I Strongly Believe Training At The Institute Of Human...

My life’s goal is to become a successful scientist in an academic center with a thriving research community devoted to understanding molecular mechanisms behind human disease and establishing a foundation to develop therapeutic innovations. I strongly believe training at the Institute of Human Nutrition program and Dr. Liza Pon’s laboratory at Columbia University will help me achieve this goal. My decision to attend Columbia University was based on its mission to engage students in innovative research to advance the knowledge of science. This prestigious institution creates a collaborative research community and provides endless resources to its researchers to advance their research projects. Columbia University has many core facilities with state-of–the-art technology and scientific expertise in areas from proteomics to confocal and specialized microscopy. In addition, Columbia University has its own genome center, JP Sulzeberge Columbia Genome Center, to provi de RNA/DNA sequencing and analysis services to graduate students to fuel their research curiosity. Most importantly, Columbia University provides a special and unique opportunity for Ph.D. students to experience the clinical world by participating in the Med into Grad program, where students shadow clinicians during their rounds. This opportunity bridges the gap between basic research and the clinic, which is pivotal for future scientist in the biomedical research. Columbia University maintains curiosity and

Self Reflection on Wellness Promotion - 1761 Words

Introduction Everyone expects a high quality life, while the definition of â€Å"high-quality† among different individuals varies. A more general definition might be to achieve â€Å"Wellness†. The concept of â€Å"Wellness† is stated as a life-long process that at any given time produces a positive state of personal well-being, of feeling good about oneself, of optimal physical, psychological, and social functioning, and the control and minimization of internal and external risk factors for both diseases and negative health conditions (Anspaugh, Hamrick, Rosato, 2006). To be more specific, wellness should be achieved in fulfilling 7 aspects: Physical, Spiritual, Intellectual, Occupational, Environmental, Social and Emotional. Stress Control†¦show more content†¦When I am under stressed situation, it is easy for me to review the previous defeated experiences, such as being hurt, disappointed, loses, and embarrassed. Such bad experiences make me more tensed and lead to another failure. The author encourages people to conduct â€Å"self-talk†. Each time when I feel tense, I could try to say some supporting words to myself (e.g. I can do it, I have learned and improved from last failure), try not to think about the poor experiences and negative wordings to discourage myself, hence to reduce the high pressure in facing different situations. Self acceptance Believing ourselves is also necessary since it can build up self confidence. It is undeniably we need others’ appreciation and confirmation; however we cannot rely on it. We should not just do the things appreciated by others and ask for their acceptance, it is impossible to be accepted by everyone in real situation. We should trust ourselves and our own values sometimes, yet if we being criticized, it is also needed to review our performance, admit and correct the fault if we really make it. We should gain experiences from each failure and fault as to be improved in the future. Also, we should discover our strengths since it can give us confidence about ourselves and let us show better performance. Having enough self confidence could reduce the stress when facing unfamiliar situations; it is no doubt that preparation can also lower the stress too. Supportive mottoShow MoreRelatedMy Experience That I Influenced My Patient896 Words   |  4 Pagesphysical activity. I was surprised that he was very receptive of my questioning about wellness side of his health. After advocating wellness into his lifestyle, he understood the benefit of freedom from incapacity due to obesity and co-morbidities. 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Personal definitionRead MoreCommunity Health Nursing Reflection Essay948 Words   |  4 PagesCommunity Health Nursing Reflection NUR/405 2012 Diane Schlicke RN MSN Community Health Nursing Reflection The role of the community health nurse in the participating family’s community is to focus on the health needs of the aggregate or group. Community health nursing refers to a systematic, comprehensive focus on wellness, health protection, and disease, and injury prevention for the population residing in a specific area. The nurse functions as advocate, case manager, consultant, healthRead MorePurpose. The Purpose Of The Study Is To Have An Understanding1289 Words   |  6 Pagesmanagement problems than non-Hispanic White Youth. It also provides an insight on how assessment of participation and weight management strategies promote greater engagement in healthy weight management and guide program development in wellness and health promotion for immigrants and refugees. Some research questions that protrude in this study are whether limiting access to healthy food choices and few opportunities for exercise affect’s one’s occupational performance and occupational ch oices whichRead MoreThe Perception Of The Nursing Profession944 Words   |  4 Pagesrequires special education, training, or skill† or â€Å"a calling requiring specialized knowledge and often long and intensive academic preparation.† Respectively, the American Nurses Association (2010c) currently defines nursing as â€Å"the protection, promotion, and optimization of health and abilities, prevention of illness and injury, alleviation of suffering through the diagnosis and treatment of human response, and advocacy in the care of individuals, families, communities, and populations† (p.10).Read MoreProfessional Competencies : Knowledge From The Foundational Sciences978 Words   |  4 Pagespatient healthcare needs using human, financial, technological, and physical resources to optimize the safety and efficacy of medication use systems. 2.3 Health and wellness (Promoter) – Design prevention, intervention, and educational strategies for individuals and communities to manage chronic disease and improve health and wellness. 2.4 Population-based care (Provider) – Describe how population-based care influences patient-centered care and influences the development of practice guidelines andRead MoreCritique Of Peplaus Interpersonal Relations In Nursing Theory1274 Words   |  6 PagesPeplau’s theory (Peplau, 1991). After a theory is described, Chinn and Kramer (2011) report that it is important to critically reflect on how well the theory relates to practice, research, or educational activities. The questions for critical reflection relate to the complexity, generality, accessibility, and importance of the theory. The level of clarity for Peplau’s theory was adequate for the theory’s purpose with clear definitions of concepts that were explicitly and implicitly congruent,Read MoreCultural Awareness And Delivery Of Appropriate Care1392 Words   |  6 Pagesacknowledge the relationship between cultural awareness and delivery of appropriate care. The first step in creating cultural awareness may begin by the health care provider assessing their own cultural heritage, and it’s views on health and wellness. Reflection on one’s cultural heritage requires knowledge and understanding of the concept of cultural heritage itself. When assessing my cultural heritage, I first examined the factors that are identified as contributors to one’s heritage. AccordingRead MoreCultural Awareness And Delivery Of Appropriate Care1388 Words   |  6 Pagesacknowledge the relationship between cultural awareness and delivery of appropriate care. The first step in creating cultural awareness may begin by the health care provider assessing their own cultural heritage, and it’s views on health and wellness. Reflection on one’s cultural heritage requires knowledge and understanding of the concept of cultural heritage itself. When assessing my cultural heritage, I first examined the factors that are identified as contributors to one’s heritage. According theRead MoreMid Range Nursing Theory813 Words   |  3 Pagesresearch about specific phenomenon. Mid-range theories provide guidance for everyday practice and scholarly research rooted in the discipline of nursing and are a reflection of nursings ability to grow and change with the needs of different populations (Liehr Smith 2008: xvii). For example, Nola Penders Mid-Range Health Promotion Model was developed in conjunction with her work with adolescent girls and women to encourage them to model more healthy behaviors, such as exercise and weight control

Greek Sculpture free essay sample

A study of the history of classical Greek sculpture. The Greeks honored the gods through sculptures. This paper examines the triumphs and advances of Classical Greek sculpture during the different periods in Greek history. Outline Introduction to Classical Greek Sculpture in Historical Perspective Transition from Archaic Period to Early Classical (ca. 480 BCE) favoring Contrapposto over Koroi. High Classical Period (450-430 BCE) Symbolized by Athenian Acropolis. Late Classical Period (430-323 BCE), between Peloponnesian War and the Death of Alexander the Great, Conclusion: Hellenism Marked by Influence of Alexander the Greats Travels. Rigid kouroi and kourai softened into the marble marvels of the works of Phidias and Polycletius. The pursuit of perfection was itself honed like the artists bronze and stone palettes as larger-than-life statues graced majestic monuments and temples. Increasingly realistic bodies, viewable from all possible angles, epitomize Classical Greek sculpture. The Archaic period preceding it demonstrated the Greek values of perfection and symmetry; these qualities were held under scrutiny during the following centuries. We will write a custom essay sample on Greek Sculpture or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Close scrutiny of the human form in action and as a stationary body yielded tremendous improvements in the effectiveness and accessibility of sculpture during the Classical Age of Greece.

