Passenger Satisfaction Survey Essay Example for Free

Passenger Satisfaction Survey Essay Knowledge centre was setup at IRITM in 2008. IRITM has a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IIM Lucknow, for writing Research Papers, Case Studies and assimilating research findings into comprehensive periodic reports to be used for improving training inputs. This is the 4th publication of the Centre. The earlier 3 publications :1. Ideas on PPP, Dr. Kalpana Dube, Sr. Prof. (Fin. PPP), IRITM Ashish Shukla 2. A Handbook on Project Finance PPP Terminology, Dr. Kalpana Dube, Sr. Prof. (Fin. PPP), IRITM Ankit Tandon 3. Studying the Efficacy of an Airport Modernization Concession Agreement, Dr. Kalpana Dube, Sr. Prof. (Fin. PPP), IRITM The above publications have been well received not only by the Railways but even outside in the Government, Private Sector and Educational Institutions. Indian Railways is the life line of the nation. It has been instrumental in bringing about a social, cultural and economic revolution in our society and has been a strong uniting and integrating force. Despite being a monopoly in passenger services which are highly subsidized, can it afford to have a dissatisfied customer? To keep the nation moving and the customers happy, our net social service obligations in 2010-11 constituted 17. 57% of total expenditure. Analysis of profitability of Coaching Services showed a loss of 21,324 crores to which net suburban losses in Chennai, Kolkatta and Mumbai contributed Rs. 2364 crores. Other factors have also accelerated the situation which include low second class ordinary fares non suburban commuters and concession in fare extended to various categories. No other transport sector today is offering rates which could compete with the Railways. Despite so much of effort if we are still unable to keep our Customer satisfied there certainly seems to be some communication gap between us and the Customer. In order to asses that gap IRITM conducted a â€Å"Passenger Satisfaction Survey† on the Northern, North Central and North Eastern Railway, the result of which are summarized in the publication. We hope the results would allow us the Railway personnel to introspect about our â€Å"Customer Demand† and initiate us to give a better service and be more vocal in showing our concern for keeping our Customer Happy. Ashima Singh Director IRITM Lucknow July 2012 FOREWORD Passenger Amenities and provision of certain essential as well as desirable features on Railway stations as well as on-board train services continually engage the attention of policy makers in the Railway Board as well as the Field Officers in the Zones and Divisions. The ground level scenario at major stations in the country differs in terms of scope as well as its perceived usefulness by the Railway Passengers. The present survey was designed to get a comprehensive feedback on 37 different service parameters related to passenger conveniences and station facilities. While the objective assessment fields were readily responded to by most passengers the open ended questions did not elicit detailed replies and were perfunctory. The perception gap between Passenger responses and Railway Officers’ responses also highlighted some interesting differences. Illumination at Stations, Signage and Clarity of Train Announcements and Booking Counter experience have got very favorable responses. The deficiency areas which were most reported on were cleanliness on platforms and train toilets, late running of trains as well as unauthorized people in compartments. What must be emphasized here is that none of these areas actually require capital expenditure or investments or repeated policy directives. They just require vigilantism, active supervision and better coordination among the service providers within the various departments. A standard protocol of maintenance, cleanliness and supervision functions needs to be worked upon just like the various service related parameters put in operation at the newly developed and modernized airports. (Please refer Annexure). This is a standard checklist of service parameters insisted upon by Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL). A similar drill would go a long way in ensuring better services on our premium stations especially A1, and A categories. The booklet has been designed in such a manner that passenger responses can be very easily understood through use of colorful graphics and simple data presentation, however the larger question which needs to be addressed is that can we provide station and on board housekeeping services which are game changers and path breaking at the same time? Which reflect a paradigm shift in the way Passenger Services are traditionally being offered by Indian Railways. Perhaps the new Station Development Corporation announced recently may introduce sweeping changes to radically alter the present system of addressing Passenger Amenities and general conveniences to be made available to the public. The Station Development Corporation has been conceived with the primary objective of augmenting and improving passenger related amenities at stations. All the issues highlighted in the current survey would perhaps get addressed if fast tracking the activities of the Station Development agency can show visible early results. The areas of action being well designed concourses, high end waiting spaces, easy access with disabled friendly options for station premises, congestion free platforms, modern catering facilities etc. The Report has been made more useful by adding edited versions of the comprehensive, pan-India Passenger Service Surveys and Station Cleanliness Surveys conducted by the CAG (Railways) in the last few years. In addition, some additional literature and visuals of world class stations have been added to give a feel of what the future may look like in the days to come for Passenger Amenities and Services in Modernized Railway Stations. The Report has also been substantiated with identifying certain important performance benchmarks, using examples from the Aviation Sector. Performance benchmarking and improving customer perception are important milestones in improving station premises and passenger services beyond the conventional targets to the next level. A level which is path breaking and futuristic in its vision and implementation. If the checklist of the 37 parameters used in this study as well as the findings contained in the Audit Reports are read and comprehended by the Railway officers responsible for these functions, the purpose of the survey would be fulfilled. However, it may be useful to reiterate that station maintenance procedures must follow the KISNE principle i. e. Keep It Smart Neat and Efficient. Also while we cannot promise the moon to our customers we must ensure that what we do promise we deliver at all times with 100% efficiency and Zero Failures. These are achievable because we have a long experience of managing stations and procedures are well laid out. What is perhaps needed is a well established drill of adhering to a standard protocol of Station and Train Maintenance Practices and not allow the drill to falter even for a day. A well thought strategy, precision in execution and applying Six Sigma principles for not deviating from the Standard Maintenance and Supervision