Tesco

Value Chain Analysis According to Lynch (2003), value chain is defined as the links between key value adding activities and their interface with the support activities. Value chain has been implied as a strategic evaluation tool used for distinguishing the strengths and weaknesses in value adding processes (Audrestsch, 1995). The value chain of Tesco has been demonstrated in the following diagram: Fig 6: Value Addition in Value Chain of Tesco Inbound LogisticsThe overall cost leadership strategic management of Tesco is exhibited in its lean and agile inbound logistics function. Drawing upon Abeysinghe (2010), the company uses its leading market position and economies of scope as key bargaining powers to achieve low costs from its suppliers. The analysts have also highlighted the constant upgrading of their ordering system, approved vendor lists, and in-store processes to induce effectiveness and efficiency into the company’s inbound logistics operations.Operations Management T esco has been praised by a number of supply chain management critics for its effective use of IT systems that facilitate the company’s low cost leadership strategy. According to Tesco (2010), the company has invested over ? 76 million in streamlining its operations through their Tesco Digital program, which is a third generation ERP solution for the company. The company has achieved ? 550 million in increased profitability during 2009 alone due to the introduction of this system.This company -wide ERP system has also facilitated the minimisation of stock holdings within the company. Outbound Logistics Tesco holds leadership position in online and offline food retail segments, which is due to its efficient and effective outbound logistics. Drawing upon Mintel (2010), the company has developed a range of store formats and types, which are strategically placed to achieve maximum customer exposure. These formats include Express, Metro, Superstores, Extra and Homeplus, which are s egmented according to the target population.Marketing and Sales Loyalty programs like Tesco Clubcard are being introduced through information technology advances which dissuade the customers from switching over to their competitors. Tesco has introduced its Greener Living Scheme to give consumers advice on environmental issues, including how to reduce food waste and their carbon footprint when preparing meals . Services Tesco has been pursuing a dual strategy of cost leadership and differentiation, which has led to an increased importance placed on customer service.Drawing upon Keynote (2010), this dual strategy is exhibited through the development of self-service kiosks, financial services, focused direct marketing and promotions. In order to put Tesco’s value chain analysis into perspective, it should be noted that despite cost leadership strategy the company has been able to create a high degree of value in comparison with its key competitors. The relative analysis of the value created by the big four supermarket chains, i. e. , Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons has been provided as follows: Fig 7: Benchmarking Analysis: Cost as a Percentage of Sales Tesco For this report the organization that I have chosen is Tests and I will be explaining how they use deferent types of business communication to run their organization. I will be looking at all of the functions used by Tests to get an entire observation on the business communication used and the reasons why. I will Identify advantages and disadvantages of different methods used and Investigate strategic decisions made by Tests and what Information they used.Types of Information Example Description Purpose Sources Verbal Detects verbal Information could be a Tests Sales Assistant Interacting with a customer by trying to persuade the customer to buy one of their products and another example could be Tests staff making an announcement over the Tanana system about a lost child. Verbal communication is information that is shared between individuals by talking. It can be done in may different ways such as telephone, face to fact and meetings. The purpose for verbal communication inTests is t hey must respond quickly to any action that is needed to be sorted. The sources for Tests verbal information could be description of products or service. Written Deco's written information could be surveys and questionnaires for the customer service like What you think about fruit and vegetables? Another example is Tests displaying posters promoting their latest offers. Written communication can be interactive communication that is used in words or symbols to convey a message eke memos, emails, letters, reports, leaflets etc.The purpose of written information is that this will help Tests to understand how the customer feels about their services and products and also to understand where they are achieving and where they are failing. The sources for Tests written information are completed customer questionnaires, where Tests can review and make changes and adjustments to meet their customers' needs, for example customers requesting a bigger variety of fruit and vegetables. Tesco For this report the organization that I have chosen is Tests and I will be explaining how they use deferent types of business communication to run their organization. I will be looking at all of the functions used by Tests to get an entire observation on the business communication used and the reasons why. I will Identify advantages and disadvantages of different methods used and Investigate strategic decisions made by Tests and what Information they used.Types of Information Example Description Purpose Sources Verbal Detects verbal Information could be a Tests Sales Assistant Interacting with a customer by trying to persuade the customer to buy one of their products and another example could be Tests staff making an announcement over the Tanana system about a lost child. Verbal communication is information that is shared between individuals by talking. It can be done in may different ways such as telephone, face to fact and meetings. The purpose for verbal communication inTests is t hey must respond quickly to any action that is needed to be sorted. The sources for Tests verbal information could be description of products or service. Written Deco's written information could be surveys and questionnaires for the customer service like What you think about fruit and vegetables? Another example is Tests displaying posters promoting their latest offers. Written communication can be interactive communication that is used in words or symbols to convey a message eke memos, emails, letters, reports, leaflets etc.The purpose of written information is that this will help Tests to understand how the customer feels about their services and products and also to understand where they are achieving and where they are failing. The sources for Tests written information are completed customer questionnaires, where Tests can review and make changes and adjustments to meet their customers' needs, for example customers requesting a bigger variety of fruit and vegetables. ï » ¿Tesco Tesco is a British multinational grocery and general merchandise retailer headquartered in Chechens United Kingdom. Tesco is the third-largest retailer in the world measured by revenues. It has stores in 14 countries across Asia, Europe and North America and is the grocery market leader in the UK. In Tesco stores we can buy a huge range of food products and some non food product. Every successful business there is aim and objective behind them. Aims and objectives are the marketing targets that must be achieved for company to achieve its overall goals. The main aims of Tesco for 2012 are: 1.Offering customers the best value for money and the most competitive prices 2. Meeting the needs of customers by constantly seeking, and acting on, their opinions regarding innovation, product quality, choice, store facilities and service 3. Providing shareholders with progressive returns on their investment improving profitability through investment in efficient stores and distribution depots, in productivity improvements and in new technology 4. Developing the talents of its people through sound management and training practices, while rewarding them fairly with equal opportunities for all 5.Working closely with suppliers to build long term business relationships based on strict quality and price criteria 6. Supporting the well-being of the community and the protection of the environment Each objective needs to be SMART so that they are practical objectives that are capable of being monitored and achieved. SMART is an acronym, standing for specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time specific. Specific objectives need to have precise description. For example Tesco set an objective of at least 70% of people spent more than ?10 in Tesco. It needs to show clearly what the aim is.Measurable is an objective able to measure correctly so the manager knows their aim has been achieved or not. For example Tesco club card can record the money which customers spent at a period of time and what product do they choose. Achievable is an objective which not beyond the reach of the organisation and individual employee. For example Tesco mangers need to estimate the aim is feasible for Tesco. Relevant is an objective which able to help to achieve the aims of Tesco. For example open new stores can help achieve the aim of growth for Tesco. Time specific is an objective which set a time for finish and start.For example Tesco manger tells their employee to achieve the sales target in this week. Survival Survival means generating on aim at enough revenues to cover all the business expenses and so to break even. Survival is usually an aim at the start of the business. I am sure Tesco UK don’t make survival as an aim any more. This is because Tesco has been running since 1924 in UK. I believe when Tesco starting to break into the Northern Ireland market, their biggest aim is survival. To survival of Tesco has done lot of promotion to attract customer to build t he loyalty of the customer such as window displays, discount etc.As we see Tesco group sales is ?72bn this has grow from 7. 4% from last year. I think Tesco has been survival successfully in UK is because they have focused on 6 key points. They are service staff, stores formats, price value, range quality, brand marketing and Clicks Bricks. Those are the key point make customer has a nice shopping trip. Clicks Bricks is other option for customers to shop which is online shopping. Customers can use internet to enter online shopping wed side easily, also Tesco has offer Tesco online shopping app for customers. This can achieve Tosco’s objective of meeting customers need and starting to use new technology.However Tesco in the USA market started trading in 2007. Their brand name in USA is fresh & easy. I find this name is very good because it is assonated with health. Healthy eating is becoming a popular social trend. So this name can attract those people come to their supermarke t. This can achieve their aim of participating in the formulation of national food industry In March 2011 Tesco opened first stores in Northern California around San Francisco and the Bay Area. For those stores their aim for now is to survival, which means they destroyed by other competitor such as Kroger.After a Tesco has achieved the aim of survival, this shows Tesco has growth successfully. Tesco has set an objective of to be an outstanding international retailer in stores to help them to achieve the aim. Maximising stakeholder needs Maximising Stakeholder needs mean taking account of the different needs of people involved in the business. A stakeholder is anyone who is interested in the business. This could be the owner, manger, employees, bank, investor, suppliers. For Tesco maximising stakeholder needs means they need to meet the customer needs, having good relationships between suppliers and pay its employees a decent wage.Customers are very important for the Tesco business. Tesco must keep them happy, so Tesco can achieve their aim of maximising sale. If Tesco doesn’t satisfy make, the customer will complain about Tesco and not return to Tesco again. Also they will spend their money in other retailers. To attract and make those customers happy, Tesco has made an objective be to be a creator of highly valued brands, which means Tesco has own label appeals to different customer needs. Tesco has providing them with the quality products, the best value and the most competitive price.To achieved this aim Tesco done well in customer service. Their staff always help customer when they need to keep them happy. This help Tesco to achieve offering customers the best value for money and the most competitive prices. They also set the objective of build team so that create more value foe customer. There jobs is keep thinking how to create more value for them. They also use self check out services to give customers a new experience. Tesco also use the club ca rd system to give customer best value.For example if you collected 150 point on your club card, you will get ?1.5 to spend this money in Tesco. For Tesco club card use to know customer when, where spent their money in Tesco. Club card help Tesco achieve the objective of to be a creator of highly valued brands. And achieve their aim of offering customers the best value for money and the most competitive prices Also Tesco can see which product is most popular. To attract different groups of customer and give offer them good price. For example Tesco set up Baby & Toddler Club’s. This club is aim for parent, so they can get easier and save lot of money in exclusive offers.To get easier mean Tesco will help them every step of the way from bump to toddler with useful advice. Tesco also provide the cheapest price of product ‘Tesco Value’. This is very good for low income family. However the quality of product is not very good. If high income family want to buy high qual ity product, they can buy ‘First range’ product. As we know First range product are more expensive than ‘Tesco Value’ product. For example a Tesco Value tissue cost 65p and the first range tissues cost ?1. 25. Tesco has the objective of meeting the needs of  customer and create more value for customers.Tesco has well trained customer service staff. Also Tesco build teams to create more value and keeping up to date the need of customer in different area. Moreover Tesco has provided a user friendly website for customer to find out more information about Tesco. They have well trained staff to answer customer questionnaires. Tesco always continues to improve the customer service and meet customer needs by acting upon feedback. Those can help to keep sales of Tesco up. The staff in Tesco has many benefits. They are not just having good pay.Also Tesco offer a whole package of other ways to help staff make more of their money, safeguard their future and look aft er their health. For example, Tesco is offers flexible working hours, offering part-time roles and encouraging job-sharing opportunities and shift-swapping. Tesco also provide a Training Options Development Programmer, offering an Apprenticeship or encouraging the studying for a qualification whilst at work. Currents in Tesco there are 7,000 members of staff taking part on development programmer which is designed to help them gain the experience and skills they need to move on to the next Tesco challenge.This can help Tesco to achieve developing the talents of its people through sound management and training practices, while rewarding them fairly with equal opportunities for all. The other important stakeholders are investor and shareholders. Tesco can’t grow without them. For example if Tesco want to open a Tesco store in overseas country. They must have local investor put money in it and look after them. The benefits for the shareholders and investor in Tesco are Tesco is a successful business and I am sure they are making profits. This shareholders return will increase.Also the investors get good and fair dividend each year. This has achieved Tesco aim of providing shareholders with progressive returns on their investment improving profitability through investment in efficient stores. Maximizing sales revenue Maximizing sales revenue is an ambitious aim in which the business seeks to generate as much income as it can. For Tesco when it aims to maximize sales, Tesco make some products half prices to attract more customers to buy it. Tesco also use club card to do promotion. Customer use club card to get more points, so they buy more products and discount.Tesco also use TV advertising to increase revenue the product. TV advertising is expensive and needs lots of people to make an advertisement. However there are many people watching the TV. Now there are very useful and very popular promotions, which are mobile apps. People can use mobile everywhere. M obile apps allow people to find the nearest Tesco store from the customer and show how to get there. People also can use this app to shop for 1000’s product from Tesco direct. If people use club card, they can scan the club card to see vouchers and order club card Rewards.When people have free time they can sit at home to so the shopping online. This can make the sales of Tesco higher. This can achieve their objective of outstanding international online retailer. In Belfast Tesco offer petrol in one of the biggest stores. It can maximize the sales of shop. It can increase sales of product because customer must buy the petrol. Also it can achieve the objective of meeting customers need. Tesco has created their brand, so all brands under Tesco name all profit will be return. Tesco offer a wide range of products for customers to choose.From increases choice can increase the sales because customer can buy more kind of product than other supermarkets. When Tesco sell the chicken, they will show us how they cook the chicken. It makes the customer want to buy it. The layout of stores is very important. The most people come to supermarket to buy bread, so Tesco sell their bread at the end of the shop. This make customer walk thought the shop. Maybe the customers just want to buy bread, but come out with a lot of products in the check out. There also place their products at the front of the store or points of sale in order to increase sales revenue.This also achieves the objective of to be as strong in everything we sell as we are in food because food product helps increase the non food product Tesco always continues to improve the customer service and meet customer needs by acting upon feedback. Service can upgrade the value of Tesco for example Tesco provide good customers service, customers will shop more happily and customers would like to return to Tesco. If customers buy lots of products or large product Tesco will offer delivery services. More over custom er buy online product will get delivery servers as well.In every Tesco stores there are boards in the air show customer what kind of product in that area. This make customer easier to find the product they want. Tesco has service like Club card Helpline, Customer Service, the Tesco Direct Flowers & Wine Telephone Ordering Service and the early Grocery Home Shopping service. Those services can upgrade the value of Tesco and make customer want to buy more product. Moreover those service cam help Tesco increase their sales to achieve their aim of maximizing their sale. This can increase sale to achieve the aim of maximising profit.Maximizing Profit Maximizing profit means Tesco is attempting to make as much profit as possible, so this make the total revenue of the business exceeds all the total costs. Tesco going global, it can maximize its profits as its services and sales are greatly sort across the world. To be able to do it that Tesco need to retain loyal staff and customer. Tesco need to loyal of staff to create a good working environment between staff and the owner. So staff will be happy and they will work harder for the owner. Tesco also need to keep the shareholders happy by putting money in their pocket.And the most important thing is get their customer happy, so Tesco has keep their profit rising. Tesco group sale is ?72bn this has been growth 7. 4% from last year. This shows Tesco are growing lot of profit. Tesco can use their objective to achieve their aim of maximizing profit. Tesco can use the following objective of create of highly valued brands, growth, be strong in everything they sell as they are in food. Increase sales prices Tesco can increase sales prices on the product which is high demand product, for example Tesco could increase milk from 65p to 75p. Although it is only slight increase, it wills a big effect on profit making.However if Tesco increase prices for many product, they will start losing customers. This will be losing profit. Th erefore before setting new pines Tesco needs to take such issues who careful consideration. Decreasing cost of product Tesco can maximise profit by decreasing cost of product. Tesco can open more stores, so Tesco can get cheaper price on economic of sales by order more products. Tesco need to get good relationship with supplier. They can pay all the product or ingredients by cash, so it can save bit of money to maximise. Tesco can use all the ingredients to which they order.For example order a chicken or cow use all part of those animals to cook a dish. Tesco have their own brand product, so they can sell those products straight away after the production. This can save time, so Tesco have more time to sell those products to maximising profit. Sell a range of products Tesco need to sell as many kinds of product as they can to attract as many customers as possible to maximise their profit. Tesco have the objective of be strong in everything as in food. For example maybe there is a cus tomer just looking for milk in Tesco. Suddenly he sees a good TV then he decided to buy it.This shows range of product can attract customers to buy more products. Some product Tesco has provided different size to maximise profit for example there are different size of 7up which give customer to choose. If a customer wants to drink the 7up immediately they will buy the small bottler of drink. This show size of product can meet customer different needs and they will buy more, so Tesco can maximise their profit. Growth Growth means a business is increasing its size, either by employing more people, increasing it product range and opening more branches. This show Tesco has been growth strongly.Tesco has growth up to 13 countries. They have stores in China, India, Malaysia, South Korea, Thailand, Czech Republic, Hungary Ireland, Poland Slovakia, Turkey, and USA. Also there are over 500,000 employees’ works for Tesco. Tesco has become third biggest retailer in the world. In 1997 is the time Tesco start to growth the core business and diversify with new products and services in existing and new markets. From 1998 Tesco has expanding the range of product that sell, for example by stocking clothes, household products and electrical. During those years Tesco starts to offer car and house insurance, loans and credit card.In 2003 Tesco has entering to telephone market. This shows the new range of products has attracted new customers. This suggests that it will be easier for Tesco to achieve it aim of growth In 1924 Tesco start growth in UK. In 1995 Tesco started trading in Hungary and now there are 212 stores in Hungary. Tesco has achieved their objective of being an outstanding international retailer, new technology and protection of the environment. For example In Hungary Tesco has developed range of technologies to reduce our carbon emissions including solar panels on stores, natural refrigeration  systems and energy efficient lighting systems.The most success ful international business is in South Korea call Home plus. This business first opened in 1999 and now has more than 450 stores consisting of both large hypermarkets and small Express stores. Home plus has employed more than 27000 people. In each week there are more than 6m customers go into the shop to buy things. I think they have growth so successfully around the world because they give very good value for the customers and provide a big range of products. In the UK Tesco operates a home shopping service on the Tesco.com wedside.In May 1984, Tesco has become the world's first recorded online home shopper. Tesco has operated on the internet since 1994 and was the first retailer in the world to offer a robust home shopping service in 1996. Tesco has entered online music in 2004. In 2011 Tesco has brought Binkbox which is an online movie streaming. This has achieved the objective of to be an outstanding international online retailer and growth in UK core. It shows the increase of T esco’s selling space during the last decade. This chart also shows the growth of Tesco.(Source: Tesco annual reports) Tesco use quantitative and qualitative information to measure the degree to which they are achieving their aims and objective. In quantitative information, Tesco is looking for some number or figures. For example actual, target sales figures over time, number of people went to Tesco in a week, percentage of customer use the self check out service etc. Tesco will use club card data to find out the information. After find the information Tesco will know they have achieved the aim or objective or not.In qualitative information, Tesco is looking for some opinion from stakeholder. Tesco can done by questionnaires to customer ask them what they feel about Tesco and how Tesco meet their needs. Also Tesco can use consumer panels involves taking response from people who regularly sit on panels and give Tesco opinions on given products. That information can help Tesco t o achieve their aim and give some information about improvement. Overall Tesco is a very successful business. In 1924 only one person start the business of Tesco and now Tesco become the world third largest retailer.Before we only can find Tesco in UK, but now we can find Tesco across the world. This shows Tesco has achieved the aim of growth successfully. Most of Tesco stores have achieved the aim of survival which is very good. We also find Tesco try very hard to achieve fully to their aim of maximising profit and sale. Tesco also meet the stakeholder needs very well. They always find their way to make their employees, investor, suppliers and the most important stakeholder customer very happy. This is the reason why Tesco is the world third largest retailer.