Public relations and sales promotion

Introduction Sales promotion is a type of product marketing strategy aimed at boosting sales through attracting traffic, introducing a new product and influencing the purchase of a product. Public relations serve to enhance the image of the company to the public i.e., the community.Advertising We will write a custom assessment sample on Public relations and sales promotion specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The objective of this assignment is to investigate how different industries incorporate public relations and sales promotion into their activities (Tench Yeomans 2009, p. 645). It is meant to investigate and analyze how best PR and sales promotion can be integrated into a business strategy so as to achieve maximum results and also to show how PR can be used to solve a mistake that can harm a company. This report chose the publishing industry under the women’s tabloid magazine, as it pertains to media marketing which is a very big player in recording huge sales. The publishing industry is really broad and rakes in billions of dollars every year (Wilcox 2003, p. 421). The publishing industry incorporates a lot of companies ranging from those that deal with books, journals, newspapers, business media and magazines. The industry started off majorly as a printing firm but due to its rapid growth and change, digital media is now inevitably an effective way of passing across the message efficiently to the readers. Executive summary The chosen industry also effectively relies and incorporates sales promotion and PR into its day to day activities. This industry generates a huge turnover of over  £10.1 billion GVA (Gross Value Added). This makes it one of the biggest earners in the media industry in UK specifically.Advertising Looking for assessment on communications media? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More It has a very big workforce since in the UK i t employs more than 190,000 people, which translates to 36% of the media field personnel. It deals with consumer sales promotion, and its strategies are aimed at maximizing immediate and long term sales. The publishing industry is very competitive. On the side of PR, due to its reliance on image, the publishing sector puts a lot of emphasis on representation so as to maintain its relationship with the community and its customers as a whole. The report decided to specifically narrow down to two particular magazines – Marie Claire and Woman and Home, as they are among the leading women tabloid magazines and also due to the fact that they produce monthly copies. This is also because they heavily rely on strategic sales promotion and PR techniques consequently providing an effective platform for evaluation. According to Mintel, the UK media industry is growing and projects its sales to be in billions, due to the fact that it is now stable after experiencing a challenging year in 2008. Factors that led to its stability are attributed to sales promotion. This factor is applicable worldwide. This information forms a basis for an investigation on the two women’s magazines. It will present findings from media information about the publishing industry especially those pertaining to the two chosen magazines. It will also go through a number of the magazine issues so as to specifically pick out sales promotion articles and strategies as well as any information related to PR that is useful to the company.Advertising We will write a custom assessment sample on Public relations and sales promotion specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More It will analyze them based on the regularity of the chosen strategy, the target audience which covers the customers, the potential customers and the community and also PR and its impact. Marie Claire This is a worldwide women’s magazine sold in countries such as Australia, U K and the United States. It covers topics ranging from fashion, hair and beauty, love as well as sex. It is translated in different languages depending on the language of its target audience. It is published by Groupe Marie Claire which is based in Australia. Women and Home It is a worldwide monthly publication magazine. It targets women over the age of 35, and is one of the fastest growing magazines. It focuses on women’s lifestyles especially pertaining to their work and how they live. It also covers hair and beauty, fashion, recipes.Advertising Looking for assessment on communications media? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Methodology Copies of these magazines have been bought and researched on. Digital information from the company’s internet sites have also been accessed as most magazines have adapted the digital platform. The main aim of this research is to find out how the magazines have adapted sales promotion and PR in their strategy of increasing sales. This will be achieved through analyzing the articles and deducing the reasons why a particular selected sales strategy was used more than the other and what made it more effective. The frequency, occurrence and constant use of one sale and PR strategy over the other was also analyzed and researched upon. The research also covered the different strategies used as per the different occasions such as Valentines etc. Analysis Similarities Both companies basically used the same tactics for sales promotion and some were dwelt on more than others due to their pros and cons and eventual results as far as participation, reach and boosting of sales was concerned. Most strategies were aimed at pulling new readers, by enticing them to have an experience of reading the product. The various strategies used were aimed at targeting the different target groups. New readers They tried to draw new or potential readers by offering cuts in terms of discounts and favorable terms so as to encourage them to get copies. This was evident in both scenarios as both magazines had very appealing offers targeted for new subscribers. The magazines had special offers, coupons and free samples inside. These goods were highlighted at the cover page so as to make a person want to get the issue. These were things like sample fragrances, coupons to selected stores and even price cuts for various goods with a copy of a selected section of the issue and also inserts containing interesting information. This is effective as it encourages other non-buyers to buy it. They also use cause related strategies to encourage the community to buy it, with an aim of gi ving to charity but at the same time boosting their sales and even in some cases ending up in getting lifetime customers due to the first positive results of reading the article. They also use competitions to make potential clients to want to participate in them. Those who buy the copies which eventually lead to increased sales, offer the promise of potential future readers. Customers They both have special conditions that are meant to favor their frequent readers. These sales promotion strategies are meant to appreciate their clients while at the same time giving them a sense of loyalty and also making them to want to keep on buying the product (Gregory 2000, p. 142). These include special competitions specifically for their frequent buyers or subscribers, in which, only the frequent buyers are eligible to enter. This is a strong sales strategy as it creates a sense of loyalty from the readers. Special rates to their subscribed customers also encourage the customers as the benefits they derive from membership is more than that of a non-member. This can also be achieved in the form of their regular newsletter to customers informing them of things like new trends, what to expect and special discounts way in advance. They also issue copies as soon as they arrive, to the customers making them the first ones to get a copy. They use coupons, free samples, gifts and other products on the cover so as to make their regular clients buy the product. Charity causes are also used to encourage their customers to get copies through raising awareness and encouraging them to get copies and also out of the need to help those in need. They also give special prices to their readers so as to motivate and maintain them. Bar graph showing the percentage increase in the rate of purchasing the magazine. Public relations They both use public relations to portray and maintain a good public image both to their readers and community. These companies both take part in charity events. The y host and support various charities from all over the world and take part in the publicity of charity events worldwide by covering the events through articles thereby, aiding in getting the word out. They give donations which go towards supporting various charity organizations and the needy. PR is used in both cases to portray the company’s image positively. This applies to situations like sponsoring of community events. This act of giving back to the community is part of the company’s social responsibility, hence, maintaining its image (Smith 2003, p. 275). When an unpleasant situation occurs, the PR department is responsible for handling the issue and cleaning or repairing its image, as seen in the Marie Claire’s situation. They both have a public relations department which is fully staffed with professional employees who are endowed with the task of making sure that the link between the company and community is good. Types of promotions A variety of promotio ns were used depending on the period and intention of the company. The strategies were broad and diverse and were chosen, basing on how effective they would be with the sole intention of increasing sales. Special sales promotion This year, most promotions were strategically geared towards Valentine’s Day. They were set in such a way that they would promote the valentine mood, hence, an increase of sales. In Marie Claire, there was the Valentine’s Day sensation contest which was a writing competition whose winner was to be awarded a voucher for a couples massage at a lucrative spa. Its value was estimated at $500. Women and Home also had special offers during the same period. These methods were effective because they took advantage of the periods and encouraged the readers to participate, consequently, increasing sales. Price promotions Both magazines put forward special offers as a way of a sales promotion strategy aimed at boosting sales by enticing the readers to pur chase their products. This technique is effective as it makes the potential clients to take part in the process of purchasing due to the advantage of the deal accordingly, maximizing the company’s profits. It makes an individual purchase an item he/she had not intended to, hence, boosting sales. This included free gifts. In Marie Claire magazine, there is an offer of an 88% cut in costs for subscriptions for up to two whole years, in which you get the issues for two years for just $10 which is the same as getting 21 issues free of charge In Women and Home, this is achieved through targeting new subscribers and is done through giving out discounts, double competition entries each time the new subscriber participates in any competition, free prior delivery of issues and avoidance of price increases among other benefits. In the March issue of Women and Home there is a 20% discount on fashion and beauty products, hence, pulling the consumers and encouraging them to buy the produc t. Cause related promotions This kind of promotion is used in instances of a just cause aimed at going towards charity. The aim is to increase sales while at the same time giving back to the community. This is evident through Marie Claries’ shop for charity where, a certain amount of money from all the products is set aside for charity when purchases are made. In some cases, all the money goes to charity like in the case of the jewelry in their store in which 100% of the purchase price goes to help a charity in Malawi. It also has other items which goes to those in need like survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence victims etc. Competitions Some of the sales promotion competitions in Marie Claire include: Marie Claire’s 2000th issue giveaway, which was for readers to send an SMS of the number of the gift they wanted to win. In Women and Home there was the short essay writing competition, where the readers took part in an essay competition, and stood a chance to win the grand prize and get exposure. These competitions are meant to draw the customers to the magazine, consequently increasing sales. A common angle of criticism of this strategy is that though it is an effective way of sales promotion, it does not cater for all the readers due to the fact that not all of them can meet the conditions of the competition. The Women and Homes’ short story essay where the readers are supposed to write a short story before winning and the Marie Claire’s Valentine’s Day sensation contest favor the customers who can write well over the others, hence, it is only effective to a portion of the customers. Public Relations PR is also a very effective way of increasing sales through maintaining a link in the form of a positive mutual relationship between the organization and the public. Good PR means increased sales as the public will want to associate with the products of the company while bad PR implies the opposite. PR can be maintaine d or enhanced through charity. Charity basically entails helping the community (Seitel 1992, p. 591). Through this act, the company fulfills its social corporate responsibility while at the same time the company’s image is portrayed positively, which may go a long way in creating a favorable image in the prospective clients mind. PR can either be used to make the company’s image or in some instances to repair the companies bad image in case of a mistake which can damage the company’s image. These two companies have played a big role as far as charitable events are concerned. In the case of Maria Claire, there was the 2003 charity initiative where it gave out 30 pence of every issue sold in June to be shared between four charity organizations. All that the community members had to do to support this initiative was to purchase a copy. This prompted increased sales with even other big companies offering their support. It has also set up a shop for the charity secti on where selected goods in the shop are sold and a certain specified percentage goes out to aid various causes such as the needy from all over the globe such as victims of sexual assault, domestic violence etc. It has also organized various charity donations through social media sites such as Facebook, where people were encouraged to donate through their Facebook page. They have also organized a fashion for charity campaign where various clothing accessories were bought to aid children with HIV/AIDS. It also publishes articles to warn the community as a whole concerning scams and poorly run charities with an aim of protecting the public. This is done so as to encourage the people who are ready to give to charity but are not sure or are insecure or in doubt of whether their money will go to the right place. It also publishes articles to highlight or inform on good and recommended charity organizations. This was the case in the breast cancer charity scam article which focused on organ izations that are not transparent when it came to their finances and credibility. The Women and Home magazine also publishes articles aimed at supporting charity organizations for example the fashion for charity event that was organized by Naomi Campbell, which was aimed at helping the people of Haiti. Marie Claire magazine also used PR to maintain a situation that would have damaged the image of the company. This was when the readers responded negatively to a comment from one of its employees against plus-sized people. The company published articles aimed at correcting the issue and also to maintain the company’s image so as not to lose its customers. Conclusion The publishing industry uses a mix of sales promotion strategies and public relation to attract and maintain their customers. The use of both push and pull strategies are evident in their strategies so as to reach out to their customers as well as to the potential customers. The adoption of this technique depends on the need and they have been used on the grounds of which ones are more effective. Key factors that stand out are: The main strategies that are regular each and every month are the use of competitions and offers. These magazines constantly have competitions and offers in all their print copies and regularly in their digital sources. These two strategies play a very important factor in pulling numbers thereby, increasing sales. Special events and occasions are utilized effectively by these companies with an aim of boosting sales. February sales were very high due to the sales promotion techniques used which were able to influence sales. Competitions, prizes, special price reductions as well as gifts played a major role in influencing sales. Public relations is a vital component to any successful business since, if it is well utilized, it can lead to increased profits for a business (Smith 2004, p. 287). Its main task is to make sure that the company’s main image is maintained. Price promotions are the most important and prevalent sales strategy as they directly register in the company profits. Despite the fact that price promotions are so popular, they cannot be used all the time as there are factors like public relations that heavily influence it and its effect are felt more with its mix amid other strategies. Though price promotions are important components in sales promotion, they cannot stand on their own. References Gregory, A 2000, Planning and managing public relations campaigns, Kogan Page, London. Seitel, F. P 1992, The practice of public relations, Macmillan Pub. Co., New York. Smith, R. D 2003, Becoming a public relations writer instructor’s manual: a writing process workbook for the profession, Routledge, London. Smith, R. D 2004, Strategic planning for public relations, Routledge, London. Tench, R., Yeomans, L 2009, Exploring public relations, Pearson Education, New Jersey. Wilcox, D 2003, Public relations: strategies and tactics, All yn Bacon, Boston. This assessment on Public relations and sales promotion was written and submitted by user Chad D. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Paraguay Geography

