers. The accounting system also realized improvement through the computer system hence made it easier for the management of resources (Winn 195-196).Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Other evidence of strategy not working was the kind of indecision the CEO found herself in. She placed goal achievement as one of the Company’s priority but lacked means on how to achieve the targeted goals. The CEO feared investing in new ventures due to lack of enough skilled manpower that could compete favorably within the markets competitive environment. There was need for recruiting experienced management team that could help in managing risks within the Company. MIB experienced low sales and departure of top managers like the general manager. This was because MIB had difficulty in maintaining and retaining right employees due to poor relations from the CEO, she lacked enough qualifications that could enhance her confidence in such a high position. The CEO reached a point where she was unable to predict the requirements for the Company after expansion. Inability to direct organizational change was very evident; the Company failed to identify general manager with enough e xperience and qualifications who could drive changes through appropriate actions in various sectors like in mailing services (Winn 195). This is because MIB operated on the same principles the Company used when it was starting, the same operating principles could not work any further. For MIB to realize growth and expansion it required adept leadership and different skill from that set when it was starting. This included recruiting new CEO and overhauling the whole management team (Winn 196). Conclusion The management team should have the capability of matching the organization’s structure to its strategies which allows for efficient execution of the Company’s capabilities and competencies. It is necessary for a firm to have a strong resource base which helps in enhancing its capabilities to deliver quality services to consumers as well as competing favorably within the market. Winn, Joan. Making It Big case study. Entrepreneurship theory and practice. CA: Baylor Univ ersity Press, 2004. 185-196. Print.

Walker Percy Essays Way to Make Them Effective and Great

Walker Percy Essays Way to Make Them Effective and Great Walker Percy essays are papers written about the essay works of â€Å"Walker Percy†. This novelist has given wonderful essay collections including â€Å"The Loss of the Creature†. In order to write such kind of essays confidently, students need some skills. Students can give a glimpse to the following tip and suggestions in order to write Walker Percy essays of effectual quality. Walker Percy essays can come out successfully when students put their dedication with care. When students attempt to make such essays, they can refer sample essays related to the topic under consideration. Walker Percy essays: Useful guidelines to make it effective Students can bring out great Walker Percy essay when they peep through these useful guidelines: Scrupulous discussion with essay instructor can make a great difference while writing such essays. Topic selection plays a vital role in bringing out the essay successfully. There are numerous effective topics related to diet and nutrition subject. Dedicated research plays the second vital role next to topic selection. Writing the essay as per given requirement is also vital for bringing out successful essays. Walker Percy essays: Tips to make it great Students can write awesome Walker Percy essay when they consider the below tips: It is necessary to present the essay using simple and uncomplicated language. It is necessary to conform to the essay restrictions with certainty. It is necessary to produce the essay as per instructor’s instruction. Walker Percy essays are the means that can be used by students to understand and express the significance of Walker Percy’s essay works. The tips given in this essay can be of great help for students.