Panera Bread Company Essay

Panera Bread Company is regarded as one of the largest company in the United States that has specialized in the production of breakfast and lunch food for its consumers. Panera Bread Company which was in the years back been referred to as An Bon Pain is reported to be producing products such as baked foods, sandwiches, soups among other food products and beverages. The company is reported to have been founded in the year 1987 by Ken Rosenthan with its headquarters situated in Richmond Missouri in the USA. The company operates in divisions namely; franchise segments; who are licensed to carry out business transactions in the name of the company and retailing operations; which covers over five hundred bakery cafes that are reported to be company owned and over six hundred cafes which are franchised operated in more than thirty five states. In the year 1999 it was expanded into a national restaurant. Panera Bread Company has struggled to survive the growing competition and to effectively utilize its opportunities by utilizing the concept of company analysis which is very critical in modern business world. The aim of Panera Bread Company has always been to become a market leader in production of foods and beverages globally by diversifying and reaching to many new markets. In the year 2005, the company was ranked top forty by the Business Week in the annual list of hot growth companies. By that year its earnings was projected at $ 38 Million with an increase of over 40% in profit. In the year 2007, Zagat rated the company to top the list of Overall Food Facilities and Popularity rankings. Panera Bread Company is further recognized for its involvement in community events such as silent auctions, runs and walks by making donations. SWOT Analysis Modern businesses are faced with changing business environments and Panera Bread Company is not exceptional from facing such changes within their business context. By carrying out SWOT analysis, environment analysis is very decisive to Panera Bread Company and it is usually analyzed in two extents; the external environment and internal environment examination within the business perspective. Research reveals that the analysis of external environment illustrates opportunities and threats that exist in the market for a firm that may be either present or impending. On the other hand, internal environment examination depicts the strengths and weaknesses that the business may face in the market place (Anthony, 1998). Strengths Strength in this context can be identified as that distinctive ability posed by a firm and if the company utilizes such an opportunity it can succeed and can gain competitive advantage, over its rivals in the industry. The most common strength associated with Panera Bread Company is that of being a market leader in the food industry and particularly marketing of bread. Research indicates that Panera Bread Company is better placed than its main rivals in the market in that it has significantly acquired larger market share which is attributed to its diversification to various countries in the world, for example it has opened many subsidiaries in Toronto, Canada. It is also reported that the company has a strong brand name of its products which have significantly aided the company in terms of achieving a larger market share. The other strength that the company has is that of the best marketing channels that have aided marketing of packaging solutions products to a wider range of customers (Kotler, 1996). Weakness Weakness in this context can be referred to as any dimension of a firm that possibly will deter the accomplishment of set objectives by the firm and usually considered to comprise the company’s resources, capabilities and assets that are not fully utilized. From the company’s profile it can be noted that Panera Bread Company has weak policies, procedures and regulations that may deter the attainment of target performance of the company in some target markets. It is also reported that recently, the employees are not motivated to work and there has been complains regarding low pay and poor working conditions among others although such reports have not been proved. The management of the company should therefore look for ways in solving such problems that may affect adversely the performance of the employees and thus the overall performance of the company. Also the culture of Panera Bread Company has been under scrutiny and there has been allegation that the company is producing loaves of bread which are of poor quality, an issue that the management should look at it seriously (Anthony, 1998). Opportunities For companies to achieve the set objectives, they have to identify and devise events or features in the business external environment that will give them an added advantage or chance of performing better than their competitors. Such an event or feature can be referred to as an opportunity because it will create more chances to the company by increasing the current proceeds through acquiring a significant market share. Panera Bread Company has opportunities that if utilized will be of great benefit to the firm because it will lead to exploring and reaching to more new markets. Research indicates that there is greater demand for bread products in Africa and the management of Panera Bread Company should open subsidiaries in some of those countries after carefully analyzing the situational analysis in those potential markets. Since Panera Bread Company is among the market leaders in bakery industry; it is perceived to be having a well developed financial foundation and thus does not face any liquidity or cash flow problems. It is for this reason that the company should explore new markets and can compete across the entire market without fearing that its competitors can outdo them financially. However, before competing Panera Bread Company should carry out cost benefit analysis in order to avoid unnecessary expenditure (Brandenburger and Nalebuff, 1995). Threat In business context, a threat is regarded as an event which if not taken care of it may possibly deter the accomplishment of company’s goals e. g. customers declining income and competition among other events deemed to causing danger to the operations of the business. Panera Bread Company is basically faced with intense rivalry in bread and beverages products since many firms have opted to join the market because it is considered profitable. In fact, in some market segments particularly in Canada there has been a significant drop in terms of the company’s market share because new firms has entered the industry. Globalization concept has brought about new inventions and Panera Bread Company is faced with the task of coping with such innovations, for example the task of training and development programs to educate the employees on new technologies might be costly and difficult to acquire; such as the use of on-line marketing techniques and networking facilities (Anthony, 1998). Competitive Strategy According to research, Panera Bread Company has embarked on identification of markets that bread products and beverages can do best and it is through this that the company has sold a lot in the target areas. This strategy is normally referred to as segmentation; where the company has avoided competing entirely across the entire food industry but instead targeting certain markets i. e. bread and some beverages markets. Market segmentation will be an ideal situation for Panera Bread Company since competing across the entire market is expensive and considered to entail a lot of risks that the firm cannot sustain for example unfair competition by its rivals in the market (Bagley and Savage, 2006). This will involve Panera Bread Company marketing staff subdividing the existing market into different subsets of clientele where each division may be chosen as an intended market to be explored with a different marketing mix strategy. In essence, target marketing strategy will involve market segmentation which Panera Bread Company will have to find it on the acknowledgment that any segment comprises of potential buyers of bread products and beverages with diverse needs and dissimilar buying behavior. After carefully developing and subdividing the entire market to segments or the target markets, Panera Bread Company should then position itself on how to carry out the marketing activities in order to meet the overall objective of the corporation. Under this; positioning will imply to the formation of limits for bread products and beverages in the minds of the intended market in relation to the rivalry faced. Positioning of any firm including Panera Bread Company is very essential since it forms the foundation of all the communication of the company that comprise the following; branding, publicity, advertising and packaging among other strategies. Therefore it will be prudent for Panera Bread Company to create a single unique position which will operate as a guide for marketing communications involved thus will aid in transmission of steady image (Cullen and Parboteeah, 2005). HR and its Importance Since the mission statement of Panera Bread Company is clear, that it aims at being the market leader of producing bread products and some beverages not only locally but globally it should implement its marketing strategies particularly in the identified target markets. Implementation is putting in to action whatever plan or strategy that the management had formulated and therefore human resource is the most crucial asset in this stage. Research indicates that any company must motivate and provide clear direction to its human resource in order to attain its objectives. Therefore, Panera Bread Company should clearly identify the needs of its employees and try to meet them in order to give them an ample opportunity to serve diligently and be dedicated to the company. By offering a competitive package and offering performance contracts to the employees; ensures that they perform to the fullest because they will be highly motivated to work. Good leadership and management skills will be essential to Panera Bread Company’s management staff in order to command respect from the employees (Hilltop and Sparrow, 1994). Recommendations Panera Bread Company should note that nowadays, it is possible to use e-business through the internet for distribution purposes especially when dealing with international businesses. Digital innovations coupled with rapid growth in new technologies are changing the way distribution channels for companies and Panera Bread Company is able to use such hi-tech communication channels to monitor progresses in the market places not only in USA but globally. The company should further utilize modern entry market modes which such as Foreign direct Investments and licensing in order to build long-term markets in its target markets. It will be possible to also adopt joint ventures which will make possible for Panera Bread Company to gather enough market information quickly and familiarize itself with the laws, regulations and needs of the customers in the target market (Grant, 2005). Conclusion Panera Bread Company is among the current market leaders in the food industry and therefore stands a better chance of attaining a significant market share as a result of the brand name of its bread products and beverages that are regarded to be of high quality. Every business including Panera Bread Company is faced with challenges and it has to fully adhere to market regulations in order to avoid unfair competition. The concept of globalization cannot be written off either since many firms including Panera Bread Company has diversified to various markets and there are threats and opportunities associated with such globalization. Therefore the company should formulate strategies that are considered global in nature in order to meet the current expectations of the customers in the target customers. Such strategies like build, harvest or divest should be considered by the Panera Bread Company when assessing the performance of its products in its target markets. Management functions of planning, directing, leading and controlling should be adhered to by the management of Panera Bread Company in order to significantly improve the operations of the company by achieving the required targets (Kotler, 1996)