Paraguay Geography Population: 6,375,830 (July 2010 estimate)Capital: AsuncionBordering Countries: Argentina, Bolivia, and BrazilLand Area: 157,047 square miles (406,752 sq km)Highest Point: Cerro Pero at 2,762 feet (842 m)Lowest Point: Junction of the Rio Paraguay and the Rio Parana at 150 feet (46 m)Paraguay is a large landlocked country located on the Rio Paraguay in South America. It is bordered to the south and southwest by Argentina, to the east and northeast by Brazil and to the northwest by Bolivia. Paraguay is also located in the center of South America and as such, it is sometimes called the Corazon de America or Heart of America. History of Paraguay The earliest inhabitants of Paraguay were semi-nomadic tribes that spoke Guarani. In 1537, Asuncion, Paraguays capital today, was founded by Juan de Salazar, a Spanish explorer. Shortly thereafter, the area became a Spanish colonial province, of which Asuncion was the capital. In 1811 though, Paraguay overthrew the local Spanish government and declared its independence.After its independence, Paraguay went through a number of different leaders and from 1864 to 1870, it was engaged in the War of the Triple Alliance against Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil. During that war, Paraguay lost half of its population. Brazil then occupied Paraguay until 1874. Beginning in 1880, the Colorado Party controlled Paraguay until 1904. In that year, the Liberal Party took control and ruled until 1940.During the 1930s and 1940s, Paraguay was unstable due to the Chaco War with Bolivia and a period of instable dictatorships. In 1954, General Alfredo Stroessner took power and ruled Paraguay for 35 years, d uring which time the countrys people had few freedoms. In 1989, Stroessner was overthrown and General Andres Rodriguez took power. During his time in power, Rodriguez focused on political and economic reforms and built relationships with foreign nations.In 1992, Paraguay adopted a constitution with goals of maintaining a democratic government and protecting peoples rights. In 1993, Juan Carlos Wasmosy became Paraguays first civilian president in many years.The late 1990s and early 2000s were again dominated by political instability after attempted government overthrows, the assassination of the vice president and impeachments. In 2003, Nicanor Duarte Frutos was elected as president with goals of improving Paraguays economy, which he did significantly during his time in office. In 2008, Fernando Lugo was elected and his main goals, are reducing government corruption and economic inequalities. Government of Paraguay Paraguay, officially called the Republic of Paraguay, is considered a constitutional republic with an executive branch made up of a chief of state and head of government - both of which are filled by the president. Paraguays legislative branch has a bicameral National Congress consisting of the Chamber of Senators and the Chamber of Deputies. Members of both chambers are elected by popular vote. The judicial branch is comprised of the Supreme Court of Justice with judges appointed by the Council of Magistrates. Paraguay is also divided into 17 departments for local administration. Economics and Land Use in Paraguay Paraguays economy is a market one focused on the re-export of imported consumer goods. Street vendors and agriculture also play a large role and in the countrys rural areas the population often practices subsistence agriculture. Paraguays main agricultural products are cotton, sugarcane, soybeans, corn, wheat, tobacco, cassava, fruits, vegetables, beef, pork, eggs, milk, and timber. Its largest industries are sugar, cement, textiles, beverages, wood products, steel, metallurgic and electricity. Geography and Climate of Paraguay Paraguays topography consists of grassy plains and low wooded hills east of its main river, the Rio Paraguay, while the Chaco region west of the river consists of low marshy plains. Farther from the river the landscape is dominated by dry forests, scrub, and jungles in some locations. Eastern Paraguay, between the Rio Paraguay and the Rio Parana, features higher elevations and it is where most of the countrys population is clustered.The climate of Paraguay is considered subtropical to temperate depending upon ones location within the country. In the eastern area,  there is significant rainfall, while in the far west it is semi-arid. More Facts about Paraguay The official languages of Paraguay are Spanish and Guarani Life expectancy in Paraguay is 73 years for males and 78 years for females Paraguays population is almost entirely located in the southern part of the country There is no official data on Paraguays ethnic breakdown because the Department of Statistics, Surveys and Censuses does not ask questions about race and ethnicity in its surveysReferences Central Intelligence Agency. (27 May 2010). CIA - The World Factbook - Paraguay. Retrieved from: https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/pa.htmlInfoplease.com. (n.d.). Paraguay: History, Geography, Government, and Culture- Infoplease.com. Retrieved from: infoplease.com/ipa/A0107879.htmlUnited States Department of State. (26 March 2010). Paraguay. Retrieved from: state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/1841.htmWikipedia.com. (29 June 2010). Paraguay - Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paraguay

Job Recommendation Letter Sample for a Remote Worker

Job Recommendation Letter Sample for a Remote Worker SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips In our brave new world of ubiquitous internet, some employees work on a remote basis, communicating with teams via email and video chat. Whether they contribute as programmers, writers, or in another field, they might work from anywhere with a wifi connection. This letter represents this remote relationship with a clothing company manager writing for a freelance web designer. Even though the manager hasn't worked with the candidate on a day-to-day basis, he can still attest to the quality of her work, as well as touch on some of the personal characteristics that he has gotten to know. Read on to see how the remote manager weaves a strong reference for a web designer. Sample Letter #4: Written by a Remote Manager for a Freelance Worker Lucia GomezChief Operating OfficerSunStar, Inc.10 Solar RoadPortland, Oregon 97207 Dear Ms. Gomez, I’m very pleased to recommend Sara for the position of Web Designer with SunStar, Inc. Sara has worked with our clothing company, Oak Tree Co., on a freelance basis over the past several years. While I've communicated with Sara remotely via video chat and email, I’ve gotten to know her as a reliable employee with rock star web design skills. I have no doubt that she’ll continue to create outstanding work as a full-time web designer with your company. Sara began contributing to our E-commerce company over two years ago. She jumped in during a major push to rebrand and worked on design across the site. Sara elevated our company’s aesthetic by creating elegant designs across our pages. In fact, she redesigned our central logo, which we use across all our pages and email newsletters. She’s fluent in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and has experience with website builders, like Wordpress and Wix. Sara has an artistic eye and a keen sense of user experience. We owe a great deal of the appeal and ease of use of our new website to Sara's efforts. In addition to working on front end design, Sara also worked across our social media platforms. She helped shape our Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest pages and engage users with viral content. She was especially skilled with curating content on Instagram and Pinterest. Most recently, she put together a style story on one of our jewelry designers, a feature that's gotten over 2,000 shares. Between her strong sense of aesthetics and attention to detail, Sara was able to create a sleek visual experience that drew in customers and boosted sales. While Sara has been a great talent on our team, she seeks to work for a cause about which she’s passionate- environmental protection. She’s excited about SunStar’s mission to make solar energy affordable to the average consumer. We’ve had conversations about her commitment to a sustainable lifestyle and efforts to reduce her carbon footprint. I’m excited she’s found this opportunity to apply her expertise as a web designer to a cause that’s so close to her heart. Sara is a creative, detail-oriented, and savvy web designer with a passion for the solar and renewables industry. She’s great at working independently and can produce high-level work with little supervision. I have no doubt that she will make an excellent addition to the SunStar team. Please feel free to contact me with any questions. Thanks for your time. Sincerely, Arjun GopalInterface Design DirectorOak Tree Co.agopal@oaktree.com555-555-5555 Arjun's complimentary letter makes Sara sound like a stellar web designer who can wear many (metaphorical) hats. Recommendation Letter 4: The Breakdown Some managers don’t get to know an employee on a personal or day-to-day basis. They may not work closely with them or, in this case, conduct their business remotely via video chat and email. When it comes to industries like web development, design, and marketing, the work can often largely speak for itself. Sara likely shared a portfolio with her prospective employer, and her remote manager, Arjun, can further attest to her web design skills. Even though he didn’t work with Sara on a daily basis, Arjun can still speak to the personal strengths and interests he has gotten to know. For instance, he knows she’s reliable, artistic, detail-oriented, and able to produce high-quality work with a great deal of independence. He also discussed her commitment to environmentalism and sustainability, a passion that will appeal to her prospective employers at the solar energy company, SunStar. Arjun talked about Sara's contributions to Oak Tree and skills in web design and social media. His letter testifies to the quality of her work and her qualifications for Sunstar’s full-time Web Designer position. What's Next? Can't wait to read another sample letter of recommendation? We've got you covered! Check out this reference letter sample supporting an employee's internal promotion! Care to navigate back to the complete collection of sample recommendation letters, along with some pointers on how to make yours stand out? You can find our full guide on sample reference letters here. Want to provide a strong recommendation for your employee, but don't have the time to craft the perfect letter? PrepScholar's new recommendation tool, SimpleRec, takes you from good intentions and a blank page to a fully written and formatted letter of recommendation in under 5 minutes. All you need to do is give us some simple pieces of information about your employee and your experience working with them, and we'll do the rest. Try out SimpleRec risk-free today:

CURRENTS EVENT Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

CURRENTS EVENT - Essay Example The market domains are largely run by supply and demand dynamics which have a long lasting role on the economic angles (Beattie, 2012). Similarly, costs and benefits need to be understood as well as these remain pivotal towards gaining an understanding of the economic studies. Also the incentives are spoken of once the costs and benefits are already discussed and when rational expectations are formulized. Their examination is much required from an economic viewpoint. Profit sharing remains the key as far as the modern day economic realms are concerned as these give a better idea of how things shall be sequenced alongside one another. Putting it together in such a fashion that there is harmony of sorts is the way to achieve success in the long run scheme of things as far as the economic concepts is related. This will essentially underline the need to remain head-on with the economic entities which have come about with the passage of time and which shall receive attention from all and sundry within the economic