Julius Caesar Summary and Study Guide

Julius Caesar Summary and Study Guide J​ulius Caesar may have been the greatest man of all times. His birth date was July 12/13, probably in the year 100 B.C., although it may have been in 102 B.C. Caesar died March 15, 44 B.C., which date is known as the Ides of March. By age 39/40, Julius Caesar had been a widower, divorce, governor (propraetor) of Further Spain, captured by pirates, hailed imperator by adoring troops, quaestor, aedile, consul, named to an important priesthood, and elected pontifex maximus (although he may not have been installed) a lifelong honor usually reserved for the end of a mans career. What was left for his remaining 16/17 years? That for which Julius Caesar was most well known: the Triumvirate, military victories in Gaul, the dictatorship, civil war, and, finally, assassination. Julius Caesar was a general, a statesman, a lawgiver, an orator, an historian, and a mathematician. His government (with modifications) endured for centuries. He never lost a war. He fixed the calendar. He created the first news sheet, Acta Diurna, which was posted on the forum to let everyone who cared to read it know what the Assembly and Senate were up to. He also instigated an enduring law against extortion. Caesar vs. the Aristocracy He traced his ancestry to Romulus, putting him in as aristocratic a position as possible, but his association with his uncle Marius populism put Julius Caesar in political hot water with many of his social class. Under the penultimate Roman king, Servius Tullius, the patricians developed as the privileged class. The patricians then took over as the ruling class when the Roman people, who were fed up with kings, drove out Servius Tullius murderer and successor. This Etruscan king of Rome was referred to as Tarquinius Superbus Tarquin the Proud. With the end of the period of kings, Rome entered into the period of the Roman Republic. At the start of the Roman Republic, the Roman people were mainly farmers, but between the fall of the monarchy and the rise of Julius Caesar, Rome changed dramatically. First, it mastered Italy; then it turned its sights to the Carthaginian hold on the Mediterranean, to gain supremacy over which it needed a fighting naval force. Citizen fighters left their fields prey to land speculators, although if all went well, they returned home with ample booty. Rome was building its remarkable empire. Between slaves and the conquered wealth, the hard-working Roman became the luxury-seeking spendthrift. Real work was carried out by slaves. A rural lifestyle gave way to urban sophistication. Rome Avoided Kings The governing style that developed as an antidote to monarchy originally included severe limitations on the power of any one individual. But by the time large-scale, enduring wars became the norm, Rome needed powerful leaders whose terms would not end mid-battle. Such men were called dictators. They were supposed to step down after the crisis for which they were appointed, although during the late Republic, Sulla had put his own time limits on his term as dictator. Julius Caesar became dictator for life (literally, perpetual dictator). Note: Although Julius Caesar may have been the permanent dictator, he was not the first Roman emperor. The conservatives resisted change, seeing the downfall of the Republic in every nuance of reform. Thus Julius Caesars murder was incorrectly hailed by them as the only way back to the old values. Instead, his murder led to the rise of, first, civil war, and next, the first Roman princeps (from which we get the word prince), whom we refer to as the Emperor Augustus.​ There are only a few names of the great men and women of the ancient world whom almost everyone recognizes. Among these is the last dictator of the Roman Republic, Julius Caesar, whose assassination Shakespeare immortalized in his play,  Julius Caesar. Here are some of the main points to know about this great Roman leader. 1. Caesars Birth Julius Caesar was probably born 3 days before the  Ides of July, in 100 B.C. That date would be July 13. Other possibilities are that he was born on July 12 in 100 B.C. or that he was born on July 12 or 13 in the year 102 B.C. 2. Caesars Pedigreed Family His fathers family was from the patrician gens of the Julii. The Julii traced its lineage to the first king of Rome, Romulus, and the goddess  Venus  or, instead of Romulus, to Venus grandson Ascanius (aka Iulus or Jullus; whence Julius). One patrician branch of the Julian gens was called Caesar. [See  Surnames of the Julii from UNRV.] Julius Caesars parents were Gaius Caesar and Aurelia, daughter of Lucius Aurelius Cotta. 3. Familial Ties Julius Caesar was related by marriage to  Marius. The first 7-time consul, Marius supported the and opposed  Sulla. Sulla supported the  optimates. (It is common, but inaccurate to consider the  optimates  like the conservative party and the  populares  like the liberal party of modern political systems.) Perhaps more familiar to military history buffs, Marius drastically reformed the military during the Republican period. 4. Caesar and the Pirates The young Julius went to Rhodes to study oratory, but on his way he was captured by pirates whom he charmed and seemingly befriended. After he was freed, Julius arranged to have the pirates executed. 5. Cursus Honorum QuaestorJulius entered the course of advancement (cursus honorum) in the Roman political system as quaestor in 68 or 69 B.C.Curule AedileIn 65 B.C., Julius Caesar became curule aedile and then managed to be appointed to the position of  pontifex maximus, contrary to convention, since he was so young.PraetorJulius Caesar became  praetor  for 62 B.C. and during that year divorced his second wife for not being above suspicion, in the Bona Dea scandal involving Claudius/Clodius Pulcher.ConsulJulius Caesar won one of the consulships in 59 B.C. The chief advantage for him of this top political position was that following the term in office, he would become governor (proconsul) of a lucrative province.ProconsulAfter his term as  consul, Caesar was sent to Gaul as the proconsul. 6. Caesars Promiscuity MistressesJulius Caesar himself was guilty of many extra-marital affairs, with Cleopatra, among others. One of the most significant relations was with Servilia Caepionis, the half-sister of Cato the Younger. Because of this relationship, it was thought possible that Brutus was Julius Caesars son.Male LoverJulius Caesar was taunted all his life with charges of having been the lover of King Nicomedes of Bithynia.WivesJulius Caesar married Cornelia, a daughter of Marius associate, Lucius Cornelius Cinna, then a relative of Pompey named Pompeia, and finally, Calpurnia. 7. Triumvirate Julius Caesar engineered a 3-way division of power with enemies Crassus and Pompey that was known as the Triumvirate. More on the 1st Triumvirate 8. Caesars Prose Second-year Latin students are familiar with the military side of Julius Caesars life. As well as conquering the Gallic tribes, he wrote about the  Gallic Wars  in clear, elegant prose, referring to himself in the third person. It was through his campaigns that Julius Caesar was finally able to work his way out of debt, although the third member of the triumvirate, Crassus, also helped. Caesars Gallic Wars Commentaries 9.Rubiconand Civil War Julius Caesar refused to obey the command of the Senate, but instead led his troops across the Rubicon river, which started civil war. 10. Ides of March and Assassination Julius Caesar was the Roman dictator with divine honors, but he didnt have a crown. In 44 B.C. conspirators, claiming they feared Julius Caesar was aiming to become king, assassinated Julius Caesar on the Ides of March. More on the Ides of March 11. Caesars Heirs Although Julius Caesar had a living son, Caesarion (not officially acknowledged), Caesarion was an Egyptian, the son of  Queen Cleopatra, so Julius Caesar adopted a great nephew, Octavian, in his will. Octavian was to become the first Roman emperor, Augustus. 12. Caesar Trivia Caesar was known to be careful or abstemious in his consumption of wine and was said to have been particular in his hygiene, including having himself depilitated. I dont have a source for this. Major Events in the Timeline of Julius Caesar 102/100 B.C. - July 13/12  - Caesars Birth84  - Caesar marries the daughter of L. Cornelius Cinna75  - Pirates capture Caesar73  - Caesar is elected Pontifex69  - Caesar is quaestor. Julia, Caesars aunt (Marius widow), dies. Cornelia, the wife of Caesar, dies67  - Caesar marries Pompeia65  - Caesar is elected Aedile63  - Caesar is elected Pontifex Maximus62  - Caesar is praetor. Caesar divorces Pompeia61  - Caesar is Propraetor of Further Spain60  - Caesar is elected Consul and forms the  Triumvirate59  - Caesar is Consul58  - Caesar defeats the Helvetii and Germans55  - Caesar crosses the Rhine and invades Britain54  - Caesars daughter, who is also Pompeys wife, dies53  - Crassus is killed52  - Clodius is murdered; Caesar defeats Vercingetorix49  - Caesar crosses the  Rubicon  -  Civil War  begins48  - Pompey is murdered46  - Thapsus Battle (Tunisia) against Cato and Scipio. Caesar made dictator. (Third time.)45 or 44 (Before Luperca lia)  - Caesar is declared dictator for life; literally perpetual dictator* Ides of March  - Caesar is assassinated *For most of us, the distinction between perpetual dictator and dictator for life is trivial; however, it is a source of controversy for some. Caesars final step, according to Alfoldi, was a compromise. He had been designated Dictator in perpetuum (Livy Ep. CXVI), or as the coins read, Dictator perpetuo (never, according to Alfoldi p. 36, perpetuus; note that Cicero** cited the dative, dictatori perpetuo, which could fit either form), apparently in the fall of 45 B.C. (Alfoldi pp. 14-15). He had taken up this new dictatorship upon the conclusion of his fourth annual dictatorship on or near February 15. (Mason Hammond. Review of Studien à ¼ber Caesars Monarchie by Andreas Alfà ¶ldi. The Classical Weekly, Vol. 48, No. 7, Feb. 28, 1955, pp. 100-102.) Cicero (106-43 B.C.) and Livy (59 B.C.-A.D. 17) were contemporaries of Caesar. Study Guide Non-Fiction Caesars Final Aims, by Victor Ehrenberg.  Harvard Studies in Classical Philology, Vol. 68, (1964), pp. 149-161.Caesar: Life of a Colossus, by Adrian GoldsworthyCaesar, by Christian Meier. 1995Party Politics in the Age of Caesar, by Lily Ross Taylor. Reissued in 1995.The Roman Revolution, by Ronald Syme. 1969. Fiction Colleen McCulloughs  Masters of Rome  series provides a well researched historical fiction series on Julius Caesar: First Man in RomeThe Grass CrownFortunes FavoritesCaesars WomenCaesar, A NovelThe October Horse Questions to Consider What would have happened to Rome had Caesar remained in power?Would the Republic have continued?Was the change from Republic to Empire inevitable?Were Caesars assassins traitors?Was Caesar a traitor when he crossed the Rubicon?Under what circumstances is treason justified?Why is Caesar the greatest leader ever?What reasons are there for saying he was not?What are Caesars most important/lasting contributions?

