Fire Prevention at Waste Handling and Control

Table of Contents Solid Waste Management Systems Waste Chutes and Handling Systems Fire prevention Incinerators Waste compactors Codes, Regulations, and Standards Works Cited Solid Waste Management Systems Waste management systems cover processes of collection, temporal storage, internal transportation, treating, and finally the goal of garbage disposal or remains generated from garbage management procedures (Douncet Gilyeat 1).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Fire Prevention at Waste Handling and Control specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Other common terms related to waste management systems include; waste handling, waste storage, waste processing and waste treatment. Waste handling comprises all the processes concerned with the transportation from the point of generation. Waste handling systems and equipment generally include chutes, transportation vehicles and carts. Waste storage comprises all the process es of containing generated waste in controlled places, after collection and transport, before handling, recycling, treatment or final disposal. Waste storage systems vary based on the type of waste, constituents, properties, mode of collection and transportation. Bulky wastes can be stored in pits o silos, while bags, drums or containers are used for containing smaller wastes. Waste processing refers to processes that alter physical properties, shape, size or consistency. Common systems and equipment used in waste processing comprise compactors, shredders, escapsulators, extruders, crushers, pulpers, pulverizers, baggers and dewatering equipment. Solid waste management deals with all types of refuse ranging from municipal waste management, recycling programs, composts, and incinerators. The type of waste management systems applied differs based on several factors, including kinds of wastes generated, components, forms, characteristics, amount, and the rate at which they are generate d. Waste management systems can range from simple to complex.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Different processes and equipment exist for the management of industrial garbage. The applied devices vary depending on the kinds, amounts, forms, and hazardous components of the garbage. Solid industrial wastes management varies from simple to complex systems. There are systems for storage, handling and storage. Systems and equipment for handling trash include chutes, carts, elevators, conveyors, vehicles for transportation. Solid wastes can be classified into any of the following classes namely; putrescibles ( these are wastes generated from houses, animal wastes or agricultural wastes etc), bulky combustibles-wood, cloth and wastes found on streets; bulky noncombustible wastes like metallic items and minerals; small combustible material (same as bulky combustible, the only differ ence is the size); non empty cans and bottles; powder and dusts e.g. explosives; sludge; pathological wastes; abandoned automobiles; wastes from construction and demolition; and radiological wastes (Douncet Gilyeat 12). Waste Chutes and Handling Systems A waste chute is generally a system that is fixed for moving garbage from where it is produced or temporarily stored to a central point so that it can be collected, processed, treated or finally disposed. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) regulates construction of waste chutes and their maintenance (Drake 1). NFPA 82, called the â€Å"Standard on Incinerators and Waste and Linen Handling Systems and Equipment,† stipulates the minimum requirements for waste chutes that all landlords must adhere to, however other codes also must be taken into account. Five categories of chutes can be identified namely; general access, gravity types systems; limited access, gravity types systems; pneumatic system; gravity –p neumatic system; and multi-pneumatic loading system. General access, gravity types systems have a vertical passage enclosed inside that allows garbage to flow by gravitational force.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Fire Prevention at Waste Handling and Control specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Citizens residing in apartments with this kind of chute cannot access this system. Limited access, gravity types systems are more or less the same as general access, gravity types systems, the only difference is that in the latter entry is limited. Access can be through chute entry doors that are locked or maybe closed service opening space doors. These types of chutes are mainly found in health facilities. Pneumatic systems make use of air-circulation to move trash from chute openings to a centralized point for collection. They can be installed horizontally, vertically or diagonally, based on blow and the characteristic of making them. They are mostly found in hospitals. Nonetheless, these chutes can be utilized everywhere-apartments clubs, or restaurants. Gravity-pneumatic system employs gravitational force to connect a receiving compartment that connects to pneumatic chute system. Multiloading pneumatic system is the same as pneumatic; the difference is that access in the latter uses automatic doors to close. Safety officers should pay great attention in designing and building chute systems. In order to contain fires in buildings, we cannot afford to ignore waste handling systems and chute design. In case of a fire outbreak, waste chutes can easily act as conduits of fueling fires or conveying smokes in residential apartments or work premises. Moreover, chutes are believed to be garbage storage locations as they can be blocked anytime when in use, hence pose a threat of smoke and fire outbreak. NFPA has developed standards which are supposed to be followed with respect to constructing chutes, the s ystems of enclosures, fire dampers, sprinklers, and service openings. All these standards are geared towards one major goal-reducing the chances of fire outbreaks and control of the same. Fire prevention Fire prevention can minimize the damage to properties, injury, health, and ecological risks of landfill fires. The cost of prevention is generally low compared to the cost of fighting and cleaning up a fire.