The Influence of Arabic and Mughal Rulers on The Architecture in South Asia. Essay Example

The Influence of Arabic and Mughal Rulers on The Architecture in South Asia. Essay The human life and its style of functioning are bound to be marked by the architecture of the period, and in that regard, architecture is that unique time-stamp, which one cannot hide, even if one wants to distort or tamper it; instead one ends up providing its activities as the periodic evidence. This is what one would find in the case of the South Asian architecture, where there is a distinct existence of a series of architecture of the older times, ranging from early Vedic era to the twelfth century A.D. though most of them bearing the stamp of periodic doctoring by the Arabic and Mughal rulers.Such was done, understandably, to utilize the already available resources by modifying them according to their need. This act of theirs in most of the places even ignored, or had to ignore the principles of Saracenic architecture, the style they were groomed at. Thus, most of the South Asia, predominated by a chain of Hindu architecture bearing the legacy of their art, culture, history and the nuances of their philosophy has severely been modified and renamed, which at places, can even befool its observer.Accordingly, the written history has also been twisted while accommodating the doctored work without much scrutiny. But then, civilization with its advancement would go on unraveling the truths from the beguiling examples, and the same has now been happening in the field of South Asian architecture, where the modern means of carbon-dating or the utilization of periodic historical data are being systematically used by the researchers worldwide to unfurl the hidden stories of life and time of this region. More stunning are the facts that the architecture itself here is coming out with amazing truth about how they were doctored by the Arabic rulers and forcing the psyche of the region to administer changes in the history. This essay picks up four such examples to put forth the fact that unless raised to the ground, an organized and well-founded architectural style canno t be transformed into another style to the extent of violating the history forever.Origin of Architecture in South AsiaThis region had been a compact and complete example of the Vedic culture, dating back to the earliest possible period of civilization, since when the culture itself nourished and flourished, while its architecture had also been chronicling that journey of civilization, which Arabic rulers tried to abolish firstly with sporadic invasion, and later when they could establish their footing here. The architecture of this region, however, has also chronicled that, again reestablishing the fact that a societys perception about life and living is bound to reflect in its application and the first and foremost tangible exponent of that application has to be its architecture, because it is also a continuous developing process which accommodates or facilitates the not only the perception of the society, but also its evolution. That is why, the examples of the original society a nd its life and time can still be found in series of widespread ordinary and grand architectures here, conforming the same style and architectural principle, which belong to the Hindu culture.The Four Constructions Influenced by Arabic RulersThe four constructions that are chosen for the discussion are all from the northern region of India and around Delhi, the present capital of the country, which also has the record of serving as the capital of various rulers ranging from Vedic period to the British, let alone the short and moderate stints of the Arabic and Mughal rulers. According to the recorded evidence, the Tomar king Anangapal built the 1st town at the Dillika village in 737 AD, called it Lal Kot and founded his kingdom. In the 12th century, the kingdom passed away from the Tomars to the Chauhan Rajputs. The last Chauhan king, Prithviraj III built the 2nd town Kila Rai Pithora enclosed by a wall near the Qutab Minar. This essay within its limitation tries to delve into the al l-available versions of the origin of the four constructions of this region, viz., Qwwat al-Islam, Qutab Minar, Fatehpur Sikri and Taj Mahal, before reaching its conclusion.The Qwwat al-Islam MosqueAccording to the recognized definition, the Quwwat-ul-Islam (meaning might of Islam), was constructed following the establishment of Muslim rule from Delhi, which according to the approved data was begun by Qutb-ud-Din Aibak in 1193 and completed 4 years later on the site of Rai Pithora’s Hindu temple. The approved document states that twenty-seven Hindu and Jain temples were leveled to provide enough masonry for the new structure. As a result, the Hindu influence has permeated into the whole complex. Motifs such as tasseled ropes, bells, tendrils, cows and leaves can all be traced on the masonry in richly carved detail. The mosque was enlarged a century later by Sultan Alauddin Khalji, although the extension was never completed.From some researchers point of view, however, this mo sque is a doctored presentation over an earlier structure with elements collected from invasion. As for example, the Iron Pillar (23ft high, situated in the courtyard of the Quwwat-ul-Islam) of the mosque is dated back to the Gupta period with Sanskrit inscriptions from the 4th or 5th century. This pillar was supposedly taken from a Vishnu temple and placed at this site before the construction of the complex. The nature of the materials and style (sandstone, Hindu architectural motifs), etc. also suggest about the same.The Qutab MinarRegarded as the highest stone tower in India, this construction is 239 ft. high, has a diameter of 14.32 meters at the base and about 2.75 meters at the top. The first three storeys are made of red sandstone and are heavily indented with different styles of fluting, alternately round and angular on the bottom floor, round on the second and angular on the third. The fourth and fifth floors are made of marble and sandstone. The door on its northern side l eads inside the tower to a spiral stairway with 379 steps that wind its way up to the balcony in each floor and culminating in a platform at the top. The intricate balconies held together by stalactite vaulting technique and patterned with honeycombing.The minar has survived a series of lightening bolts and earthquakes through centuries and consequently was subjected to rejuvenation acts by different rulers ranging from Mughal to British, which have also caused some thematic deviation to it. As for example when Major R. Smith of the Royal Engineers restored the Qutab Minar in 1829, he replaced the cupola with a Bengal style chhattri, which was again removed in 1848, by the Viceroy Lord Hardinge, because that was considered as misfit to the architectural style of the rest of the minar. Now it stands to the left of the entry path and is known as Smiths folly.In any case, Qutab Minar (axis minaret) is recognized as an Indo-Islamic architectural wonder of ancient India. The historians a ccredit Sultan Qutub-Din Aibak of Slave dynasty as its founder in the year 1199 A.D, when he completed the first storey, while the rest of the five stories were completed by his son-in -law, Illtutmish in 1230. All said and done, the current band of researchers are of the opinion that the panels in the upper part containing serpentine patterns, speak of Hindu lineage, because it has a distinct name, in Hindu architecture as Makara Torana, meaning, emanating from the mouth of a crocodile and this is a common sacred Hindu motif in historic buildings. They also have documented the reverse sides of the stones that fell from the surface of the Minar, which contain Hindu images.Fatehpur SikriThe royal city at Fatehpur Sikri, situated 26 miles west