Hustle As Strategy by Amar Bhide in Harvard Business Review Essay

Hustle As Strategy by Amar Bhide in Harvard Business Review September-October(critical review of the article) - Essay Example (Porter, 2004). Author therefore seems to have taken a narrow view of how organizations can actually just rely on their own resources to gain competitive advantage and give less consideration to what competition is doing. Porter however, claims that operational efficiency is not the strategy though Porter believes that it is necessary but not the sufficient condition.(Porter, 1996). Author however, seem to have taken a view that operational effectiveness can actually materialize into successful strategy. Debating strategy from this perspective therefore can be considered as important because this is where strategy is actually directly linked with the maximization of the profits. (Davies, 2000). Author however, seem to differ by offering an indirect suggestion towards the use of differentiation as one of the (Porter, 1989) Such approach toward strategy therefore outlines that strategy is not just limited to understanding and exploring how to leverage the organizational resources in or der to compete effectively. (Speed, 1989). Within this perspective the debate presented in this article points out that strategy should be of evolutionary nature where only such strategies will survive which can produce best results. The author has given different examples of financial institutions where the international firms continued to re-evaluate their strategies in order to fit them according to what is working best. (Elfring, and Volberda, 2011) The evolutionary approach towards the strategy outlines that firms cannot withstand the competition but rather focus on developing their competencies in order to successful evaluate and challenge the competition. This also outlines that the firms must continue to focus upon the use innovative tools and techniques to successfully challenge the competition. (Henderson, 2007). This approach also outlines that the author has taken a broader view of how the firms can actually use their core competencies in order to compete. This thought o n strategy suggests that once the firms take care of developing their core competencies and resources, competition matters less to them. (Morden, 2007). These core competencies often translate into the competitive advantages for the firms and the firms resultantly develop into stronger and innovative organizations. It is also critical to understand that the firms pursuing such strategy must not be complacent and continue to evolve themselves according to the external situation. As such the link between the organizational strategies as well as the external environment is critical and the author has suggested the same. Overall, the author seems to have presented an evolutionary school of strategy for firms in this article. 2) One of the most important strengths of this article is based upon the fact that the author has produced a relatively different and fresh approach towards the strategy. By outlining different practical examples from financial services industry, author has critical ly offered a glimpse into how the managers think and evaluate their options before taking on any action. As such it is important for the managers to consider different aspects of the strategy making before it can actually be materialized. (Pretorius, & Maritz, 2011). What is unconvincing however is the fact that the author has just focused upon the financial service

Public Opinion & Public Policy - [400 Level Political Science Course] Research Paper

Public Opinion & Public Policy - [400 Level Political Science Course] - Research Paper Example The public then evaluates the agenda, based on the values and beliefs, as well as the preferences, and then give their opinion regarding the same. However, most significant of this concept, is the framing of the agenda and the ideas sought by the media. This is because, based on the way a certain agenda is articulated, the same individual can give diverse opinions (Jopkke, 251). Therefore, framing of the public opinion agenda should be done consistently with the actual target information that the agenda is to gather. Social desirability is yet the other consideration that should be made while preparing for a public opinion. The medium that is used to collect public opinion highly determines the response that is obtained (Guimond, 645). This way, the same issue can fetch different responses based on the medium applied. Thus, it is vital to use a medium that is socially desirable to all. This will assure getting the right response on the target issue. The study of public opinion is important. From the beginning of the concept of public opinion, the views obtained from the opinions given by the public regarding a certain issue, have not only been used to give public views regarding the issue, but also to shape and determine the destiny of such an issue (Hugh, 69). A public opinion indicates the attitude, the feelings, the approval or the disapproval of a certain issue by the public. This being the case, it is important to study public opinion, since it helps to understand the real feelings and attitudes that the public holds towards a certain issue (Guimond, 644). Failure to study public opinion would mean that certain decisions are reached on the basis of what certain individuals feel or think, devoid of incorporating the feelings of the public, which is the most affected entity by any social, economic or political

Recession & tourism industry in London during 2007-2010 Dissertation

Recession & tourism industry in London during 2007-2010 - Dissertation Example The tourism industry in London serves as the epitome of how the recession greatly ravaged several industries, given that it is considered as specialising in the provision of services that are secondary to human needs. However, the gravity of the matter herein is that this development does not auger well for the entire economy, since tourism provides important socio-cultural, economic and political values to any given economy. It is for this reason that studying the impact of the 2007-2010 global financial recession on tourism becomes needful. Introduction That financial vibrancy of an economy affects different industries therein is a matter that is beyond gainsay. This is so since austere economic constraints compel people to seek more economically viable alternatives. This is particularly the case when the industries involved are seen to be peripheral to human needs. Specifically, recreational and tourism industry are very vulnerable to financial meltdown that may take place at eith er the national or global level. This is because tourism is considered marginal to values that are sacrosanct to the sustenance of human life. Man eventually prioritises his needs during the times of financial recession as a way of eradicating unnecessary expenditure, so that he can eventually keep afloat. This is to say that the global financial recession of 2007-2010 affected the tourism industry in sundry ways that can be seen in the discussion that ensues forthwith. Part 1: Purpose of the Research The research topic of this research is determining the different ways in which the global financial recession of 2007-2010 affected the tourism industry. This is not to mean that the essence of the research is mainly limited to the chronological time frame of 2007-2010. On the contrary, by looking at the effects of the 2007-2010 global financial recession, one can determine the manner in which the variable which is economic recession can affect tourism and recreational industry. The im port of this above is that the main objective of this study is to determine the manner in which the global financial recession of 2007-2010 affected the tourism industry, so as to bring about a myriad of corrective measures and policies that can keep tourism afloat, even in the face of serious financial challenges. In turn, the need to keep tourism vibrant perennially is underscored by the socio-cultural, economic and political values that it (tourism) endows a nation with. No sooner than an economy downplay the importance of tourism than for its foreign policy begin to lose effectiveness and efficiency. The setting of this research undertaking comes against the backdrop of 2 years that succeed the 2007-2010 global financial recession. The 2 years which succeed 2007-2010 the global financial recession are significant in this research, given that it allows for adequate observations and rumination over the dynamics that the 2007-2010 global financial recession may have acted upon the tourism industry. This ensures that information that shall have been gathered on this matter will be as comprehensive as is needed in scholarly discourse. The need for a comprehensive discourse is underscored by the dictates of objectivity in academics. It is only by being objective that one will be able to see the relevance of 2007-2010 global

Critique of Food and Beverage Operations in the Eye of a Management, Assignment

Critique of Food and Beverage Operations in the Eye of a Management, Support Staff and Customer - Assignment Example In this paper, a critique of hospitality industry operation is made. Considerations are made fro three different hotels; Mediterranean food, Asian food, American dinner. The critique will be viewed in a perspective of a chief in the case of Mediterranean food and in the perspective of a staff in the case of Asian food, and finally in the customer’s perspective in the case of American dinner. The American dinner restaurant is one of the leading hospitality facilities in its location. The location of the restaurant is strategically positioned so as to enable ease of access by many hungry customers of the city. As a guest, the privileges of knowing the detailed operations of the restaurant were accorded and hence a critique of the concepts in this industry was undertaken following the concepts below. Proper marketing paves way for the identification of the right consumer. In this restaurant, various concepts have been developed by the management so as to come up with an optimum share of the market from other competitors. Some of the concepts employed are; The firm has positioned itself just at the heart of the city so as to reap the benefit of a large number of customers. This is an excellent strategy since some customers who would like to get quick meals before returning to work can be able to do so. The problem with the location in the city is that the presence of noise and stuffy environment may not be the choice for many people; prestige goes with quietness and serene ambiance. The menu is the most essential marketing tool and this restaurant has capitalized on that. The menu at this place is treated as the business card for the restaurant. As the customer enters into the hotel, he/she is met by a waiter who hands the menu just at the door, the customer selects the place to sit as he/she goes through the menu. The menu type employed here is the folded format.

Flight Stability Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Flight Stability - Essay Example The most important flight management and control information is based on stability principles that are mainly referred to as static and dynamic principles. Considerations of the stability elements as highlighted in the section below are useful in the formulation of appropriate stability systems in aeroplanes. A balanced position of an aeroplane in flight is termed as a trimmed position in terms of stability, which is affected by introduction of static instability forces. Static stability is the capacity of an aeroplane experiencing static disturbance to revert to its trimmed state. An aeroplane is deemed to be in stability if there are no changes of acceleration towards a particular axis when in flight. When the aeroplane is exposed to static forces of disturbance, instability is experienced and the ability of the aeroplane to return to the static condition is determined by its capacity to overcome the disturbance and achieve the earlier stability (Ly 1997, p23). In the trimmed state, the aeroplane is generally in a stable condition that does not require extra input in order for it to be sustained in the condition. The aeroplane must be installed with systems to assist it revert to the steady state after a disturbance, which creates a disorientation of the stable axis conditions. Along the longitudinal axis, the appropriate conditions are achieved by introducing elevator trim tabs which are engaged until the previous static condition is achieved (Pamadi, 1998). This is achieved by the aeroplane system where the input of the pilot is not needed because it is on a hands-free operation installed in the design of the aeroplane. To assist in the detection of the instability of the aeroplane after a static disturbance, there are two types of analyses systems that can be used in such systems. On one hand, there is the stick-fixed manoeuvre which detects disturbance and maintains the same position in response while stick-free system is designed to

Oil in North America Annotated Bibliography Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Oil in North America - Annotated Bibliography Example This short article is a review of a much longer book on the subject of the American strategic petroleum reserve which was first created after the first oil crisis of 1973-1974. Van Doren acknowledges the factual account of what happened following the decision to create such a reserve, but his review focuses mainly on the political dimension of oil policies in the United Sates from the mid-1970s until the present day. Successive presidents adopted varying strategies, sometimes using government resources to fill up the reserve, and sometimes halting this process when deficits in the budget squeezed their ability to spend freely. The impact of the Kuwait war is mentioned, and specifically as a brief interlude when the reserve was actually used up partially, and although there was an immediate drop in the price of oil , Van Doren comments that this was probably not connected with the use of the strategic reserve.