Financial Management (MBA) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Financial Management (MBA) - Essay Example The project's cost of equity stands at 13.08% and it is calculated by using the equation of CAPM. In this analysis the average beta is 1.48 and it shows that the project also bears some risk. Market risk premium is calculated by using the geometric average prices of the stock from 1973 to 2000. In the early part, the cash flow is slightly vulnerable because it recovers the initial cost outlay associated with the project, but later the project's net cash flow is in the positive zone which in the end makes a strong reflection on the NPV and the IRR of the project. Cost of capital stands at 10.44%, which is higher than the other project primarily due to the high debt financing which would leverage the firm's net income and also increases the costs associated with debt financing. The NPV of the project is $36,367,676 which is quite solid as far as the project valuation is concerned and the IRR provides a rate of return equivalent to 24.70% which is lower in comparison with the other project. It is reviewed that the project's cash flow stream is in positive zone throughout the period. The cash flow of the whole project's life increases gradually year by year because the profit overcomes all the cost associated with the project. The ultimate decision criteria would be to proceed with Front End Loader Project. ... iated with the project, but later the project's net cash flow is in the positive zone which in the end makes a strong reflection on the NPV and the IRR of the project. OUTBOARD MOTOR PROJECT The facts related with the Outboard Motor Project are disclosed below: Due to heavy debt financing of 70%, the project's cost of debt is high with a 4.82% which in the end makes an impression on the cost of the capital of the project. Cost of capital stands at 10.44%, which is higher than the other project primarily due to the high debt financing which would leverage the firm's net income and also increases the costs associated with debt financing. The NPV of the project is $36,367,676 which is quite solid as far as the project valuation is concerned and the IRR provides a rate of return equivalent to 24.70% which is lower in comparison with the other project. It is reviewed that the project's cash flow stream is in positive zone throughout the period. The cash flow of the whole project's life increases gradually year by year because the profit overcomes all the cost associated with the project. CONCLUSION The ultimate decision criteria would be to proceed with Front End Loader Project. This type of expansion bears a greater positive Net Present Value as compared to the outboard project, and since the company primarily focuses on NPV to make these capital decisions Front End Loader clearly adds more value. Assuming that the sales projections are correct, and after accounting for the initial cash outlay, the operating costs and maintenance, the discounted cash flow over the life of the project and after factoring in the depreciation of assets and their disposition value, the NPV of the outboard motor project is $ 36,367,676 which is no where close to the NPV of Front end loader,

Great Filipino Music Artists (80s - Present) Essay Example for Free

Great Filipino Music Artists (80s Present) Essay Basil Valdez Like many Filipino singers in the 1970s, Valdez started solo on his career as a folk singer. In 1972, he joined the Circus Band and after it was disbanded, he released Ngayon at Kailanman, his first solo album. In the Circus Band, he met Ryan Cayabyab, who was then part of other band. When Valdez was preparing his album Ngayon at Kailanman, he asked Cayabyab to give a few songs, he did. Cayabyab stands as Valdezs musical director for 27 years. In the 80s, Valdez republished himself as a singer of movie theme songs; some of them are Paano Ba Ang Mangarap, Muling Buksan Ang Puso and Paraisong Parisukat. A circumstance which sidelined his singing career occurred in 1990, when he found himself as a healer. Valdez then sought the guidance of his Jesuit friends. They explained to him that he has gift of healing. Ryan Cayabyab A great Filipino music artist known as the Executive and Artistic Director of the defunct San Miguel Foundation for the Performing Arts. He was also a resident judge for the solo season of Philippine Idol in 2006. A versatile artist with his works ranging from commissioned full-length ballets, theater musicals, choral pieces, a Mass set to unaccompanied chorus/congregation, and orchestral pieces, to commercial recordings of popular music, film scores and television specials. Cayayabs current project includes the Ryan Cayabyab Singers (RCS), a group of seven young adult singers comparable like his group Smokey Mountain in the early 90s. After FreemantleMedia decided not to renew the Philippine Idol franchise, Cayabyab decided to transfer to rival show Pinoy Dream Academy (Season 2), replacing Jim Paredes as the shows headmaster. PDA 2 started on June 14, 2008. Nonoy Zuà ±iga Nonoy Z’s singing career spans more than 3 decades; as a folksinger from 1971 to 1975 and then as one of the lead singers of the Family Birth Control Band  which performed in the best nightspots and hotels like Philippine Plaza, Holiday Inn and the Manila Hotel from 1975-1980. To hone his skill, he took special voice training from the late Aurelio Estanislao, a well-known tenor singer and music-voice professor at the University of the Philippines. With his clear baritone voice he started to attract the attention of music buffs. His style and rendition of different songs especially love songs made him acquire a number of distinct awards, Bayang Barrios Lumad origin, born on June 12, 1986. A Filipino musician who hails from Bunawan, Agusan del Sur, and is known for her use of indigenous instruments and styles. In 2005, Barrios song Isipin Mo Na Lang was used in end credits of the indie Filipino film Ang Pagdadalaga Ni Maximo Oliveros (The Blossoming of Maximo Oliveros). In September 2008, she launched her fourth album entitled Biyaya. Ramon Jacinto Jacinto has always tried to put music and business together. He started to enter the world of entrepreneurship at the young age of 15. He built up his first enterprise called RJ Enterprises, a company which dealt with producing and release records. RJ Enterprises pioneered multi-track recording in the country and eventually became the primary studio choice for many artists and advertising agencies at that time. Two years later, Jacinto ventured to establish what would become a legendary radio station in the Philippine broadcasting industry – DZRJ. It served as a venue for on-air experiments of radio concepts which were never heard before in Philippine entertainment history. Manned by students, mostly coming from Jacintos high school class, the radio station introduced alternative music to the Filipino youth. It was the first station to play songs from rock legends such as the Beatles, the Ventures and the Beachboys. The radio station also gave emphasis on playing the music of local talent. Apart from DZRJ, Jacinto also established the now defunct, DZUW. Pepe Smith a Filipino singer-songwriter, drummer, and guitarist. More commonly known alternately as Joey Smith and Pepe Smith, he is an icon of original Filipino rock music or Pinoy Rock. Gary Valenciano Born 6 August 1964, better known as Gary Valenciano or Gary V., is a Filipino musician. Also known as Mr. Pure Energy, Valenciano has released 26 albums, and won the Awit Awards for Best Male Performer eleven times. In 1998, he became UNICEF Philippines first National Ambassador. His most notable songs include Di Bale Na Lang (Never mind), Eto Na Naman (Here we go again), Sana Maulit Muli (Hope it repeats again), Natutulog Ba Ang Diyos? (Does God sleep), Gaya ng Dati (Just like before), Pasko Na, Sinta Ko (Its Christmas already, my love), and Narito (Here). He is currently part of ABS-CBN contract actors, and is frequently tapped to sing theme songs for the networks soap operas and films. Fr. Eduardo Hontiveros Fr. Honti, as he is fondly known, was educated at the Capiz Elementary School and the pre-war Ateneo de Manila in Padre Faura, graduating from high school in 1939. From 1939 to 1945 he was at San Jose Seminary. He entered the Society of Jesus after the war in 1945, pronouncing first vows at Sacred Heart Novitiate in Novaliches in June 1947. He finished his studies of philosophy there and then proceeded to Ateneo de Zamboanga for his three-year regency, teaching religion, Latin, and English, and moderating the Choir String Band. In 1951, he traveled to the United States to study theology, and was ordained in 1954 by Francis Cardinal Spellman. After earning a doctorate in theology from the Gregorian University in Rome, he returned to teach in the Philippines in 1958. He pronounced final vows in the Society of Jesus in 1960. Fr. Honti’s initiatives have been recognized with the Ateneo de Manila University’s Tanglaw ng Lahi Award (1976), the Asian Catholic Publishers’ â€Å"Outstanding Catholic Author† (1992), and the Papal award Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice (2000), among many other awards and citations. He suffered another major stroke in early January 2008, and died  on January 15th. At his funeral Mass at the Ateneo’s Church of the Gesu, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was present to honor him with the Presidential Medal of Merit (awarded posthumously). Fr. Manoling Francisco Fr. Manoling Francisco SJ entered the Society of Jesus after second year in college in 1985. As a child he had aspired to be a concert pianist; nevertheless he decided to discontinue his classical piano training at the age of 14 to devote his time to school and socio-civic activities. It was in his First Year High that he composed Hindi Kita Malilimutan. has been popularized by Mr. Basil Valdez. During the past 17 years he has composed more than a hundred and fifty songs such as Tanging Yaman, Sa ‘Yo Lamang are being sung all over the country – indeed, whatever there are Filipinos gathered together in prayer and liturgical celebration. Today, he is easily one of the most gifted musicians in the country.

