Research Korner

Example of a Thesis Chapter 3 - Research Design and Methodology

CHAPTER THREE   RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY         RESEARCH DESIGN                 This study entitled "The Effects of Technology on Discipline in the Pre-school Montessori Classroom" is a qualitative research that attempts to accumulate existing information and data regarding the governing principles and systems of Montessori education in the modern times. Trochim stated that "a key reason for doing qualitative research is to investigate and become more experienced with a particular phenomenon of the researcher's interest in order to deliver a detailed description." This study wishes to depict the current state of discipline and creativity – two fundamental elements of the Montessori education system – in the onset and spread of modern technology like television, video games, the Internet and music. The researcher decided to use the qualitative approach in order to verify her observations on her own Montessori pre-school classroom regarding the negative effects of technology on children's behavior.   //               The research would utilize both descriptive and exploratory research methods in the conduct of the study. Descriptive research is a method used to obtain information relating to the current status of an issue or phenomenon to describe "what exists" within the variables or conditions of the situation. The two most common types of descriptive research tools are surveys and                observation (Key).  The researcher would make use of her observations from her experience of teaching in a Montessori pre-school in order to come up with a personal description of the answer to the research problem. Exploratory research, on the other hand, is often utilized in order to yield information to explain problems which are not yet clearly defined or the real scope is still unclear. It allows the researcher to familiarize himself/herself with the concepts of the problem under study to facilitate development of insights and hypotheses (Exploratory Research). The present study is an exploratory attempt since it would try to gather information regarding the effects of technology on the behavior of Montessori pre-school children. The researcher makes use of existing literature in order to verify her observations and come up with preliminary ideas regarding the research problem.   DATA-GATHERING INSTRUMENTS                         The researcher has observed that her present Montessori pre-school already lacks discipline and creativity mainly caused by children's exposure to negative and violent content.  A survey questionnaire would also be formulated and distributed to students Related articles Research Proposal on the Impact of Human Resource on Organizational Growth Dissertation Chapter 3 on Examining Magnitude of Operational Risk in Loans Lending Process Sample Thesis Chapter 3 on Re-examination of the Sufficiency of Quality Management Practices of the Contractors in Hong Kong Thesis Chapter 3 on Factors Leading to the Organizational Commitment of Employees in Japanese Fast Food in Hong Kong Sample Dissertation Chapter 3 on The Impact of Strategic Human Resource Management (SHRM) on Enterprise Performance Thesis Chapter 3 on The Implications of the Change Management Process at the UK Post Office Ltd. Sample Chapter 3 of a Case Study on Virgin Airlines - How important is Local Market Knowledge to the Success of a Business? Research Methodology: Internationalization of the Private School's Offerings in Singapore Sample Thesis Chapter 3 on Investigating the Growth of Industrial Sector in South East Asia: Research Study on Singapore's Industrial Sector Sample Thesis Chapter 3 on Research on Programme Format Duplication in Contemporary Chinese Television Channels

Example of a Thesis Chapter 3 - Research Design and Methodology

CHAPTER THREE RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY RESEARCH DESIGN This study entitled "The Effect...