Philosophical View of High Noon Movie (Ethics) Essay

Philosophical View of High Noon Movie (Ethics) - Essay Example The difference is that in deontology, an act may not be beneficial to most of the people. With these views, we construct a dichotomy with Kane on one side and the townsfolk on the other. Ethically, we can view Kane’s insistence on staying through the lenses of deontology. He chose to stay because he considered it fit and proper to do what is right and that is to make sure that the criminal does not harm anybody. This he did even though he was not the Marshal anymore. One can argue that Kane was actually motivated by self preservation because he feared that Miller would pursue him and his wife unrelentingly. Therefore, he was not motivated by doing what is right as a civil officer but was forced to do so to save his own life. However, he could have run off and left the town under the mercy of a gun wielding crazy criminal but he did not. He chose to stand by his code of honor which is to protect the citizenry. Furthermore, the doctrine of deontology states that happiness is not the goal. For certain, Kane’s goal was not happiness for death was the only prospect facing him with a gun fight with four seasoned gunslingers. Knowing death is inevitable and s till having the right intentions characterized Kane’s actions. For the townsfolk part, we see their decision of not supporting Kane as characteristic of utilitarianism especially in the reasons they forwarded for not doing so. This was especially true in the Church scene where Kane did not get any support because they consider it bad for the development’s of the town’s economy. A gun battle would make the town look uncivilized and unfit for commercial trading. If they just boot Kane out of the town then they can avoid such an event from happening thereby ensuring prosperity for the town. One can see the act of townsfolk as a way of avoiding retribution from Miller’s gang. If they support Kane

Censored Literature Essay Example for Free

Censored Literature Essay There are many reason why states or international countries ban and censor literature. The question that arise when literature are integrated into the curriculum is â€Å"is the literature appropriate?† The reason for censored or banned literature is culture, language, religion, and age. The Lord of the Flies by William Golding is literature that has been challenged and censored by many schools because of what the literature represents and inappropriate for children of a certain age. Although many schools banned and censored the literature, the literature can provide a positive in-class discussion and encourage group projects. Censoring The Lord of the Flies by William Golding The Lord of the Flies by William Golding is a fictional book about British schoolboys being evacuated on a plane to escape war. The plane is shot down into a deserted island. Challenges are faced, rules are broke, and new laws are established on the island. The main character, Ralph, becomes the leader of the schoolboys. Ralph tries to establish order on the island, but the schoolboys vote against Ralph. Instead of establishing order and a civil group on the island, the schoolboys become savages, violent, and mischievous. As Ralph tries to escape the mischievous boys who are after him, Ralph stumbles upon the beach, where a British naval ship arrived on the beach. The literature is seen as a controversial book. The Lord of the Flies by William Golding was challenged at the Owen, NC High School in 1981. According to the American Library Association (2010), the book was considered demoralizing inasmuch as it implies that man is little more than an animal (The Lord of the Flies, by William Golding). The literature brings up the discussion of what constitutes a government vs. savages. Although to some, the literature may seem barbaric with inappropriate language, the literature provides knowledge and uses of symbolism. I agree the literature may be unsuitable ages; the book recommended for high school students can be a great tool for English studies and in-class discussion. The use of symbolism helps students to learn the depths and meaning of literature. Symbolism adds ideas and different meanings in literary works. Use of Literature in the Curriculum. The Lord of the Flies by William Golding can be used in the high school reading curriculum for English studies. Students will discuss the literature after reading two chapters. Student will identify the symbolism used in the chapters. Students will then discuss the issue of laws vs. savages. Upon discussion, students will then write down what constitute a government and laws. Student will then discuss his or her ideas in front of the class. Conclusion Literature banned and censored in many parts of the United States and other countries contain content material that may be unsuitable for certain age groups. However, censoring books may not allow students to experience certain situations that he or she may not experience, but can experience emotions. Some literatures may even contain valuable information on history or the way government works. Other literatures can provide discussion that can provide different perspectives or views of the story. It is important to incorporate literature in everyday teaching to enhance critical thinking skills. Reference American Library Association. (2010). Banned and/or Challenged Books from the Radcliffe publishing course top 100 novels of the 20th century. Retrieved from http://www.ala.org/bbooks/frequentlychallengedbooks/classics/reasons

Effect of Foreign Aid on Economic Growth in Developing Areas

Effect of Foreign Aid on Economic Growth in Developing Areas The Development Assistance Committee (DAC) of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) defines foreign aid as financial flows, technical support, and goods that are intended to encourage economic growth and wellbeing. Foreign aid is generally linked with authorized development support which in turn is a division of the official development finance, and usually given to the poorest countries (World Bank, 1998) (TAB 1). Various debates about the usefulness of foreign aid dates back decades. Milton Friedman, Peter Bauer, and William Easterly are critics that have given tough reviews, ranging from the decreased impact aid has on government bureaucracies, propagated bad governments, enriched the selected few in poor countries, or wasted. They lay emphasis on extensive poverty in Africa and South Asia despite over thirty years of aid directed to these countries still having a devastating record, e.g. the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, and Somalia. In their opinion aid programs should be significantly transformed, considerably managed, or eradicated (PAPER 1). Other researchers oppose these arguments, although partly correct but over emphasised. Jeffrey Sachs, Joseph Stiglitz, Nicholas Stern and others have argued that even though aid has from time to time failed, it has reduced poverty and enhanced growth in some countries and discouraged worse outcome in other countries. They consider the weaknesses of aid to be linked with donors rather than receivers, and identified a couple of successful countries that have received significant aid such as Botswana, Indonesia, Korea, and, more recently, Tanzania and Mozambique, together with thriving ideas such as the Green Revolution, the crusade against river blindness, and the introduction of oral rehydration therapy (PAPER 1). Review by Papanek (1973) disagreed with the negative outcome of Griffin and Enos (1970) that by not adding capital flow to foreign aid and other inflows, a significantly positive aid coefficient can be achieved. In contrast, using a sample of 22 Less Developed Countries 1956-1968, Voivodas (1973) achieved an insignificant negative aid impact on growth. This early periods can be characterised with poor quality of data thereby causing ambiguity in their results(TAB 5). More recently, Knack (2000) debates that an increase in foreign aid increases corruption, rent-seeking and corrodes institutional quality thus having an adverse effect on growth. However, with better data, Dowling and Hiemenz (1983) used the pooled data for 13 Asian countries to test for impact of aid on growth and discovered a significantly positive relationship. In their research, they controlled for certain policy variables like government intervention and trade. While Levy (1988) considered Sub-Saharan Africa and also achieved a significantly positive correlation haven used a regression model with income per capita and aid as a ratio of GDP for 1968-1982(TAB 5). Using 41 countries 1986-1992, Hadjimichael et al. (1995) discovered a positive aid-growth relationship. More recently, Burnside and Dollar (1997) used a model with various policy variables and learnt that aid alone does not directly influence growth in LDCs but when policy variables interact with aid will have a significant impact on economic growth (World Bank, 1998) (TAB 1). The potential side effects of foreign aid as well as certain policy variables were captured in the above mentioned models thus making them slightly more sophisticated than previous research. These studies can be criticised in many ways. Boone (1996) disagrees with the positive aid-growth relationship, stating that aid has no effect on both investment and income growth in LDCs (tab 5). While Easterly, Levine and Roodman (2003) used a higher sample size to reanalyse Burnside and Dollars review, thereby finding that the coefficients of the result is not as significant(TAB 1). Similarly, the most mentioned criticism is the poorly defined growth model where researchers growth model may ignore certain economic activities that would have enabled a more sophisticated empirical growth model in which aid would be a reliable growth factor (TAB 5). An example is Gupta (1975) and Gupta and Islam (1983) who discovered that the negative effect of foreign capital can be reversed if indirect effects were incorporated. On the other hand, Mosley (1980) found a negative (although not significant) correlation in aid and growth haven used a simultaneous equation model. He however, found a positive correlation in the case of LDCs in his sample but in total concludes that his analysis is incomplete. A major shortcoming of the previous research is the deficiency in the growth models. Most of which identify capital accumulation alone as a growth factor but others have thoroughly considered the problem of sufficient model requirement. Mosley (1987) and Dowling and Hiemenz (1983) considered variables representing trade and government activities, while Burnside and Dollar (1997) and Hadjimichael et al. (1995) used macroeconomic variables in their growth model. In contrast, reviews on determinants of growth in LDCs do not consider the effect of aid rather it includes only variables of total savings and investment (Fischer, 1991, 1993; Easterly, 1993; Barro and Sala-i-Martin, 1995) (TAB 5). On the whole, the aid-growth relationship can be considered to be full of loopholes and should be further researched. Sample countries regions should be considered as it influences economic growth but has been ignored in economic growth analysis (Gallup, Sachs and Mellinger, 1999)(TAB 1). This study will revolve round impact of aid on growth in intensification on the growth model: the Fischer-Easterly model (Fischer, 1991, 1993; Easterly, 1993). The model will concentrate on macroeconomic policies which encompass the total framework of the aid-growth relationship as argued earlier that aid only increases growth in the presence of sound economic policies in recipient countries (TAB 5). The model specification will be further broken down to include policy variables as well as all key investment sources (domestic savings, foreign aid, private and other inflows) (TAB 5). This study will also strive to surmount past criticism of aid-growth models by applying a cross-section econometric te chnique to a large sample size(50 developing countries) over a long period (1980-2005) (TAB 5). RESEARCH QUESTIONS: Does foreign aid have a positive impact on economic growth across developing countries? Does foreign aid have a diminishing return as volume of aid increases? Does foreign aid have a diminishing return as volume of aid increases? To test for Hypothesis: H0: that foreign aid induces economic growth H1: that foreign aid does not induce economic growth RESEARCH STRATEGY METHODOLOGY: The research will be highly empirical with the use of secondary data obtained from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund database. The use of Cross Section techniques and the Augmented Fischer-Easterly model in order to control for macroeconomic stability/instability and policy distortions. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: The data trend in foreign capital flow to 50 developing countries (number of countries may reduce due to unavailability of data) between 1980- 2005 will be analysed. These figures will be in nominal rates to avoid appropriate deflator problems. MODEL SPECIFICATION: Cross section techniques will be used to examine the impact of the data averaging through 1980-2005 and for comparism with previous research. The model will take the form: The study is aimed at making a major contribution to the empirical argument on the capability of foreign aid to induce economic growth in developing countries. The Augmented Fischer-Easterly growth model will be used where macroeconomic variables and foreign aid as well as other financial investment sources are considered in calculating economic growth. (TAB 5).