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In most cases, especially for bigger landfills, fire prevention efforts and measures are mandatory. Proper landfill management is crucial for effective landfill fire prevention methods. Management procedures comprise of restricting all types of calculated fire, carefully examining and controlling the influx of wastes, compressing wastes buried to thwart hot spots from forming, banning cigarette smoking near or onsite, and finally tightening security measures onsite. Methane gas must be detected and managed at a Landfill site (World Bank). The emission of methane gas is dangerous not only to the environment but also poses a great health risk to the residents living close to the landfill sites. Methane gas, a highly inflammable gas, can be disaster in waiting. According Federal Regulations all MSW landfill workers are mandated by law to carefully monitor the levels of methane gas after every four month per year. In instance where methane gas levels in or near the landfill build up to an explosive state, the landfill worker should take precautionary measures to curb any impeding hazard. They must also put into action a mitigation measures to avert risks of landfill fires (Boulevard 20). Incinerators Incineration is a waste management process which uses high temperatures for garbage treatment and disposal. Incinerators that are well constructed and maintained can go a long way in reducing the quantities of solid wastes generated from different sources by over 85 percent, thus huge sums of money could be saved-especially costs of transport and disposal. Incinerators are commonly used to dispose medical and pathological trash in hospitals, higher institutions of learning, and research centers. A part from destroying biomedical and pathological wastes, they are used to destroy potent and obnoxious wastes. Designing incinerators with heat recovery mechanism can help to cut costs on energy. For fire prevention, incinerators ensure total garbage treatment, which ultimat ely minimizes on the costs of storage and risks of fire. In that were designed in the olden days had few enclosures, one compartment where combustion occurred. This reduced the effectiveness and efficiency of incinerators, fueled smoke and contributed to bad smell. Present day incinerators have systems that are able to meet ever increasing demand for incineration thanks to advances in technology. Adhering to fire safety procedures in designing, construction, operation and maintenance of incinerators is paramount. Incinerators are hazardous. The safety risks of incinerators comes as a result of handling inflammable wastes, high temperatures in the chambers, highly inflammable gases, hot ashes and availability of fuel and combustion chambers. Therefore incineration safety procedures must be strictly adhered to like setting fire alarm, and having sprinklers. In addition, fire safety rules like planning the location of incinerators, layout, equipment, wastes flow, operations of the syst em, and proper maintenance must be strictly followed. There are various types of technologies used in designing of incinerators. The kind of wastes destroyed by incinerator to some extent determines the type of technology to be used and how the incinerator is designed. Nearly all categories of incinerators are supposed to include design details, the quality of construction, and control parameters, to reduce fire incidences. Typical solid waste incinerators commonly used in institutions, factories and business premises include; multiple-chamber incinerators; controlled chamber incinerators; and rotary kiln incinerators. Multiple-chamber incinerators are made of a prime fire chamber and a single or many secondary chambers. This type of incinerator is meant to be operated at extreme incineration air levels-ranging from 200 to 300 percent. Wastes are put in the primary incineration chamber most inflammables found in the gases that escape the first chamber is totally burned in the second chamber. Multiple chamber incinerators are constructed in line with standards adopted in the 18th century. Today these incinerators are entirely used for combustion of pathological wastes –dead animals. Controlled air incinerators are built based on two combustion stages. Wastes are loaded in the first combustion chamber-anaerobic combustion. Next, smoke and hot gases from first chamber are burned in the second chamber with excess oxygen. Controlled air incinerators are also known as modular combustors and pyrolytic incinerators. It believed that majority of the incinerators constructed in the 19th century are controlled air incinerators. The last type of incinerator is the