Exporting and Importing for a Developing Country Essay

Exporting and Importing for a Developing Country - Essay Example It is also the 24th most populous nation with at least 51 million people. The country is a multiethnic society. South Africa is a developing country, according to the standards of the CIA and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) (CIA, 2013). The country’s economic position is rapidly advancing, particularly as a result of its robust trade initiatives. South Africa’s trade initiatives include major imports from and exports products to numerous countries across the globe. Some of the country’s most notable imports include motor vehicles and vehicle parts, computers and electronics and refined petroleum products. The import product selected for this paper is refined petroleum products. This selection is based on the fact that South Africa’s importation of refined petroleum products encompasses 7.4% of its entire imports. Petroleum products are vital materials that come from crude oil and are processed in oil refineries. Petroleum is converted into petroleum products that consist of an array of fuels (UN, 2010). Question 2 The Republic of South Africa is based on a constitutional democracy. The government structure encompasses three structures namely; local, provincial and national governments. South Africa is a sovereign and democratic state, which is segmented into nine provinces. Each state has its individual provincial legislature. All segments of government in South Africa derive their powers, as well as functions, from the Constitution of South Africa. The National Assembly is the supreme law-making institution of the Republic of South Africa (CIA, 2013). The National Assembly makes law applicable throughout the country and the same is also true for all legislative policies developed by the Cabinet of the National Government. Although there are sections of executive legislative competence for the National Assembly, it shares its legislative power with the country’s provincial legislatures. The Sout h African parliament consists primarily of two houses, namely, the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) and the National Assembly. The South African National Assembly is elected into office for five years and is made up of no fewer than 350 members and no more than 400 members. Members of these houses are elected in keeping with the country’s electoral system, which centers on a roll of voters who are above the age of 18 years (USTR, 2012). This results in a system characterized by proportional representation. On the other hand, the local government encompasses municipalities whose objectives include the provision of democratic and accountable government for the country’s local communities, promoting socioeconomic development and ensuring equitable provision of services to all communities. The link between the national and local government is the provincial government. South African provincial governments are subject to policies and laws established at the national lev el (CIA, 2013). However, provincial governments have the power to pass their individual policies and laws in the framework so as to suit the specific needs of the provinces. Provincial legislatures are allowed to establish their own constitutions in accordance with the provisions of the South African Constitution. A number of challenges plague the marketing of products in South Africa. Firstly, South Africa is a low yield environment, which means that the traditional income of most South Africans is quite low. This makes investors uneasy