dyslexia Essays -- essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Cau yon reab mwat I aw mriting? If yon caunot reab it waybe is is decanse this is hom a persou with byslexia wight reab somethiug. A person with dyslexia has a very difficult lifestyle to live. To understand dyslexia you must be aware of the causes, effects strategies, and teaching methods for coping with the disease. â€Å"Dyslexia means having difficulty with words in reading, spelling and writing – in spite of having normal intelligence and ability† (Make the Connection).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Scientists have been interested in dyslexia for a long time. For instance a scientist by the name of A. Kussmaul started researching this disorder in 1881. He came up with a theory of a certain inability as â€Å"word blindness† (history of dyslexia). The word dyslexia was first mentioned in 1887 by a professor by the name of R. Berlin. Scientists to this day are still unsure on what causes dyslexia, although they have a good idea of some of the factors that could have something to do with dyslexia. The only sure thing scientists do know about dyslexia is that there is no cure. Some causes of dyslexia are thought to be genetic factors, emotional problems, and defects of the nervous system. Even though these are thought to play a role in dyslexia, many experts are not convinced that these factors are causes of dyslexia (Make the connection). Dyslexia can occur at any level of intellectual ability. It is not the result of poor motivation, emotional disturbanc e, sensory impairment or lack of opportunities, but it may occur alongside any of these (Information on Dyslexia).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Identifying a child with dyslexia often takes a lot of time and tests. Many cases can often not be identified until the child is ten years of age. The reason for this is because a ten year old with dyslexia would only be able to read a few words or maybe a small sentence. Some studies have shown that monitoring responses of infant sounds could determine whether or not a person is going to develop dyslexia or not. Researchers have precisely picked 92% of dyslexics out of 186 children who were monitored 36 hours after their birth. After these conclusions were made, every two years until the child reached the age of eight, the children underwent a series of IQ and comprehension tests. This method, however, is not completely accurate. Five out of... ...ings, dyslexics are very bright. Many very intelligent and successful people suffered from dyslexia to some degree such as Albert Einstein and Thomas Edison (Famous People with the Gift of Dyslexia). Dyslexics just take a different approach to learning than others. With proper detection and treatment of dyslexia it is possible to overcome with help from proven methods of treatment. Work Cited Make the Connection, http://www.dyslexiaa2z.com/ October 26, 2004 Certificate in Teaching of Children with Dyslexia, http://www.dyslexia-  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  teacher.com/index.htm Nov. 1, 2004 Facts on Dyslexia, http://www.alphabetmats.com/facts.html November 8, 2004 Famous People with the Gift of Dyslexia, http://www.dyslexia.com/qafame.htm   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  November 8, 2004 History of Dyslexia, http://www.clubi.ie/dyslexia/history.html October 27, 2004 Information on Dyslexia, http://www.dyslexia-inst.org.uk/ October 27, 2004 SIRS Publishing, Inc., SIRS Researcher. 4 Nov. 2000.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Dyslexia, Behavioral Problems: A Fatty Acid Link? Treating Dyslexia in Children, http://www.familiesonline.co.uk/article/static/67 October 27, 2004

Effects of Globalization on the Society Essay

Globalization is one of the contemporary policies implemented in attempt to resolve the economic dilemma of various countries and to encourage free flowing economic transactions among nations. And as such, globalization has become an influential phenomenon reaching various global scopes. It is an international process by which nations are being pushed to form a single and unified global society. The different societies within a globalized community undergo various transformation and developments which are comprised of common practices and beliefs known as the cultural universals. The cultural universals are adaptations in meeting the needs of the members of the society in terms of food, clothing and shelter. Developments are achieved through innovations. Innovation is the process of injecting new ideas or objects within a culture. And with these changes and innovations, this process also renders social consequences. There are two types of innovations: discovery and invention. The Chapter 3 of the book â€Å"Sociology a Brief Introduction† explained how development in culture occurs in the global setting. This chapter expounded the various concepts pertaining to the development of cultures such as globalization, diffusion and technology (Schaefer 58-60). The current globalization policy renders effects on the various aspects of the society. Globalization is a broad term. It encompasses the various aspects of the nation including politics, society and economy. More often than not, globalization is associated to the economic activities of the nation but it also affects the various aspects of society. Globalization Globalization is the integration of the economies and societies worldwide. Globalization is considered as one of the most hotly-debated topics in the field of international economics over the past few years (â€Å"Globalization†). It is the process of making the local or regional phenomenon into a global one. The nations are unified into a single society which carry out the function together. It is like integrating the economic, technological, sociocultural and political aspects of the nation (Croucher 10). Whenever globalization is mentioned, it is often associated with economic concepts and activities. Globalization is viewed as an economic process that integrates national economies into one international economy benefiting the activities of the inherent economy (Bhagwati 3). The term has been frequently defined by different economists, and as the such, the concept of globalization has developed so many definitions in accordance to the society’s point of view where the term is being utilized. The term â€Å"globalization† has been around for quite a long time. The concept has not been popular until the late 1980s and 1990s when its theoretical concepts became more well known. But the activities of globalization has already been put to practice even during the early times when the European countries colonized other parts of the world (Yergin). The first wave of globalization occurred during the 19th century which resulted to an incredible increase and growth in the international trade and economic interaction with the European countries dominating the world’s economic activities (Yergin). But the concept of globalization became more pronounced and used after the Second World War. The emergence of this concept came from the idea of the reconstruction of societies after the destructions caused by the war. The establishment of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank became two of the most influential international organizations that pioneered the reconstruction of war-devastated countries and became relevant agents in restoring economic progress and stability in these nations. Effects of Globalization Globalization is a strategic economic process which aims to provide prosperity and growth to the world’s economy. However, globalization has advantages and disadvantages. Although in the economic point of view, globalization is a positive and beneficial process. But its contribution to the overall increase in the global prosperity is still unparalleled. Globalization creates a process of disseminating modern methods and equipments needed in the contemporary enterprise management, economic growth and global financing. This way, globalization also increases labor productivity and efficiency of the factors of production (Bozyk 3). Moreover, globalization hastens the movement of the essential factors of production, especially the capital and technology. The other factors increasing the production is swiftly moving such as new and innovative ideas, modern technologies and production methods. Consumers, on the other hand, also benefit from the process by purchasing high-quality products due to the increase efficiency in production. In this process, globalization influences the consumption and quality of the products (Bozyk 4). The communication and information industries are also greatly influenced by globalization process. Information disseminated under the tenets of free trade and in the advent of advanced technology tools and gadgets rendered the information industry free movement and easy access to the people. The emergence of internet accessibility and telephone services brought information closer to the people. On the other hand, globalization also renders disadvantages that are inappropriate to some countries engaging in the contemporary economic trend. Some of these disadvantages include the reality that globalization only brings profit to the wealthy and well-developed countries and amplifies the marginal difference of the well-developed and developing countries. The international economic policy is leaning towards the wealthy and powerful countries and is unsuitable to the developing countries (Gavrilenkov et. al 233). Moreover, some countries are utilizing globalization to establish world domination, authority and power which will enable stronger countries to manipulate the relationships of different countries within the international order. Nowadays, the United States is enjoying the status of being one of the strongest nations or probably the sole world superpower. However, the current status of China, its economic stability, and the rate at which the Chinese economy progresses will soon rival United States in terms of industry, wealth and technological improvements (Hurst 91). Works Cited Bhagwati, Jagdish. In Defense of Globalization. Oxford, New York: Oxford University Press, 2004. Bozyk, Pawel. Globalization and the Transformation of Foreign Economic Policy. Hampshire: Ashgate Publishing Limited, 2006. Croucher, Shiela L. Globalization and Belonging: The Politics of Identity a Changing World. Lanham, Maryland: Rowman & Littlefield, 2004. Gavrilenkov, Evgeny, Paul J. J. Welfens and Ralf Wiegert. Economic Opening Up and Growth in Russia. New York: Springer Verlag Berlin Heidlberg, 2004. â€Å"Globalization†. 2001. The World Bank Group. 10 October 2008 . Hurst, Charles E. Social Inequality: Forms, Causes and Consequences. Boston: Allyn & Bacon, 2006. Schaefer, Richard T. Sociology:A Brief Introduction. United Kingdom: Academic Internet Publishers Incorporated, 2006. Yergin, David. â€Å"Commanding Heights†. n. d. 10 October 2008 .

Cloud computing Essay

1. How does Salesforce.com use cloud computing? Salesforce.com provides customer relationship management and other software applications using the software-as-a-service business model over the Internet. Cloud computing, also known as on-demand computing, eliminates the need for a business to make large up-front hardware and software investments and reduces the time to implement new programs. Subscribers to Salesforce.com don’t have to purchase or maintain any hardware (albeit personal computing devices) nor do they have to install any special operating systems, database servers, or application servers. Other than the monthly user subscription fee, businesses reduce their licensing and maintenance fees. Users access the Salesforce.com cloud through a standard Web browser or a mobile handheld device. Businesses using the Salesforce.com’s cloud have an easier time scaling their system as they increase or decrease their workforce – they adjust the number of subscriptions to the cloud. Salesforce.com offers some customization of its software so a business can adjust the software to unique business processes. It offers three types of clouds: Sales cloud, service cloud, and the custom cloud. The sales and service clouds help businesses improve sales and customer service. The custom cloud provides a venue for customers to develop their own applications for use within the broader Salesforce network. 2. What are some of the challenges facing Salesforce as it continues its growth? How well will it be able to meet those challenges? Salesforce.com faces the challenge of increased competition from traditional software methods and new services from current companies that try to replicate Salesforce.com’s business model. It also faces the challenge of expanding its services into other areas that allow business users to complete more necessary tasks. It is uncertain whether Salesforce.com will be able to meet the challenges. By implementing new, beneficial services that other CRM products do not offer, Salesforce.com can overcome the competition from leading service providers. Because Salesforce.com is partnered with Google, the implementation of new services, such as Gmail, Google Docs, Google Talk, and Google Calendar will be easy and cost-effective. 3. What kinds of businesses could benefit from switching to Salesforce and why? Agricultural, construction, manufacturing, retail, information, and real estate businesses could all benefit from switching to Salesforce. Each of these business types requires a method for keeping records of sales and handling sales information. All of the sales information could be stored in one place, Salesforce.com, and be managed by any authorized business employee. 4. What factors would you take into account in deciding whether to use Salesforce.com for your business? I would mainly consider the fact that â€Å"renting† the use of software, rather than purchasing a tangible copy, would save my business a significant amount of funds. The installation of software and the installation/configuration of hardware would be unnecessary, which would also decrease the amount of time to implement the software into the business. With Salesforce.com, the implementation time can be as little as a few days, unlike purchasing a copy of the product, which can take months. I would also consider the possibility of service outages and whether they would drastically affect the performance of my business. 5. Could a company run its entire business using Salesforce.com and App Exchange? Explain your answer. A company could run its entire business using the combination of Salesforce.com and App Exchange. Salesforce.com supports applications or add-ons that are capable of the following functions: Sales, Marketing, Manufacturing, Finance and Administration, Human Resources. The latter functions are the necessities to run a business. App Exchange also allows functions like IT Management and Partner Relationship Management. These functions add to the list of services that are necessary or beneficial to running a business

Preparing A Nutcracker and Scrub Jay Study essays

Preparing A Nutcracker and Scrub Jay Study essays In this experimental design, I would get fully grown adults of 30 nutcracker species and 30 scrub jay species from the wild. I will also get naive 30 nutcracker species and naive 30 scrub jays that were just born in the wild and have not had much chance to practice caching in the wild and bring it into captivity in the laboratory. There would be total of four chambers, one for fully grown nutcracker species, one for naive nutcracker species, one for fully grown scrub jay species, and last one for naive scrub jay species. The naive nutcrackers and scrub jays would stay in these chambers in laboratory for about 3 months before I would actually run the experiments, and the wild nutcrackers and scrub jays would stay in these chambers for only three days before the experiment. The main experiment of this design would be to measure the total number of seeds that nutcrackers and scrub jays of both adult and naive are able to retrieve over a certain limited amount of time (control) and over a longer amount of time. The chambers would be of equal size, and during the initial 3 months before the experiment, the conditions of the chambers will be kept at very optimal conditions so that the naive birds are healthy and not deprived of anything until the experiment. For instance, the temperatures of the chambers will be optimal so that the birds will not get hypothermia or hyperthermia, the birds would be given its optimal diet, the birds would be given enough amount of water, and the birds will be exposed to optimal light/dark cycles (e.g. 12:10 light to dark). It is possible that during the initial 3 months before the experiment, a male nutcracker might mate with a female nutcracker or a male scrub jay will mate with a female scrub jay, and in this case, the newly born offspring would be taken out of the chamber and released into the wild or kept somewhere else, because they will not be tested in this experiment. During the 3 months be ...