Mo Money, Mo Greed & Corruption Essay -- Economics Finance Papers Fi

Mo' Money, Mo' Greed & Corruption The American dream: a spouse, a few children, a lucrative job, a nice home, and of course, some material luxuries. Those who are able to realize this goal have my respect and they should be proud of their accomplishments. However, my beef arises with the very few Americans who greatly surpass this dream. Yes, I mean the multi-millionaires and billionaires of America. The wealthiest one percent of our nation owns half the financial assets and 38 percent of the total wealth. They have more money than the bottom 90 percent combined. The next richest nine percent also have more money than the bottom 90 percent combined. These people are so filthy rich they can literally burn hundred dollar bills and laugh about it. But that's not why I'm upset; that's merely capitalism at work. Capitalism is important because it provides a framework for people to aspire for more. But the downside is that an entirely different class is produced. Although small in numbers, this class of people has an infinite amount of power. I get really upset when I see these people, who are already beyond the definition of rich, committing fraud or perpetuating unfair political policies that keep them and their friends so wealthy. This extreme greed and corruption are the targets of my attack. I interned with Merrill Lynch and Smith Barney/Citigroup over the summer and I soon plan to begin my full-time career on Wall Street as well. When I started reading the Wall Street Journal last spring, I began to notice that every day's headlines included a scandal of some sort. Most people have heard of Enron, a company that inflated financial reports consistently until the "bubble" collapsed, revealing the truth and sending the c... ...al to make sure they stay ahead of the game. This is exactly where my problem arises. While they’re â€Å"playing† this game, millions of Americans are living in poverty. Many people even live on the streets, trying to survive until their next meal. Some rich people have done extraordinary things with their money through philanthropy and charity. I wish that every wealthy American would follow this same path of giving. I would like for this selfish â€Å"game† to finally end. Will it happen anytime soon? I know that it won’t. But I do have the power to control my own actions. I have set high goals for myself with my career and in my life. Coming from a disadvantaged background I know that I will better appreciate whatever wealth I attain. Whether or not I make it to the top one percentile, I am certain that I will never forget the struggles that millions of Americans endure.

moralhod Relative Morality in Joseph Conrads Heart of Darkness Essay

Relative Morality in Heart of Darkness      Ã‚  Ã‚   It has been well documented by critics that modernist literature departs from the blind acceptance of beliefs, religious beliefs in particular, evident in literature of prior periods (Abrams 1).   As Jump notes "[...] the modern western world is less sure of its values than most previous cultures with which we are familiar; relativism and subjectivity are facts of everyday experience" (15).   Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness is no exception.   The novel does explore the place of the individual in an increasingly complex society, but Conrad's presentation specifically focuses on the moral dilemma of man in a godless world.   The lack of Christianity or any other stable moral system to underpin moral decisions is evident in Heart of Darkness not only to the reader, but to Conrad's characters as well.   Marlow's narrative presents both the human drive to have a stable conception of reality - a center - and the precedence this drive can take over basi c moral decisions.  Ã‚      Conrad alludes to the forms of religious faith through the infusion of religiously connotative language into the speech of both Marlow and the narrator.   The narrator describes Marlow as having "[...] the pose of a Buddha preaching [...]" (1, 11).   This characterization is strengthened by Marlow himself when describing his activity before he leaves for the Congo:   "[...] I was loafing about, hindering you fellows in your working and invading your homes, just as though I had got a heavenly mission to civilize you"(1, 16).   The trip itself is then described as both a "glorious idea" and "the noble cause" (1, 20-21).   The references to faith, Christianity in particular, set up a context in wh... ...re to seek out meaning while accepting that an absolute meaning may never be found.       Works Cited    Abrams, M.H., ed. The Norton Anthology of English Literature. 6th ed. Vol. 1. New York: Norton, 1993. 1080-1125.    Conrad, Joseph. Heart of Darkness I. 26 July 2002. < http://pd.sparknotes.com/lit/heart/section1.html>.    ---. Heart of Darkness II. 26 July 2002. < http://pd.sparknotes.com/lit/heart/section2.html>    ---. Heart of Darkness III. 26 July 2002. < http://pd.sparknotes.com/lit/heart/section3.html>    Jump, John D., ed. The Critical Idiom. London: Methuen & Co., 1977.    Jean-Aubry, George. Joseph Conrad: Life and Letters. Vol. 1. New York: Page, 1966.    Ed. Marvin. Conrad: Collection of Critical Essays. Mudrick. Englewood Cliffs: Prentice-Hall, 1972.    moralhod Relative Morality in Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness Essay Relative Morality in Heart of Darkness      Ã‚  Ã‚   It has been well documented by critics that modernist literature departs from the blind acceptance of beliefs, religious beliefs in particular, evident in literature of prior periods (Abrams 1).   As Jump notes "[...] the modern western world is less sure of its values than most previous cultures with which we are familiar; relativism and subjectivity are facts of everyday experience" (15).   Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness is no exception.   The novel does explore the place of the individual in an increasingly complex society, but Conrad's presentation specifically focuses on the moral dilemma of man in a godless world.   The lack of Christianity or any other stable moral system to underpin moral decisions is evident in Heart of Darkness not only to the reader, but to Conrad's characters as well.   Marlow's narrative presents both the human drive to have a stable conception of reality - a center - and the precedence this drive can take over basi c moral decisions.  Ã‚      Conrad alludes to the forms of religious faith through the infusion of religiously connotative language into the speech of both Marlow and the narrator.   The narrator describes Marlow as having "[...] the pose of a Buddha preaching [...]" (1, 11).   This characterization is strengthened by Marlow himself when describing his activity before he leaves for the Congo:   "[...] I was loafing about, hindering you fellows in your working and invading your homes, just as though I had got a heavenly mission to civilize you"(1, 16).   The trip itself is then described as both a "glorious idea" and "the noble cause" (1, 20-21).   The references to faith, Christianity in particular, set up a context in wh... ...re to seek out meaning while accepting that an absolute meaning may never be found.       Works Cited    Abrams, M.H., ed. The Norton Anthology of English Literature. 6th ed. Vol. 1. New York: Norton, 1993. 1080-1125.    Conrad, Joseph. Heart of Darkness I. 26 July 2002. < http://pd.sparknotes.com/lit/heart/section1.html>.    ---. Heart of Darkness II. 26 July 2002. < http://pd.sparknotes.com/lit/heart/section2.html>    ---. Heart of Darkness III. 26 July 2002. < http://pd.sparknotes.com/lit/heart/section3.html>    Jump, John D., ed. The Critical Idiom. London: Methuen & Co., 1977.    Jean-Aubry, George. Joseph Conrad: Life and Letters. Vol. 1. New York: Page, 1966.    Ed. Marvin. Conrad: Collection of Critical Essays. Mudrick. Englewood Cliffs: Prentice-Hall, 1972.   

Enders Game :: essays research papers

Orson Scott Card weaves an intricate tale of a boy who is born to save the Earth in the novel, Ender’s Game. Ender Wiggin is born a Third in a world where only two children are allowed per family. Ender’s older brother and sister, Peter and Valentine, were not what the government needed to save the world, so Ender was born in hopes that he would be somewhere in the middle of their extremes. Peter is too violent, whereas Valentine has too much empathy. Ender is the right combination for the Battle School’s needs. Although both Ender and Peter have power, only Ender has respect; both boys are instinctive killers, but Peter relishes the act while Ender regrets the act after he does it; Both boys become heroes, but both will not remain heroes when the historians begin to examine the events. Although Peter and Ender both have power over other people, the means of obtaining the power and the way each boy uses his power is different. Peter obtains power by terrifying people. Everyone knows he is capable of cold-blooded murder, so they do as he says because it is in their own best interest. Also, he has the power of influence on the nets (networks similar to the internet), which he uses to sway the public. Once Peter has gained power, he uses the power to benefit himself. He uses people as pawns to accomplish what he wants—to rule the world. Ender, however, gains his power by simply being superior at all the games. He becomes commander of an army, but doesn’t use the army to gain anything for himself, except to be number one in the standings. He makes the people in his command better soldiers by teaching them what he knows. He allows the toon leaders to make decisions in battles, so that the whole army doesn’t rely on him, entirely. Both Peter and Ender kill throughout the novel. Peter kills innocent squirrels and animals. He threatens to kill Ender and Valentine if they do not do as he says. It is quite clear that he enjoys these activities. He shows no remorse for the dead animals he leaves in his wake. Ender, however, kills out of defense and feels great remorse. He never intends to kill anyone that he kills. All the deaths he inflicts are accidental, yet justified at the same time.