Planning on research on Inclusive Education Essay

Planning on research on Inclusive Education - Essay Example Inclusive education can include a number of strategies. Most of the research on this topic focuses on; global movements, laws on inclusive education within and without a given country, resources, deconstruction of special schools, sources of funding for inclusive schools and other ideas that may boost the development of Inclusive education. There are various global movements that have worked towards the inclusion of the pupils with special educational needs. Schooling of these pupils with special educational needs has changed from neglect previously to integration presently. Global movement is taking part in the African countries, the Asian countries the European countries and also in the South American countries. In the United Kingdom there is a very strong policy framework which is based on the inclusive principles and values together with additional funding. Similarly the movements have allowed the pupils with the special educational disabilities to understand their needs well and this has enabled them learn to live in a world that is full of differences. This movement has a global dimension whereby there is a connection between the various countries globally and this has spurred a commitment by various countries to set their national targets for the pupils with special educational needs. (Norwich, 1994) Special schools have been in place since the days of old. ... In the year 2001, there were close to sixty one percent of children with special needs that were placed in mainstream schools this was an increase of five percent from the mid nineties. Besides, there was a seven percent decrease of special schools in the UK. Staff working in these special schools also reduced by close to eleven percent in that same year. However, more still needs to be done as there is still a large portion of the education system that has not included children with special needs in their program. Laws have also been regulated towards the realization of this agenda. In the UK, there have been a number of laws that have been passed that worked towards implementation of inclusive education. There were acts that were passed in the year 1986, 1993 and 1996. All these acts placed emphasis on the fact that children with special needs should be given the right to attend mainstream schools if their parents allow it and if there is a provision for them in that institution. In the year 1998 and 1997, the Government made publications specifically relating to children with special needs. Here, they addressed plans that would assist in this inclusion program. There were a number of newsletters written by the government concerning inclusive education at that same time. Later on, a special education needs and disability act was passed that reinforced special children's entitlement to mainstream schooling. An exception was provided if the child would cause very serious impairment to education in the classroom or if their parents did not allow it. (The Children Act 2004, 2004) It has been found that there is a lack of funding towards this form of

West indian literature Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

West indian literature - Essay Example Poet uses a language blends with her native language with enormous simplicity and the Caribbean have the view that their language is something differ from other language. The language of the poem reveals the suppression and sufferings of Caribbean people with all its emotional conflicts. In his article, entitled ‘Selected poems by Lorna Goddison’ Almendarez shares similar views about the Goddison’s language. He rightly puts it as: â€Å"Many of Goodison’s poems express a deep connection to Jamaica with all of its open wounds and beauty scars.†(Almendarez, Ayme, 2006). Her images are related with harsh realities of colonization and the suffering women folk in Caribbean countries. In her poem, Survivor Goddison uses free verse with an extensive use of words. The repetition of consonant sounds constitutes rhythmic quality of the poem. When analyzing the poem one can identify themes like the inner feelings and identity crisis, yearnings of the heart, and the clamors and temptations of the rough world are explored the following lines. The poet sings: â€Å"They took most living things/ even some rare species/ with extended wings† (Goodison, 4-6). The excellent use of figure of speech is another significant feature of Goddison’s poetry. The use of metaphor is apt to the situation when the poet remarks about her ancestors who sacrificed themselves for attaining their birth rights. Poet says, â€Å"So, here the wind plays/mourning notes/ on bones that once were ribs.†(Goodison, 11-13). The movement of the wind has been attributed as playing ‘mourning notes’ with a musical touch. There is a note of simile when she writes, ‘barrel of rain.’ The poem Survivor filled with rich images and word pictures. The survival of Caribbean woman can see such as ‘bear feet and bound hair’. The words of Chamberlin make it clear when he rightly says, â€Å"This freedom, along with the love and language of their islands, has been nourished by West