MORTGAGE LAW

MORTGAGE LAW   1. Vitiating Factors   1. In Turkey v Awadh [2005], Aziza filed a case against Khalid her father to set aside the enforcement of the deed of transfer of her house on the ground of undue influence. The court held that there was no undue influence and allowed the deed transfer. Undue influence cannot be presumed because there is nothing in the facts to show that Aziza was disadvantaged by the transfer agreement since there was a sufficient consideration for the transfer, the transaction was beneficial to Aziza who cannot settle the mortgage.   Mortgage Agency Services Number Two Ltd v Chater [2003] provides that the condition of the plaintiff and the relationship between the parties is part of the test of facts to establish undue influence. In this case, a son convinced his mother to make him a co-owner of the house and take up mortgage to finance his business. The purpose noted on the loan application was for purchase. The court held that there was undue influence because the mother was not aware of the true purpose of the loan.   Yorkshire Bank plc v Tinsley [2004] involves a couple who mortgaged their matrimonial home to fund the husband’s business. However, the business failed and the bank is seeking foreclosure of the house. The wife contested the foreclosure on the ground that the mortgage was obtained trough undue influence since the husband told her that the mortgage only covers 5,000. The court held that there was presumption of undue influence and the bank has the burden of proof to prove that the transaction was in order. The presence of a solicitor does not prove acquiescence by the wife because the solicitor may have the role of enforcing the agreement and not to give advice. The wife was also vehement that had she known about the nature of the mortgage she would not have agreed to the risk. First National Bank v Achampong [2003] provides that when the solicitor did not report to the bank regarding the freely given consent of the wife in the mortgage of a family home the foreclosing bank is faced with the presumption of undue influence.   2. In the case of Maureen Niersmans v Bernard Pesticcio [2004], the appeal was denied and the previous judgment on the presence of a presumption of undue influence was upheld. The decision was based on the fact that the transferor was not given independent advice by the solicitor, who had a close relationship with the transferees and stands to gain 18 percent of the value of the property. The solicitor did not act professionally resulting to her implication in the issue on undue influence. Legal ethics provides that a solicitor should act professionally to prevent any thoughts of suspicion on the validity of his actions and to ensure the protection of the rights of the parties seeking advice. As the person given responsibility to advice the transferor over the management of his assets, she should not have any personal interest in the transfer. The solicitor was entrusted with the job to ensure the legal and proper management of property and having a personal relationship with the transferees and a personal interest in the property clouds her independent and objective advice.   2.    Rights of the Mortgagee – the right to enter into possession   Birmingham Citizens Permanent Building Society v Caunt [1962] allows a mortgagor in arrears to adjourn the possession hearing to allow for payment of arrears based on evidence of the mortgagor’s ability to pay. Section 36 of Administration of Justice Act 1970 supports this decision by allowing the substitution of court proceedings with actual installment payments of arrears. Payment may come from other sources that do not necessitate the sale of the property mortgaged. Incorporated in the mortgage as a remaining term of the agreement is the period agreed upon for completion of payment.   Cheltenham & Gloucester Building Society v. Norgan [1996] provides for the rules and remedy in applying the option given to the mortgagor to seek payment instead of continuing with foreclosure. In suspending the possession proceedings, the court should be satisfied that the mortgagor is able to pay the arrears within the period agreed upon for completion of payment. If the court sees the ability to pay then the installment payments will commence. However, if the court deems the mortgagor unable to pay, the latter is given the option to seek the court’s permission to acquire possession of the mortgaged property to put it up for sale. The latter case of Cheltenham and Gloucester Plc v Krausz [1997] provides a qualification to the option of seeking possession in order to sell the property. The decision in this case implores the mortgagor to provide evidence that the total amount of unpaid debt will be fully satisfied with the selling price of the mortgaged property. The purpose of allowing the mortgagor to sell his property is his interest to obtain the highest possible selling price.                  The Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 was enacted for the purpose of regulating previously unregulated activities to allow the fair settlement of issues without referring it to the courts to the satisfaction of the demands of the parties. The Financial Services Authority was accorded with the legal power to manage the process of putting in order and giving advice on regulated contracts such as the regulated mortgage contracts. Mortgage mediation is one of the activities managed by the Financial Services Authority because of the revisions made to mortgage laws upon the enactment of the Financial Services and Markets Act. Mortgage mediation that coincides with section 36 of the Administration of Justice Act is the initial remedy in foreclosure issues before commencing a court action in case the mediation fails.               The regulations of the Financial Services Authority provide clearer guidelines to the court litigation alternative remedy in section 36 of the Administration of Justice Act. Mortgage mediation provides the parties to engage in negotiations for scheduled payment of debts. In case of irreconcilable disagreements or conflicting points of view, it is only then that the parties will subscribe to court intervention. This is a court management solution created to relieve the courts of piling cases that may be settled through the negotiation of the parties. These laws provide a formal venue for out of court settlement of mortgage issues with the authority recognized by the parties because it is created and recognized by law.    A mortgagor falling behind in paying the amount owed and recognizing the probability that the mortgagee will file an action for foreclosure should contact the mortgagee in order to discuss the possibility of extending the period for payment. If the mortgagee accedes to the change then the mortgagor has additional time to procure money for debt payment. However, if the mortgagee refuses to extend the period for payment and commences legal action, the mortgagor is given the option to apply for court permission to cancel the proceedings in order to make way for negotiations for the payment of the arrears through instalment subject to the presentation of evidence of the ability to pay within the additional time requested. Instalment payments ensue upon the permission of the court. The case may be forwarded to the Financial Services Authority for negotiation of the terms of payment. If the court does not allow the suspension of the possession proceedings, the mortgagor may seek permission of the court to sell the property at a price that fully covers the arrears. The mortgagor should seek the greatest possible price for the property.   3.    Different types of mortgages and the power of sale               1. Welsh mortgage is the transfer of possession of a property by the mortgagor to the mortgagee for a particular consideration. The agreement incorporates the right of the mortgagor to redeem the property by paying the principal amount received during the transfer of possession. The contract also provides for the right of the mortgagee to collect income from the property to serve as interest for the money loaned to the mortgagor.                 2. Sharia law forbids both payment and receipt of any kind of interest. Muslims do not subscribe to mortgage agreements involving interest. ( 1992) Murabaha and ijara are two types of Islamic mortgages that do not involve interest payments. The primary difference in these two mortgages is the amount that a real estate property buyer has to pay as condition of the mortgage. On one hand, murabaha mortgage covers an agreement that the bank pays eighty to ninety percent of the total purchase price while the buyer pays the balance. Full payment of the property gives rise to the registration of the property under the name of the buyer. The buyer pays the money forwarded by the bank within the agreed period. On the other hand, ijara mortgage does not require the buyer to pay any percentage of the price of the property because the bank makes a full payment for the property. The transaction leads to a lease agreement with the rent constituting an installment payment of the purchase price. (1986)               However, Islamic mortgages do not appeal to non-Muslim banks because of the lack of interest incentives. Contemporary Islamic mortgages evolved to provide incentives to banks to forward full payment without violating Sharia law. There are two alternative actions. First, the bank buys the property and pays for it in full. It then acts as tenant collecting payment that is higher than the original purchase price to gain profit. Second, the bank makes full payment then resells the house at a higher price to gain profit. These alternatives benefit both Muslim buyers and banks because the buyers do not pay interest with the banks gaining profit for their part in advancing full payment. This involves trust, payment of higher price by the buyer and non-imposition of an exorbitant price by banks.   Part III of the Law of Property Act 1925 provides for the extent of the rights of a mortgagee in selling mortgaged property.  A mortgagee has the right to sell mortgaged property subject to the responsibility to obtain the highest possible market price. Obtaining a reasonable price excuses the mortgagee from any liability for losses. AIB Finance Ltd v Debtors [1998] applies the law by attaching a duty of care to obtain the highest possible price for mortgaged property to the mortgagee.           4.    Rights of the mortgagor   Section 38 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974 provides the best defense for Mr. Toad in the case for repossession on the ground of extortionate credit bargaining.  This defense is proven through agreements for grossly exorbitant payments and unfair dealing. Ideally, a mortgage contract provides equally protects the interest of the parties so that in determining allegations of extortionate credit bargaining, the court looks at the circumstances of the mortgagor relative to the mortgagee. It is known to the mortgagee, through its agent, that Mr. Toad does not have the capacity to pay a loan secured by his house, making repossession inevitable. Foreseeing eventual repossession but continuing with the mortgage involves extortionate credit dealing by the mortgagee.                  Courts are open to extortionate credit deal case but the nature of the issue limits the tools available for the courts to deal with these cases and affects the propensity of people to seek court intervention. Adjudicating extortionate credit deals involves questions of fact and there is no clear benchmark for handling the issue. People are also reluctant to go to the courts because of lack of financial resources, fear of extortionists and lack of understanding of the protection provided by law.     5.    This is your final piece of work   Studying mortgage law resulted to a split decision on its legal significance.  On one hand, the ideal and purpose enshrined in mortgage law balance the rights of the parties, provides limits and rules in the exercise of these rights, and offers remedies. The law allows people to use their property to secure loans on the premise that the elements of a valid contract are present and the transaction express fair dealings. Ideally, the law is as simple as this. On the other hand, a consideration of the actual cases shows that the application of the law is not as simple as it looks. Mortgage law is subject to the particular circumstances of the case. Seeking the protection and using the remedies provided by law is subject to the inequalities between the parties.  The law may address inequalities but only if people assert the exercise of their rights. Exercising a right requires knowledge and understanding of the right, which not all people have that explains taking advice from legal experts. However, even legal experts deviate from the law as seen in their participation and potential role in undue influence, extortion and other illegal acts.

MORTGAGE LAW

MORTGAGE LAW 1. Vitiating Factors 1. In Turkey v Awadh [2005], Aziza filed a case against Khalid her father to set aside t...