Unknown Lab Report

Margaret E Gibson July 20, 2009 Microbiology Dr. Metera Lab Report 3: Labs 7 and 8- Metabolism and Biochemical Tests Abstract This experiment focused on metabolism and biochemical tests. The goal of performing these tests was to differentiate microbes from one another and to compare how metabolic and biochemical processes differ from species to species. The tests performed include: the Fermentation of Sugars Test (sucrose, glucose, and lactose), the Urease Test, the Fermentation of Lactose Test, the Sulfide Indole Mobility (SIM) Test, the Nitrate Reduction Test, the Protein Hydrolysis Test, the Catalase Test, and the Cytochrome Oxidase Test. The microbes that were tested during this lab were: Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, the unknown, Proteus vulgaris, Staphylococcus epidermis, Enterobacter aerogenes, the control, and Pseudomonas fluorescens. The microbes tested during these various tests were looking for which would: reduce sulfur/produce sulfate, produce indole, or possess motility, reduce nitrate, and contain protease, catalase and oxidaase. Introduction The purpose of these labs was to observe various metabolic processes by determining the pH of certain bacteria, determining if the bacteria was urease positive or negative, determining which bacteria ferment which sugar(s) during fermentation, and determining if bacteria are lactose fermenters and non-lactose fermenters. Metabolic processes can also be observed by determining if bacteria reduce sulfur/produce sulfate, produce indole, or possess motility, determining which bacteria are able to reduce nitrate, determining if bacteria contain protease, determining if bacteria contain catalase, and determining if bacteria contain oxidase. The tests performed to determine these metabolic processes include: the Fermentation of Sugars Test (sucrose, glucose, and lactose), the Urease Test, the Fermentation of Lactose Test, the Sulfide Indole Mobility (SIM) Test, the Nitrate Reduction Test, the Protein Hydrolysis Test, the Catalase Test, and the Cytochrome Oxidase Test. The bacteria tested include: Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, the unknown, Proteus vulgaris, Staphylococcus epidermis, Enterobacter aerogenes, the control, and Pseudomonas fluorescens. The different types of microbes studied in this experiment include: Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, Proteus vulgaris, Staphylococcus epidermis, Enterobacter aerogenes, and Pseudomonas fluorescens. Escherichia coli is mainly found in animal feces and comprises their intestines as well (US Food and Drug Administration). Bacillus cereus is a known medium of food poisoning and causes vomiting and abdominal cramps (Todar). Proteus vulgaris is connected with food spoilage of meat, poultry, and seafood and may cause diarrhea in infants (Schenectady Country Community College). Staphylococcus epidermis often infects hospital patients with weak immune systems in catheter wounds (European Bioinformatics Institute). Enterobacter aerogenes is the source of numerous infections such as bacteremia, lower respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), endocarditis, intra-abdominal infections, septic arthritis, osteomyelitis, and ophthalmic infections (E Medicine). Pseudomonas fluorescens are able to grow in various conditions such as soil, water, and plant habitats (European Bioinformatics Institute). Several hypotheses arise during this experiment due to the many subjects being tested. However, since there are numerous tests being performed, a more general hypothesis can be ascertained. The hypothesis for all tests in both Lab 7 and Lab 8 is that the outcome of the tests will produce the desired results in order to differentiate various species of bacteria from one another and to reveal certain characteristics of metabolic and biochemical processes. Materials and Methods Lab 7 For Part A of Lab 7, label Escherichia coli, Proteus vulgaris, the unknown, and Enterobacter aerogenes on a blue (sucrose), a green (glucose), and a red (lactose) tube. Then, using aseptic technique, inoculate each bacteria into each color tube by sticking the inoculating loop to the bottom of the tube and twirling it, then pulling it straight out. Record the results. For Part B, label the tubes Escherichia coli, Proteus vulgaris, unknown, and Enterobacter aerogenes. Using aseptic technique, inoculate each tube with the corresponding bacteria by streaking the surface of the agar slant. Record the results. For Part C, label Staphylococcus epidermis, Proteus vulgaris, and Escherichia coli on the Petri plate with the MacConkey agar. Using aseptic technique, inoculate the labeled parts of the plate. Record the results. Lab 8 For Part A of Lab 8, label each tube Enterobacter aerogenes, Staphylococcus epidermis, and Proteus vulgaris. Using aseptic technique, â€Å"stab† the inoculating loop ? of the way to the bottom of the tube and then pull it straight out to inoculate each tube with the corresponding bacteria. Record the results. For Part B, label each tube Enterobacter aerogenes and â€Å"control. † Using aseptic technique, inoculate each Tryptic Nitrate tube by sticking the inoculating loop to the bottom of the tube and twirling it, then pulling it straight out. Then, add ten drops of sulfanilic acid anddemehtyl-1-napthylamine. If a red color develops after this step, record the record the results. If not, add zinc dust to the tube and vortex it. Record the results. For Part C, label Enterobacter aerogenes and Bacillus cereus on the milk agar plate. Using aseptic technique, inoculate the plate with the corresponding bacteria. Record the results. For Part D, put a few drops of water on the slide and then inoculate it with Bacillus cereus. Next, add one drop of hydrogen peroxide to the sample. Record the results. For Part E, use a sterile swab to transfer the cells from Enterobacter aerogenes and Pseudomonas fluorescens to a disk. Use a new swab for each sample. Add one drop of water to each disk. Record the results. Results Lab7: Part A [pic] |[pic] | |Figure 1 |Figure 2 | |Figure 1 is the unknown for sucrose. As shown, it had an orange |Figure 2 is Escherichia coli for sucrose. As shown, it was | |ring at the top that fades to yellow at the bottom, was cloudy |orange throughout, had darker solution inside the tube than out, | |all the way through, and had no bubbles. |was very cloudy at the bottom, and had no bubbles. |[pic] |[pic] | |Figure 3 |Figure 4 | |Figure 3 is Enetrobacter aerogenes for sucrose. As shown, it was|Figure 4 is Bacillus cereus for sucrose. As shown, it had a dark| |yellow and cloudy throughout, and had no bubbles. |orange ring at the top and was light orange, it was cloudy at the| | |bottom, and had no bubbles. |[pic] |[pic] | | | | |Figure 5 |Figure 6 | | | | |Figure 5 is Enterobacter aerogenes for glucose. As shown, it was|Figure 6 is the unknown for glucose. As shown, it had an orange | |all yellow and cloudy (++), and had no bubbles. |ring at the top, was yellow and cloudy (++) throughout, and had | | |no bubbles. |[pic] |[pic] | | | | |Figure 7 |Figure 8 | | | | |Figure 7 is Escherichia coli for glucose. As shown, it was |Figure 8 is Bacillus cereus for glucose. As shown, it was orange| |yellow, cloudy at the top, and had no bubbles. |throughout and had no bubbles. | |[pic] |[pic] | | | | |Figure 9 |Figure 10 | | | | |Figure 9 is the unknown for lactose. As shown, it was uniformly |Figure 10 is Enterobacter aerogenes for lactose. As shown, it | |light red and cloudy (+), and had no bubbles. |was light orange and cloudy (++), had a red ring at the top, and | | |had no bubbles. |[pic] |[pic] | | | | |Figure 11 |Figure 12 | | | | |Figure 11 is Escherichia coli for lactose. As shown, it was |Figure 12 is Bacillus cereus for lactose. As shown, it was red | |yellow, cloudy at the top, and had bubbles. |throughout and had no bubbles. | Lab 7: Part B |[pic] |[pic] | |Figure 13 |Figure 14 | |Figure 13 is the unknown. As shown, it had a red streak of red |Figure 14 is Enterobacter aerogenes. As shown, it had faint | |colonies (+++) and remained the same color. |cloudy colonies (+) and remained the same color. |[pic] |[pic] | |Figure 15 |Figure 16 | |Figure 15 is Escherichia coli. As shown, it had faint cloudy |Figure 16 is Proteus vulgaris. As shown, it was bright pink | |colonies (+) and remained the same color. |throughout, orange at the bottom, and experienced a change in | | |color. | Lab 7: Part C pic] Figure 17 Figure 17 is Staphylococcus epidermis, Proteus vulgaris, and Escherichia coli. As shown, the Staphylococcus epidermis showed no growth, the Pseudomonas vulgaris showed substantial growth (+++), and the Escherichia coli showed substantial growth (+++) and turned pink. Lab 8: Part A |[pic] |[pic] | |Fi gure 18 |Figure 19 | |Figure 19 is Enterobacter aerogenes. As shown, it showed |Figure 20 is Staphylococcus epidermis. As shown, it showed no | |substantial growth (+++). |growth. | |[pic] | | |Figure 20 | | |Figure 21 is Proteus vulgaris. As shown, it showed substantial | | |growth (+++), turned black, and exhibited a red ring at the top. | Lab 8: Part B |[pic] |[pic] | |Figure 21 |Figure 22 | |Figure 22 is Enterobacter aerogenes. As shown, it was red ? of |Figure 23 is the control. As shown, it was red ? of the way | |the way through separated by black at the bottom. |through separated by black at the bottom. | Lab 8: Part C [pic] Figure 23 Figure 24 is Enterobacter aerogenes and Bacillus cereus. As shown, Bacillus cereus exhibited a lot of growth (++++). Lab 8: Part D [pic] Figure 24 Figure 25 is Bacillus cereus. As shown, it formed bubbles. Lab 8: Part E [pic] Figure 25 Figure 26 is Enterobacter aerogenes and Pseudomonas fluorescens. As shown, the Pseudomonas fluroescens turned purple. Discussion The results of this experiment prove that the hypothesis was correct: the expected results were obtained and therefore made it possible to differentiate various species of bacteria from one another and to reveal certain characteristics of metabolic and biochemical processes. For example, in the Fermentation of Sugars test, the unknown’s pH was slightly alkaline and no carbon dioxide gas was given off (Figures 1, 6, and 9). The Escherichia coli had a pH around neutral for all three of the sugars and there were bubbles in the Durham tube for glucose, so the bacteria produced carbon dioxide gas during fermentation (Figures 2, 7, and 11). The Enterobacter aerogenes had a slightly acidic pH and no carbon dioxide gas was given off (Figures 3, 5, and 10). The Bacillus cereus had a slightly alkaline pH and no carbon dioxide gas was given off (Figures 4, 8, and 12). In the Detection of Urease test, the unknown remained the same color, so it was urease negative (Figure 13). The Enterobacter aerogenes remained the same color, so it was urease negative (Figure 14). The Escherichia coli remained the same color, so it was also urease negative (Figure 15). The Proteus vulgaris turned red, meaning it became alkaline with the production of ammonia, so it was urease positive (Figure 16). In the MacConkey Agar test, the Staphylococcus epidermis exhibited no growth, meaning it is Gram positive, and it does not ferment lactose (Figure 17). The Proteus vulgaris exhibited growth, so it is Gram negative, and it does not ferment lactose (Figure 17). The Escherichia coli exhibited growth, so it is Gram negative, and it turned red, so it ferments lactose (Figure 17). In the Sulfur Indole Motility test (SIM), Enterobacter aerogenes exhibited growth above the inoculation line, so it is motile (Figure 18). The Staphylococcus epidermis did not exhibit any growth, so it is not motile (Figure 19). The Proteus vulgaris exhibited growth above the inoculation line, turned black, and showed a red ring at the top of the solution, so it is motile, a phosphorus reducer, and an indole producer (Figure 20). In the Nitrate Reduction test, the Enterobacter aerogenes turned red, so the nitrate was not reduced by nitrate reductase, meaning it was nitrate reductase negative (Figure 21). The control also turned red, so the nitrate was not reduced by nitrate reductase, meaning it was also nitrate reductase negative (Figure 22). In the Protein Hydrolysis test, the Enterobacter aerogenes did not exhibit any growth, so it was protease negative (Figure 23). The Bacillus cereus exhibited a lot of growth and turned the milk agar clear, so it was protease positive (Figure 23). In the Catalase test, the Bacillus cereus bubbled, so it is catalase positive (Figure 24). In the Cytochrome Oxidase test, the Enterbacter aerogenes did not change color, so it is cytochromoe oxidase negative (Figure 25). The Pseudomonas fluorescens turned purple, so it is oxidase positive (Figure 25). As expected in all laboratory experiments, this one had the possibility of human error. Mistakes could have been made by failing to sterilize the inoculating loop correctly, which would result in possible contamination of the sample. Another error could have been possibly occurred by mislabeling the plates according to species, which would produce invalid results. Finally, failing to inoculate the SIM tubes ? of the way to the bottom of the tube would result in the inability to observe whether or not the species is motile or not. Although this experiment went rather smoothly, there is always an opportunity for mprovement. An example of how this experiment could be made better is by testing more of the same microbes in each test. In Labs 7 and 8, many of the microbes used in the tests were not consistently present in each one. If the same bacteria were used, it would aid greatly in differentiating the same bacteria from one another and observing how metabolic and biochemical processes differ from species to species. This experiment and its results are important to the scientific community because they ultimately serve as a basis for further study of the subject. By learning basic metabolism and biochemical tests used to differentiate microscopic organisms from one another, researchers can then develop more advanced and more specific tests that can further distinguish microbial species from each other. This will aid in discovering new microbes and different ways microbes react to certain factors. By doing so, researchers will have a better idea of how to distinguish helpful, potentially life-saving microbes from pathogenic or harmful ones. References US Food and Drug Administration. Escherichia Coli. 5 Oct. 2006. . . Todar, Kenneth. Bacillus Cereus Food Poisoning. 2006. . . Schenectady County Community College. Proteus Vulgaris, P. Mirabilis.. . . European Bioinformatics Institute . Staphylococcus Epidermis Can Cause Infections in Wounds. 2006-2007. . . E Medicine . Excerpt from Enterobacter Infections. 1996-2006. . . European Bioinformatics Institute . Pseudomonas Fluorescens Is Being Researched as a Biological Control Organism. 