Protocol would go a long way establishing a New Order which is easy to replicate and easy to follow. Dr. Kalpana Dube Senior Professor IRITM Lucknow July 2012 The more you engage with customers the clearer things become and the easier it is to determine what you should be doing. Objectives of the Passenger Survey Criteria and Methodology Sample Size/Target Respondents Passenger Survey Findings Response by Railway Officers Suggestions for Proactive Action Comparison of General Public Railway Officers’ Response Perception Gap – Between the General Public as Rail Users and Railway Officers as Rail Users Graphical Representation of the Findings Strategy For Promoting Indian Railways Image And Train Travel Experience Some Suggestions Benchmarking Performance Assessment Measures Sub Report One: Sample Service Quality Specifications For Delhi International Airport Ltd. DIAL) Conceptual Background for Railway Stations as Profit Investment Centers Sub Report Two: CAG Recommendations on Passenger Services in Indian Railways 2008-09 Sub Report Three: CAG Recommendations on Cleanliness and Sanitation on Indian Railways 2007-08 Annexure 1: Citizen Charter on Passenger Services of Indian Railways Annexure 2: Questionnaire Used for the Passenger Satisfact ion Survey for IR Performance Service Standards Page No Passenger Satisfaction Survey Report and Benchmarking of Performance Standards Objectives of the Passenger Survey †¢ †¢ To review the facilities provided to the passengers right from ticket booking to the on-board travel experience in the trains To asses if facilities provided in trains were adequate and effectively maintained or not, from the point of Passenger Satisfaction in Station Maintenance Practices. To know the priority areas so that these can be strengthened to optimize passenger satisfaction. To asses the overall travel experience of the passengers in the Indian Railways and their perception of the organization. †¢ †¢ Criteria and Methodology An open ended questionnaire with about 37 parameters was prepared and survey was conducted with the help of three field executives provided by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow. The survey was conducted over a period of ten days through direct contact and filling up of the questionnaire by on-board passengers of all the Travel Classes (AC, 2nd Sleeper). The routes identified for the survey were mainly on the Northern part of the country Lucknow New Delhi Lucknow, Lucknow Gorakhpur Lucknow, Lucknow Varanasi Lucknow, Lucknow Allahabad Lucknow, Lucknow Kanpur Lucknow, Lucknow Moradabad Lucknow, Lucknow Firozpur Lucknow. All the Stations surveyed belonged to A-1 and A category. 1 Passenger Satisfaction Survey Report and Benchmarking of Performance Standards Sample Size/Target Respondents The sample size of the survey was around 700 passengers which included 100 Railway Officers as well. The general passengers age profile was from 15 years to 65 years with maximum response coming in from the young adults/youth i. e. 26-35 years of age. About 28% were female respondents and balance were males. Quality in a service or product is not what you put into it. It is what the client or customer gets out of it. Peter F. Drucker 2 Passenger Satisfaction Survey Report and Benchmarking of Performance Standards Passenger Survey Findings Top Efficiencies 1. Illumination Signages 2. Availability of Porters (Coolies) at the Station 2. Booking Clerk Competency Behaviour 3. Clarity of Announcement at Stations Top Deficiencies 1. Cleanliness of Toilets 2. Unauthorized Vendors Passengers 2. Cleanliness of Platforms 3. Late Running of Trains Top Three Concerns/Priority Areas 1. Punctuality 2. Quality of services 3. Safety Satisfactory Services (Rated as Good) 1. Ambience of Waiting Rooms/Rest Rooms 2. Seating, Water, Trolley facilities at the Platform 3. Pricing of Food 4. Linen/Bedroll Cleanliness 5. Fans and Lights in the Trains 3 Passenger Satisfaction Survey Report and Benchmarking of Performance Standards Other Findings of the Survey †¢ More than 60% of the people have used IT Enabled services such as Internet Ticketing, Enquiry Kiosks, Touch Screens, etc. 64% of the passengers surveyed confirmed that they have seen service improvements in the Railways in the last five years. 31 % of the passengers surveyed are satisfied with the Railway Amenities/ facilities. 35 % of the passengers surveyed think that Railways are giving Value for Money for the services provided. 47 % of the passengers surveyed rated Overall Services provided by the Railways as Good †¢ †¢ †¢ Your most unhappy customers are your greatest source of learning. Bill Gates 4 Passenger Satisfaction Survey Report and Benchmarking of Performance Standards Response by Railway Officers Top Efficiencies 1. Booking Clerk Competency Behaviour 2. Quality Quantity of Food made available 3. Clarity of Announcement at Stations Top Deficiencies 1. Coach/Toilets occupied by Unauthorized Passenger Vendors 2. Handli ng of Theft Cases 3. Cleanliness of Toilets/Coaches Top three Concerns/Priority Areas 1. Quality of Service 2. Punctuality 3. Cleanliness Satisfactory Services (Rated as Good) 1. Water in the Coaches 2. Seating, Water, Trolley facilities at the Platform 3. Cleanliness of Platform 4. Ambience of Waiting Rooms/Rest Rooms 5. Illumination Signages 5 Passenger Satisfaction Survey Report and Benchmarking of Performance Standards Other Findings of the Survey †¢ More than 70% of the Railway Officers have used IT Enabled services such as internet ticketing, enquiry kiosks, touch screens, etc. 94% of the Railway Officers surveyed confirmed that they have seen service improvements in the Railways in the last five years. 7 % of the Railway Officers surveyed are satisfied with the Railway Amenities/ Facilities. 86 % of the Railway Officers surveyed think that Railways giving Value for Money for the services provided. 85 % of the Railway Officers surveyed rated Overall Services provided by the Railways as Good. †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ 6 This handbook on Passenger Satisfaction Survey and Benchmarking of Performance Stan dards has been compiled using the results obtained in a 15 day extensive Passenger Survey launched by IRITM PPP Knowledge Centre in association with IIM Lucknow. The survey was in the northern part of the country covering A-1 and A category stations. 700 responses were obtained on 37 different passenger service parameters under nine categories ranging from Point of Sale to On-board Facilities to IT based Passenger Transactions. These have been compiled in easy to read, colourful graphics in this Report. The Report has been made more useful by adding edited versions of the comprehensive, pan-India Passenger Service Surveys and Station Cleanliness Surveys conducted by the CAG (Railways) in the last few years. In addition, some additional literature and visuals of world class stations have been added to give a feel of what the future may look like in the days to come for Passenger Amenities and Services in Modernized Railway Stations. This handbook would be of use not only to IRTS Probationers but also to all frontline Managers and Staff in Indian Railways responsible for Station Maintenance, Sanitation and Passenger Amenities. The handbook can also be accessed on the IRITM website www. iritm. indianrailways. gov. in.