Literature review of mathematical modeling of heat transfer in pizza during the process of baking

INTRODUCTION Physical processes occurring in different media (gases, liquids, solids) are revealed by some effects recorded by special instruments. The classical models of mathematical physics are based in the concept of a continuous (qualitatively) homogenous medium ( 1995). Leaning upon the observations (measurements) and general physical laws and relationships, one or another suitable mathematical model can be assigned to a process observed. The development and justification of mathematical models, according to ( 1995), are often called identification. A mathematical model, as an abstract means for representing approximately a real process used for its study, is a mathematical description of essential factors and their interrelations. A set of models, differing specifically in the number of factors included and consequently, in the description accuracy, on the one hand, and in complexity, on the other, can usually be assigned to the same process. Partial differential equations are employed for the description of processes distributed in both time and space, the medium being not discrete but continuous in space (2000). Such models are effective in the problems of air and gas dynamics, mass transfer, elasticity, electrodynamics, and, to serve the purpose of this study, heat transfer. HEAT TRANSFER According to  (2000), heat transfer ‘is the term applied to a study in which the details or mechanisms of the transfer of energy in the form of heat are primary concern’. There are many examples of heat transfer. Familiar domestic examples, as cited by (2002) include broiling a turkey, toasting bread, heating water, and in the context of this literature review, baking pizza. Industrial examples include curing rubber, heat treating steel forgings and dissipating waste heat from a power plant (2004). Since heat is contained in a substance as molecular motion, it is not surprising that this motion is transferred from a hot body to a cold body by direct contact (1998). Heat transfer, according to (1967), is energy in transit, which occurs as a result of a temperature gradient or difference. This temperature difference is thought of as a driving force that causes heat to flow.  (2000) mentions that the transfer of heat may take place by means of: (a) conduction, (b) convection, or (c) radiation. Fast-moving molecules tend to speed up their slower neighbours on collision. This method of heat transfer is called, simply, conduction (2003). Some materials are good conductors of heat; some are poor. Generally speaking, metals are excellent conductors; and the best conductors of electricity are also the best conductors of heat ( 1998). Thus aluminum, a good electrical conductor, is likewise a good conductor of heat; and aluminum pots and pans (particularly the heavy cast ones) are excellent for cooking purposes, because they heat rapidly and uniformly. Baeyer (1998) stated that on the other hand, materials like wool, sand, asbestos, cork, and still air are poor conductors of heat; hence they are valuable for insulation of our houses, our refrigerators, and our bodies against either heat or cold.  (2003) had claimed that practitioners of the thermal arts and sciences generally deal with four basic thermal transport modes: aside from the three mentioned above, there is also phase-change. According to them, the process by which heat diffuses through a solid or stationary fluid is termed heat conduction. Situations in which heat transfer from a wetted surface is assisted by the motion of the fluid give rise to heat convection, and when the fluid undergoes a liquid-solid or liquid-vapour state transformation at or very near the wetted surface, attention is focused on this phase-change heat transfer. The exchange of heat between surfaces, or between a surface and a surrounding fluid, by long-wavelength electromagnetic radiation is termed thermal heat radiation, they concluded. Heat transfer is usually transferred by a combination of the four (1994). In gases and liquids another process of heat transfer is very effective; namely, convection, or the rising of heated fluids in accordance with Archimedes' Principle of buoyancy (1998). It has already been seen how this works in the case of drafts in chimneys, and in the shimmery appearance of the air above hot objects. Wind is usually caused by convection currents in the atmosphere, and likewise, gliders can rise to an altitude of thousands of feet and can fly many miles with the aid of updrafts in the atmosphere (1943). Such convection currents moving either up or down cause the unpleasant ‘bumps’ in the air that often annoy airplane passengers, and even make them airsick. Heat can also be received through empty space from the sun. Evidently not all the heat in the universe is stored up in the form of atomic and molecular motion. As a matter of fact, every object--hot or cold --constantly emits long wave length infrared heat rays. This radiation is similar to visible light except that its wave length is greater. While transfer of heat by conduction or convection requires the presence of a material medium, heat radiation travels most readily through empty, evacuated space (2005). Radiation may, however, be transmitted through any medium that does not absorb it. All objects emit heat rays; but it is a matter of everyday experience that hot objects radiate more heat than do cold ones (1998). The quantity of energy radiated increases very rapidly with increased temperature. In fact, it goes up as the fourth power of the absolute temperature (1998). This means that doubling the absolute temperature results in 4, or 16, times as much emitted radiation. As noted by Schroeder (2000), heat flows from a region of higher temperature to a region of lower temperature. In a solid medium, heat transfer takes place primarily by the process of conduction[1], and on the other hand, heat transfer in a gas results largely from the relative motion of the gas molecules and is therefore due to convection. In liquids, both conduction and convection are significant ( 1998). (1962) stated that heat transfer by the process of radiation is an electromagnetic wave phenomenon which can take place either in a vacuum or in material media. (1953) has discussed in his book the law of heat conduction. According to him, consider the heat flow taking place inside a homogeneous solid. Let u(x,y,z,t) be the temperature distribution throughout the solid. Specifically, let the heat flow through an imaginary plane S which is normal to the x axis be considered. Let D x be the time rate of heat flow per unit area through s in the direction normal to the plane, i.e., in the x direction. Now D x is proportional to the negative temperature gradient in the x direction; thus                       ¶u                      ¶c where k is the thermal conductivity [2] [in cgs units, k is in cal/(cm)(°C)(sec) and D is in cal/(cm2)(sec)]. The negative sign signifies that heat flows in the direction of decreasing temperature. Likewise, if the imaginary plane s were oriented so as to be normal to the y and z axis, the values of D y and D z, respectively, would be      ¶u                                                  ¶u                           ¶y                                                   ¶z It is assumed that the medium is homogeneous and isotropic; hence that k is the game in all coordinate directions. If D x, D y, and D z are the values at a point in the solid, they can be regarded as the components of a vector D, which will be defined as the flux density of heat[3]. Thus, at any point in the solid, D = D x i + D y j + D z k MATHEMATICAL MODELLING OF HEAT TRANSFER Janna (2000) asserted that the general heat transfer problem involving all four modes (convection, conduction, radiation, phase change) can be set up and described mathematically, and it is important to develop a method for solving heat transfer problems.  (1995) asserted that mathematical simulation can greatly aid in many areas of specialisation, one outstanding example is for food technology, in that it helps in understanding and optimisation of processes, for instance it can determine the minimum time for removing moisture. Solving the equations analytically, however, is not always possible (2000). In a number of cases, one mode of heat transfer is dominant. It can then be identified and modelled satisfactorily to obtain a solution to what could be an otherwise insoluble problem (1998). According to (1995), when applied to heat conduction and heat transfer processes in engineering systems, the computational model can be expressed in the following abstract form: Ah (w)u = ¦8             where w and u are some sets of thermophysical characteristics (given by a vector aTC), initial temperature distribution (vector T0), geometrical characteristics (F) of the body or a set of bodies, characteristics (I), entering into the boundary conditions, discretised temperature field (T) and loading actions (g). The vector ¦8 is usually composed of time-discrete measurements for selected points in space.             