Business Ethics of WorldCom Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Business Ethics of WorldCom - Essay Example The company was declared bankrupt due to the wrong ways that were used to handle the accounts of the company. As earlier stated, when WorldCom was declared bankrupt, the company officials at the time worked nervously to restate the financial status of the company and to reorganize its operations. This shows the extent to which the company had lost a lot due to unethical accounting. The relevance of business ethics in the case Ethical behaviors are considered the important characteristics that are needed by effective leaders. In the case study, WorldCom received destruction that occurred when the corporation was not in the situation to behave ethically. This was mainly for those who were involved in accounting in the company. Ethics in the case also is relevant as it shows the outcomes that were obtained when there was no holding of ethical standards. The fall out that was experienced in WorldCom was important. The competitors learned from the fallout and they were able to improve the ir operation and consider ethical standards in operations. Impact of the ethical problem The fraud that led to the bankruptcy of WorldCom affected the behavior and the lives of individuals and the community that the industry operated. Some individuals who were permanently affected by the fraud were Cynthia Cooper. She participated in uncovering the fraud and this made her win several awards. The fraud that also led to the fallout of the company gave the advantage to the competitors of the company such as Verizon.

ANCIENT ART (DB) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

ANCIENT ART (DB) - Essay Example The statue exhibits a direct balance of these attributes between its right and left sides: the right planted and firm; the left bent in motion, lagging behind as it moves forward implicitly offering a further balance between "good" (the right, or dexterous, side) and evil (the left, or sinister, side). Polyclitus attempt to harmonize these features came about as the culmination of Hellenistic sculpture, for not only had the goal become to portray man as naturally (the kallos, or "beautiful) as possible, but also to capture the ideal physicality of man (the eu, or "perfect"). The Augustus of Primaporta statue models itself on the Doryphoros for that exact reason, with few exceptions: Augustus is clothed, his right arm raised and extended, and the weight of this is counterbalanced by a small cupid riding a dolphin attached to the back of the right leg. Roman sculptures during this period had continued the practice of portraying their subjects as naturally as possible however, statues o f emperors are always idealized. Augustus is always depicted in his prime - despite his living into the sixties - and this statue in particular is modeled upon Polyclitus's work as it had been recognized as the most accurate depiction of the ideal form of man. Polyclitus's work takes on the subject of man's form - not the reality, but the ideal. As such, it's image springs from the fountainhead of the artist's imagination and presumably bears no resemblance to any single individual. In contrast, the Augustus statue is most definitely intended to be modeled from and to represent the Augustus Caesar. Yet the duplication is intentional, for the sculptures are meant to capture the inner character (ethos) of the subjects rather than a emotional state (pathos). Both bear almost identical controlled calm expressions with sharply defined air brow and nose. The statue of Augustus is meant to portray its subject as the ideal man of his time; small wonder that it should model itself upon the ideal male figure of the Greeks. Greek statues were used for three main purposes: to portray deities (which represented ideals themselves), to represent the dead as grave monuments, or to cater to commissions for architectural or temple projects. Mythological representations represented mental ideals and natural subjects captured athletic ideals; Greek sculptures were never intended to portray reality. The Augustus of Primaporta was meant to portray the perfection of Augustus. The arm raised in oratorical fashion was a pre-requisite skill for any Roman politician; the cuirass (breastplate) indicates the subjects military command. The cupid is in direct reference to Augustus claim to trace his lineage back to Aeneas, while the scene on the cuirass indicates both Rome's political dominance and divine preference. Thus does Augustus portray himself as strictly adhering to Roman values and traditions to solidify his position in the popular opinion. The Doryphoros attempts to capture a particular essence of humans. The Augustus of Primaporta, conversely, has a political agenda. Augustus Caesar had been seeking to distance himself from his

Business Ethics of WorldCom Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Business Ethics of WorldCom - Essay Example The company was declared bankrupt due to the wrong ways that were used to handle the accounts of the company. As earlier stated, when WorldCom was declared bankrupt, the company officials at the time worked nervously to restate the financial status of the company and to reorganize its operations. This shows the extent to which the company had lost a lot due to unethical accounting. The relevance of business ethics in the case Ethical behaviors are considered the important characteristics that are needed by effective leaders. In the case study, WorldCom received destruction that occurred when the corporation was not in the situation to behave ethically. This was mainly for those who were involved in accounting in the company. Ethics in the case also is relevant as it shows the outcomes that were obtained when there was no holding of ethical standards. The fall out that was experienced in WorldCom was important. The competitors learned from the fallout and they were able to improve the ir operation and consider ethical standards in operations. Impact of the ethical problem The fraud that led to the bankruptcy of WorldCom affected the behavior and the lives of individuals and the community that the industry operated. Some individuals who were permanently affected by the fraud were Cynthia Cooper. She participated in uncovering the fraud and this made her win several awards. The fraud that also led to the fallout of the company gave the advantage to the competitors of the company such as Verizon.