Analysis of Types of Operating Systems

Analysis of Types of Operating Systems Task 1 1.0 Introduction An Operating System (OS) is software that manages computer hardware and software resources, and to provide public services for computer programs. The operating system is an important part of the system software in a computer system. Although it is possible to directly interface software applications and hardware, the vast majority of applications in an operating system, which allows them to take advantage of the public library, without having to worry about the specific hardware details written. The operating system manages a computers hardware resources, including the input devices, output devices, network devices and storage devices. The operating system also provides services to facilitate the efficient execution and management, and for the memory allocation, any additional software applications installed. For the personal computer, the most popular operating system is DOS, OS / 2 and Windows, but others are available, such as Linux. The operating system of a large computer system has more work to do. Such operating systems to monitor different programs and users to ensure that everything goes smoothly, without interference, despite the fact that many devices and procedures used simultaneously. In addition, operating system also has a vital role to play in terms of security. Its mandate includes preventing unauthorized users from accessing a computer system. 1.2 Types of Operating System 1.2.1 Microsoft Windows The Microsoft Windows is an operating system for personal computers made by Microsoft that was released in November 1985. It is used a graphical user interface instead. Input from the user usually comes from using a computer mouse and the commands are run by clicking on the icon representing the virtual cursor controlled by a mouse. There was a small learning curve required to use the Windows properly, but it was more easier to interact with graphical representations than commands and text lines, and there is no special programming language needed to be learned. The strengths of Microsoft Windows is its ease of use because the user is already familiar with the look of windows and familiar graphical user interface. So, the users can more comfortable in front of a screen. In addition, it also has many office application that are compatible with windows such as Microsoft Office. Microsoft Office is the best office suite around, and Microsoft are make sure that Windows has the best support for it. This is one of the main reasons why Windows users are often reluctant to switch operating systems. The weakness of Microsoft Windows is its installation is more difficult than the Linux operating system because its need a high resource requirements of hardware such as a faster processor, more internal memory and a larger hard disk. In addition, the other weakness of windows is its price. Microsoft Windows can run between $50.00 $150.00 US dollars per each license copy. Although Windows does have software programs, utilities, and games for free, the majority of the programs will cost anywhere between $20.00 $200.00+ US dollars per copy. 1.2.2 Ms-Dos The MS-DOS is an operating system for personal computers made by Microsoft that was first released in August 1980. It is remembered as the first standard operating system to be adopted by many manufacturers of personal computing machines. It uses a completely text-based programming language to allow users to work with, or interface with, their PC. The Commands are typed into computers at a specific command prompt location on the computer screen using a standard keyboard. Commands must be very precise and correct.The user must specify which commands they want, how they want it to run, and what program or system they want to use on your computer. This requires the user to learn a specific language and syntax rules to use of their computers. The strengths of MS-Dos is its very lightweight and very stable operating system. It does not have the overhead of a multitasking operating system. It is a contraction for Disk Operating System and it is very fast and stable even on a relatively slow machine. It starts up fairly quickly on most hardware, uses little memory, and allows direct access to hardware, unlike most protected mode operating systems today. The weakness of MS-Dos was its single-user or single-test system design that couldn’t support multitasking, networking and other sophisticated application required of computer of every size. It is 16-bit and limited to 640k of RAM. In addition, it runs in real mode, so a buggy or malicious program can cause corruption. Today, it is a relic of times past, but its simple structure and user interface make it an accessible learning tool for operating system students. 1.2.3 Linux Linux is a cross-platform operating system based on Unix. It is the software on a computer that enables applications and the computer operator to access the devices on the computer to perform desired functions. It can be installed on PCs, laptops, netbooks, mobile and tablet devices, video game consoles, servers, supercomputers and more. It enjoys unparalleled popularity among programmers, who contribute enhancements and improvements to the standard code set. The operating system (OS) relays instructions from an application to, for instance, the computers processor. The processor performs the instructed task, then sends the results back to the application via the operating system. The strengths of Linux is characterized by its power, flexibility, and constant maintenance by legions of programmers worldwide while maintaining careful adherence to industry standards. The most appealing aspect of Linux distributions is their cost or available for free. You can download and use a distribution on as many computers as you want. Once installed, updates and patches are also available for free, and updated regularly. In addition, Linux computers tend to be more secure than their Windows counterparts, with less susceptibility to viruses and malware. The weakness of Linux is many windows programs will not run in Linux such as iTunes, Microsoft Office, Internet Explorer and many other Windows programs. The good news is that there are decent ways around most of these problems. For example, music libraries can be managed with an iPod using programs such asAmarok, Banshee, or Rhythmbox in Linux. In addition, Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome are outstanding Internet browsers which can be used in the place of Internet Explorer. It is also possible to run iTunes in Linux using Wine, VirtualBox, or Parallels, though it is difficult to have good results. 