However, in some cases, unsteady-state diagnostics of heat transfer conditions at the solid surface requires other mathematical models, more complicated than the heat conduction equation (1998). The situation arises in experimental studies of substance injection into gaseous boundary layers and in development of heat protection systems based in transpiration cooling or on thermal breakdown of solid materials. In such cases, direct measurement of the quantities entering into the boundary conditions on the heated surfaces is very difficult or impossible at all, but temperature measurements can be taken inside capillary-porous bodies through which gaseous product is blown or percolated.              (1959) said that experiments on temperature equilibration (calorimetry) are, by themselves, consistent with the existence of a ‘heat substance’, the amount[4] of which determines the temperature and chemical state of a body; however, experiments with friction, heat engines, etc., show that mechanical (or electric, etc.) energy and ‘heat substance’ can often be inter-converted, always quantitatively. In modern (strict) terminology (2005), the concepts are therefore: 1.    Internal energy, U, of a system. It represents mainly (but not always entirely) "invisible" energy, macroscopically detectable only by changing the state of the system. 2.    Heat "flow", δQ, which represents energy exchanged by any non-mechanical (and non-electrical) means. It is the thermal analogue of mechanical work (rather than energy). Like δW = F · ds, it is not a perfect differential. That is, δQ by itself has no meaning; physical conditions during the integration must be specified (and then the value depends on those conditions as well as the initial and final states). In  book (2000), on the other hand, a table of conduction equations was shown, and it appeared as follows, where plane, cylindrical and spherical coordinate systems were examined: Figure 2. Conduction Equations CYLINDRICAL HEAT TRANSFER             According to  (2000), the velocity profile and pressure distribution existing about the cylinder are important. Many experimental and numerical investigations have been performed in the subject of heat transfer to or from a cylinder in cross flow. Effects such as Reynolds number, velocity fluctuation amplitudes and scales, and free stream oscillations have been studied. One such study is cited in the book by  (1994), where the study chose a cylinder in cross flow as a baseline test case to confirm the heat transfer measurement capabilities of the facility. The stagnation point of the cylinder was located 1 cylinder diameter downstream of the free stream measurement location and 45 cm from the vertical gate. The cylinder is polished acrylic, 8.9 cm in diameter and has walls that are 6.35 mm thick. The area ratio, cylinder diameter to test section height, is 0.4375. A single fast response, thin foil, K-type thermocouple was flush mounted on the cylinder surface. The thermocouple leads were passed through a 3 mm access hole to the interior of the cylinder. A reference temperature compensator, amplifier and data acquisition system were linked in series with the thermocouple to permit surface temperature histories to be recorded. The thermocouple access hole was covered and the leads were secured with thin (0.05 mm) clear tape. In addition, a pressure tap 0.8 mm in diameter was located 180° from the thermocouple location. Manual rotation of the cylinder provides the necessary angular degree of freedom and a 360° indicator and horizontal reference line permitted ±0.5 alignment accuracy. Another example of cylindrical heat transfer was shown by Naterer (2003) in where an angular variation of convective heat transfer coefficient is observed for external flow past a cylinder. On the upstream side of the cylinder for laminar flow, the convective heat transfer coefficient decreases with angle (see Figure 1). This trend is a result of the growing boundary layer thickness with angle on the upstream side. However, on the back side of the cylinder, separation of the boundary layer from the surface, and the resulting increase of fluid missing, causes a rise in the convection coefficient with the angle. Similar trends can be observed in the case of turbulent flow. In all cases, it can be seen that the local heat transfer coefficient varies with the angle along the surface of the cylinder. If the average (or total) heat transfer from the cylinder to the air would be considered, the average value of h would be used in Newton’s law of cooling, rather than the local heat transfer coefficient shown in Figure 1. Figure 2 is from Naterer’s ‘Heat Transfer in Single and Multiphase System’ book (2003). The figure shows the local heat transfer coefficient in a cylinder. Figure 2. Heat Transfer from a Cylinder in a Cross-Flow. The fluid temperature in Newton’s law must be carefully specified. For external flows, such as the precious example, the fluid temperature is usually selected to be the ambient fluid temperature (Evans 1998). However, for internal flows, (such as flow in a duct or pipe), the fluid temperature in Newton’s law of cooling is usually selected to be the mean temperature of the fluid, which typically varies with position ( 1997). These selections are closely linked with the manner by which empirical correlations for the heat transfer coefficient are defined. Figure 3 is adapted from  (2003), which are the conduction shape factors for selected two-dimensional systems, where [ q = Sk (T1 – T2) ]   Although the presented conduction shape factor does not give the temperature distribution, Boyett, Bejan & Krauss (2003) stated that it provides a simple equation for the rate of heat transfer: q = kS DT             where k is the thermal conductivity of the conducting medium, DT the temperature difference driving the heat flow, and S the conduction shape factor. Figure 3 provided expressions for the conduction shape factor for various two-dimensional configurations. Accordingly,  (2002) cited that the conduction resistance for a two-dimensional system follows as      1     Sk                  SYSTEM      SCHEMATIC RESTRICTIONS    SHAPE FACTOR Figure 3. Conduction Shape Factors for Selected Two-Dimensional Systems   HEAT TRANSFER IN THE CONTEXT OF PIZZA BAKING             According to  (2005), the system of bread baking is difficult, in this context, pizza baking, in which a chain of physical, chemical and biochemical changes occurs in the bread. The said changes are basically the effect of instantaneous heat and mass transfer within it. Fast heat transfer techniques could be utilised to hasten up the baking process of pizza and create new pizza properties (2000). In a study conducted by  (2005), they investigated the effect of infrared radiation on crust formation of par-baked baguettes after baking. The parameters examined were crust thickness, crust colour, heating time and total water loss. The outcomes showed that infrared radiation, as against heating in a traditional household oven, augmented the speed of colour improvement of the crust and made the heating time briefer. As a conclusion, the study found out that crust was thinner for infrared-heated baguettes.             Several mathematical models have been put forward by various experts on the subject of heat transfer in the context of baking. The earliest known model is that of  (1975), in where the concepts of irreversible thermodynamics and the concept of moisture transfer potential for water movement in a capillary porous body are applied. The said model assumes that the solid body is represented structurally as a porous slab with capillaries, that pressure gradients within the porous body are very small, and that external resistance to heat and mass transfer is negligible. Eight years later,  (1988) developed another model, which considered evaporation – condensation in the gaseous phase and conduction in the liquid phase of simultaneous heat and mass transfer in dough and crumb (not in the bread crust). (2005) described that the model is based on a phenomenological hypothesis, which stressed the effect of air bubbles, contained both in the dough and in the crumb, on heat and mass transfer. A one dimensional finite difference method has been used to investigate heat transfer in the dough. Mass transfer is only determined by the evaporation - condensation mechanism. (1994) did not agree with the above model, so they set up experiments to develop a phenomenological model of bread baking in a forced-convection electric oven of their own.              (1993) also proposed their own mathematical model, based on the Crank-Nicolson finite difference scheme, in where heat conduction and water diffusion are considered in one dimension in Cartesian coordinate system, and diffusion together with evaporation and condensation has been assumed to be the mass transfer mechanisms inside the dough. Lastly, a model for simultaneous heat, water, and vapour diffusion in side food during heat processing was developed by  in 1999. This mathematical model was evaluated for a drying pro cess for bread crumb slabs.  (1999) have also measured lo cal water content and temperature in several points in side the slab. They have proved that the simulated water content levels and temperatures conform well to the experimental values and show that the evaporation and condensation model describes well the diffusion mechanisms in a porous food.