What You Need to Know About the SAT Chemistry Subject Test

What You Need to Know About the SAT Chemistry Subject Test The SAT Chemistry Test or SAT Chemistry Subject Test is an optional single-subject test that you can take to showcase your understanding of chemistry. You might choose to take this test if you are applying to college to study science or engineering. The test is intended to help you with the college admission process. SAT Chemistry Test Basics Here are some important facts about the SAT Chemistry Subject Test: 60 minutes (one hour) long.85 multiple choice questions.Offered Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, May, Jun.A calculator is not permitted.The periodic table is provided.All units are metric.Only simple numerical calculations are required.Scoring is from 200-800. You do not need to get all of the questions correct to get a perfect score. It is expected that students will not have been exposed to every subject covered on the test. Recommended Preparation for the SAT Chemistry Test year of algebrayear of general chemistry, college-prep level or highersome lab experience Topics Covered by the SAT Chemistry Test The percentages given here are approximate. Structure of Matter (25%)States of Matter (16%)Types of Reactions (14%)Stoichiometry (14%)Descriptive Chemistry (12%)Laboratory (8%)Thermochemistry (6%)Equilibrium and Rates of Reactions (5%) This is not a memorization-type test. While students are expected to have an understanding of the fundamental concepts of chemistry, most of the test will involve organizing and interpreting information. With respect to the types of skills that will be needed to succeed with the SAT Chemistry Test, you can expect: 45% application of knowledge35% synthesis of knowledge20% fundamental knowledge and concepts

Econ Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Econ - Essay Example This should not be astonishing, as transaction cost economics was formulated in the first place to assist in explaining the presence and structure of firms, and of by far and large economic institutions and these are fundamental aspects in the area of strategic management. Undoubtedly, of all the developed recent branches of economics, transaction cost economics has the most apparent resemblance with strategic management. Within the field of strategic management, transaction cost economics is the foundation in which economic thoughts, business frameworks, and organizational theory meet. Due to its emphasis on institutional element, rather than statistical demonstration, it has wider spectators among non-economists than other subfields of organizational economics. The resemblance comes from similar sectors of inquiry. They as well acquire from a similar intellectual mode, which motivates inquiry into the justifications for particular institutional aspects. Not astonishingly, the clinical investigations carried out by strategy researchers and economic historians as well have aided influence the progress of transaction cost economics (Dosi 1998). This paper will review the intellectual accounts of strategic management and determines the influence of transaction cost economic on the discipline. Thereby, it demonstrates the wide array of managerial economics topics and dimensions to which transaction cost principle valuably applies. Transaction cost economics aims to give details on the reasons an agreement has a definite structure and has specific attributes, and this micro-analytical preciseness has great appeal for academics of strategic management, who have a clear-cut empathy for disaggregation (Buckley 1996). Furthermore, the transaction cost economics paradigm is clearly comparative and facilitates one to mention something regarding the efficiency components of various

Business Strategy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 3

Business Strategy - Essay Example There are other products and services that were added which include Shops, sothebys.amazon.com, electronics, home improvement products and many others. Their continued broadening of spectrum is directly related with their goal of making customers find anything they want online. Huge market capitalization of Amazon.com enabled it to stage an aggressive expansion in the market through introduction of several products and services. Websites were opened in several countries and are expected to continue by also forging partnerships with other internet service providers around the globe (Paavo, Arash, and Alain 2013). The amazon.com in United Kingdom and Germany are listed as the leading sites in sales. In Amazon.com followed a strategy of developing software specialized to their type of business and acquiring commercially made applications. 2,461 million dollars’ worth of assets with inventories representing 7 per cent of total assets was realized in 2002. This shows the strength of the company significantly in that year even before they had began their expansion process in France and Japan. The Amazon.com Commerce Network strategy basically leads the company to earn high revenues with high margins which is also risky provided it acts as a venture capitalist. The company reduces significantly the cost of goods sold by increasing their own distribution channels which allows to the company concentrate on their main focus which is customer service. Ravi suria an analyst at Prudential Securities Company was concerned Amazon was not generating good cash flow essentially because it was swiftly expanding from less than 10 million dollars cash out lay. He also had a genuine worry about the reducing stock turnover of the company as it increased their distribution channels in 1999. Despite of Amazon being one of the largest online retailers, they had been able to hold on to profit making and had fallen in the eyes of the investors. (Rainer, Turban,

Health Level Seven International (HL7) letter Article

Health Level Seven International (HL7) letter - Article Example Various mandated changes looming on the horizon will not allow this practice to continue, for communication and cooperation between departments is essential. Therefore, the COO has made that my major function and the following are my recommendations for doing so. Discussion First, I will present background information as to why these changes are so necessary. President Bush signed Executive Order 13335 in 2004 mandating that Electronic Health Records (EHR) will be in place nationwide within ten years. Congress went a step farther, creating the 2009 Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH), and President Obama signed it into law. The act extended the deadline to 2015 but that is only two years away. After that, health facilities such as Toledo stand to lose millions of dollars in Federal Medicare and Medicaid monies if they are not in compliance. All would agree that would be a serious financial blow to our center. Fortunately, the Department of Heal th and Human Services (HHS) has created the HIT coordinator to help us navigate through the seemingly complex maze of regulations (HHS, 2013). There is a nonprofit organization called Health Level Seven (HL7), which has developed a series of standards generally accepted by both the health community and HHS and it is the intention of Toledo to comply with HL7 initiatives. Yet Corepoint points out that HL7 is a â€Å"non-standard standard† (2009) meaning that as no two snowflakes are alike, neither are any two healthcare facilities the same. The main point is that Toledo complies with the laws within the specific timeframe and conformity with HL7 standards will ensure this occurs. Much time and money has spent on developing the software currently utilized by Toledo’s various departments and I do not intend to dismantle any of their operations. Rather, it is my recommendation that we purchase new hardware that can accommodate all of the departments’ current softwar e systems. Interfaces take into account the lack of interchange between clinics and are commercially available, improving communication and interoperability. That is where HL7 comes into play. Without it, my staff and I would be forced to create said interface from scratch, a costly and time consuming process. Fortunately, HL7 V2 brought together software vendors and informatics specialists such as me to create said commercial products. Although V3 has largely superseded V2 in Europe, it will be some years before that happens in the United States, so Toledo will concentrate on V2 compliance. One of the major concerns of each clinical head is maintaining patient and provider privacy, still another requirement of Federal law. Therefore, it is tantamount that the interfaces provide the security necessary to ensure only the necessary information for patient care be provided across Toledo’s health informatics network. There is a very interesting case study concerning Lake Forest H ospital in Illinois (CDW 2013), which was faced with the same dilemma, In addition, when the clinics interfaced, the physicians and nurses had many passwords for the different clinical access (one for lab results, one for pharmaceutical, etc.). It is my intention that the interface chosen for Toledo