of Agra, stated to be built between 1571 to 1585, by the order of the ruler Akbar. This cluster of buildings speaks of a planned city. Building materials used here are sandstone, red stone, marble, wood, and iron, and it wears a look of compound style of Hindu (the posts) and Arabic architecture (roofs and domes).According to G.E. Kidder Smith, The mere fact of Fatehpurs instant completion is, of course, prodigious but more impressive to us today are the quality, scale, and diversity of its buildings and the spaces they define. Its parts are better than the whole: it lacks, for instance, an orienting spine. It is fresh and innovative architecture, with its vast array of building types represents -like most Moghul building-a fusion of Indian and Islamic cultures. The underlying structure is generally of Hindu post-and-beams, in many cases roofed with Muslim vaults and domes. All is carried out here with cohesive and sympathetic scale: note the neighborhood atmosphere. (82)Fatehpur Sikri blended both Islamic and Hindu elements in their architectural style. One of the buildings even reflects the new syncretistic faith (Din-e-ilahi) founded by Akbar. According to the popular legend, Akbar had built this to mark the birth of hi s son Jangir and so the construction of the new ceremonial capital, with its elaborate palaces, formal courtyards, reflecting pools, harems, tombs and a great mosque, commenced in 1571. A large number of masons and stone carvers worked hard on an area that was over two miles long and a mile wide; they used brilliant red sandstone available locally, which provides the buildings with much of their luster. Shortly after the work was completed fifteen years later, it was realized that there was a lack of an adequate water supply and the pristine complex was abandoned.Fatehpur Sikri is now a World Heritage site. The Panch Mahal, or Palace of Five Storeys, and the Buland Darwaza, a massive gate, which provides entrance to the complex that is rated even by the researchers as a finest specimen of Mughal architecture, to the extent of being the greatest accomplishment of it. Interestingly, they dont bring Taj Mahal into consideration in this regard!Taj MahalFrom Ustad Isa to Geronimo Veroneo , a good many names still do round as its chief architect, if one counts its origination under the regime of Shah Jahan (1630-1653) as true, but none could claim the credit of its design that contains onion-shaped domes and flanking towers on a platform 22 high and 313 square.The present day mausoleum is 57 m (190 ft) square in plan. The central inner dome is 24.5 m (81 ft) high and 17.7 m (58 ft) in diameter, but is surmounted by an outer shell nearly 61 m (200 ft) in height. Corner minarets are 137 tall, while its main structure 186 on a side, dome to 187. It used marbles from Makrana region of Jodhpur, famous for its white marbles.The arrangement of the domes, the lotus canopy, the trident pinnacle, the 22 locked and sealed rooms in the building, the direction of the mosque and its triple domes, the Nagar-khanas, and the surviving Hindu symbolism indicate that it was originally built as a temple complex. The purpose of the minarets is not functional but decorative, and the inspir ation behind them does not appear to be Saracenic. The graves and the Quranic inscriptions upon the marble wall, of course, should be attributed to Shah Jahan.The whole argument about the Taj Mahal being a Mogul construction hinges solely upon the assumption about the origin of the bulbous dome, which certainly is debatable. Havell had emphatically asserted (1-38) that the prototype of bulbous dome existed in the Buddhist stupa and the carvings of Ajanta several centuries before the Mogul invasion. He also asserted that from purely architectural considerations, the inspiration behind the edifice was neither Arab, nor Persian, or, nor European but Indian more Indian than St. Pauls cathedral and Westminster Abbey are English. (13)A large number of researchers claim with several evidences and explanations that the Taj Mahal was already ancient at the time of Shah Jahan and they point out that the general layout of the Taj Complex resembles a Shiva temple. The researchers also cite   the discrepancies in the relevant documents associated with the construction of Taj Mahal, all the while pointing to certain explicitly pertinent questions involving the intention of the construction, by presenting architectural evidences.Thus, the question of antiquity of the Taj Mahal has powerful bearing upon the study of Indian archaeology. It raises certain pertinent questions about the origin, development, influence and classification of one of the important streams of mediaeval architecture. And since an architectural style carries with it the stamp of the contemporary epoch, the above questions have bearing upon the study of Indian history as well. Therefore, it calls for a thorough re-examination of the Mogul architectureparticularly that of Shah Jahan, which Fergusson found it so difficult to reconcile with the style of that period.DiscussionThe major buildings in pre-Islamic India used tradbeate methods of construction. This can be referred to as beam and post constructio n to reflect its most simple form, which, none of the above four constructions are deviated from. Architecture is the time stamp of the civilization of a region. It demonstrates the ability of the society it is generated from. As for example a big mansion reflects its originator on many grounds, ranging from its architectural knowledge to the religious beliefs and affordability, let alone tastes of culture and intelligence of application. All earmarks the heritage of community and it is undeniable that heritage takes time to establish itself, in which cumulative architectural presentation of a group takes centuries before it comes to a state to claim its identity.Here in South Asia, the ancient residents, the Hindu rulers had that scope (since 5000 B.C. approx), while the invaders, i.e., the Arabic rulers did not have that time to establish Saracenic architecture here during their short stint in the region. The main reason, perhaps lies in a package of impediments consisting of clim ate, contra social situations, constant opposition from the native kings, constraint in garnering material, non availability of the engineers, architects and masons skilled in their style of architecture. These factors perhaps forced them to go for makeshift solutions through doctoring and renaming the existing architecture of the region before propagandizing the proprietary over them.ConclusionIn summation, the influence of the Arabic and Mughal architecture is not a widespread and accepted phenomenon in this region, because that never came up here through the usual long-standing process; example like Fatehpur Sikri is not sufficient to prove its influence on the local architecture. However, as with the changed socio-economic and political situation with new rulers, the materials or the quality of the construction have varied at some places, which have no bearing with the Saracenic or Arbic/Mughal styles of architecture.This establishes the fact that locomotion of a society under c ertain climate and culture determines its architecture, which in turn chronicles the journey of civilization in it, which, cannot be abolished totally unless it is totally razed to ground. This is evident in the architecture of the South Asia, where the kings of the earlier times built huge mansions to create the awe in the public mind about their might, the most of which were occupied later by the Arabic and Mughal rulers, who wanted to transform them according to their style, but could not hide the leakage of the history through doctored works. As a result, those structures have become Hindu-Arabic-Mughal compositions, thus chronicling the treatment of time on them.