rotary kiln type. It consists of an incineration chamber which is cylindrical, inclined at an angle and revolves on its axis. Waste is put from one end, and the rotation of the chamber creates turbulent situation for complete waste combustion and allowing the elimination of ash remains on the other end. F ire hazards occur during the process of wastes charging. This is because process of loading wastes in an incinerator creates an interface between high-temperature burning flames and nearby buildings. Thus, as aforementioned construction, design system, operation procedures and maintenance must be strictly followed to curb the escape of stray flames and burning material in the process of waste charging or loading. The potential environmental risk of manual loading has led to many countries to ban it. Waste compactors Waste compactors are the machines that make use of electromechanical hydraulics to minimize the wastes generated and package it in smaller amounts. There are two types of Waste compactors-domestic compacters and industrial compactors. The two are governed by regulation of NFPA 82. Domestic compactors also referred to as kitchen compactor are designed for residential areas for compacting residential household wastes. Examples of domestic compactor include under -the count er and movable and can be purchased from convenient stores. This type minimizes fire risk of stored waste by trapping it in a metallic chamber under compaction. In spite of this, they should have the capacity for manual opening to enable waste to easily discard due to a mishap of power in the appliance. One the other hand, commercial-industrial compactors are mainly used by many household residences as a primary system for treating wastes, and aid in waste handling. Apart from being used inside houses or put outside, they can be fed to a chute or just hand-fed. Four types of commercial compactors include; bulkhead, extrude, carousel bag packer and container packer. Bulkhead type compacter is mounted on plate. Once the compacted waste is ready, it can be removed and then a bag placed at the same location and stuffed with a compacted block. But for the extruder compactor, waste is inserted via a cylindrical opening. Driving force forces the waste to be compressed as passes through the cylinder. In a Carousel bag packer, waste is compressed step by step in containers that are contains bag linings. The bag rotates enabling each bag to be filled. Lastly, for container packer, waste is compressed in a litter bin. This can be done either manually or by the use of machines. Apart from incinerators, compactors, shredders are also used in managing solid wastes. Codes, Regulations, and Standards In order to manage, and dispose industrial wastes properly, an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the characteristics of wastes, different types of technologies and processes, state regulations, codes and standards must be studied carefully. Important Federal Regulations providing guidelines for waste management and disposal include: Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 (RCRA), Subtitle C, Hazardous wastes Regulations, 40 CFR, parts 260-265 and 122-124; Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976, 10 CFR; clear Air Act of 1963 (CAA) and Clean Air Act Amendments of 1970 an d 1990; Oil Pollution Act of 1961; Federal Water Pollution Control act of 1948; occupational safety and Health Act of 1970 including National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and Federal Pesticide Control Act of 1972 (FIFRA Act) (.(Adapted from the handbook on Waste handling and control by Lawrence and Sharon). The general standards for waste materials and how to manage waste include; NFPA 241 Standard for Safeguarding Construction, Alteration, and Demolition Operations; NFPA 251 Standard Methods of Tests of Fire Resistance of Building Construction and Materials NFPA 252 Standard Methods of Fire Tests of Door Assemblies; NFPA 253 Standard Method of Test for Critical Radiant Flux of Floor Covering Systems Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source; NFPA 255 Standard Method of Test of Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials; NFPA 256 Standard Methods of Fire Tests of Roof Coverings; NFPA 257 Standard on Fire Test for Window and Glass Block Assemblies; NFPA 258 Recommended Practice for Determining Smoke Generation of Solid Materials; NFPA 259 Standard Test Method for Potential Heat of Building Materials; NFPA 260 Standard Methods of Tests and Classification System for Cigarette Ignition Resistance of Components of Upholstered Furniture; NFPA 261 Standard Method of Test for Determining Resistance of Mock-Up Upholstered Furniture Material Assemblies to Ignition by Smoldering Cigarettes; NFPA 262 Standard Method of Test for Flame Travel and Smoke of Wires and Cables for Use in Air-Handling Spaces; NFPA 265 Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Room Fire Growth Contribution of Textile Coverings on Full Height Panels and Walls; NFPA 266 Standard Method of Test for Fire Characteristics of Upholstered Furniture Exposed to Flaming Ignition Source; NFPA 267 Standard Method of Test for Fire Characteristics of Mattresses and Bedding Assemblies Exposed to Flaming Ignition Source; NFPA 268 Standard Test Method for Determining Ignitibility of E xterior Wall Assemblies Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source; NFPA 269 Standard Test Method for Developing Toxic