Research current regulations concerning head injuries Essay

Research current regulations concerning head injuries - Essay Example The football associations are holding discussions to allow players to be putting on helmets during the game. The regulation concerning the helmet prohibits an opponent from holding a players helmet and pulling the head around. This rule is meant to protect the players from neck injuries and possible impairment. Another rule concerning the head injury is the rule that prohibits an opponent player blind block on a challenger’s head. The head is a delicate part of the body hence the rule that protects the receiver of the ball from being tackled by the head. The tackle to the head may be head to head, hand to head incident, or foot to head incident. All these tackles result in head injuries and sometimes lead to concussions. Head injuries may lead to concussions or damages to the brain and even deaths. The regulations governing head injuries in football are being developed because of the consequences of the injuries (Nelson, 354-401). Players who get head injuries suffer at a later date from dementia, short term memory, and brain diseases. Another rule governing the head injury requires a player who shows signs of concussion like dizziness to remain out of the field that day. After a concussion, there are regulations which are followed before a player is allowed to play again. A player who is unconscious must be evaluated by the doctor before he is allowed back to the field. The players are kept off the field until they show no symptoms of concussion. In addition to that the regulations require an independent neurologist to examine the player instead of the team doctor. The regulations also require that a player who has suffered concussion cannot return to the field until after one day. The rules also require all the players to have a full awareness of the severity of concussions. The rules do not prescribe the maximum number of concussions, but that depends on the coach and player. Every

Horror Film and Halloween Essay Example for Free

Horror Film and Halloween Essay Halloween is the one time of year when it okay to dress up as anything you want to be and it’s also when you can be celebrating all things horror and dead. Halloween started out as the celebration of the dead but has now grown into a wonderful time of costumes and decoration of scary fictional creatures. Dressing up as a scary character or a character you adore is one of the many perks of Halloween. Going to costume parties with friends and celebrating Halloween together. Watching horror movies and television specials about Halloween is exciting and it feels like more the holiday mood. Halloween is a celebration of the horror genre, dressing up and enjoying this holiday with people. Costumes are very important when it comes to celebrating Halloween. Children enjoy going out on Halloween and trick-or-treating with their costumes to celebrate (Halloween). For an older and mature get together some adults enjoy going to costume parties with their peers. In the olden days it was typical for costumes to be scary but nowadays people tend to dress up as their favourite pop star or a favourite character from a movie. Costumes are enjoyed by many people to be something scary or someone they admire. Going to a party or throwing a party is always expected to done during Halloween. This holiday celebration is enjoyed by everyone in certain countries. Many people attend a Halloween party to enjoy the costume their friends are wearing. The snacks and drinks are shaped and decorated as creepy creatures for the effects of Halloween. Even the music is themed to make the effects to feel realistic. People are attracted to Halloween and going to parties and enjoying it with friends is one of the many perks of this holiday. Enjoying the Halloween and getting into the spirit of this holiday makes it more enjoyable. The Halloween episode of a favourite T.V. shows really adds effects to the enjoyment of the season. This celebration is mostly about the mood of being scared and watching a lot of horror movies. The media has a huge influence on Halloween from movies, television specials and even themed music. Halloween is celebrated widely in certain countries. Halloween is a wonderful and exciting celebration made up by traditions and is enjoyed in certain countries. People enjoy dressing up as a favourite fictional character or someone real like a favourite role model. Going to parties and enjoying your costumes and celebrating this holiday with your friends. Most media like T.V shows will often make special episode for Halloween. People are attracted to Halloween because it is a unique Holiday that celebrates the dead.