1.2.4 MAC OS The Mac OS is a series of Unix-based graphical interface operating systems for Mac computers developed and marketed by Apple Inc that was introduced in January 24, 1984. The first version Mac OS X Server 1.0 are released in year 1999, and a desktop version Mac OS X v10.0 followed on March 24, 2001. Mac OS is a development platform that supports multiple development technologies including UNIX, Java, the proprietary Cocoa and Carbon runtime environments, and a host of open source, Web, scripting, database and development technologies. The strengths of Mac OS is its has a good security that protect the computer. Mac OS has a two-layered system to protect the computer. The attractive GUI sits atop a Unix core, and Unix is best-known for its security features. Its simply impossible to install a destructive trojan or virus unless the user explicity allows it root access via typing in the admin password. Mac OSs built-in firewall is set up to work unobtrusively out of the box as well as being highly configurable. The weakness of Mac OS is its price. All that flashy secure reliable power comes at a price. Macs cost more than machines that run other operating systems. Highly specialized software can be difficult to source for Mac OS, such as industry-specific applications, and businesses you work with may provide files in one of the few non-Mac OS formats left in the computer world, such as Microsoft Publisher. 1.3 Conclusion In conclusion, some operating systems were developed in the 1950s, where computers could only execute one program at a time. The operating systems are very importance to responsible for everything from the control and allocation of memory to recognizing input from external devices and transmitting output to computer displays. Later in the decade, computers included many software programs, sometimes called libraries, which were linked together to create the beginning of todays operating systems. Today’s operating systems tend to have graphical user interfaces (GUIs) that use pointing devices for input. A mouse is an example of such a pointing device, as is a stylus. Commonly used the operating systems for IBM-compatible personal computers is include the Microsoft Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X. Task 2 2.0 Introduction An executive administrator is also known as an executive assistant, is an administrative professional who provides the clerical and personal support to an executive level manager at major companies. The responsibilities of an executive administrator can be quite extensive and are dependent on the type of industry in which a person works. For example, the responsibilities of an executive administrator in a retail environment might differ from that of one in a steel manufacturing plant. Some of the general duties an executive administrator can expect to perform in an organization include lending support to the human capital management of the organization, assisting in the development and delivery of programs aimed at the transmission of the company’s objectives, and keeping tabs on the financial targets of the company. Administrative executives are the primary gatekeepers of the executive offices. They are responsible for the daily administrative activities of the executive offices. Such responsibilities include juggling phone calls, handling mail and offering administrative advice when needed. Administrative responsibilities can sometimes go beyond business and overlap into personal assistance, as well. As highly respected members of the executive team, administrative executives can be relied upon for daily personal needs, such as arranging vacation flights or personal transportation. In addition, administrative executives are privy to highly confidential information among the executive level offices and in other departments. Another responsibility of the executive administrator is the development and implementation of programs aimed at the furthering the corporate objectives. This might involve organizing a series of meetings with other members of the company’s management, stakeholders and other employees. He or she will also ensure that the information about any new developments in the company is disseminated to the employees and customers by announcing promotions, development of new products, or other forms of news. The process of informing people about new developments may also involve posting such information on the company Web site or sending of emails to the relevant customers or stakeholders. 2.1 Choose Operating System In my opinion, i will recommend her to installed Windows 7 operating system in her new personal computer because the Windows 7 operating system is most suitable with her job role. This Windows 7 operating system will help her minimize her workload and increase her work efficiency. In addition, Windows 7 also is a â€Å"user-centric† version of Windows focused on performance improvements to make it more secure, more reliable, and faster than previous versions of the Windows operating system. Windows 7 is an operating system for personal computers made by Microsoft. It is the fastest selling operating system in history and more than 5 million licenses have been sold. Therefore, it becomes available in retail branches around the world on October 22, 2009. Windows 7 is built on the Vista kernel. The biggest change many end users between Vista and Windows 7 is faster boot time, a new user interface and increased Internet Explorer 8. The operating system of Windows 7 is widely available in three retail editions that is Windows 7 Home Premium, Windows 7 Professional and Windows 7 Ultimate. Windows 7 followed Windows Vista and featured various changes from previous operating system. One of these is the Quick Launch toolbar, which completely changed the user how to find a variety of commands and menu options. In addition, Windows 7 also includes items like support for gaming additions, virtual hard disks, and other new features. As the requirements of the machine, Windows 7 just requires a 32-bit or 64-bit processor with at least 1 GHz in order to run, as well as 1 GB of RAM for a 32-bit system, and 2 GB for a 64-bit system. 2.2 Features The first features of windows 7 is its have aero shake, snap and peek function. Aero shake will use when the user have many open windows on desktop and this feature will minimize all windows except the one you shake. Aero snap is used to resize and expand windows more quickly and easily compare the contents of two different windows. Aero peek is used when the user have several minimized files open in one program. This features will help her minimize her workload and speed up her work efficiency. The second features of windows 7 is its have an action center function. The Windows 7 action center function is an early warning system of the computer. It allows the users to see what warning or problem Windows 7 shows. It is accessed through the little flag in the lower-right corner. If the little flag in the lower-right corner is white that mean the computer no anything problem. If it has a red X over it that mean some important things need user to attention. It is a great for heading off problems before they become bigger. This is a convenient way to control those annoying User Account Control (UAC) messages while not having to disable it. The third features of windows 7 is its have a jump lists function. The jump list function allows user to view recent documents in a program that is pinned to the taskbar. The jump list provide an easy way to open files, documents, pictures and video from the taskbar. The user just need to right click on program icon from the taskbar and select the file under pinned or recent to open. So, the user can quickly use a jump list to open items from the taskbar. In addition, some program or application software also have jump list function such as Windows Explorer and Internet Explorer. 