Electronic Banking in Pakistan | Dissertation

Electronic Banking in Pakistan | Dissertation Electronic Banking in Pakistan 1. PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND 1.1. INTRTODUCTION As the world has entered the twenty first century, one thing has become all too apparent, any organization that wishes to succeed in todays cutthroat competition will have to embrace Information Technology (IT) with fervor. In this age of Information Technology new inventions and innovations are affecting all the fields of life. Almost all kinds of organizations are stepping into the field of IT, in an effort to increase their productivity and expand their customer bank. The same goes for the Banking Sector. Today all the banks of the world are adopting the tool of Electronic Banking. The need of Electronic Banking was felt in South Asia during the last 5 to 7 years. This concept emerged as an essential tool for successful bank management. Financial sector has been quick to recognize this fact, and in Pakistan, most of the banking industry has moved away from the old ledger based system to computers and automation in order to modernize their operations. Although foreign banks were pioneers of bringing this concept to South-Asia but they have yet to start latest Electronic Banking practices in Pakistan Background Electronic Banking Electronic banking is an umbrella term for the process by which a customer may perform banking transactions electronically without visiting a brick-and-mortar institution. It is a form of banking in which funds are transferred through an exchange of electronic signals between financial institutions, rather than an exchange of cash, checks or other negotiable instruments. The growth in use of the Internet world-wide and the development of procedures enabling secure transactions on-line have created the new field of on-line banking, where customers deal with their banks chiefly or entirely through Internet connections. Opening hours or location of branches, unlike the traditional banks does not restrict such services. Both existing banks and new groups are already moving into this potentially very important area. Since on-line banking services can be accessed with equal ease almost anywhere in the developed world, this raises the possibility of banking networks operating without regard to national boundaries, with consequent regulatory problems. Banking on line, commonly called PC banking, electronic banking or Internet banking, has been around in one form or another for a decade or more. Forms of on-line Banking Following can be the ways to bank on-line: 1) Internet Based access to account information through banks web site, via modem, using a standard web browser such as Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator. 2) Bank Software: Bank provides customers with proprietary software to install in their computers. The software allows customers to connect to banks computers over a secure network. The customer essentially dials directly into the bank instead of through the Internet. 3) Personal Finance Software: Software such as Quicken or Microsoft Money allows customer to exchange financial information with the bank. The software connects to the banks computers via an Internet based set up and downloads financial information from the clients account. Many banks affiliate leading software vendors such as Intuit or Microsoft to make their systems compatible. 4) Pay-by-Phone Systems /Tele banking: Allows a customer to pay by telephone certain bills, or transfer funds between accounts, with instructions to the bank. One must have an agreement in advance with the institution to make such transfers. 5) Point-of-Sale Transfers: Allows a customer to pay for retail purchases with an EFT (or debit) card. In some instances, this card may also be an ATM card. This is similar to using a credit card, but with one important exception: the money for the purchase is transferred immediately — or very shortly — from customers bank account to the stores account. An increasing number of merchants are accepting this type of payment. On-line Banking: a Revolution The thought of today is the reality of tomorrow but the thoughts of Banking on Your OWN TERMS AT YOUR OWN DOORSTEPS, which seemed to be reality of tomorrow, is no a more mystique. What we can do NOW (?) It allows customers to do most of their financial transactions at home on a personal computer. Pay your bills on-line while youre watching TV. Check your account balances from your digital cell phone as you stand in line to board a flight. Consolidate all your financial accounts on-line in one convenient, secure location. Have access to friendly, helpful customer service representatives Why on-line banking? Unfortunately, banking is a necessary evil that can take a large chunk out of already busy schedules. Visiting a branch or ATM, paying bills by paper check (and mailing them) and balancing a chequebook all can be time consuming. Banking on-line, by its nature, can automate many of these processes, saving time and, in many cases, money. One can access his account and do banking when (and where) it is convenient for him. Following can be online banking services offered by various banks Check account balances Make transfers between online accounts Check the status of loans Track investments Apply for loans online Pay bills electronically Download account information to a personal finance software program On-Line Banking Advantages Internet banks are open 7 days a week 24 hours a day In general, you will find lower fees and higher interest rates for deposits due to the reduced cost of operating on-line and not needing numerous physical bank branches. Create a more in depth portfolio of each individual customer of what their needs and expectations are. Be able to provide services to each customer that are customized to their individual preferences You will have easy access to account information and transactions, because any Internet-enabled computer can become your bank terminal. You will generally have up-to-the-minute current bank account information due to the automation of most systems. In many cases, on-line banks offer free bill pay, which can be a big saving in both money and time. You can transfer funds electronically between accounts. Common E-Banking Services Retail Services Wholesale Services Account management Account management Bill payment and presentment Cash management New account opening Small business loan applications, approvals, or advances Consumer wire transfers Investment/Brokerage services Commercial wire transfers Loan application and approval Business-to-business payments Account aggregation Employee benefits/pension administration Current Scenario of Electronic Banking in Pakistan Pakistan is widely considered to be in the Third Wave of developing economies that include countries in Asia, Latin America, the Pacific Islands and the Middle East. These countries started to adopt the Internet from around 1993. Almost all have a state monopoly over the telecommunications sector with low tele-densities per population and high telecom costs, which restrict Internet access to elitist groups in the population. Less than 2 per cent of the population is connected to the Internet. These countries have weak political and democratic institutions where the governments welcome new commercial opportunities. The First Wave countries include USA, Canada, and some Nordic states where the Internet took hold in the 1980s, and became an established feature of social, political and economic life. On average, over 35 per cent of the population are connected to the net, with households always connected online to the net 24 hours in the day in many cases. Both the First and Second wave of counties have much in common; with both involved in the early development of the Internet. The gap between the two is rapidly diminishing. Both have highly developed telecommunication infrastructures, with extensive networks of fiber optic, satellite and ISDN lines that can respond to exponential growth in demand for bandwidth. Knowledge of Internet applications is a mainstream activity, and a prerequisite for commercial credibility. They have highly developed information, dissemination technology and content industries, with a strong export focus. Both have strong government policies that aim to influence the shape of the future information society, with massive investments in research and development, education, training, IT and Internet developed research. E-Banking in Pakistan: Due to advancements in sciences and technology, many foreign banks started offering Electronic Banking services in Pakistan. Electronic Banking offers tremendous opportunities and saves cost and time for both banks and customers. E-Banking in Pakistan is still a relatively new phenomena and is expected to grow now faster with future penetration of computers and internet services in the country, availability of a robust legal framework, removal of concerns about security of electronic transactions and enhanced reliability of communication Unfortunately Electronic Banking in Pakistan is still in the introduction phase and the government with the private sector has to streamline many policies for its further development and success. Although foreign banks took the initiative but now there are private Pakistani banks that are making advancements in E-Banking. The rate of technology transfer from developed to developing countries has been very slow in this regard. In Pakistan the available technology services are NIFT, ATM, ETPoS, Tele Banking and Central Depository Systems. NIFT was established in 1997,it is a technology that uses images with high-speed sorters to automate check clearing. ATMs are automated teller machines that provide facilities for instant deposits and cash withdrawals, and are presently available at around 200 locations in major cities only. ETPoS is a method of payment where goods and services are paid for at the point of sale, and is available in major cities in a few super markets only. Telebanking is telephone banking facility available only in a few banks, and again, in major cities only. The central depository system is a well- established system used in stock exchanges for recording and the transfer of securities. Secure electronic transactions (SET): This protocol was developed jointly by Visa and Master Card and is now baked by American Express. Major players in e-commerce, networking, and computing like Microsoft, Netscape, IBM, etc, are behind specifications of this protocol, and are thus becoming an industry standard for secured payments on the internet. SET provides confidentiality through encryption; message integrity using digital signatures, and authentication of consumer and merchant identity Use of this, method is ideal due to the level of security that this method offers. However, establishment of this protocol will require Internet merchant accounts. Smart cards: It is a digital currency payment, which looks similar to credit cards, but contains a microprocessor and a storage unit. The cards hold prepaid account information. Merchants who accept these records are credited for the transaction amount by card issuers. The use of this technology is safe but expensive to acquire. Pakistan will require building a consensus among major stakeholders to invest in making this technology available in Pakistan. Value-added networks: Pakistan could establish value added networks (VAN) for financial transactions to expedite fast and efficient flow of remittances to all major cities and to enable exchange of electronic documents. These networks will provide shared connectivity, security assurance of data, and reliability of service. These networks will provide bank -to -bank transfer of funds for financial transactions, and will also enable the exchange of electronic documents to facilitate e-trade. These value added networks will also facilitate B2B transactions using EDI systems. The EDI Vans will execute authorized transactions between valid trading partners. These networks will reduce technical complexities and the cost of implementing dedicated connections with a multitude of trading partners. Another advantage out of these networks will be the provision of storing viable information on the networks, so that authorized partners can directly access them without contacting the other parties. This will help in in creasing efficiencies of business transactions in terms of time and costs. 1.2. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM E-banking has entered the Pakistan economy in a big way but, considering the state of development of banking industry in the country and the client-base, there are doubts about the utility and cost-effectiveness of this mode of banking. The research study will examine these points and give recommendations on the subject: An evaluation, theoretically and practically, of the progress of banks which adopted electronic operations, and the prospective role for banks in the future. Discussing problems facing banks in the scope of electronic banking operations. Specifying the concept of electronic banks. 1.3. OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY Following objectives have been set forth in conduct of the research: To familiarise public with the subject of ELECTRONIC BANKING, enhance their keenness to remain abreast to the techniques, and modern trends of efficient banking. To induce healthy practices in banking business and profession and to advise suitable measures for their achievement. To encourage and provide Electronic Banking information and to offer education through research report contents to students and consequently to national financial institutions. To print and publish the report for provision to all who are interested in the issue of Electronic Banking. To study Electronic Banking practices of different banks in Pakistan. 1.4. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY E-banking is playing an important role not only in the development of electronic services in the first world countries but also in the developing countries too. Due to advancements in sciences and technology, many foreign banks started offering Electronic Banking services in Pakistan. Electronic Banking offers tremendous opportunities and saves cost and time for both banks and customers. This study will evaluate the electronic performance of banks. This report emphasizes the fact that on-line accessibility, awareness, attitude towards change, computer and Internet access costs, trust in ones bank, security concerns, ease of use and convenience are the major factors affecting the adoption of Internet bank services in Pakistan. 1.5. SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY Scope of the study: The research thesis covers the leading banks in Pakistan that have entered the e-banking era and examine its economics. The major limitation of the study is that the concerned banks are reluctant to disclose information with regard to costs incurred on E- banking. Limitations of the study: As the E-banking in Pakistan is at the introduction stage and its efficacy is yet to be tested, adequate literature on the subject is not available. Moreover, the topic under study requires comprehensive research, which is possible if more time is allotted for the project. Banks personnel are reluctant to give information about banks electronic process and problems faced by banks. 