The Branding Luxury Brand Valentino Marketing Essay

The Branding Luxury Brand Valentino Marketing Essay A luxury brand or prestige brand is a brand for which a majority of its products are luxury goods. It may also include certain brands whose names are associated with luxury, high price, or high quality, though few, if any, of their goods are currently considered luxury goods. Luxury goods are said to have high income elasticity of demand: as people become wealthier, they will buy more and more of the luxury good. This also means, however, that should there be a decline in income its demand will drop. Income elasticity of demand is not constant with respect to income, and may change sign at different levels of income. That is to say, a luxury good may become a normal good or even an inferior good at different income levels, e.g. a wealthy person stops buying increasing numbers of luxury cars for his automobile collection to start collecting airplanes (at such an income level, the luxury car would become an inferior good). Valentino: haute contour dressing: The Valentino Fashion Group S.p.A is a natural extension of the Marzotto Groups industrial experience. Over the years, through specific acquisitions aimed to strengthen their presence in the clothing sector, it has gradually shifted approaches, becoming less production-oriented and more fashion-driven and market-oriented. The fashion industry is a highly competitive industry, where product life cycles are short. The economies gained by product differentiation are built on brand image and product styling can be quickly imitated. These developments force firms to innovate at a rapid pace, denying them the benefit of lasting advantage. Valentino includes the following brands: Valentino, Valentino Garavani, Valentino Roma e RED Valentino. It operates in the upper end of the fashion and luxury market, offering exclusive products in the couture, ready-to-wear, designer, diffusion and bridge segments. Nature of the Brand: This business unit gets its name from Valentino Garavani, the undisputed master of haute couture and one of the leading representatives of Italian style and creativity in the world of fashion and luxury. In over 45 years of being in business, his collections have dressed and accessorised top international celebrities time and time again. Its image of glamour, exclusivity and strong style make Valentino a brand well known for the sophistication and elegance of its creations. Valentino Haute Couture offers a variety of collections made up of unique items singularly handcrafted in the prestigious atelier situated in Rome. A team of about 40 Premiere is entirely dedicated to the highest quality manufacturing of one of a kind precious creation. Valentino Prà ªt-à  -Porter presents sophisticated, exclusive lines for women and men intended for an elegant, but unconventional young clientele belonging to the new international jet-set. Valentino surprised everyone with a revamped vision of haute couture a reference to a new, younger target market who loves the exquisiteness and exclusiveness of the upper end of fashion. The collection is colourful, with saturated neon tones. Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli bring us the wilder side of the Valentino woman. With fluorescent bustier, translucent garments and tulle leggings, this is a truly revamped collection that experiments with new silhouettes. The designers are sure about one thing: this collection is designed for a younger audience. The brand took inspiration from a lush, colourful interpretation of Eden full of birds, innocence and sensuality. Target Market: Valentino have made their Spring Summer 2010 campaign a tribute to their revamped target market. Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli are thinking of a new generation of clients, and theyve revamped their target market in collaboration with Cole Mohr and Dree Hemingway. Their party dresses look more youthful, and their unique fairies have inspired new designs featuring organza in gold, pink and nude tones. Brand Positioning: The Valentino Fashion Group S.p.A plays a vital role in the world of fashion and luxury, with a rich and well-diversified portfolio of products which includes clothing, accessories, and footwear for men and women. In the highly discriminating world of fashion and luxury, few players have gained the international fame the Valentino Fashion Group S.p.A has achieved. The Valentino Fashion Group S.p.A offers an array of complementary brands characterised by a consolidated global presence, excellent brand awareness, and strong product recognition. The groups activities are broken down into two business units, covering the entire luxury and fashion sector where a wide range of styles and products are offered: Valentino, featuring the prestigious brands Valentino, Valentino Garavani, Valentino Roma and RED Valentino Licensed brands MCS Marlboro Classics and M Missoni, in addition to its own brands Lebole, Oxon and Portrait. Until 23 December 2009 there were three business units, which even included Hugo Boss, a company which was relinquished on that date and therefore no longer a part of the consolidated group. The Valentino Fashion Group S.p.A operates in over 110 countries, with more than 1,600 single-brand boutiques and 433 directly-managed shops. The Groups consolidated revenue for the 2008 financial year is approximately 2.206,9 million. More than 13.081 employees work in directly controlled companies and branches spread across 28 countries. Its no secret that Valentino has been sending the costume department of Gossip Girl clothes and accessories almost every main female character on the show, save maybe Vanessa and Lily van der Woodsen, have sported Valentino bags, dresses, and even headbands more than once.   One recent episode even revolves around Jenny and a fiasco involving a one-of-a-kind red Valentino gown.   At first, I thought product placement there was too much of the brand for it not to be a coincidence.   But is the Gossip Girl market really Valentinos target market?   Apparently it is now: the brand is going for rapid expansion and one if their main checkpoint is To attract a younger, trendier consumer while not losing the brands current clientele.   