2.3 Benefits The first benefit of used windows 7 is decreased computer boot time. The average windows 7 machine will boot will boot up in under 60 seconds. With the decreased computer boot time, the users will no longer have time to run across the street for a mocha while their system starts up. In contrast, the users can get down to work as soon as possible for them. So, this benefit will help the user to minimize her work time and increase her work efficiency. The second benefit of windows 7 is its compatibility. The flexibility of Windows 7 gives users the ability to run almost any software that is Windows compatible. Windows 7 will work with more accessories and programs than its predecessors, Windows Vista and Windows XP. Microsoft has designed this OS to automatically run any program that was designed for Vista, and it will also be able to run most XP applications in an XP compatibility window. The third benefit of windows 7 is its have a libraries function. The libraries function provides a new, more intuitive way of organizing and locating documents. Instead of wasting time trying to remember where a previously created document is stored, a user can now search for their documents by type in different â€Å"libraries† such as communications, contacts, documents, downloads, music, pictures and videos. Not only will a user see a shortcut for the document they need, they will also gain immediate access to specific data that is pertinent for each type of library. For example: when the â€Å"contacts† library is opened, it will show phone numbers and e-mail addresses and when the â€Å"downloads† library is opened, it will list the URL source for each download. The libraries are customizable, allowing users to create personalized folders that will keep project documents and files accessible. 2.4 Conclusion In conclusion, an operating system is a software that manages computer hardware and software resources, and to provide public services for computer programs. The operating system is an important part of the system software in a computer system. Although it is possible to directly interface software applications and hardware, the vast majority of applications in an operating system, which allows them to take advantage of the public library, without having to worry about the specific hardware details written. Some operating systems were developed in the 1950s, where computers could only execute one program at a time. The operating systems are very importance to responsible for everything from the control and allocation of memory to recognizing input from external devices and transmitting output to computer displays. Later in the decade, computers included many software programs, sometimes called libraries, which were linked together to create the beginning of todays operating systems. Today’s operating systems tend to have graphical user interfaces (GUIs) that use pointing devices for input. A mouse is an example of such a pointing device, as is a stylus. Commonly used the operating systems for IBM-compatible personal computers is include the Microsoft Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X. In addition, there really is no such thing as a perfect operating system. However, every operating system has its advantages and disadvantages. Choose the right operating system is very important. So, the user must carefully to choose the operating system. It will help the user to minimize the workload and increase the work efficiency.

Juvenile Delinquent Gangs :: essays research papers

Juvenile Delinquent Gangs   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  As a kid I could remember walking to school every day. While on the way to school there was always a group of kids sanding outside of the school walking away. These kids dressed differently and they all whore the same type of clothes. It wasn’t until years later that I was told to stay away from them because they were gangsters. They were gangsters that caused problems to the community. These gangsters would go up to kids and try and jump them into their gang. For them the more members they had the more â€Å"territory they had.† One problem that major cities around the world have is gangs. Most of these gangs are made up of many juvenile delinquents looking for trouble. These gangs tend to hang out in certain places and claim it as their territory. Many of the gang members are drawn together by similar interests, and are brought up in similar neighborhoods. The Social Disorganization Perspective   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The social disorganization perspective follows the substance users to their living era and environment. Social disorganization perspective examines why individuals more from one environment to another and how they struggle to adjust to new environment, and how they are lured or forced into substance user, deviance, or criminal activity in the face of difficulty from the new environment or due to their individual maladjustments.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  On the other hand it studies how a particular environment causes stress, disillusion, and disorders among individuals who live in it, and why substance abuse, deviance, crime, and other social problems tend to increase in a time when or in a place where change occurs abruptly Social Class Most of the gang members that have been reported come from the lower social economical class. When these kids are out in the streets they have nothing better to do so they begin go commit delinquent behavior. Since these economically challenged kids have no money to go anywhere they tend to hang round their neighbor hood. These kinds of groups encourage each other to commit criminal activity. Since they feel that if one does it all of them can do it too. Drugs According to the social disorganization perspective gang members do drugs because they are forced into a substance. Drug offences are a common substance that is used and abused in gangs. Most people and kids that do drugs are because of peer pressure. Others reasons why gang members do drugs are because the environment that they are in forces the to do drugs to fit in.