The Value of the Virgin essays

The Value of the Virgin essays When it comes to powerful religious figures, the Virgin Mary seems to be alone in a Boys Club. Many people look at the Christian faith and assume it favors males because all of its spiritual leaders are male (Jesus, the Apostles, and even God is called He). However, the Virgin Mary does play an important role in the religion. Her influence can be observed, even as early as the Middle Ages. During this time (from about 500 to 1400 or 1500) the Virgin Mary was a symbol whose role gradually grew in importance. The Middle Ages were a time of turmoil and war in Europe. Lands constantly changed their rulers, and plagues ravaged the countryside killing hundreds of poverty stricken people. As these sorrows swam around them in the pool of their dismal lives, the people had no scientific explanations to look to, and therefore turned to faith. Churches and monasteries became some of the most important places on the continent. Also, because of the fall of the Roman Empire and the constant war-fare, trade was nearly impossible and great merchant cities became obsolete, with more and more families leaving their urban homes for more rural ones. It was only the Church, with its monasteries, that provided a source of knowledge, becoming the centers of all things intellectual, including art, and as would be expected, the topic was religion. Because literacy was low, the texts of the time give little insight, while the art presents some clues. In the very early Middle Ages one of the most popular and simple forms of art was the icon. Icons were very small paintings that depicted religious figures such as Mary, Jesus, or various Christian saints. These small pieces ended up causing the split between the Roman Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church in 1054 due to arguments over whether they were idols or not. However, it was in Europe where icons were accepted, and therefore had a great influence on the art. The earliest icon ...

Biovail Case

One truck can definately carry $10 million worth of Wellbutrin XL tablet product. 2. How should the company recognize revenue based upon the two possible FOB contract structures mentioned in the case? Since Biovail’s stock is publically owned it needs to file its financial statements with the SEC. The SEC requires that it abide by GAAP. GAAP requires that revenue be recognized when it is earned or realized. Meaning that the company has done everything it is supposed to do; which would include shipment. So Biovail should recognize revenue once its products have reached the Distributor’s FOB. 3. How does the accident affect the stated revenues under different FOB contract structures? Explain your reasoning? If Biovail recognizes revenues when the product leaves Biovail’s FOB shipping point then it is recognizing revenue before it has been earned and realized. Thus abusing accounting accruals and overstating revenues and net income on financial statements, consequently giving stakeholders misleading information. On the other hand, if Biovail recognizes revenue when the product has reached the Distributor’s FOB destination it has recognized revenue when it has been earned and will accurately state revenues and net income on its financial statements. 4. Are you concerned about the company’s treatment of analysts who cover the stock? Would you want to be an analyst covering this company? Yes, it is of concern that Biovail would single out analysts who would downgrade stock recommendations. I would not want to be an analyst covering their stock because it would put me in an uncomfortable position. If there was evidence that Biovail had misleading financial statements my integrity would tell me to tell the truth and give an honest recommendation. However, I would be worried because I would not want an investigation tainting my innocent name and leading to separation from my employment.

Summary of an article Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Summary of an article - Essay Example Students use their computer systems to copy music files and download movies and similarly they think that copying and pasting other writers’ work is the same non-serious task. Gabriel mentions a survey which shows that 40% of students admit plagiarizing, and the number of students who consider plagiarism as a serious act is declining with every passing year. Students going to libraries for research work are very few today and since everything is virtual online, thus they do not think that there is any harm in using words that do not belong to them. Students get motivated to use other works through TV shows that copy other shows and music that contains others’ lyrics. They just need a grade to pass the exam and do not mind plagiarizing for this purpose which makes their work unoriginal and unauthentic. Students mix their work with others which keeps them from bringing up new and innovative ideas. However, Gabriel quotes Ms. Wilensky who states that still there are many s cholars who are producing original pieces of work. She asserts that students should be taught to reproduce ideas in their own words right from the start so that they do not plagiarize when they go to

Observational essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Observational - Essay Example nt will take forever but when these new students see a familiar starbucks coffee shop in the campus it makes them realize that the environment is not that different. I sat at the Starbucks on campus for three days and observed people in the evening. Starbucks is a very clean and nice place in the university to spend some time. I observed that sometimes its environment get very crowded and they use dividers in order to make a zigzag pattern of lines for managing the crowd. At times Starbucks on campus service can be very fast especially at a time where there is no line at all and other times the crowd as to wait for several minutes to get their order. The sitting arrangement and the environment within this coffee shop is highly comfortable which attracts people to go there and interact with many different people. I have observed that Starbucks on campus was a place of relaxation for students. They use to come there tired, sit, spent some time for relaxing and then get back to the tough routine of the university. One of the major events that I have observed during my three day observation is that there was a student who uses to come to Starbucks on campus as a regular student. His class was very near from the shop so he had a great chance of having coffee daily in the morning at one of the most well known coffee shops at his school. Initially everything was going fine but on the last day of the observation I realized that the student was in a hurry and wanted a coffee. He had some important work to do but the line was moving very slowly. He waited for the turn for around half an hour and soon after some time I heard him screaming that Starbucks on campus is a waste of time. He was screaming and saying that it is better to order a pizza somewhere instead of waiting here for so long and that all for a cup of coffee. Other than this one event my observation for Starbucks on campus went very smoothly and problem free. Starbucks on campus is a place where students can