And there you have it, product placement at work. C:UsersmansiPicturesVFG_organigramma_201002_eng.jpg Brand Promise: Todays fashion world is a framework, which enhances values such as style and research, creativity and innovation, technology and craftsmanship. Its distinctive feature is the skill to merge many spirits into a harmonious balance. The real protagonists in this global scene are those who offer proposals charged with irresistible value and designed to integrate an extensive variety of products and trademarks by converging the offers quality and variety and consumer satisfaction. The goal is: To be the fashion worlds protagonists in the fashion and luxury sectors. Ensuring the highest quality standards in all market segments we serve. Steadily focusing on the demands of an unwaveringly evolving cosmopolite consumer. Pursue excellence and innovation by establishing an on-going dialogue between passion and experience. Brand Essence: Increasing the value of human resources, work in team and development of individual skills are the key for the VFG success. People that we are looking for should be active and determined, with spirit of enterprise and innovative capacity; they put themselves on the line and give all their best in everything they do. Creativity and quality the central factors of creative processes detailed research and skilled choice of materials; total control of all processing phases Differentiation and selection multiple styles; an extensive diversified offer Flexibility and efficiency excellent production processes and logistics; sourcing management designed to ensure the highest product quality Continuity and innovation enhancement of each brands distinctive features; application of advanced techniques to the management of global brands; consistent strategic choices for global development Ethics integrity, fairness and transparency in business relations with all stakeholders; total compliance with international laws and regulations concerning labour protection The consumers central role never failing to keep in mind that we concretise our Consumers dreams. Research and Evidence: Article # 1435: VALENTINO FASHION GROUP 2008 RESULTS: TURNOVER UP 5% AT CONSTANT EXCHANGE RATES AND EBITDA STABLE Milan, April 17th 2009 Valentino Fashion Groups consolidated net turnover in 2008 rose to 2.206,9 million Euro, an increase of 3% at current exchange rates and 5% at constant exchange rates, compared to 2007. This result reflects the positive performance of Hugo Boss (turnover up 6% at constant exchange rates), of Valentino (turnover up 5% at constant exchange rates) and of the other brands belonging to the Group (turnover up 5% at constant exchange rates, with the M Missoni licensed brand posting an increase of 27%). Hugo Boss. Despite very difficult market conditions, Hugo Boss strengthened its market leading position internationally. Hugo Boss broadly flat revenues in a subdued German market were counterbalanced by sales increase in other markets. Sales in Germany were 357 million Euro (down 1%), while sales in the Americas and in Asia enjoyed double digit increases: in 2008 sales in the Americas increased to 307 million Euro (+10% at constant exchange rates) while in Asia/Pacific sales rose to 162 million Euro (+25% at constant exchange rates). Valentino. The considerable growth of Valentino in the first half of the year was offset by the negative performance of the retail business in the second half of the year, following the gradual worsening of the international macroeconomic environment. Valentinos core markets, Europe and the US, both suffered, posting respective turnovers of 130 million Euro (-1%) and 50 million Euro (-5% at constant exchange rates). By contrast, the Asian markets held up well as sales increased to 56 million Euro (+19% at constant exchange rates). Revenues at Valentino Fashion Groups direct operated stores channel increased to 390 million Euro, up 7% compared to 2007. This increase reflects the expansion of the retail network, which amounted to 433 points of sale at the end of 2008 (December 2007: 369). Valentino Fashion Group EBITDA, adjusted for one-off costs relating to management changes at the Board of Hugo Boss and the reorganization of the Group, reached 320,4 million Euro (14,5% on revenues), broadly stable compared to the prior year (330,3 million Euro), with an Operating Income of 248,3 million Euro (11,3% on revenues), a decrease of 7% compared to 2007. Stefano Sassy, CEO of Valentino Fashion Group, commented: The group posted solid turnover growth and succeeded in maintaining its profitability despite challenging market conditions in 2008. The outlook for 2009 remains difficult and the Group acted quickly to optimize processes and save costs where necessary. Notwithstanding the uncertainty of the current environment, we are confident that the breadth and strength of our brands leaves us well positioned to deliver on our ambitious growth objectives in the medium term. February 17 2010 Valentino supports Francesca Rava N.P.H. Italia Onlus Foundation for Haiti children Milan, 17th February 2010 During Milan and Paris fashion weeks, the House of Valentino will support an initiative of great significance and value to benefit Haiti children. In collaboration with Francesca Rava N.P.H Italia Onlus Foundation (www.nphitalia.org), forever engaged in continuous charitable activity throughout Haiti, Valentino boutiques of Via Montenapoleone and Avenue Montaigne will host an exclusive evening starting from 6:30 pm: Milan on 24th February and Paris on 10th March. Valentino Creative Directors Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli, profoundly involved in this important project, will personally take part to both events to present an exclusive t-shirt expressly created by them to support the initiative. This significant item will be available in both boutiques throughout Milan and Paris fashion weeks respectively. All t-shirt profits will be entirely donated to Francesca Rava Foundation, which during the Paris event will collaborate with N.P.H. France, to support focused rehabilitation and medical-surgical programs. Day to day beneficial mission involves working towards providing a physically and emotionally new alternative life to all children affected by Haiti earthquake. This special t-shirt will also be available on valentino.com website starting from March 15th. All proceeds will once again be devolved to sustain this significant charitable project. During Milan and Paris fashion weeks, the House of Valentino will continue to actively support the same initiative by devolving part of Montenapoleone and Montaigne boutique in store sales. In collaboration with photographer Stefano Guindani, the book HAITI through the eye of stefano guindani will be available for purchase in Valentino Milan and Paris boutiques. This unique volume, published by Electa, is the pure result of an extensive and in depth photo reportage from Stefano Guindani. Entirely dedicated to Haiti children and withholding images featuring voyages performed prior to the tragic earthquake, this book has recently highlighted many endless dramatic events linked to a country devastated by poverty and civil battles. All book profits will be entirely donated to Francesca Rava N.P.H Italia Onlus Foundation. The House of Valentino dedicates total commitment towards this important philanthropic operation, triggering awareness around the internationally proclaimed immense emergency for Haiti children.