Potency Data for Use in Fire Hazard Modeling; NFPA 270 Standard Test Method for Measurement of Smoke Obscuration Using a Conical Radiant Source in a Single Closed Chamber; NFPA 271 Standard Method of Test for Heat and Visible Smoke Release Rates for Materials and Products Using an Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter; NFPA 272 Standard Method of Test for Heat and Visible Smoke Release Rates for Upholstered Furniture Components or Composites and Mattresses Using an Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter; NFPA 274 Standard Test Method to Evaluate Fire Performance Characteristics of Pipe Insulation; NFPA 69, Standard on Explosion Prevention Systems; NFPA 430, Code for the storage of liquid and solid oxidizer; NFPA 484, Standard for Combustible Metals; NFPA 654, Standard for the Prevention of Fire and Dust Explosions from the manufacturing, Processing, and Handling of Combustible Particulate Solids; NFPA 13 , Standard for the installation of Sprinkler systems; NFPA 30, flammable and combustible liquid code; NFPA 31, standard or the installation of burning equipments; NFPA 54, National Fuel Gas code; NFPA 58, Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code; NFPA 68, and Standard on Explosion Protection by deflagration Venting (Adapted from NFPA). Today, solid waste management is a lucrative business accounting for billions of dollars or pounds in most developed countries. Waste collection companies collect tons of refuse per annum and sort it for reprocessing or final disposal. Many cities across the world demand residents to pay for garbage collection, while those in the countryside have dumpsites and recycling facilities for people to take their rubbish. The main aim is to cut down the amount of garbage blocking the lanes and degrading the environment, overlooking the possibility of waste recycling into important products or just discarded. Solid waste management systems are centered on designing ecologically friendly methods of disposing wastes. There are various categories of solid waste which are handled by waste management agencies. First and foremost we have recyclable garbage. These are items that are valuable. Solid waste management consists constructing to use scrap metals and other materials like glass, cans, paper, plastics, and wood. Second is toxic waste; this kind of garbage poses great risk to the environment; hence it should be disposed carefully. In most first world nations there are stringent guidelines on the management of such wastes. Some land lords can turn green waste into compost manure and use on their farms. This can improve soil fertility and hence boost food production. Green waste is productive than industrial wastes. Solid waste is collected in containers of varying sizes -household garbage bins, industrial dumpsites which are filled by persons or companies. Municipal Lorries transport the collected solid waste from streets on a regula r basis. In some countries, Local governments have contracted private waste management companies to recycle, collect and treat the garbage generated from cities and industrial facilities. Most solid waste management facilities operate, maintain bigger dumpsite, while others burn their waste, using the energy produced by the incinerator to power a recycling plant or sell the electricity to companies that generate power. Waste management must take into consideration to avert possible fire outbreaks. Fire hazards can start during waste transportation, where it is generated, handling of waste, where it is temporarily stored, treatment and finally disposal. Therefore, fire safety measures must be taken into account in the design, building, and use of waste handling and treatment systems and equipment, like chutes, incinerators, compactors and shredders, as well as a stricter adherence to all Federal codes, standards and regulations. Wastes generated from industrial areas differ greatly f rom the domestic type; hence measures must be taken in the design of such incinerators for proper, safe, and efficient treatment and disposal in conformity with the set standards and complex regulations. Wastes generated from residences can be turned to useful products. Installing incinerators that are effective and efficient can convert wastes into energy to power cities across the world. Sustainable waste management is the responsibility of each and every stakeholder. Works Cited Boulevard, Wilson. Landfill Fires: Their magnitude, characteristics, and mitigation.  Virginia: United States Fire Administration National Fire Data Center, 2002. Print Douncet, Lawrence George, and Gilyeat Sharon. Fire protection handbook Vol 1. 20th Ed. Massachusetts: National Fire Protection Association, 2005.Print. Drake, Byrne. Trash Chute Requirements. n.d. Web. NFPA. List of NFPA codes standards. 2011. Web. https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/all-codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and-standa rds World Bank. Urban Solid Waste Management. 2011.Web. http://web.worldbank.org/WBSITE/EXTERNAL/TOPICS/EXTURBANDEVELOPMENT/EXTUSWM/0,menuPK:463847~pagePK:149018~piPK:149093~theSitePK:463841,00.html This essay on Fire Prevention at Waste Handling and Control was written and submitted by user Jaiden Hardy to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Surface tension of water Essay Example