Literature review of mathematical modeling of heat transfer in pizza during the process of baking

INTRODUCTION Physical processes occurring in different media (gases, liquids, solids) are revealed by some effects recorded by special ...

Criticisms on Bureaucracy as an Organizational Form

CRITICISMS ON BUREAUCRACY AS AN ORGANISATIONAL FORM   Table of Contents I.      Introduction.. 3 II.     Perspectives on Bureaucracy.. 4 A.    Bureaucracy is Outdated. 4 B.    Bureaucracy Deserve Replacement with other Popular Approaches. 5 III.        Strengths and Weaknesses of Bureaucracy.. 6 A.    Advantages of Employing Bureaucracy. 6 B.    Disadvantages of Employing Bureaucracy. 7 IV.       Conclusion.. 8 V.    References.. 9         I.       Introduction The concept of the management theory has been around for ages. Organisations, new and old, rely on the principles of management to get the job done in an efficient and effective manner. Throughout the years numerous types of management theories have been infused in the business policies and consequently with the operations of the organisation. The existing literature on such practices indicates the presence of two general types of management theories: classical and neoclassical theories. The classical theories of management point to the early management theories which rely mainly on the structure of the organisation. On the other hand, neoclassical theories are the ones which initiate means on which other items directly and indirectly affecting the organisation are considered. In this paper, the discussions shall focus on a classical theory of management: bureaucracy. Being a rather dated model of management, bureaucracy has been acquiring a whole lot of flak from management scholars. With the advent of more recent and more comprehensive models of management, the hostility towards the model of bureaucracy is not surprising. However, there are certain companies that still employ this management model despite these numerous disparagement. This paper shall be looking into these lines along with the adverse implications of using the model. The arguments and observations presented in the following discussions shall be founded on the articles and studies on management theories and bureaucracy.   II.    Perspectives on Bureaucracy One of the forerunners of scientific management, bureaucratic management is associated with the renowned scholars synonymous with the model is . ( 2002, ) Though there were other noted scholars like Karl Marx that espoused the model,  take on the theory is the one preferred and currently used by organisations as a means to implement management operations. The core of bureaucracy is geared towards the elimination of inefficiency and establishment of stability in the organisation. ( 2002, ) This is achieved by a strict enforcement of law, high regard on hierarchy, and centralisation of the decision making processes in the organisation. As seen in the previous description of the model, there are certain flaws in its nature. Thus, it is inevitable that the model gains considerable criticisms from other management scholars. The following are the two most noted criticisms against the management model of bureaucracy.   A.   Bureaucracy is Outdated One of the prevailing criticisms on the theory of bureaucracy as a management model is the fact that it is outdated. Though the model did emerge several decades ago, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the thrust of the model is entirely obsolete. Studies have pointed out that certain basic principles of bureaucracy are still relevant in the modern society. For instance, companies still accepts the functional division of labour is still at play in most, if not all, organisations. ( 1998) The modern organisation is based on that basic principle’s intent toward efficiency of operations. In the same manner, the existence of a hierarchy of authority in an organisation is still indispensable.  ( 2002) A company would be impeccably lost without clear distinct lines of authority and prescribed duties of leadership. Moreover, Weber’s theory of bureaucracy also entails that the employees working to achieve the ends of the organisation possess certain rights. ( 1998) This means that an organisation implementing bureaucratic theories in its management practice inevitably has to operate within a specific line on which the rights and privileges of the employees are not infringed.    B.   Bureaucracy Deserve Replacement with other Popular Approaches There have also been reports indicating that the theory of bureaucracy should be done away with and totally replaced by a new management model. As seen in the definitions provided by the existing literature, there are flaws in the bureaucratic model that a number of organisations may find destructive. For instance, today’s management style appears to be gearing towards a more customer-centric approach. ( 2000) This idea is alien to the principles of bureaucracy as a management theory. For companies who implement the bureaucratic model, the element of impartiality is present; hence mobility is based on performance and merit. ( 2002)  Unfortunately, such attribute also entails that the company be impersonal to the human aspect of the organisation. The model has become too engrossed in instilling efficiency and maintaining stability that the company tends to treat people internal and external of the organisation as mere automatons, an means to the ends of the organisation.      III.  Strengths and Weaknesses of Bureaucracy The following discussions shall highlight the advantages and weaknesses of implementing the managerial theory in the organisation. To establish a clear discussion on the matter, certain companies that impose the bureaucratic model shall be provided in the subsequent parts.   A.   Advantages of Employing Bureaucracy There are certain companies that come to mind when one speaks of the bureaucratic model, one of these is Nokia. The following figure presents the matrix structure of Nokia as a multinational company taken from the website of the company. Figure 1. Matrix Structure of Nokia Seeing the image above, it appears that Nokia have acquired certain principles of the bureaucratic model. However, this does not manifest a clear adherence to the classical theory of Weber. Instead this shows a close comparison on the bureaucratic model according to the theory of Ford. The matrix shows that there is some form of standardisation involved. ( 1997) In the same regard, there is also a considerable manifestation seeking to augment in the volume of production as specific elements of the company concentrates on a particular niche in the market. ( 2002) With the existence of this division of labour, one could anticipate the similar existence of the consequent intense supervision. ( 1996,) All of these are clear and present manifestation of Nokia’s implementation of the bureaucratic model in their operations. In the end, Nokia is still at the running for the world’s top mobile company. Seen above, the desire of the company to implement the bureaucratic model is based on the desire to stabilise the internal environment of the organisation without compromising the quality of the performance. With the adherence to the strict rules of the company, professional mobility and professional development is ensured to the employees. ( 1997) In the same manner, the company is ensured that it will impeccably carry the organisation towards its ultimate goals. B.   Disadvantages of Employing Bureaucracy Like any other organisational model, the bureaucratic theory also has some weak points. The discussions earlier indicated that the human element, both internally and externally, is treated impersonally. In return, the company is treated the same way by the employees. This means that there is no deep-rooted desire on each and every personnel to do their part in achieving the goals of the company. Other claims that the use of a rigid system would trigger red tape. This ultimately defeats the purpose of imposing a system in the first place.   All in all, if a company which doesn’t have the environment that will complement the bureaucratic theory essentially signed a death wish if it uses it nonetheless. A good example would be the case of Procter and Gamble. Studies on the said company maintained that it has a slow process of innovation. ( 2003) The creation of new brands and other market expansion initiatives has been considerably sluggish such that it has been significantly been left behind by its closest competitors in the retail industry. ( 2002) This slow development on the part of the company tends to limit what  (2006) coined as bureaucratic inertia. The concept basically indicates the incapability of the company to trigger developments based on certain undertakings. The company dealt with this problem not by eliminating the implementation of the bureaucratic model in their operations. In its place, they opted to highly differentiate their products in the market to ensure increased performance. ( 1996) In this case, abandoning the tried and tested principles of the bureaucratic model was out of the question. In its place, the management did their jobs that formulated on their discretion a way for their products to complement the existing system. Though their standing in the market is still unstable, this is not because of their business policies to implement bureaucracy. It is because of the intensity of the competition in the international retail market.   IV.Conclusion The case of bureaucracy as a management theory has given organisations, old and new, a great formula in their operations. As seen in the discussions above, the theory is far from perfect. Some even states that it is already and obsolete theory. However, this paper contends that the bureaucratic model is still applicable but not to all organisations. The existence of other forms of management theories tends to adopt certain principles of the bureaucratic model that works for a particular set of circumstances. Though much criticism is being thrown towards the model, a lot of big firms have ignored it and continued to operate using the bureaucratic model. Admittedly, these companies do not adhere strictly to the ideal type of bureaucracy as stated in the model of Weber. Like any diligent entity of business, companies have learned to be flexible and adjusted certain elements of the theory’s shortcomings to a minimum and maximised the advantages it offered. The discussions above show that the management model provided by  could be limited to a particular part of the operations. For instance, the discussions above maintained that in the manufacturing areas of the companies like Nokia, a strict adherence to the bureaucratic method is apparent. All in all, the criticisms towards the theory of bureaucracy should be seen not so as to disparage those who espouse it and implement it in their organisation. It is meant to provide an impetus towards the development of these tried and tested principles put forward by the classical theory of bureaucracy.