Herman Wouks The Winds of War How Should One Read A Book? :: Winds of War Essays

Herman Wouk's   The Winds of War  - How Should One Read A Book?      Ã‚  Ã‚   While reading Herman Wouk's classic tale, The Winds of War, I came across several passages describing a young man's vision of Germany. Although the author supplies me with his ideas, his desire and his provocative details on how this young Major views Germany at the time of the second world war, I still find myself wondering and questioning aspects of the written text before me. Apart from being drawn from my sub-conscious state to a more subtle and unconscious condition, several questions begin to from within my mind. Have I ever seen Germany before? What were the political conditions? What did the SS Stormtroopers look like? What did a concentration camp reveal? By triggering these sensors and somewhat emotional queries within me, the author has already caused a clockwork cycle to commence which will enlighten my reading and eventually create enjoyment and furthering interests with his novel. This is what Virginia Woolf focuses her composition about and emphasizes so very clearly      Ã‚  Ã‚   After reading her essay, I came to grasp and understand her theory that one is best not to accept advice from another on how to read literature, since the best advice is no advice at all. Woolf expresses the conception that when one begins to read literature he begins to enter different stages of interpretation that will ultimately improve his pleasure and satisfaction. It was obvious to me that I had in fact indulged in forms of interpretation when reading literature, but it had never dawned on me until reading Woolf's essay. Whenever I am subjected to something in literature that is not fully comprehensive, I begin to engage in several different forms of interpretation. The first stage would reflect much of the philosophy composed in the essay 'Against Interpretation' whereas I, the reader, would observe the content and then translate the form. Literature induces the reader to use his experience and memories to comprehend what a person, place or thing is and then interpret it. Th econd stage would involve translating where one begins a comparison sequence trying to link their past knowledge with the subject introduced by the author.

Marketing McDonalds to Hispanic Americans Essay -- McDonalds Hispani

Product and competitive environment McDonald’s Corporation (MDC) known for its famous golden arches is the number one largest chain of fast food restaurant in the world. With headquarters in the United States and restaurants in 120 countries serving around 86 million customers a day. About 80% of the restaurants are operated by a franchisees or affiliates. McDonald's revenues come from the expenses paid by the franchisees such as fees, royalties, rent, as well as sales in company-operated restaurants. According to Hoovers, McDonald's Corporation in 2013 made and annual revenue of $28,105.7 compared to $27.5 billion made in 2012. Most of the restaurants are freestanding units offering dine-in and drive-through service, but McDonald's also has many restaurants located in airports, retail areas, and other high-traffic locations. The company has nine major markets – Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Russia, the UK, and the US – that account for 75% of sales. Although McDonald is a lea ding brand, the top companies that give McDonald competition include: Doctor’s Associates Inc., YUM! Brands Inc., Starbucks Corporation, Darden Restaurant Inc., and Burger King Doctors’s Associates, Inc.: A company who owns and operates Subway. It has approximate 40,855 restaurants in 105 countries, in January, 1, 2014. The total annual revenue is of $32.1 million dollars. Yum! Brands, Inc. or Yum! Is the world’s largest fast food restaurant company- they have more than 40,000 restaurants globally and operates in 125 countries. YUM! Licenses Taco Bell, KFC, Pizza Hut and Wing Street. The total annual revenue is of $13,084 million dollars. Starbucks Corporation is the largest coffeehouse company in the world, with 20,891 stores i... ..." Forbes. Forbes Magazine, 13 May 2013. Web. 23 Apr. 2014. Llopis, Glenn. "5 Steps To Capturing The Hispanic Market." Forbes. Forbes Magazine, 03 Sept. 2013. Web. 13 Apr. 2014. "Hispanic Fast Facts." AHAA. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Apr. 2014. Michael Goodman. "The Power of Hispanic Consumers." MercuryMedia. Research and Analytics, Apr. 2010. Web. 16 Apr. 2014. "Sales & Marketing Slides." Marketing Strategy of McDonalds. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Apr. 2014. "The Marketing Process A McDonald's Restaurants Case Study." Business Case Studies. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Apr. 2014. "Maps and Data about the Hispanic Population." Pew Research Centers Social Demographic Trends Project RSS. N.p., n.d. Web. 23 Apr. 2014. "U.S. Hispanic Country of Origin Counts for Nation, Top 30 Metropolitan Areas." Pew Research Centers Hispanic Trends Project RSS. N.p., n.d. Web. 23 Apr. 2014.

APS essay

Culminating Activity, Identity and Behavior Profile In class and at home, you will have had a chance to study and evaluate different personality traits and theories of personality development. You will now Identify an aspect of your personality that you think Is Important In defining who you are as a person. You will then apply the previously studied traits and theories to yourself. As support for your analysis. You will use examples gathered from research on current events. Short Essay Topic:Based on the information you have learned about personality development, write a paragraph explaining how at least two theories helped shape your own personality. Refer to specific personality traits that you have and how they might have been formed by the elements of the various theories. Hints on Essay Structure: Follow the structure given on the Social Studies Essay Rubric and also include these additional points. In the Introductory paragraph, be sure to describe the behavior and personality trait you will analyze.You should also briefly introduce the theories that you will apply in your analysis. Your thesis statement should refer to the theories explain your behavior and personality trait. For the first Body paragraph, write about one theory and how it explains your behavior and personality trait. Be sure to fully explain how the theory applies to your trait, and then use an example from current news events to Illustrate your point. For the second body paragraph, write about another theory and the same trait. Make the same kind of explanation and analysis s you did In the first body paragraph.In the Concluding paragraph, end with a point about what your analysis of behavior and personality tells us about your Identity. Evaluation: Social Studies Essay Rubric. Please hand in rubric with paragraph. You may write in first person for this essay. Length: Approximately 2 pages, double-spaced Rubric for Identity and Behavior Profile Levels of Achievement Criteria Level 3 Le vel 1 Understanding (K) Understanding of terminology, facts and concepts related to topic Consistently monstrance a thorough understanding through correct application, definition and usage of facts, terms, etc.Demonstrates a considerable understanding, through correct application, definition and usage of facts, terms, etc. Demonstrates some understanding, through some correct application, definition and usage of facts, terms, etc. Demonstrates limited understanding, through incorrect or missing application, definition and usage of facts, terms, etc.