Surface tension of water Essay Example Surface tension of water Paper Surface tension of water Paper The capillary rise method was used to measure the surface tension of aqueous solutions of sodium chloride and acetic acid. Molar concentrations of 0. 5 M and 1. 0 M for each solution were tested. The results were then compared to the surface tension of pure water to observe how solute properties affect the surface tension of water. The experimental results showed that adding acetic acid solute in water lowers the surface tension of water. As the concentration of acetic acid was increased, the surface tension of water decreased even more. However, the experiment has failed to accurately show the effect of sodium chloride solutes on the surface tension of water. Nevertheless, previous studies revealed that surface tension of electrolyte solutions, such as NaCl solution, increase with increasing concentration. The experiment revealed several disadvantages of the capillary rise method, such as difficulties in firmly holding the equipment, in reading the liquid level inside the capillary, in keeping the temperature constant, and in accurately marking the liquid level with a pen. Nevertheless, the capillary rise method proved to be comparatively reliable, provided that proper technique is observed. Results of the capillary rise experiment for the effect of acetic acid somehow agreed with results from previous studies. INTRODUCTION Surface tension occurs due to cohesive forces (attractive forces acting between like molecules) pulling the surface molecules toward the body of the liquid. Furthermore, these surface molecules exhibit stronger cohesive forces upon neighboring molecules compared to the rest of the liquid. Thus, a droplet of water on a table will assume a roughly spherical or globular shape. From experience we also observe that it is more difficult to move an object through the surface of a liquid than to move it when it is completely submersed. In this study, the surface tension of dilute aqueous solutions will be measured. The study aims to examine how the surface tension of these solutions compare with that of pure water. The surface tension of water can vary due to the factors solute type (or substance dissolved), concentration of solution (i. e. amount of substance dissolved), and temperature. This study will focus particularly on the effects of solute type and concentration. Solute types of particular interest in this study are strong electrolytes, and low molar mass organic acids. (Another type of substance are surfactants, or surface active compounds, but they will not be covered in this experiment). Past scientific studies have concluded that electrolytes increase the surface tension of water slightly, while organic acids slightly decrease surface tension. These studies have made use of advanced methods with the help of special equipment called tensiometers. One such method is called the du Nuoy Ring Method, which measures the force needed to pull a ring up from the surface of a liquid. However, in this experiment the capillary rise method will be used for measuring surface tension. This procedure relates the elevation of the liquid inside the capillary tube with the surface tension of the solution. With this method we can observe how fast or by how much the liquid will rise inside the capillary. Then we can compare the results for the solutions to that of pure water. Thus, the method gives us a direct way to observe the effects of certain factors on the surface tension of water. METHODOLOGY: CAPILLARY RISE METHOD Calibration of the Capillary Tube Using De-ionized Water The inner diameter of the capillary tube was measured by performing the capillary rise method using de-ionized water. The tube was first cleansed with hot nitric acid, and was rinsed with water afterwards. Then, using a marker or pen, a zero mark was placed near one end of the tube. The capillary tube was then dipped into a test tube containing de-ionized water, until the zero mark coincided with the water level. The initial water level in the test tube was about an inch below the edge of the test tube. Upon immersion of the capillary tube into the test tube, the water level inside the capillary was elevated over that of the surrounding water. This height difference was then measured using a Vernier caliper. Five trials were made for this procedure, and the inner radius of the capillary tube was calculated using the formula: Measuring Surface Tension of Aqueous Solutions of Sodium Chloride and Acetic Acid The effect on surface tension of factors such as concentration and solute type was examined by performing the capillary rise procedure on 0. 5 M and 1. 0 M solutions each of sodium chloride (NaCl) and acetic acid (HOAc). Each solution was placed in a separate test tube, with the liquid level rising to about an inch below the edge of the test tube. The test tubes were immersed in a water bath to ensure that they had roughly the same temperature. The same procedure employed during calibration was used. The capillary tube was dipped in the test tube until the zero mark coincided with the liquid level. The height difference between this initial level and the elevated level inside the capillary was measured using a Vernier caliper. Five trials were performed on each sample. A more general form of [Eq. 1] above was used to relate the surface tension of each sample to the height difference, as well as to the inner radius of the capillary. Equation 2 above, together with [Eq. 1], was used to calculate the surface tension of each sample solution.