Powdered zinc and copper sulphate Essay Example for Free

Powdered zinc and copper sulphate Essay Temperature after 1minute (i C) Change in Temperature (i C) 1g 17 19 2 As I had decided I was going to use 40cmiof copper sulphate solution in my experiments I was able to calculate the amount of mols of copper sulphate I was going to use, knowing that the concentration of the CuSO4 was 0. 5m/dmi. Amount of CuSO4 (mols) = concentration x volume = 0. 5 x 0. 04 (40cmi = 0. 04dmi ) = 0. 02mols Know that I knew the amount of CuSO4 used I was able to work out the amount of powdered zinc needed to give the highest change in temperature using the calculation shown below: Amount of substance needed = mass / molar mass (Mr of Zn = 65) therefore mass = amount x Mr = 0. 02 x 65 = 1. 3g Thus 1. 3g of zinc should give me the highest change in temperature. As I am not using exactly 1. 3g of zinc I predict that either 1. 25g or 1. 5g of zinc will show the highest change in temperature. Practical Obtaining my evidence Apparatus: powdered zinc, copper sulphate solution, beaker, measuring cylinder, pipette, balance, 5 evaporating dishes, thermometer, polystyrene cup and lid, stop clock. Method: I measured out amounts of   of the powdered zinc separately, using the balance to ensure accuracy. I put the amounts into the evaporating dishes. Using the measuring cylinder and a pipette, I then put 40cmi of copper sulphate solution into the polystyrene cup, which I placed into a beaker for stability. I then added an amount of zinc, placed the lid and thermometer onto the cup and took the temperature of the solution. After a minute I took the temperature again. I repeated this process for each amount of zinc powder. I completed my experiment three times to each amount of zinc powder. I did it three times to establish an average change in temperature for the different amounts of zinc used. Results: Experiment 1: Amount of Zinc (grams)3 Conclusion: As I predicted 1. 5g of powdered zinc gave me the highest change in temperature. After this amount the change in temperature slowly began to decrease. Between 0. 5g and 1. 5g the temperature change increased rapidly. Specific Heat Capacity of Zinc The specific heat capacity (s. h. c. ) of a material is the amount of heat needed to change the temperature of 1kg of the material by 1i C or 1K. Different substances take different quantities of heat energy to heat them up. Specific heat capacity = energy released / (mass x temperature rise) As I know this equation I can rearrange it to find the energy released during a reaction. If I also know the amount of a substance used in the reaction I can calculate the specific heat capacity of it. Energy released = temperature rise x specific heat capacity x mass of solution . 76 KJ/mol (exothermic reactions are always negative) From my results I have calculated that the specific heat capacity of zinc is -32. 76. This is inaccurate as from my data book I was able to find that the correct ? H of zinc is -219KJ/mol. This inaccuracy shows that although my results followed the expected trend, they were not accurate. Analysis In my plan I predicted that either 1. 25g or 1. 5g of zinc would show the highest change in temperature. After this mass I predicted that the change in temperature would either decrease or level off. This is what happened. In my average results 1. 5g of zinc gave me the highest change in temperature and after this the increase in temperature decreased because a layer of copper formed on the zinc, thus making it less reactive. If I were to continue with my experiments I would investigate higher amounts of zinc to prove this theory completely. In all of my experiments the copper sulphate lost its blue colouring and the zinc became red in colour. The copper compounds in copper sulphate cause the solution to be blue in colour. As the zinc displaced the copper, the solution lost its colour. As the copper layer formed on the zinc it became red, as copper is a red metal. My graphs show the general trend that I predicted and concluded on yet there were a few anomalies. I believe that these will have been caused by factors such as contamination and heat loss to the surroundings. The thermometer may also have been inaccurate. An exothermic reaction is one which gives out energy to the surroundings, usually in the form of heat and usually shown by a rise in temperature. I have successfully proved that the reaction between powdered zinc and copper sulphate is exothermic as I recognised a rise in temperature in all my experiments. I have also shown that the reaction between zinc and copper sulphate is a redox reaction (see my plan). Evaluation The anomalies in my results prove that there were points during my investigations where my accuracy left a little to be desired. An inaccuracy occurred in my time keeping, as there was often a small difference in when I began timing e. g. when I added the zinc or when I secured the lid on top of the polystyrene cup. Overall even though my experiment was open to some inaccuracies I believe it was accurate enough to support my predictions. To improve my results I would increase the period of timing from 1minute to 5minutes so that the temperature could be allowed to rise more. I would extend my investigations into the reaction between zinc and copper sulphate by using a finer powder of zinc, which would give it a larger surface area, to see if this would cause the temperature to rise more rapidly. I would also like to complete the experiments using better equipment to prevent heat loss to the surroundings, to see if it has an effect on my results and thus, my conclusion. I would have liked to use better equipment in my practical but they were not available. If I had more time I could use different metals and different solutions to further test the displacement rule e. g. the reaction between magnesium and zinc sulphate. Sources: G. C. S. E Chemistry Revision Guide Richard Parsons Show preview only The above preview is unformatted text This student written piece of work is one of many that can be found in our GCSE Patterns of Behaviour section.