Criticisms on Bureaucracy as an Organizational Form

CRITICISMS ON BUREAUCRACY AS AN ORGANISATIONAL FORM Table of Contents I. Introduction .. 3 II. Perspectives ...

CIRQUE DU SOLIEL Marketing Research Plan

GBUS 401 MARKETING MANAGEMENT – FALL 2008   SUMMATIVE ASSIGNMENT FRONT COVER SHEET     Students are required to fill out this front cover sheet before submitting their assignments into the Digital Drop box of Black Board         Assignent Title: Marketing Plan for  “CIRQUE DU SOLEIL” Assignment No: ONE   Student Name: THINC Student ID: Programme: Semester: Fall 2008 UOW Student ID Date Issued: 26th October 2008 Date Due in: 13th December 2008, Midnight Dubai Time Assignment Set by: Victor Soares Date Actually Handed in: Grade Awarded: Learning Outcomes Met: Previewed By:                         Instructors Feedback & Comments:   Criteria for marking Max Marks Marks Obtained Remarks – Details are given in the main body of the report Written Communication Skills 10     Quality of Research 30     Analytical capability, logic and subject knowledge 40     Report Format 10     Referencing 10     Total 100 0     Source: Template GBUS 406 UOW Summative Assignment: Prof Angelo D’Souza.                                                         Marketing Management - GBUS 401 - Assignment       Tutor:                                                                       Semester:                                                     Fall 2008   Date Made Available:                                26th October 2008     Submission Due Date:                             13th December, 2008             Assignment weighting:                            30%   Email:                                                                  Preamble   This Assignment of the Unit GBUS 401 has an assessment weighting of 30% and is designed to assess the learning gained over the first 8 weeks or thereabouts of the semester.     Assignment Objective/Objectives   This assignment has been designed to allow the student to demonstrate a detailed understanding of the tools and techniques of marketing management, the process of marketing and the marketing concept in relation to an organization. The case also gives an opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the environmental factors, consumer decision process, the segmentation criteria, decision support systems, marketing research, product management, product decisions, and distribution and in particular retail operations besides other elements of the marketing mix etc.     Advice and Instructions to Candidates   <li class="MsoNormal"> You are required to prepare a Marketing Plan for the year 2008, for any one country, of not less than 4000 words and not more than 5000 words (not including appendices and annexure) on the various marketing strategy options for the organization “CIRQUE DU SOLEIL” in the case study ON PAGE 61 OF YOUR TEXT BOOK. It will be as long as it takes to respond to all the information needed and within this. You must incorporate everything you will have done/doing. All topic areas must be addressed.  </li>   <li class="MsoNormal"> The assignment requires you to integrate the knowledge gained through textbooks, end chapter case analysis outside research and discussions. You must design your Marketing Plan according to the activity guidelines specified in this template. Please make a conscious effort to avoid reproducing a huge volume of theory - you need to demonstrate a balance of course concepts and application. You are expected to use direct references to at least 3 Books, 4 Journals/Periodicals and 7 Web Resources.</li>   <li class="MsoNormal"> This is a MARKETING PLAN and NOT an ESSAY and must be professionally presented in report format and style. I am providing a template and additional guidelines that will be of use to you to make the plan professional. You should take care to ensure that the work you submit has a high professional standard of presentation. You must have it spell checked and ensure that your submission is grammatically in order. The overall paper must be submitted as a .doc file only (not .pdf file) and everything must be consistent.  </li>   <li class="MsoNormal"> You must acknowledge the sources of information and evidence the same at the end of your report in the form of bibliography. It is essential that you use the Harvard system of referencing, , as this is a UOW adopted standard. </li>   <li class="MsoNormal"> You must use tables / charts and have them incorporated in the annexure and referenced in the body of the main report. Also, your marketing plan must have a basic budget visualized as well as a timeline for completion of your recommended plan. </li>       Rules & guidelines to be followed in submitting the assignment     <li class="MsoNormal"> Referencing: Complete list of references / bibliography / sources of information that have been used, including web sources, except Wikipedia, should be furnished at the end of the assignment. Referencing should be done according to the Harvard System of referencing and available from: . You are encouraged to make a conscious effort to access journals, other authors and extensive literature research and the same should clearly stand out as a criteria and professional requirement for assessment. </li>   <li class="MsoNormal"> Assessment: The grading would reflect good grammar, good punctuation, good sequence and the natural flow of ideas and a good use of Headings, Fonts, and Paragraphs etc.</li>   <li class="MsoNormal"> Approach and communication skills: Innovative and creative ideas, critical analysis of the situation and putting more than one perspective to the question would fetch you higher grades. Also your Assignment MUST evidence extensive element of Literature/Web Research, in addition to the need that it should necessitate communication/interaction with some real world Company. You are expected to use direct references to at least 3 Books, 4 Journals/Periodicals and 7 Web Resources.</li>   <li class="MsoNormal"> Submission due date: The assignment should be written Arial 12 pt font throughout the paper. This Assignment is to be submitted, through the Digital Drop box of Blackboard, prior to midnight of 13th December 2008. Any delay for submission will entail a rejection of the Assignment, and would earn you a grade of Zero beyond the permissible time as mentioned in point 6 below. </li>   <li class="MsoNormal"> Penalty Clause for delayed submission: Each day of delay for submission will entail a deduction of 10% per day for a maximum period of Ten days. Thereafter, the Assignment would earn you a grade of Zero. This Assignment accounts for 30 marks (30% of the total grade).</li>   <li class="MsoNormal"> Due date for Similarity Report of Turnitin: Your Assignment must be posted on Blackboard along with the Similarity Report of Turnitin prior to midnight of 13th December 2008, for it to be evaluated. Late submission of the Turnitin report will make the assignment liable for the late submission penalty clause as stated in point 5 above. </li>   <li class="MsoNormal"> Plagiarism: The assignment should be the original work of the student. Instances of plagiarism found either from other students or from other resources (viz. without due acknowledgement /referencing) will entail a FAIL Grade. THiNC will be using TURNITIN to detect any instances of plagiarism or incomplete referencing.</li>   <li class="MsoNormal"> Plagiarism Penalty Clause: For your information, the rules of the UOW on Plagiarism are as follows: “Where a student has resorted to plagiarism in an assignment or final exam, he will be required to repeat the entire module from the start at the next given opportunity. He will re-register for the module when it is offered again and pay the module fee”.</li>       Overall Assessment Criteria   <li class="MsoNormal"> Clarity of the description of the assignment and the identification of the issues / problems.</li>   <li class="MsoNormal"> Ability to analyse the issues in terms of a number of key areas that impinge on the organisation.</li>   <li class="MsoNormal"> Ability to identify areas for improvement.</li>   <li class="MsoNormal"> Quality of research investigation and presentation of outcomes.</li>   <li class="MsoNormal"> Analysis, Conclusions and Recommendations.</li>   <li class="MsoNormal"> Quality and accuracy of bibliography/referencing.</li>           Marketing Plan for “CIRQUE DU SOLEIL” - Sample Outline1   There are a variety of styles and formats used for marketing plans. The following section headings will help you organize your thoughts and plan. The Marketing Plan Assignment should look as structured below, after including the  Cover Page and Instructors Comments Pages as above.  