2006-2007. . . Unknown Lab Report Margaret E Gibson July 20, 2009 Microbiology Dr. Metera Lab Report 3: Labs 7 and 8- Metabolism and Biochemical Tests Abstract This experiment focused on metabolism and biochemical tests. The goal of performing these tests was to differentiate microbes from one another and to compare how metabolic and biochemical processes differ from species to species. The tests performed include: the Fermentation of Sugars Test (sucrose, glucose, and lactose), the Urease Test, the Fermentation of Lactose Test, the Sulfide Indole Mobility (SIM) Test, the Nitrate Reduction Test, the Protein Hydrolysis Test, the Catalase Test, and the Cytochrome Oxidase Test. The microbes that were tested during this lab were: Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, the unknown, Proteus vulgaris, Staphylococcus epidermis, Enterobacter aerogenes, the control, and Pseudomonas fluorescens. The microbes tested during these various tests were looking for which would: reduce sulfur/produce sulfate, produce indole, or possess motility, reduce nitrate, and contain protease, catalase and oxidaase. Introduction The purpose of these labs was to observe various metabolic processes by determining the pH of certain bacteria, determining if the bacteria was urease positive or negative, determining which bacteria ferment which sugar(s) during fermentation, and determining if bacteria are lactose fermenters and non-lactose fermenters. Metabolic processes can also be observed by determining if bacteria reduce sulfur/produce sulfate, produce indole, or possess motility, determining which bacteria are able to reduce nitrate, determining if bacteria contain protease, determining if bacteria contain catalase, and determining if bacteria contain oxidase. The tests performed to determine these metabolic processes include: the Fermentation of Sugars Test (sucrose, glucose, and lactose), the Urease Test, the Fermentation of Lactose Test, the Sulfide Indole Mobility (SIM) Test, the Nitrate Reduction Test, the Protein Hydrolysis Test, the Catalase Test, and the Cytochrome Oxidase Test. The bacteria tested include: Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, the unknown, Proteus vulgaris, Staphylococcus epidermis, Enterobacter aerogenes, the control, and Pseudomonas fluorescens. The different types of microbes studied in this experiment include: Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, Proteus vulgaris, Staphylococcus epidermis, Enterobacter aerogenes, and Pseudomonas fluorescens. Escherichia coli is mainly found in animal feces and comprises their intestines as well (US Food and Drug Administration). Bacillus cereus is a known medium of food poisoning and causes vomiting and abdominal cramps (Todar). Proteus vulgaris is connected with food spoilage of meat, poultry, and seafood and may cause diarrhea in infants (Schenectady Country Community College). Staphylococcus epidermis often infects hospital patients with weak immune systems in catheter wounds (European Bioinformatics Institute). Enterobacter aerogenes is the source of numerous infections such as bacteremia, lower respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), endocarditis, intra-abdominal infections, septic arthritis, osteomyelitis, and ophthalmic infections (E Medicine). Pseudomonas fluorescens are able to grow in various conditions such as soil, water, and plant habitats (European Bioinformatics Institute). Several hypotheses arise during this experiment due to the many subjects being tested. However, since there are numerous tests being performed, a more general hypothesis can be ascertained. The hypothesis for all tests in both Lab 7 and Lab 8 is that the outcome of the tests will produce the desired results in order to differentiate various species of bacteria from one another and to reveal certain characteristics of metabolic and biochemical processes. Materials and Methods Lab 7 For Part A of Lab 7, label Escherichia coli, Proteus vulgaris, the unknown, and Enterobacter aerogenes on a blue (sucrose), a green (glucose), and a red (lactose) tube. Then, using aseptic technique, inoculate each bacteria into each color tube by sticking the inoculating loop to the bottom of the tube and twirling it, then pulling it straight out. Record the results. For Part B, label the tubes Escherichia coli, Proteus vulgaris, unknown, and Enterobacter aerogenes. Using aseptic technique, inoculate each tube with the corresponding bacteria by streaking the surface of the agar slant. Record the results. For Part C, label Staphylococcus epidermis, Proteus vulgaris, and Escherichia coli on the Petri plate with the MacConkey agar. Using aseptic technique, inoculate the labeled parts of the plate. Record the results. Lab 8 For Part A of Lab 8, label each tube Enterobacter aerogenes, Staphylococcus epidermis, and Proteus vulgaris. Using aseptic technique, â€Å"stab† the inoculating loop ? of the way to the bottom of the tube and then pull it straight out to inoculate each tube with the corresponding bacteria. Record the results. For Part B, label each tube Enterobacter aerogenes and â€Å"control. † Using aseptic technique, inoculate each Tryptic Nitrate tube by sticking the inoculating loop to the bottom of the tube and twirling it, then pulling it straight out. Then, add ten drops of sulfanilic acid anddemehtyl-1-napthylamine. If a red color develops after this step, record the record the results. If not, add zinc dust to the tube and vortex it. Record the results. For Part C, label Enterobacter aerogenes and Bacillus cereus on the milk agar plate. Using aseptic technique, inoculate the plate with the corresponding bacteria. Record the results. For Part D, put a few drops of water on the slide and then inoculate it with Bacillus cereus. Next, add one drop of hydrogen peroxide to the sample. Record the results. For Part E, use a sterile swab to transfer the cells from Enterobacter aerogenes and Pseudomonas fluorescens to a disk. Use a new swab for each sample. Add one drop of water to each disk. Record the results. Results Lab7: Part A [pic] |[pic] | |Figure 1 |Figure 2 | |Figure 1 is the unknown for sucrose. As shown, it had an orange |Figure 2 is Escherichia coli for sucrose. As shown, it was | |ring at the top that fades to yellow at the bottom, was cloudy |orange throughout, had darker solution inside the tube than out, | |all the way through, and had no bubbles. |was very cloudy at the bottom, and had no bubbles. |[pic] |[pic] | |Figure 3 |Figure 4 | |Figure 3 is Enetrobacter aerogenes for sucrose. As shown, it was|Figure 4 is Bacillus cereus for sucrose. As shown, it had a dark| |yellow and cloudy throughout, and had no bubbles. |orange ring at the top and was light orange, it was cloudy at the| | |bottom, and had no bubbles. |[pic] |[pic] | | | | |Figure 5 |Figure 6 | | | | |Figure 5 is Enterobacter aerogenes for glucose. As shown, it was|Figure 6 is the unknown for glucose. As shown, it had an orange | |all yellow and cloudy (++), and had no bubbles. |ring at the top, was yellow and cloudy (++) throughout, and had | | |no bubbles. |[pic] |[pic] | | | | |Figure 7 |Figure 8 | | | | |Figure 7 is Escherichia coli for glucose. As shown, it was |Figure 8 is Bacillus cereus for glucose. As shown, it was orange| |yellow, cloudy at the top, and had no bubbles. |throughout and had no bubbles. | |[pic] |[pic] | | | | |Figure 9 |Figure 10 | | | | |Figure 9 is the unknown for lactose. As shown, it was uniformly |Figure 10 is Enterobacter aerogenes for lactose. As shown, it | |light red and cloudy (+), and had no bubbles. |was light orange and cloudy (++), had a red ring at the top, and | | |had no bubbles. |[pic] |[pic] | | | | |Figure 11 |Figure 12 | | | | |Figure 11 is Escherichia coli for lactose. As shown, it was |Figure 12 is Bacillus cereus for lactose. As shown, it was red | |yellow, cloudy at the top, and had bubbles. |throughout and had no bubbles. | Lab 7: Part B |[pic] |[pic] | |Figure 13 |Figure 14 | |Figure 13 is the unknown. As shown, it had a red streak of red |Figure 14 is Enterobacter aerogenes. As shown, it had faint | |colonies (+++) and remained the same color. |cloudy colonies (+) and remained the same color. |[pic] |[pic] | |Figure 15 |Figure 16 | |Figure 15 is Escherichia coli. As shown, it had faint cloudy |Figure 16 is Proteus vulgaris. As shown, it was bright pink | |colonies (+) and remained the same color. |throughout, orange at the bottom, and experienced a change in | | |color. | Lab 7: Part C pic] Figure 17 Figure 17 is Staphylococcus epidermis, Proteus vulgaris, and Escherichia coli. As shown, the Staphylococcus epidermis showed no growth, the Pseudomonas vulgaris showed substantial growth (+++), and the Escherichia coli showed substantial growth (+++) and turned pink. Lab 8: Part A |[pic] |[pic] | |Fi gure 18 |Figure 19 | |Figure 19 is Enterobacter aerogenes. As shown, it showed |Figure 20 is Staphylococcus epidermis. As shown, it showed no | |substantial growth (+++). |growth. | |[pic] | | |Figure 20 | | |Figure 21 is Proteus vulgaris. As shown, it showed substantial | | |growth (+++), turned black, and exhibited a red ring at the top. | Lab 8: Part B |[pic] |[pic] | |Figure 21 |Figure 22 | |Figure 22 is Enterobacter aerogenes. As shown, it was red ? of |Figure 23 is the control. As shown, it was red ? of the way | |the way through separated by black at the bottom. |through separated by black at the bottom. | Lab 8: Part C [pic] Figure 23 Figure 24 is Enterobacter aerogenes and Bacillus cereus. As shown, Bacillus cereus exhibited a lot of growth (++++). Lab 8: Part D [pic] Figure 24 Figure 25 is Bacillus cereus. As shown, it formed bubbles. Lab 8: Part E [pic] Figure 25 Figure 26 is Enterobacter aerogenes and Pseudomonas fluorescens. As shown, the Pseudomonas fluroescens turned purple. Discussion The results of this experiment prove that the hypothesis was correct: the expected results were obtained and therefore made it possible to differentiate various species of bacteria from one another and to reveal certain characteristics of metabolic and biochemical processes. For example, in the Fermentation of Sugars test, the unknown’s pH was slightly alkaline and no carbon dioxide gas was given off (Figures 1, 6, and 9). The Escherichia coli had a pH around neutral for all three of the sugars and there were bubbles in the Durham tube for glucose, so the bacteria produced carbon dioxide gas during fermentation (Figures 2, 7, and 11). The Enterobacter aerogenes had a slightly acidic pH and no carbon dioxide gas was given off (Figures 3, 5, and 10). The Bacillus cereus had a slightly alkaline pH and no carbon dioxide gas was given off (Figures 4, 8, and 12). In the Detection of Urease test, the unknown remained the same color, so it was urease negative (Figure 13). The Enterobacter aerogenes remained the same color, so it was urease negative (Figure 14). The Escherichia coli remained the same color, so it was also urease negative (Figure 15). The Proteus vulgaris turned red, meaning it became alkaline with the production of ammonia, so it was urease positive (Figure 16). In the MacConkey Agar test, the Staphylococcus epidermis exhibited no growth, meaning it is Gram positive, and it does not ferment lactose (Figure 17). The Proteus vulgaris exhibited growth, so it is Gram negative, and it does not ferment lactose (Figure 17). The Escherichia coli exhibited growth, so it is Gram negative, and it turned red, so it ferments lactose (Figure 17). In the Sulfur Indole Motility test (SIM), Enterobacter aerogenes exhibited growth above the inoculation line, so it is motile (Figure 18). The Staphylococcus epidermis did not exhibit any growth, so it is not motile (Figure 19). The Proteus vulgaris exhibited growth above the inoculation line, turned black, and showed a red ring at the top of the solution, so it is motile, a phosphorus reducer, and an indole producer (Figure 20). In the Nitrate Reduction test, the Enterobacter aerogenes turned red, so the nitrate was not reduced by nitrate reductase, meaning it was nitrate reductase negative (Figure 21). The control also turned red, so the nitrate was not reduced by nitrate reductase, meaning it was also nitrate reductase negative (Figure 22). In the Protein Hydrolysis test, the Enterobacter aerogenes did not exhibit any growth, so it was protease negative (Figure 23). The Bacillus cereus exhibited a lot of growth and turned the milk agar clear, so it was protease positive (Figure 23). In the Catalase test, the Bacillus cereus bubbled, so it is catalase positive (Figure 24). In the Cytochrome Oxidase test, the Enterbacter aerogenes did not change color, so it is cytochromoe oxidase negative (Figure 25). The Pseudomonas fluorescens turned purple, so it is oxidase positive (Figure 25). As expected in all laboratory experiments, this one had the possibility of human error. Mistakes could have been made by failing to sterilize the inoculating loop correctly, which would result in possible contamination of the sample. Another error could have been possibly occurred by mislabeling the plates according to species, which would produce invalid results. Finally, failing to inoculate the SIM tubes ? of the way to the bottom of the tube would result in the inability to observe whether or not the species is motile or not. Although this experiment went rather smoothly, there is always an opportunity for mprovement. An example of how this experiment could be made better is by testing more of the same microbes in each test. In Labs 7 and 8, many of the microbes used in the tests were not consistently present in each one. If the same bacteria were used, it would aid greatly in differentiating the same bacteria from one another and observing how metabolic and biochemical processes differ from species to species. This experiment and its results are important to the scientific community because they ultimately serve as a basis for further study of the subject. By learning basic metabolism and biochemical tests used to differentiate microscopic organisms from one another, researchers can then develop more advanced and more specific tests that can further distinguish microbial species from each other. This will aid in discovering new microbes and different ways microbes react to certain factors. By doing so, researchers will have a better idea of how to distinguish helpful, potentially life-saving microbes from pathogenic or harmful ones. References US Food and Drug Administration. Escherichia Coli. 5 Oct. 2006. . . Todar, Kenneth. Bacillus Cereus Food Poisoning. 2006. . . Schenectady County Community College. Proteus Vulgaris, P. Mirabilis.. . . European Bioinformatics Institute . Staphylococcus Epidermis Can Cause Infections in Wounds. 2006-2007. . . E Medicine . Excerpt from Enterobacter Infections. 1996-2006. . . European Bioinformatics Institute . Pseudomonas Fluorescens Is Being Researched as a Biological Control Organism. 