What is Technology Education? :: essays research papers

"What is Technology Education?" I asked myself nearly a year ago. I was at the time involved in Industrial Technology with a concentration in Drafting & Design. Unchallenged and bored with that particular field of study, I searched for something new, but yet somewhat the same. I saw a flyer posted in Flanagan Hall at my former stomping ground, East Carolina University, that said teachers were desperately needed at local high schools. Some of the subjects they needed teachers in included: Electronics, Wood Shop, Auto Mechanics, Computer Applications, and the one that caught my eye the most, Drafting & Design. The flyer said all you needed to teach middle and high school in these particular subjects was a BS in Industrial Technology (but teacher certification was a plus was noted in the fine print). I did some research on Technology Education and did some personal reflection if this was a career I was really interested in. "It sure beats a 9 to 5 job," I thought, "and it can’t be monotonous because every day you do something new – especially in the type of teaching I’d like to pursue, Drafting & Design." Over the weekend I did some more research on a professional organization that is directly related to my field, Industrial Technology Education Association (ITEA). ITEA is a large, in fact the largest, professional educational association devoted to enhancing technology education through experiences in our schools (K-12). ITEA covers individuals and institutions throughout the world with the primary membership in North America. More than forty thousand technology educators in the United States alone represent ITEA. The corporate members of ITEA are comprised of leading technology companies. ITEA's mission is to advance technological means for all people. ITEA tries to meet the professional needs and interests of members as well as to improve public understanding of technology education and its contributions. ITEA conducts various professional development programs and holds an annual conference. This conference is the largest technology education show of exhibits and educational sessions in the world. Wow! Some publications the Industrial Technology Education Association compose include the following: The Technology Teacher, Technology and Children, and The Journal of Technology Education. There are ten committees that organize the aspects of technology education. These committees of ITEA also sponsor dozens of meetings, conferences, and exhibits each year. They also sponsor an active honor and awards program that identifies outstanding teachers and programs (K-12) from states, provinces and countries that are affiliated with the Association.

Microsoft vs Red Hat Linux Essay

As a customer, I’d prefer the system of Red Hat (despite how the program look and operate) because obviously, it’s free of charge. Also because it releases the updated version every 4-6 months as the article mentioned. However, in my opinion, in term of business model, Microsoft, the monopoly, has a more sustainable business plan. The traditional way of employing high skilled programmers is certainly ensure the persistent development of the company. Moreover, from the customer’s point of view, even though, they have to pay a fixed software package in the beginning, but there’re no other expenses such as consulting like Red Hat. Moreover, the free technical support also make Microsoft has a higher position in the market. In addition, statistically, Microsoft has outstanding profit-making revenue for the past years. Linux, on the other hand, has a possibility of getting bigger in terms of revenue. Still, as I have said, volunteer programmers are not very reliable. Not only the success is terms of revenue, Microsoft has a better brand image because it has been in the market for so long and has so many loyal customers globally. Even though, Red Hat is trying to differentiate by focusing more on the small business, but Microsoft’s strategy is still ahead of it because it provided its service/product to a larger based customers. I’m sure that Red Hat isn’t the first competitor Microsoft has ever had, but it has overcome all of them. Because of all the reason mentioned above, Microsoft will remain the Monopoly in the market for still quite a long while. Michael E. Porter Michael E. Porter is a leading strategist who has a comprehensive understanding about economy and economic development of a nation. He invented the Competitive Strategy called â€Å"Porter’s Five Forces Model†. He is now currently the Bishop William Lawrence University Professor, based at Harvard Business School. Professor Porter is generally known as the father of modern strategy field, and also identified as the world’s most influential thinker on management and competitiveness. His works included 18 books and over 125 articles published in leading newspaper and business magazine. Professor Porter was actually graduated with high honors in aerospace and mechanical engineering from Princeton University, and continued with M. B. A with George F. Baker Scholar from Harvard Business School, also a Ph. D. in Business Economics from Harvard University as well. Porter’s Five Forces Model As I have mentioned, it’s a model about the competitiveness of a company by Michael E. Porter. It is a very well-known model in order to find the environment of a firm and also factors that influence the uncertainty. It states not only to win over your competitors but also to unite and work together between firms in term of partnership. One of the reasons why this model is well recognized is that it works from small to large company. The Five Forces in the model are Rivalry among current competitors, bargaining power of suppliers, bargaining power of customers, threat of substitute products or services, and threat of new entrants.