Ethics in Ir Essay

Introduction: when thinking about how the world works IR scholars usually subscribe to one of two dominant theories, realism or liberalism. One, classical/neo-realist thought, is more pessimistic about the prospects of peace, cooperation, and human progress whilst the other, liberalism/idealism, is more upbeat and sanguine about human nature and human possibilities. In this lecture, we examine each worldview in depth†¦ at the end I’d like you to think about which, if any, view you subscribe to†¦ II. International Relations Theory A. What is theory? One word often used to describe theory is â€Å"paradigm†. According to Ray and Kaarbo, a paradigm is simply a way of thinking about and approaching an area of scientific or scholarly inquiry that is widely accepted within a particular discipline. 1. In other words, a paradigm provides a simplified map of reality; it takes the complexity of the real world and reduces it to a core set of assumptions that make global events that seem so isolated, unrelated and complicated more comprehensible. 2. So thats what theory and paradigms are all about: they help us systematize and simplify a very complicated world. Good theory is generally simple (see Ockham’s Razor†¦ William of Ockham said [a long time ago! ] that â€Å"when you have two competing theories that make exactly the same predictions, the simpler one is the better. â€Å"), accurate, and elegant. -William of Ockham 3. Note that to be valuable, a paradigm of world politics needn’t explain every event. This is b/c theory, by nature, simplifies reality so that certain things are missed. This simply can’t be helped. 4. Ray and Kaarbo (p4) make the point that studying theories â€Å"allows students of international relations to analyze global politics in the future, long after they finish reading this book or taking courses on the subject. When students learn only history or contemporary issues†¦ their knowledge of global politics is limited in time because new issues and events are always arising. † In short, by studying theories of IR, you will be able to see events in a broader, more analytical, more systematic framework rather than a limited and time bound one†¦ analytically, that’s vital. 5. In this lecture we will be examining two dominant paradigms in world politics: Realism and Liberalism (along with sub-theories within the same larger paradigm) III. The Realist Worldview A. Let’s start with a quote from Thomas Hobbes (1651), whom many characterize as probably the major citidel of the modern theory we call classical realism: -The stylish Mr. Hobbes  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Cover of his seminal work, â€Å"Leviathan† â€Å"Hereby it is manifest that during the time men live without a common power to keep them all in awe, they are in that condition which is called war; and such a war as is of every man against every man†¦ To this war of every man against every man, this also is consequent: that nothing can be unjust. The notion of right and wrong, justice and injustice, have there no place. Where there is no common power, there is no law; where no law, no injustice. Force and fraud are in war the two cardinal virtues. † 1. You should note from the above that realism embraces a more pessimistic view of world politics, state relations, and the possibility of â€Å"perpetual peace†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ That’s why I started with this b/c Hobbes’ more pessimistic view of the world really underscores the theory we call classical realism (and which is now called structural/neo realism) B. Definitions and Description of Realist Theory. 1. According to professors Kegley & Wittkopf (31), classical realism is â€Å"a paradigm based on the premise that world politics is essentially and unchangeably a struggle among self-interested states for power and position under anarchy, with each competing state pursuing its own national interests† 2. Ray and Kaarbo (p4) write that realism is â€Å"a theoretical perspective for understanding intl. relations that emphasizes states as the most important actor in global politics, the anarchical nature of the intl. ystem, and the pursuit of power to secure states’ interests. † 3. The founding father of this theory is the Greek historian Thucydides, who wrote the seminal account of the war between Athens and Sparta. In his history of the Peloponnesian War, Thucydides argues that the war broke out b/c Athens was concerned about Sparta’s growing power. His writings greatly influenced theorists and statemen ali ke through the next two thousand years, including the modern proponents (Morgenthau, Kissinger, Waltz, James et al) of classical and neo-realism†¦ 4. In short and in sum, realists see international relations as driven by the unrelenting and competitive pursuit of power by states in the effort to secure state interests. 5. For realists, the most important source of power is military capability, and the acquisition and use of that military capability makes the realists’ world one prone to violence and warfare. 6. At the core of this theory is that world politics takes place within a context of anarchy (ie the absence of world govt. which is different than how the world of domestic politics functions), which Thomas Hobbes likens to a state of nature. In this state of nature, Hobbes argues that because there are no rules, no laws, no enforcement mechanisms etc, that conflict turns into war (he calls it a perpetual â€Å"war of all against all†) which is why INSIDE countries, people consent (ie the so-called social charter) to live under a government that makes and enforces laws, order, security, etc. In this state, people don’t have absolute freedom BUT they sacrifice some liberty to that govt. in order to get order and security†¦ 7. In world politics, we don’t have this, ergo, realists argue that we live in a â€Å"state of nature†, or in a world of perpetual conflict. Therefore, the violence, chaos, death and destruction that often accompany world politics reflect the â€Å"war of all against all† that intl. anarchy directly implies†¦ 8. Realists also assume that states, or countries, are the â€Å"key actors and determine what happens in the world† (Ray and Kaarbo: 5). Ray and Kaarbo (p. 5) add that â€Å"states can, if they choose, control all other actors, according to realism. † 9. State interests, rather than human rights or ideological preferences, are the reason behind every state action. Ray and Kaarbo (p. 5) suggest that â€Å"it is the maximization of power that is in a state’s interest. Thus, everything a state does can be explained by its desire to maintain, safeguard, or increase its power in relation to other states. † 10. In the world of anarchy and state sovereignty, there is no higher authority to impose order, and there is no intl. 911 number for states to call when their interests are threatened. States must therefore provide for their own defense and protection. Realists refer to