The approximate weighting for the marketing plan structure is as follows:   <li class="MsoNormal" style="color: navy"> Table of Contents / Executive Summary / Introduction                               10%</li>   Executive Summary   An Executive summary is a single most important document of the marketing plan and should not exceed a single page and should (in separate paragraphs) consist of:   (i) A very brief background of the organization (ii) A brief background of the purpose of the study / project / marketing plan (iii) It must to convey the highlights of the plan and give the distinctive features of:             (a) Your approach             (b) Brief content             (c) Action plan and             (d) Recommendations   In short, it is like the PREFACE of any textbook or novel that is published. It has to induce and impress the reader that the contents are outstanding. It gives the reader an idea of whether they want to read the report or not.    Table of Contents   (1)       Section headings- (2)       Annexure – this should include all tables / charts / questionnaire - if any (3)       All topics under the section headings to be page numbered   Introduction   This sets the scene by saying who you are and what you do, what is the organisation. This section must evidence clarity of your role in the organization and the identification of the problems             <li class="MsoNormal" style="color: navy"> Business Overview & Overall Marketing Plan                                                10%    </li>     This section is sometime referred to as the Situation Analysis segment. In a typical marketing plan, it should contain a VERY CONCISE and RELEVANT background on the market, the customers, core competencies and competitors.   Here you can introspect on the key issues that you will need to address and can discuss such areas that make up the management and assignment debate. Also reassess consumer behaviour problems that necessitate a market research plan - here you can also discuss all such areas relating to the key issues and challenges, along with any other areas that make up the marketing plan and analysis. Your ability to analyze the causes of the difficulties in terms of a number of key areas that impinge on the organization as well as the ability to identify areas for improvement (AFI) must be clearly evident in this section.                                                   <li class="MsoNormal" style="color: navy"> Strategic Marketing Focus:                                                                                 20% </li>     Situational Analysis of the Organization – A snapshot in terms of:    ·        Define the organization’s Mission / Vision ·        Establish the organizations Goals & Objectives ·        Identify & assess the core competencies that will give a sustainable competitive advantage ·        Examine & assess the internal /external environment, the industry & competition     <li class="MsoNormal" style="color: navy"> The Marketing Plan – an appraisal and analysis.                                          20%    </li>   ·        Target Market ·        Intended Strategies ·        Conclude with a plan based on the analysis of all the above               TM: How well do you know your target market? How well do you understand their information needs? Can you articulate what your customers and potential customers need as opposed to what you offer?  Are there groups to whom you should be “selling” who are not now “buying” your services? Are there ways to segment your market so that you can offer highly specialized products and services to various groups, reflecting their business priorities? What kind of products should be offered to a broad base of users? Answering these questions will help you define your target market                            IS: Here intended strategies (a comprehensive plan stating how the firm will achieve its mission - broad & narrow - vision and objectives) and programs (a statement of the activities or steps needed to accomplish a single-use plan) are outlined which will help reach the goals and objectives outlined above. You can do a BCG portfolio analysis and a Market Opportunity Analysis (MOA – ).   CP&MR: After identifying and defining your target market and strategies that you as a marketing manager will unfold; you can conclude this section by dovetailing all the issues raised in the different tasks as guidelines in the assignment   Needless to mention that in the above sub-sections your investigation should evidence exhaustive research, e.g. this can be done through qualitative and quantitative techniques, surveys, questionnaire and structured interviews (evidence), sampling methods etc.   This is a useful practice for the dissertation stage of the programme. Quality of research investigation and presentation of outcomes must be decisive and unambiguous. Your appraisal and analysis of the results must clearly flow sequentially from the preceding sub-section.                                                                                                     <li class="MsoNormal" style="color: navy"> Evaluation / Recommendations & Way Forward                                           10%</li>   E: What are the success criteria? How will you measure success of the plan?  By monitoring progress, you can judge the success of the marketing plan. If some of the strategies are not working out, try to determine why. Is the strategy flawed? Is there a problem with implementation or timing? How can you refocus and move on?   Areas for Improvement / Restructuring the marketing set-up / any other corrective action        R & WF: This should be an action plan and related or linked to the objectives set out. You can put them in point form with time scales     <li class="MsoNormal" style="color: navy"> Implementation Plans & Budget                                                                        10%</li>   IP: Build up an Implementation Plan post evaluation. Tasks required to implement and monitor each strategy are listed in this section. With each task, the person responsible for the task and a completion target date are indicated. Having a plan of action with specific tasks ensures that the details are clear and that specific persons are accountable.    Tasks required to implement and monitor each strategy could be listed in this section. With each task, the person responsible for the task and a completion target date may be indicated. Having a plan of action with specific tasks ensures that the details are clear and that specific persons are accountable.    B: How much will the activities defined above cost? Provide an estimate. Can you provide revenue forecast?  Explain the assumptions on which the forecast is based and consider various (best case, worst case) scenarios.  Since many Functional Centres now operate as cost centres, if not profit centres, this component of the plan is extremely important.                                                                                                                            <li class="MsoNormal" style="color: navy"> Summary / Conclusion                                                                                         5%      </li>   S: Articulate the central issue considered and the selected pertinent areas taken for consideration. You should incorporate a brief critique of what was done and the challenges ahead are required to be included   C: The contents of this section should naturally flow from all the above                                       <li class="MsoNormal" style="color: navy"> Annexure – Tables & Charts                                                                               5%</li>     <li class="MsoNormal" style="color: navy"> References & Bibliography                                                                                 10%    </li>   This section MUST evidence extensive element of Literature/Web Research / UOW electronic library / other authors / marketing journals /Harvard Business Review etc.   