Goodwill Industries Essay

Goodwill Industries are organizations for nonprofit making that provide or render employment, community based programs, placement services, and job training to individuals that cannot access proper education, disabled individuals and the unemployed. A huge network of institutions of retail thrift, that works as organizations of nonprofit organizations, sponsor goodwill industries. A large portion of goodwill industries finance is donated items from retail stores. The community’s generous donations of household items and clothing provide the store’s merchandise. Such donations are critical to goodwill industries mission of Colorado Springs, both donating and shopping in their stores, give a hand in supporting programs for workforce development that serve more than 45000 people every year in northwest N. C (Helms, 2001). Goodwill Industries are nonprofit making organizations that render or provide employment, job training, placement services and community based programs to people who have no proper access to education, to those who have a disability, unemployed. Goodwill is sponsored by a massive network of retail thrift institution which also operates as nonprofit organizations. Goodwill Industries works hand in hand with employers to identify other people who qualify for employment opportunities available at any particular time (Helms, 2001). A substantial portion of the financing of Goodwill Industries comes from the sales of donated goods in various stores. Merchandise in this stores is provided via generous donations things such as household items, clothing’s and from different communities. Such donations are critical the mission of Goodwill Industries (Moore, 2001). Goodwill Industries accepts material donations of any kind, such as cars, computers and boats. The common donations include; clothing, shoes, house wares such as dinnerware, pans and pots, kitchen utensils and flatware. Small appliances are also common donations like blenders, toasters, juicers and mixers; bicycles; toys; sporting equipment; books; collectables; furniture; tools; decorations; computers among others (Moore, 2001). Goodwill industries ensure that business operations and community activities are carried on in an environmentally favorable manner. The Industry is dedicated in turning discarded things into useable products, and where they cannot salvage an item; they ensure that thorough recycling methods are utilized (Moore, 2001). Goodwill’s Mission Goodwill industries sell donated goods. The profits generated by the sales fund training opportunities for various those with trouble in finding and keeping jobs. They also train and hire individuals with disabilities. These disabilities can be mental or physical due to lack of previous work experience, housewives re-entering the job market, outdated work skills, senior citizens, and people with limited communication skills (Moore, 2001). Goodwill Industries serve people experiencing barriers in employment and related circumstances. A barrier to employment include development age, disabilities, learning disabilities, single parenthood, lack of education, language barriers, felony history, prolonged absence from the workforce (such as disabled veterans or displaced homemakers), substance abuse, co-occurring disorders, domestic neglect or violence, homelessness, and physical challenges. These Industries serve to intervene for such people and hence contributing to economic development in the long run. The Supported Program for employment is projected for only those with significance of disability. It provides greater comprehensive support to the victims in order to increase their opportunity for being successful on their relevant job (Moore, 2001). Goodwill Industries only accepts only those items that are in excellent shape. For instance if the items include electronics they have to be fully operational. Goodwill Industry does not perform repairing services. In case it accepts non functional items without its knowledge, it contracts a salvage company to clear from its stores non working items such as radios, televisions, microwaves, cameras and similar products working order (Moore, 2001). Goodwill can offer pick up services for organizations, businesses and schools that would be interested to donate: overstock, scratch and dent, office furniture and surplus inventory. Goodwill Industries have created policies help them follow up and keep constant track of all donated items. These policies also aids in preventing frauds. To begin with, any donated goods that are yet to been processed cannot be issued or sold before they reach the relevant retail stores. After they are processed, they are distributed to store randomly (Helms, 2001). Goodwill Industries also provide career solutions for adults via various programs. These programs include, computer classes, forklift certification, job readiness sessions, Microsoft Office Suite classes, security guard training, call center training, janitorial services, counseling and job placement, customer and retail, service basics, and also transitional employment services. Goodwill determines prices of donated items by market value and competitive. However, prices at Goodwill Industries are at least 50 percent less compared to what customers would pay in other retail stores. Any states do not charge taxes on second hand goods an especially clothes which acts as a major advantage for Goodwill Industries (Helms, 2001). These industries offer retail jobs, which include; Retail sales clerks, Administrative, support staff, processors and management Youth services staff, Truck drivers/helpers Rehabilitation program aides, Adult services staff, material handlers and Donation center attendants. These employees enjoy accrued benefit such as health insurance, vacation, Competitive wages, dental insurance, holiday and a retirement plan (Helms, 2001). Goodwill Industries do not hold fundraising events or solicit cash donations, but financial donations are gratefully accepted. Most of these Industries set offer employment with higher opportunities for disabled and those with barriers to employment. Some of the services that the disabled perform include, Light Assembly, sorting, labeling and Packaging. They are also involved in: shrink Wrapping, Mailing, Blister Packing, Craft projects and Stuffing Envelopes (Keeler, 1992). Goodwill Industries strive to ensure that their stores are invariably full of fresh products. Merchandise remains in the retail stores for few weeks, and then it is marked down severally after few weeks. If the item does not sell after a given time, it is transferred to any Clearance Center where it is offered at an amount. If the items still fail to sell in the Clearance Center, they are sold in bulk to third party recyclers or recycled (Moore, 2001). Goodwill Industries make sales online. They have created online bidding sites that require bidders to register online in order to browse, place bid and be able to buy any item that is available for sale. This site normally notify bidders whenever they are outbid on an item and if they have lost or won the auction (Keeler, 1992). All activities of Goodwill and business operations are handled in a manner that they are environmentally friendly. They believe in making useable goods from discarded items, and if an item can’t be salvaged a proper method of recycling is ensured. By so doing, they are able to call themselves upstanding citizens of environment (Helms, 2001). Policy of Goodwill Industries Goodwill industries are dedicated to services delivery in an environment that is conformed to the highest standards of administration accountability, financial management, developmental training, marketing and business. Goodwill industries leadership is committed to the need to detect and prevent fraud, misappropriation of funds, fiscal management and hence maintenance and development of a corporate compliance formal program to ascertain conformance and ongoing monitoring with all regulatory requirements that are legal. Additionally, the organization is dedicated to the maintenance, implementation and establishment of a program of corporate compliance that insists on a number of things (Moore, 2001). Firstly, avoid wrong doings, which can be both unintentional or intentional, and immediate investigation and reporting of questionable practices and activities without any penalty to the party reporting. Secondly, immediate correction of any circumstance that puts the goodwill industries, its staff or leaders, consumers and sources of funding at risk (Moore, 2001). Procedures of Goodwill Industries The operations of goodwill industries entail the following procedures. The board of directors through official declaration, delegates’ general responsibility for the program of Corporate Compliance to the CEO/ President with supervisory responsibilities allocated to the Committee specifically the Finance Committee. The CEO/ Preside will assess the program of the corporate compliance of the Organization and provide regular and periodic reports to the whole Board of Directors and committee on issues relating to the program. The CEO officially delegates to the Administration and Finance Vice President as Officer of the Corporate Compliance. The Officer of Corporate compliance has various responsibilities (Moore, 2001). The first responsibility is providing staff assistance to the Financial Committee and works as the main contact point of the Organization for all issues of corporate compliance, which include coming up with recommendations to the Board of directors, the Committee and CEO/President and regular reporting on activities of compliance (Helms, 2001).. Another responsibility is to monitor, implement and develop – on a consistent and regular basis – the program corporate compliance of the organization, which include all systems and procedures, reporting and investigative processes, auditing, and external and internal monitoring (Helms, 2001). Thirdly, the committee is responsible for monitoring, coordinating and scheduling periodic and regular