this effort by states to defend their own interests as SELF-HELP (usually though the acquisition of military capacity or joining alliances†¦ ) 11. In short and in sum, without an â€Å"intl. orld authority, they must look out for their own interests† which realists suggest is all about securing and maintaining their power. To realists, this is the only rational way to behave in an anarchic intl. realm†¦ 12. The implications of all of the above for realists is somewhat obvious: war is inevitable†¦ this is b/c in a world with no higher power to impose orde r and resolve disputes, with almost 200 sovereign actors looking to defend their interests via self-help, and where efforts at self-help and self-defense can threaten other actors in the system, states sometimes need to use force to resolve disputes with other states†¦ 3. Realists conclude a few other things–the possibility of cooperation and change is limited, that world politics is not primarily about good and evil, that power trumps justice, and that the road to order lies through the balance of power†¦ a. Ray and Kaarbo site Saddam Hussein’s invasion of Kuwait as an example of how states act to maximize their power above all else†¦ C. The core of classical realist theory is best summarized in the form of 10 assumptions: 1. People are by nature narrowly selfish and ethically flawed 2. Of all people’s evil ways, none are more prevalent or dangerous than their instinctive lust for power and their desire to dominate others 3. The possibility of eradicating these instincts is a utopian â€Å"pipedream† 4. International politics is a struggle for power, â€Å"a war of all against all† 5. The primary objective of every state–the goal to which all other objectives should be subordinated to–is to promote its NATIONAL INTERESTS 6. The anarchical nature of the intl system dictates that states acquire sufficient military capabilities to deter attack by potential enemies and to exercise influence over others 7. Economics is less relevant to ntl security than is military might 8. Allies might increase a state’s ability to defend itself, but their loyalty and reliability should never be assumed 9. States should NEVER entrust the task of self-protection to intl security organizations or intl law 10. If all states seek to maximize power, stability will result by maintaining a balance of power IV. The Liberal Worldview A. As in classical realist theory, I will start the discussion of liberalism with a quote from one of the founders of this paradigm, Immanuel Kant (1795): -The perspicacious Dr. Kant  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚   -Kant’s towering â€Å"Toward Perpetual Peace† â€Å"But the homage which each state pays (at least in words) to the concept of law proves that there is slumbering in man an even greater moral disposition to become master of the evil principle in himself (which he cannot disclaim) and to hope for the same from others†¦ For these reasons there must be a league of a particular kind, which can be called a league of peace (foedus pacificum), and which would be distinguished from a treaty of peace (pactum pacis) by the fact that the latter terminates only one war, while the former seeks to make an end of all wars forever. † 1. You should note from the above that liberalism, or idealist theory, embraces a more optimistic view of world politics, state relations, and the possibility of â€Å"perpetual peace†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ That’s why I started with this quote by Kant’s more optimistic view of the world. B. Definitions and Description of Liberal Theory 1. According to Kegley & Wittkopf (2006: 28), liberalism is â€Å"a paradigm predicated on the hope  Ã‚  Ã‚   that the application of reason and universal ethics to international relations can lead to a more orderly, just, and cooperative world, and that international anarchy [lack of a hierarchy/world government] and war can be policed by institutional reforms that empower international organizations and laws† 2. Ray and Kaarbo (p. 7) define intl. liberalism as â€Å"a theorectical perspective emphasizing interdependence between states and substate actors as the key haracteristic of the intl. system. † 3. Liberalism, or what many also call idealism/idealist theory, can be traced back to Kant’s â€Å"Toward Perpetual Peace† though more recently, in the period b/n WWI and WWII, the major intellectual challenger to the realist paradigm was idealism. Idealists questioned many of the basic tenets of realism a nd suggested that it would be possible to transform the world of power seeking and war into one in which peace and cooperation among states might prevail†¦ 4. Idealism, in contrast to realism, suggests a well-intentioned but utopian perspective that realists believe was out of touch with how the real world actually works†¦ which is why the word idealism was shelved for the world liberalism, which couldn’t be tarred as fuzzy headed and out of touch†¦ 5. Unlike realists, liberals believe that significant global cooperation is possible and that we can move beyond the power politics at the heart of the realist paradigm. 6. For liberals, the key assumption is that peace and cooperation among states can produce absolute gains for all. As long as your state is better off as a result of cooperating with others, the gains of others should not matter†¦ realists are only concerned with relative gains (why intl. trade isn’t the end all be all for classical realists, esp. if you will empower a rival) 7. BTW, whilst Kant argued that the natural state of humankind is one of war and conflict he also importantly suggested a state of peace can be established. He argues that this â€Å"perpetual peace† can be established, esp. through the (1) the creation of a loose â€Å"federation of free states† whose members were committed to maintaining intl. rder and security, (2) the â€Å"spirit of commerce† which in Kant’s view is â€Å"incompatible with war† and which â€Å"sooner or later gains the upper hand in every state†, and (3) the creation of republican govts in which executive power is checked by an independent legislature 8. Liberals argue that realist explanations of an archy and self-help are wrong b/c they miss the REAL nature of world politics in the modern world: COMPLEX INTERDEPENDENCE, which has become the â€Å"dominant feature of global politics† (Ray and Kaarbo: 9). a. Complex interdependence means that there are multiple channels among a variety of actors in intl. politics. b. Where realists see states as the only important actors, liberals see a world where there are a variety of non-state actors (such as multi-national corporations, intergovernmental organizations, and governmental organizations), share the world stage with countries. c. They also argue that multiple issues, not just military security, are vital to the global agenda†¦ C. Modern Liberalism based on the following set of assumptions: 1. Human nature is essentially â€Å"good† 2.