This is an essential section and attracts the most focus on your entire assignment. It is essential that you use “Harvard” system of referencing, as this is a University of Wales adopted standard. Please refer to this document in BB as well as the link given at the beginning of this assignment                                 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA: WHAT IS EXPECTED OF YOU   Overall: This is a MBA program, and the assignment should reflect the student’s ability to put his/her thoughts clearly in writing. Good communication skills with no spelling errors, no grammatical errors, good punctuation and good use of Headings/subheadings, fonts, graphic explanations etc and keeping the report within the maximum word limit would give you a better grade. (Item 1: Max. 10 Marks)   Quality of Research: Good research and justifications in your critical analysis approach leading to creative ideas that lead to challenging concepts, keeping in mind the company’s competencies, is an essential part of this project. Understanding the company’s needs and opportunities that make for a good corporate strategy should be complete and convincing. (Total of 2 & 3: Max. 30 Marks)   Analytical capability, logic and subject knowledge: The sequence of thoughts in the main body, should evidence a clear understanding of strategic marketing management principles, excellent critical analytical thinking skills and high-quality logical sequence of thoughts and arguments. (Total of 4, 5 & 6: Max 40 Marks)   Report Format: Good format of the report as recommended in the template, giving cover page, Contents / Index, executive summary, main body of report with proper headings / subheadings, conclusions, and bibliography/ references is essential in presenting a professional assignment. (Total of 7 & 8: Max. 10 marks)   Referencing: Proper referencing using the Harvard Referencing system is essential for any report based on research. Please note, not acknowledging referenced works amounts to plagiarism. (Item 9: Max. 10 marks)                 Criteria for marking Max Marks Marks Obtained Remarks – Details are given in the main body of the report Written Communication Skills 10     Quality of Research 30     Analytical capability, logic and subject knowledge 40     Report Format 10     Referencing 10     Total 100 0     Source: Template GBUS 406 UOW Summative Assignment:     To gain a distinction grade, the report must be in the correct template format as advised, contain all requirements such as executive summary, have a proper numbering system, etc.  It should explain fully how the concepts could be applied (and evaluated).   To gain a pass grade, the report will have some form of the template format as advised, probably missing a summary etc.  It will have a skeleton of some limited ideas of application.   To slip into a fail grade, the report will not have the correct template format as advised, i.e. will be a memo or in fact have an inadequate / no format at all.  There will be a very limited idea of the application to the assignment.   Please ensure that the entire assignment is a reflection of good written English language skills, report format etc. grammar, good punctuation, good sequence and the natural flow of ideas and a good use of headings, fonts, and paragraphs etc     Assignment Brief/Scenario     The student is expected to first read the case thoroughly and understand the concepts and issues, which form the basis of the same. The student then needs to go through different texts in the e-library and other sources like the business magazines, web resources/links given in the course documents to collect comprehensive knowledge about the issues talked before attempting the questions.   Task 1:   These are some guidelines and questions that must be addressed to be dovetailed in the marketing plan. The weighting of each of these tasks are detailed in the above template – weighting system.   It is recommended that your analysis should also dovetail the following as part of your overall analysis. Please ensure that you do not respond to these questions separately. These are guiding points for you to build up a marketing plan.   <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="square"> <li class="MsoNormal"> Which type of orientation do you think “CIRQUE DU SOLEIL” is following? Please list several ways that they can better follow a market orientation. Based on what you have read in the case, is the firm following the marketing process? </li> </ul>   <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="square"> <li class="MsoNormal"> Based on the information in the case, outline a rudimentary SWOT analysis for “CIRQUE DU SOLEIL”. Your plan should include recommendations suggesting ways that the firm might capitalize on its strengths and minimize (or overcome) its weaknesses. </li> </ul>   <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="square"> <li class="MsoNormal"> List and describe at least three keys to “CIRQUE DU SOLEIL” competitive advantage it has over the others located in the industry. If any of the others seem to have a competitive advantage over the firm, describe it and how will the firm take care and steps to overcome the same?</li> </ul>   <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="square"> <li class="MsoNormal"> Do you agree with the strategy “CIRQUE DU SOLEIL” has adopted to respond to its competition. Debate this scenario in a critical analysis approach and within the overall perspectives and challenges of Effective Strategic Planning.</li> </ul>     Task 2:   <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="square"> <li class="MsoNormal"> Map out the consumer decision-making process for “CIRQUE DU SOLEIL” customer. What factors do you think most influence a consumer? </li> </ul>   <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="square"> <li class="MsoNormal"> Do they have a narrowly articulated targeting strategy? How will the targeting strategy and the market segmentation affect the marketing mix? </li> </ul>   <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="square"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black"> How well do you know the target market in the case article? How well do you understand their information needs? Are there ways to segment the market so that the marketer can offer highly specialized products and / or services to various groups, reflecting their business priorities? What kind of strategies should be pursued to a broad base of users? Responding to these questions will help you define your target market and construct a marketing plan. </li> </ul>   <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="square"> <li class="MsoNormal"> Is the firm too small to conduct or benefit from marketing research? Why or why not? Identify some ways that marketing research could help grow the business. </li> </ul>   <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="square"> <li class="MsoNormal"> Formulate the problem/opportunity for each area you identify. The firm may be interested in conducting marketing research, but the company cannot withstand the cost of extensive information gathering. </li> </ul>   Visit useful journals, websites and research what evidence do you see that the firm has created a brand? If you don't see any evidence of branding, give recommendations to the firm advocating a stronger branding strategy. Also, review other relevant aspects of the marketing mix and make appropriate recommendations.        Task 3: The Assignment Final Task:   <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="square"> <li class="MsoNormal"> Build a Marketing Plan that will help “CIRQUE DU SOLEIL” cope with the challenges to meet the needs and wants of next Generation.</li> </ul>   <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="square"> <li class="MsoNormal"> Integrate the answers to all the above questions in Tasks 1 & 2 to your overall analysis and structure them into the template outlined and recommended. </li> </ul>   <ul style="margin-top: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in" type="square"> <li class="MsoNormal"> Please ensure that you include some examples of your own from the web resources /links /websites/ text books business magazines etc as part of Literature Research and reference work for your assignment.</li> </ul>       “CIRQUE DU SOLEIL: THE FIRE WITHIN”             A brief extract of the case…..Quote:   A 27- foot long bronze clown shoe is the only indication that there is something otherworldly within the concrete walls of the large, rather non-descript building. Located in Montreal, the building is home to what many feel is the most successful entertainment company in the world - “CIRQUE DU SOLEIL”   The company’s massive headquarters houses……..   …….Because of their sound planning, “CIRQUE DU SOLEIL” can claim that it is one of the world’s elite businesses as well as one of the world’s elite companies.   ……Unquote   Copyright © 2006 South-Western All Rights Reserved.

CIRQUE DU SOLIEL Marketing Research Plan

GBUS 401 MARKETING MANAGEMENT ...