2. LITERATURE REVIEW Literature survey is conducted in order to get more insight into the study. Literature survey consists of past studies related to this topic. Which will help and ensure that no important information related to the study is omitted. It includes mostly domestic studies conducted by our own scholars. 2.1. FOREIGN SCENARIO Yoshio, (1999), states that Malaysian banking sector started in the 1970s. However, the first visible form of electronic innovation in the Malaysian banking industry was the introduction of Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) in 1981. The ATMs to a large extent released banks from the constraints of time and geographical location. Then in the early 1990s, Tele-banking was introduced in Malaysia, which provided yet another delivery channel for branch financial services via telecommunications devices connected to an automated system of the bank by utilizing Automated Voice Response (AVR) Technology. Utsuml, on June 1, (2000), said that the Malaysian Central Bank gave the green light for locally owned commercial banks to offer Internet banking services. On June 15, 2000, Maybank, the largest domestic bank in terms of assets as well as network distribution, http://www.arraydev.com/commerce/jibc/www.maybank2U.com became the first bank to offer Internet banking services in Malaysia. This service is currently provided to individual customers of the bank and the site boasts of the latest 128-bit encryption technology to allay fears of security among consumers. The services provided in this portal include banking enquiry functions, bill payment, credit card payment, funds transfer, and accounts summary as well as transaction history. Customer support service is provided via e-mails as well as via telephone lines and is available daily from 6 am to 12 mid-night. JoseÉ, (2000), said that the Hong Leong Bank commenced its Internet banking operations known as e-Banking, which can be accessed via their web site at http://www.arraydev.com/commerce/jibc/www.hlbb.hongleong.com.my in December 2000. In addition to providing services that were previously included in their Phone banking service, they also offer options of assessing account transaction history in their e-banking. They too provide support services via e-mails and telephones from 7 am to 11.00 pm, seven days a week. Al-Jasser, (1999), states that both the competitive forces as well as the expected benefits are causing concentration and expansion of E-banking services in the country (Saudi Arabia). However, in the long run it would be the actual benefits which the banks would realize in terms of higher profits through reduction in intermediary costs and expanded consumer base due to improved services on a cost effective manner that would determine the role of E-banking in the countrys banking sector. E banking is expected to play an important role in integrating the financial markets of Saudi Arabia globally and banks would ultimately capitalize on these developments. Figures, (2000), states that E-banking Automate critical banking activities and interact electronically with bank with comprehensive tools that help reduce administrative costs, increase productivity, and improve cash management—in a security-enhanced environment. 2.2. LOCAL SCENARIO Mashhood, (2000), states that the role of information technology in financial services is to support operational efficiencies, facilitate customer services, mange risk and support in decision-making. In the IT policy on financial services, the government of Pakistan has asked the State Bank of Pakistan to allow opening of internet merchant accounts to enable inter-bank electronic fund transfer, to re-engineer processes of foreign trade sections, to accept e-orders of value less than $500, to open an e-commerce wing in financial institutions, and to facilitate clearing and e-reporting in al banks. The e-commerce action plans for the financial sector have been established as per directions from the government. The plan is to connect branches of 25 local and foreign banks in 12 major cities. In phase I, branches in one city will be linked with their head office. In phase II, all these banks and other financial institutions will be connected together. In phase III, private and public sec tor stakeholders will be linked and ultimately e-commerce network will include financial, trade and customs networks along with their international links. Ziauddin, (1998), states that In Pakistan, huge investments, recurring costs, and absence of economies of scale are some of the major bottlenecks to invest in online banking. One other problem is that only a few foreign banks are linked with their branches, otherwise all major financial institutions work in isolation. AL-Bader, (1999), said that in the absence of a centralized database linked to branches, banks do not only need the communication software to facilitate communication, but also require modems, routers, controllers, etc. irrespective of the volume of transactions, be it small or massive, huge investments are required to facilitate online banking. Not only the capital investments debut also the recurring costs, such as lease payments to PTCL, ongoing maintenance costs, etc, are discouraging national banks to invest. Giasuddin, (2003) said that there is a need to establish inter-branch and inter-bank networks so that all financial institutions may be linked together to facilitate electronic payment systems, which are among basic prerequisites for establishment of the financial infrastructure for e-commerce development. The next step that is still not clear in Pakistan is the type of electronic payment systems and digital currencies to be used in Pakistan. There are a lot of different methods of payment that are available globally. Pakistan has to carefully decide the most feasible payment systems that can easily fulfill financial requirements, as well as, provide enough confidence to the buyers and merchants for safety and security of such payments. Kazmi, (2000), said that there is an urgent need in Pakistan for establishing value added networks for financial transactions. Without these networks, it will be difficult for business and financial institutions to provide EC solutions with high quality and low costs. Zaidi, (2003), states that there is a need to establish inter-branch and inter-bank networks so that all financial institutions may be linked together to facilitate electronic payment systems, which are among basic prerequisites for establishment of the financial infrastructure for e-commerce development. The next step that is still not clear in Pakistan is the type of electronic payment systems and digital currencies to be used in Pakistan. Shabbir, (2003), said that both the competitive forces as well as the expected benefits are causing concentration and expansion of E-banking services in the country. However, in the long run it would be the actual benefits which the banks would realize in terms of higher profits through reduction in intermediary costs and expanded consumer base due to improved services on a cost effective manner that would determine the role of E-banking in the countrys banking sector. E-banking is expected to play and important role in integrating the financial markets of Pakistan globally and banks would ultimately capitalize on these developments. Naveed, (2003) states that Credit cards are primarily used as convenient payment products and at times a credit facility for short term needs. The State Bank of Pakistan is playing a pro-active role in promoting adoption of technology-based solutions in the banking sector and supporting services based on E-Banking. E-Banking has already taken off in this country and the recent launch by Habib Bank- one of the largest banks in the country has provided a major breakthrough. so the question is not when the facilities will be provided but how rapidly these facilities will expand. Efforts in this direction are focused upon following areas: Creation of a robust legal infrastructure catering to the needs of E-Banking and other payments systems involving electronic settlement of funds. Key step in this direction was the promulgation of Electronic Transactions Ordinance 2002, which provides legal recognition to digital signatures and documentation reducing the risks associated with the use of electronic medium of business. State bank is currently engaged in an exercise to further augment the legal framework for electronic settlement of transactions in the banking sector. Establishing of Payment Systems Development Committee in which commercial banks are members, to guide the development of payment systems in Pakistan. Creation of a dedicated Payment Systems Department in the State Bank dealing with all issues pertaining to payment systems including E-Banking. Creation of a Real Time Gross Settlement System (RTGS) providing an E-Banking solution to banks maintaining their accounts with standard operating procedure (SOP) whereby they will be able to operate these accounts from their own premises via an electronic connection with the State Banks own servers. Commercial banks have been allowed to open and operate Internet Merchant Accounts. Banks are being encouraged to expand the ATMs network through more participation and a wider network of machines all across the country. all banks have been asked to join a SWITCH and interconnection between the 2 existing SWITCHES is being encouraged for further development of the electronic infrastructure . State Bank has already acquired SWIFT connection and has also made it mandatory for banks to acquire SWIFT connectivity for settlement of all cross border financial transactions. Expansion of automated cheques clearing services to all major cities in the country is actively being pursued. The usage of plastic money such as Credit/Debit cards is making good progress Ishrat, (2003), states that introduction of E-banking will improve banking services mainly in terms of the convenience of the customers including, place, time and price, the banks will be able to provide improved services and, consequently, the quality and skills of banking staff will also improve. Although many banking services will be available 24 hours, the need for over the counter services will remain and banks would continue to provide normal services during office banking hours in Pakistan also like in the developed countries where E -banking is prevalent, it has been observed that customers feel much confident in using e-banking services when they can associate it with brick and mortar branches. Purely online banking without physical branch network has not made much headway even in developed countries. In Pakistan, with low rates of literacy the majority of customers will continue to use the 9-5 bank branches. Rizvi, (1999), states that the state bank of Pakistan has constituted various committees such as the Payment Systems Development Committee and the ECH task force for the development of technology based banking services in the country. Besides other matters, these committees also oversee the developments in the areas of E-banking. State Bank of Pakistan coordinates closely with other agencies such as the Ministry of Science Technology (MoST), in initiatives relating to E-banking. Shirazi, (2001), said that the future of e banking is very bright in Pakistan. Many banks in Pakistan have started providing e-banking facilities to their consumers. Over 300 ATMs are in operation in Pakistan the use of ATMs is rapidly increasing. More and more facilities are being provided by the banks electronically including e-statements, funds transfer, bill payment for utilities as well as other purchases. By 2002, almost 40% of the bank branches have been automated and it is expected that this proportion will reach 50% by 2004. The rate of increase is phenomenal i.e. about 318%. Similarly, the number of online branches has doubled during the last 2 years to 570 and by 2004 this number will jump to 1356, representing an increase of 376%. This expansion along with the growing penetration of internet will bring E-banking to more and more of their customers both in terms of numbers as well as geographical locations. Mahmood, (2003), states in order to meet E-banking challenges that State Bank of Pakistan established the ECH Task Force under the leadership of Mr. Naveed A Khan (Country Representative ABN AMRO Bank) to facilitate the development and implementation of E-Banking sector to promote E-Commerce. This Task Force was constituted to facilitate in planning introduction of enabling technologies in the financial sector of the economy having a direct bearing on E-commerce. The ECH Task Force is constituted of various dedicated professionals from the major financial institutions of the country who enrich the Task Force with their experience and expertise with a firm commitment to develop and promote E-Commerce in Pakistan. Ahmed,(2001), states that Electronic Commerce (E-Commerce) is just another business tool, one that enhances business efficiency and effectiveness and allows cost reduction. It is a vehicle to carry out business-to-business (B2B) or business-to-consumer (B2C) transactions. For financial institutions and entrepreneurs, E-Commerce not just makes old processes work better; it also provides a means to break with tradition and create new ways of doing business. E-Commerce has a lot of potential in Pakistan where ideas are rich, resources and labor are cheap, workmanship is excellent, entrepreneurial skill in abundance, and there is a large presence of indigenous and globally appreciated artifacts other tradable goods. However, on a more realistic side, we have a lot of ground to cover before we can reap the benefits of E-Commerce and turn our economy around. These are technical as well as administrative challenges that have to be met and above all we need the basic infrastructure, which fa cilitates and promotes trading through electronic means. 3. RESEARCH METHDOLOGY This chapter presents the basic methodology required in research. It includes the methods of search, type of study and the sources of data. 3.1. METHODOLOGY OF THE STUDY The methodology of study includes the different methods that researcher has used to reach to the conclusion. But due to shortage of time the researcher has tried his best to make this report informative, useful and also beneficial for others. The researcher has also gathered a lot of information to cover all types of aspects related to automation and electronic data processing. In this report the researcher has covered first of all the introduction of electronic banking, its background, what facilities and benefits it provide and what is its scope in Pakistan? Secondly the researcher has visited few of the banks offering electronic services. They were very knowledgeable to the researcher basically in explaining their scope in Pakistan. 3.2. TYPE OF THE STUDY The study is descriptive because the intention is to explore the existing values given in problem statement. Descriptive process was believed to be more suited in this kind of investigation because it seeks direct response from respondents. This procedure has been used in many areas of investigations in many fields of academics and scientific discipline. 3.3. GOAL OF DESCRIPTIVE STUDY The goal of the descriptive study, here is to offer a peo