reviews of areas of risk by competent external and/or internal persons to the organization. These reviews will supplement the yearly audit of the organization’s system of accounting and offer an additional inner measure. This is to make sure that it complies with financial practices and policies that will endure the thorough examination of any regulatory examination or audit. Another responsibility of the committee is that it has unimpeded and directs access to the independent auditors of the organization, legal body on issues that relate to compliance of the organization, board of directors and CEO/president (Helms, 2001). The reports to the Board of directors, the committee and CEO/President will include the following, a summary of all criticisms processed in the previous twelve months in combination with the program of corporate compliance, investigations and allegations. Additionally, a description of all complete corrective accomplishments taken and thirdly, any recommendations to changes in procedures and/or policies of the organization. The summary will consist of incidents of theft of funds of Goodwill and or pattern, product of irregularities in finances, significant irregularities in accounting and/or errors, investigations of media related to ethics and confidentiality breach (Moore, 2001). Committee Formation The Board’s Finance Committee shall be in charge of oversight of all activities of Corporate Compliance. Committee members can also be part of other committees. They should not depend on management and free themselves from any association that would affect the use of their independent decision as members of the Committee. The Committee of such organization shall meet more than two years annually, and as frequent as the situation requires. The committee of goodwill industries shall keep all the meetings’ minutes to document its recommendations and activities (Moore, 2001). Primary Committee’s Goals The committee helps the Board in accomplishing its fiduciary duties relating to financial and legal compliance with applicable policies, industry guidelines laws, and regulatory requirements. Additionally, it is in charge of all practices of auditing reporting and accounting, whose goal is to reveal accurately and properly the financial condition and status of the Organization (Keeler, 1992). Another responsibility of the committee is to oversee the implementation and adoption of procedures and policies that will necessitate for the industry and its workers to comply fully with all relevant polices, regulations and laws. Moreover, it helps the board to fulfill its tasks to stakeholders that relate to integrity and quality of financial reporting, practices of financial reporting, and policies of accounting (Keeler, 1992). Duties of the Committee While the committee carries out its responsibilities and duties, it should ensure that part of its members possess expertise in the financial field. The financial experts must have a general understanding of GAAP and an understanding of statements of finance. Additionally, such persons should have an in depth understanding of preparing, analyzing, auditing, and evaluating statements of finance, which should include a level and depth of complexity of issues of accounting that are usually around six to twenty pages. These pages should be comparable to the complexity and breadth of matters that can rationally be anticipated to be introduced by the financial statements’ registrant (Helms, 2001). The financial experts should be experienced in supervising individuals taking part in these financial activities. Additionally, they should understand internal procedures and controls for financial reporting. Another duty of these experts is to have an understanding of compliance and audit functions. Moreover, they should provide ample opportunity for the external auditors to meet with committee members so that they can receive feedback on their individual compliance evaluations relating to auditing, accounting, financial, regulatory and legal practices (Helms, 2001). The financial experts meet with the financial management and independent auditors at the end of the yearly audit to review results of audit which include any recommendations or comments of the external auditors. Moreover, they evaluate changes in the applicable procedures and policies and standards of accounting. Additionally, they review the outcomes, which is included in the management letter of the independent auditors and response and actions of management to be taken. Another duty involves evaluation of the yearly statements of finance and ensures that the external auditors become satisfied with the disclosure and content and of the statements of finance. Moreover, they are in charge of the compliance program’s implementation connected to business conduct that will make sure that high conduct and ethical standards are complied with and communicated properly to all employees regularly (Moore, 2001). Adequate Documentation Policy The purpose of the policy of documentation is to ensure that all cost, accounting and financial, data based its information on adequate, verifiable and auditable documentation. The policy of all release or disclosure of statements of finance should be stated such that it does not contain false material statement, or leave out a statement of material fact. Additionally, it should reconcile the information of finance presented including the financial results and condition of business operations. Moreover, all financial and cost data should be based on statistical and financial records that can be verified. The data of cost should be relevant to an approved costing method and on accrual accounting basis (Moore, 2001). Goodwill industries prohibit material omissions and misstatements of any data that is arranged on behalf or by the organization. Additionally, presentation of cost, accounting and financial data which is misleading is not acceptable. Moreover, financial data accessible to external reports must follow GAAP. Adequate cost, accounting and financial data should be efficient and effective for the organization’s management, should be reliable in relation to applicable business concepts and should be capable of undergoing auditing. Moreover, adequate cost data must have records which support it so as to gain reimbursement by any government or agencies from which finances are gotten. The prerequisite of adequate information insists that data have sufficient details and be accurate in order to achieve the goals intended (Keeler, 1992). The financial disclosure statement policy has been introduced by goodwill industries to guarantee the integrity of disclosure of financial, annual statement. The objective of financial disclosure integrates integrity, review of any possible variance of interest between affiliates, officers and board of directors and auditor that can affect the independence of auditors (Keeler, 1992). Another objective is to promote professional competency and ethics standards, performing evaluation of a work product of auditors, and ensure capability of auditors. All these goals are intended to validate assessment of management of the performance of the organization, business trends and effects of significant accounting estimates and policies. This is highlighted as the crucial feature of annual disclosure of financial statement. This policy is intended to ensure the truth of documents of corporate finances, highlight the imprecision in all activities of reimbursement and ensure immediate remediation and disclosure of any overpayments identified (Keeler, 1992). The goodwill industries ensure that Ethics Code are adopted and applicable to each and every employee and promotes ethical and honest conduct; averting of variances of interest; timely, fair, accurate and understandable disclosure in the periodic reports of the issuer, and conformance with applicable government regulations and rules. For example, to make sure that the Colorado Springs goodwill industries’ best interests are fulfilled, the organization has introduced a policy of conflict of interest which applies to all employees, officers and directors. Additionally, the committee will oversee entire financial and other types of disclosures as stated under such a policy (Helms, 2001). Good will industries have a legal policy related to search warrants, subpoenas and other investigations. These policies provide assistance relating to how search warrants, subpoenas and other investigations are handled. This legal policy does not take care of investigations or subpoenas, which a worker may receive and which are not directly linked to their Goodwill employment. The purpose of the policy is to ensure that goodwill organizations cooperate with external audits, searches and investigations of the government. In case of an inquiry or a visit from an agency of the government related to legal documents, search warrant and subpoena is received, the CCO (Corporate compliance officer) must be notified. This officer will evaluate the document and ensure that follow up action is undertaken, including the legal CEO Counsel being notified (Moore, 2001). Members of Staff who receive an inquiry or a visit from an agency of the government regarding any Goodwill Industries should direct such a person to the CCO, and must desist from talking about business matters of the Organization with such an individual until and/or unless CCO gives such a directive. Moreover, members of staff served with a subpoena requiring them to testify on a matter linked to their employment must notify the CCO. The CCO will review the subpoena received immediately and ensure that follow up action is undertaken (Moore, 2001). In conclusion, Goodwill industries ensure that any operation that is carried out by such organization is environmentally friendly. Additionally, such industries have financial experts who ensure that the statements of finance of such organizations are not misrepresented. Therefore, goodwill companies ensure that they employ integrity in all their financial and operational activities.