2006-2007. . . Unknown Lab Report Margaret E Gibson July 20, 2009 Microbiology Dr. Metera Lab Report 3: Labs 7 and 8- Metabolism and Biochemical Tests Abstract This experiment focused on metabolism and biochemical tests. The goal of performing these tests was to differentiate microbes from one another and to compare how metabolic and biochemical processes differ from species to species. The tests performed include: the Fermentation of Sugars Test (sucrose, glucose, and lactose), the Urease Test, the Fermentation of Lactose Test, the Sulfide Indole Mobility (SIM) Test, the Nitrate Reduction Test, the Protein Hydrolysis Test, the Catalase Test, and the Cytochrome Oxidase Test. The microbes that were tested during this lab were: Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, the unknown, Proteus vulgaris, Staphylococcus epidermis, Enterobacter aerogenes, the control, and Pseudomonas fluorescens. The microbes tested during these various tests were looking for which would: reduce sulfur/produce sulfate, produce indole, or possess motility, reduce nitrate, and contain protease, catalase and oxidaase. Introduction The purpose of these labs was to observe various metabolic processes by determining the pH of certain bacteria, determining if the bacteria was urease positive or negative, determining which bacteria ferment which sugar(s) during fermentation, and determining if bacteria are lactose fermenters and non-lactose fermenters. Metabolic processes can also be observed by determining if bacteria reduce sulfur/produce sulfate, produce indole, or possess motility, determining which bacteria are able to reduce nitrate, determining if bacteria contain protease, determining if bacteria contain catalase, and determining if bacteria contain oxidase. The tests performed to determine these metabolic processes include: the Fermentation of Sugars Test (sucrose, glucose, and lactose), the Urease Test, the Fermentation of Lactose Test, the Sulfide Indole Mobility (SIM) Test, the Nitrate Reduction Test, the Protein Hydrolysis Test, the Catalase Test, and the Cytochrome Oxidase Test. The bacteria tested include: Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, the unknown, Proteus vulgaris, Staphylococcus epidermis, Enterobacter aerogenes, the control, and Pseudomonas fluorescens. The different types of microbes studied in this experiment include: Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, Proteus vulgaris, Staphylococcus epidermis, Enterobacter aerogenes, and Pseudomonas fluorescens. Escherichia coli is mainly found in animal feces and comprises their intestines as well (US Food and Drug Administration). Bacillus cereus is a known medium of food poisoning and causes vomiting and abdominal cramps (Todar). Proteus vulgaris is connected with food spoilage of meat, poultry, and seafood and may cause diarrhea in infants (Schenectady Country Community College). Staphylococcus epidermis often infects hospital patients with weak immune systems in catheter wounds (European Bioinformatics Institute). Enterobacter aerogenes is the source of numerous infections such as bacteremia, lower respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), endocarditis, intra-abdominal infections, septic arthritis, osteomyelitis, and ophthalmic infections (E Medicine). Pseudomonas fluorescens are able to grow in various conditions such as soil, water, and plant habitats (European Bioinformatics Institute). Several hypotheses arise during this experiment due to the many subjects being tested. However, since there are numerous tests being performed, a more general hypothesis can be ascertained. The hypothesis for all tests in both Lab 7 and Lab 8 is that the outcome of the tests will produce the desired results in order to differentiate various species of bacteria from one another and to reveal certain characteristics of metabolic and biochemical processes. Materials and Methods Lab 7 For Part A of Lab 7, label Escherichia coli, Proteus vulgaris, the unknown, and Enterobacter aerogenes on a blue (sucrose), a green (glucose), and a red (lactose) tube. Then, using aseptic technique, inoculate each bacteria into each color tube by sticking the inoculating loop to the bottom of the tube and twirling it, then pulling it straight out. Record the results. For Part B, label the tubes Escherichia coli, Proteus vulgaris, unknown, and Enterobacter aerogenes. Using aseptic technique, inoculate each tube with the corresponding bacteria by streaking the surface of the agar slant. Record the results. For Part C, label Staphylococcus epidermis, Proteus vulgaris, and Escherichia coli on the Petri plate with the MacConkey agar. Using aseptic technique, inoculate the labeled parts of the plate. Record the results. Lab 8 For Part A of Lab 8, label each tube Enterobacter aerogenes, Staphylococcus epidermis, and Proteus vulgaris. Using aseptic technique, â€Å"stab† the inoculating loop ? of the way to the bottom of the tube and then pull it straight out to inoculate each tube with the corresponding bacteria. Record the results. For Part B, label each tube Enterobacter aerogenes and â€Å"control. † Using aseptic technique, inoculate each Tryptic Nitrate tube by sticking the inoculating loop to the bottom of the tube and twirling it, then pulling it straight out. Then, add ten drops of sulfanilic acid anddemehtyl-1-napthylamine. If a red color develops after this step, record the record the results. If not, add zinc dust to the tube and vortex it. Record the results. For Part C, label Enterobacter aerogenes and Bacillus cereus on the milk agar plate. Using aseptic technique, inoculate the plate with the corresponding bacteria. Record the results. For Part D, put a few drops of water on the slide and then inoculate it with Bacillus cereus. Next, add one drop of hydrogen peroxide to the sample. Record the results. For Part E, use a sterile swab to transfer the cells from Enterobacter aerogenes and Pseudomonas fluorescens to a disk. Use a new swab for each sample. Add one drop of water to each disk. Record the results. Results Lab7: Part A [pic] |[pic] | |Figure 1 |Figure 2 | |Figure 1 is the unknown for sucrose. As shown, it had an orange |Figure 2 is Escherichia coli for sucrose. As shown, it was | |ring at the top that fades to yellow at the bottom, was cloudy |orange throughout, had darker solution inside the tube than out, | |all the way through, and had no bubbles. |was very cloudy at the bottom, and had no bubbles. |[pic] |[pic] | |Figure 3 |Figure 4 | |Figure 3 is Enetrobacter aerogenes for sucrose. As shown, it was|Figure 4 is Bacillus cereus for sucrose. As shown, it had a dark| |yellow and cloudy throughout, and had no bubbles. |orange ring at the top and was light orange, it was cloudy at the| | |bottom, and had no bubbles. |[pic] |[pic] | | | | |Figure 5 |Figure 6 | | | | |Figure 5 is Enterobacter aerogenes for glucose. As shown, it was|Figure 6 is the unknown for glucose. As shown, it had an orange | |all yellow and cloudy (++), and had no bubbles. |ring at the top, was yellow and cloudy (++) throughout, and had | | |no bubbles. |[pic] |[pic] | | | | |Figure 7 |Figure 8 | | | | |Figure 7 is Escherichia coli for glucose. As shown, it was |Figure 8 is Bacillus cereus for glucose. As shown, it was orange| |yellow, cloudy at the top, and had no bubbles. |throughout and had no bubbles. | |[pic] |[pic] | | | | |Figure 9 |Figure 10 | | | | |Figure 9 is the unknown for lactose. As shown, it was uniformly |Figure 10 is Enterobacter aerogenes for lactose. As shown, it | |light red and cloudy (+), and had no bubbles. |was light orange and cloudy (++), had a red ring at the top, and | | |had no bubbles. |[pic] |[pic] | | | | |Figure 11 |Figure 12 | | | | |Figure 11 is Escherichia coli for lactose. As shown, it was |Figure 12 is Bacillus cereus for lactose. As shown, it was red | |yellow, cloudy at the top, and had bubbles. |throughout and had no bubbles. | Lab 7: Part B |[pic] |[pic] | |Figure 13 |Figure 14 | |Figure 13 is the unknown. As shown, it had a red streak of red |Figure 14 is Enterobacter aerogenes. As shown, it had faint | |colonies (+++) and remained the same color. |cloudy colonies (+) and remained the same color. |[pic] |[pic] | |Figure 15 |Figure 16 | |Figure 15 is Escherichia coli. As shown, it had faint cloudy |Figure 16 is Proteus vulgaris. As shown, it was bright pink | |colonies (+) and remained the same color. |throughout, orange at the bottom, and experienced a change in | | |color. | Lab 7: Part C pic] Figure 17 Figure 17 is Staphylococcus epidermis, Proteus vulgaris, and Escherichia coli. As shown, the Staphylococcus epidermis showed no growth, the Pseudomonas vulgaris showed substantial growth (+++), and the Escherichia coli showed substantial growth (+++) and turned pink. Lab 8: Part A |[pic] |[pic] | |Fi gure 18 |Figure 19 | |Figure 19 is Enterobacter aerogenes. As shown, it showed |Figure 20 is Staphylococcus epidermis. As shown, it showed no | |substantial growth (+++). |growth. | |[pic] | | |Figure 20 | | |Figure 21 is Proteus vulgaris. As shown, it showed substantial | | |growth (+++), turned black, and exhibited a red ring at the top. | Lab 8: Part B |[pic] |[pic] | |Figure 21 |Figure 22 | |Figure 22 is Enterobacter aerogenes. As shown, it was red ? of |Figure 23 is the control. As shown, it was red ? of the way | |the way through separated by black at the bottom. |through separated by black at the bottom. | Lab 8: Part C [pic] Figure 23 Figure 24 is Enterobacter aerogenes and Bacillus cereus. As shown, Bacillus cereus exhibited a lot of growth (++++). Lab 8: Part D [pic] Figure 24 Figure 25 is Bacillus cereus. As shown, it formed bubbles. Lab 8: Part E [pic] Figure 25 Figure 26 is Enterobacter aerogenes and Pseudomonas fluorescens. As shown, the Pseudomonas fluroescens turned purple. Discussion The results of this experiment prove that the hypothesis was correct: the expected results were obtained and therefore made it possible to differentiate various species of bacteria from one another and to reveal certain characteristics of metabolic and biochemical processes. For example, in the Fermentation of Sugars test, the unknown’s pH was slightly alkaline and no carbon dioxide gas was given off (Figures 1, 6, and 9). The Escherichia coli had a pH around neutral for all three of the sugars and there were bubbles in the Durham tube for glucose, so the bacteria produced carbon dioxide gas during fermentation (Figures 2, 7, and 11). The Enterobacter aerogenes had a slightly acidic pH and no carbon dioxide gas was given off (Figures 3, 5, and 10). The Bacillus cereus had a slightly alkaline pH and no carbon dioxide gas was given off (Figures 4, 8, and 12). In the Detection of Urease test, the unknown remained the same color, so it was urease negative (Figure 13). The Enterobacter aerogenes remained the same color, so it was urease negative (Figure 14). The Escherichia coli remained the same color, so it was also urease negative (Figure 15). The Proteus vulgaris turned red, meaning it became alkaline with the production of ammonia, so it was urease positive (Figure 16). In the MacConkey Agar test, the Staphylococcus epidermis exhibited no growth, meaning it is Gram positive, and it does not ferment lactose (Figure 17). The Proteus vulgaris exhibited growth, so it is Gram negative, and it does not ferment lactose (Figure 17). The Escherichia coli exhibited growth, so it is Gram negative, and it turned red, so it ferments lactose (Figure 17). In the Sulfur Indole Motility test (SIM), Enterobacter aerogenes exhibited growth above the inoculation line, so it is motile (Figure 18). The Staphylococcus epidermis did not exhibit any growth, so it is not motile (Figure 19). The Proteus vulgaris exhibited growth above the inoculation line, turned black, and showed a red ring at the top of the solution, so it is motile, a phosphorus reducer, and an indole producer (Figure 20). In the Nitrate Reduction test, the Enterobacter aerogenes turned red, so the nitrate was not reduced by nitrate reductase, meaning it was nitrate reductase negative (Figure 21). The control also turned red, so the nitrate was not reduced by nitrate reductase, meaning it was also nitrate reductase negative (Figure 22). In the Protein Hydrolysis test, the Enterobacter aerogenes did not exhibit any growth, so it was protease negative (Figure 23). The Bacillus cereus exhibited a lot of growth and turned the milk agar clear, so it was protease positive (Figure 23). In the Catalase test, the Bacillus cereus bubbled, so it is catalase positive (Figure 24). In the Cytochrome Oxidase test, the Enterbacter aerogenes did not change color, so it is cytochromoe oxidase negative (Figure 25). The Pseudomonas fluorescens turned purple, so it is oxidase positive (Figure 25). As expected in all laboratory experiments, this one had the possibility of human error. Mistakes could have been made by failing to sterilize the inoculating loop correctly, which would result in possible contamination of the sample. Another error could have been possibly occurred by mislabeling the plates according to species, which would produce invalid results. Finally, failing to inoculate the SIM tubes ? of the way to the bottom of the tube would result in the inability to observe whether or not the species is motile or not. Although this experiment went rather smoothly, there is always an opportunity for mprovement. An example of how this experiment could be made better is by testing more of the same microbes in each test. In Labs 7 and 8, many of the microbes used in the tests were not consistently present in each one. If the same bacteria were used, it would aid greatly in differentiating the same bacteria from one another and observing how metabolic and biochemical processes differ from species to species. This experiment and its results are important to the scientific community because they ultimately serve as a basis for further study of the subject. By learning basic metabolism and biochemical tests used to differentiate microscopic organisms from one another, researchers can then develop more advanced and more specific tests that can further distinguish microbial species from each other. This will aid in discovering new microbes and different ways microbes react to certain factors. By doing so, researchers will have a better idea of how to distinguish helpful, potentially life-saving microbes from pathogenic or harmful ones. References US Food and Drug Administration. Escherichia Coli. 5 Oct. 2006. . . Todar, Kenneth. Bacillus Cereus Food Poisoning. 2006. . . Schenectady County Community College. Proteus Vulgaris, P. Mirabilis.. . . European Bioinformatics Institute . Staphylococcus Epidermis Can Cause Infections in Wounds. 2006-2007. . . E Medicine . Excerpt from Enterobacter Infections. 1996-2006. . . European Bioinformatics Institute . Pseudomonas Fluorescens Is Being Researched as a Biological Control Organism. 2006-2007. . .