Analysis of an Ad essays

Analysis of an Ad essays The chosen ad on a denotative level, features a woman, perhaps in her mid-20s to early 30s, holding a sign that is used for police photographs of criminals. Her expression reveals that she is not too happy, and directly beneath her, is a Francesco Biasia Handbag. Behind the person is a black background, and behind the handbag, is a red background. Now on a connotative level, the caption, (Which is She just had to have it), and the juxtaposition of these two images both help to interpret this ad. Because of those two factors, it seems to suggest that this seemingly innocent girl would do ANYTHING to acquire this supposedly great product. This of course includes breaking the law to get it. The background surrounding the woman, would connotatively suggest that she is GUILTY of something because of the fact that it is black. Also, the red background in the bottom image showcasing the handbag, suggests that this object is something of DESIRE. In using these two particular colors, the adve rtisers illustrate even further what they want you to believe, because of that of which these colors are most often associated. For instance, people regularly associate black with guilt, dirty deeds or things that which are considered to be wrong, or illegal, etc. Whereas, red would normally be associated with lust, desire, passion, and that are precisely what the advertisers want you to do, lust for this object. (This woman certainly did, so much so that she risked going to JAIL for it.) This ad is directed towards female consumers, mainly because largely women purchase the product. (Though there have been a few exceptions in the past.) The ad seems to hail not only females, but also a specific age group, (Those probably around the same age of the woman.), and someone who could probably afford the product, even though the person in the ad had to resort to shoplifting. The image, in which this ad portrays women, is not parti...

Research paper on Ethnomusicology Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

On Ethnomusicology - Research Paper Example The CD is one that fuses the Turkish pop scene into a sense of both cultural traditions and modern techniques to create a contemporary style to the rich culture of history. The instrumentation which is used to complete this style includes mandolin, large percussion sections, violins, guitar and a pop beat for the background sound (Putomayo Presents 2011). Musical Style The musical style of both CDs follows the traditional format of the origins of the groups while carrying influences by the rock and Western style of music. The style is then combined with specific sounds that are able to show the content attributed to each area. The attempt made by both artist groups working toward a fusion sound. For instance, in the song, La Difference, there is a fusion of the African and Western instruments. Electrical guitar is used throughout the piece, as well as a background of piano. There is also a pop-rock beat that is used as a secondary part of the rhythm to create stronger movement. The s ong also uses the phrase â€Å"Love is Serabande† in the chorus. This combines the culture of English, French and African cultures, all which are known in the region that Keita has recorded. All of the CD songs follow this same influence, similar to the group of The Middle East. The musical style of Turkish Groove shows the same contemporary influences. The violin serenades and background, mandolin which is used and the strong percussion line are all a part of the Turkish traditional music. This is the strongest part of the songs that are played. This is combined with the Turkish singing that is attributed to singing in the Turkish language. However, there is a back beat that is... The approaches that are now being taken with music combine the concept of fusion with a cultural context. The individual experiences, political and cultural approaches all make a difference in how artists are expressing their music. However, this is combined with a fusion of sounds that are influencing the globe and changing the approach many have to music. More important, there is the ability to have universal themes that artists are interested in, all which are displayed with the individual and political tensions that the artists are aware of and which creates the main similarities used in the music. When looking at the artists of Keita and Putomayo Presents, it can be seen that cultural influences drive forward the music. However, the themes of ending war, re-looking boundaries and of finding peace remain the same for both groups.

Using an extended example critically examine whether the sector matrix Essay - 4

Using an extended example critically examine whether the sector matrix framework gives a better strategic understanding of product markets than the concepts o - Essay Example The understanding of sector matrix is from a business model change management perspective to presenting a well in-depth conceptual framework. The sector matrix strategic challenges in functional organization structures can create fundamental aspect to designing problematic measures. For instance, the designed approach to implement needed change management offers a new directive matrix. The approach for forming the right measure of strategy is within the right designed matrix. The management objectives outline the required streamline processing of business model standards to producing products. In doing so, the role in establishing the correct sector matrix through pricing, brand identification, and innovation is essential to success. The business model understanding of the functional business operational processes presents the ability correctly analyze the strengths provides the sufficient sector matrix (Mantel, Meredith, Shafer, and Sutton, pp.95, 2008). In the financial industry, the business model example is in the real estate market to effectively selling deeds to the targeted demographics. The ability to section off core commodities for the appropriate level of offering loans to supply sufficient financial products. In doing so, the organization can successful increase the brand equity shiare within the industry. Furthemore, the analysis of the targeted demographics interestd in the product/service will outlined the supply linkages in the particular industry. The business model ability to presenting the framework in a business model strategy is to successfully implement the management style approach in a functional organizational. Other industries are just as strategically position within the sector matrix framework to proficiently adapt to current trends, such as, IT management, Transporation, Manufactorers, or Airliners. The identification is the ablility to critically examine the