Do criminal organisations use business strategy Do business Research Paper

Do criminal organisations use business strategy Do business organisations use criminal strategy - Research Paper Example In today’s world, there are millions of criminal giants making billions of Dollars by harming human beings in one way or another. If we take an example of Naples GDP is 65% and the increasing unemployment rate is 22,6% which leads to Government's failure and economic failure, due to this situation poverty rate is increased which gives birth to the high rate of crime(Mammone 2014). The highest rate of drug dealing and a majority of the people involved are young people who are educated and are jobless. La Familia Michoacan recruits young people from rehabilitation centers and convinces them to give up on their addiction either its drug or alcohol and giving them training, meditations, motivational speaker sessions and readings( Daily Herald 2014).After training part is done some were given the choice to do the driving and other work related to their aptitude and those interested in violent activities were given training of shooting, butchering and all.From the very beginning til l date all the criminal organizations have one common strategy and that is to target the weak either financially or emotionally but to target those who are easily brainwashed and can be of great use and are poor, young brains which have so much to do but are restricted by any force which isn’t letting them put their brain into something effective and creative. Top criminal gangs which are involved in most offenses have very good strategies made by educated, creative minds (Vulliamy 2010).

Nokia Corporation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Nokia Corporation - Essay Example The journey of Nokia began since the year 1865 when Fredrik Idestam, a mining engineer, founded a timber pulp mill or factory in South-Western Finland. Gradually, the other mill was established in the year 1871 which inspired the name of his company to be changed as Nokia Ab. The effectual business operations of Nokia since its inception ultimately made the organisation to be a principal multinational business organisation relating with the telecommunication business sector (Nokia, 2012).Nokia became quite successful to operate its business functions influentially by employing approximately 139,000 employees throughout the world. The main products of Nokia include mobile electronic devices, mobile telephones that include smartphones with tough screens and phones with typing pads along with other communication devices. The products such as Lumia 800, E6-00 and N8-00 are few of the attractive mobile products that belong to Nokia (Nokia, 2012).The mission of Nokia is to enhance the conn ectivity amid the social framework of international regions. The chief goal of the organisation is to build superior quality of mobile products and serve its worldwide customers and to attain a significant market share. In order to achieve its expected business goals, Nokia has formed a tactical business partnership with its related industries such as Microsoft that is expected to support the organisation to attain maximum profits in the smartphone business market. In this context, the strategy of Nokia aims to leverage.... The products such as Lumia 800, E6-00 and N8-00 are few of the attractive mobile products that belong to Nokia (Nokia, 2012). The mission of Nokia is to enhance the connectivity amid the social framework of international regions. The chief goal of the organisation is to build superior quality of mobile products and serve its worldwide customers and to attain a significant market share. In order to achieve its expected business goals, Nokia has formed a tactical business partnership with its related industries such as Microsoft that is expected to support the organisation to attain maximum profits in the smartphone business market. In this context, the strategy of Nokia aims to leverage its strengths as well as innovations in developed business markets in order to connect a huge mass of people (Nokia, 2012). The organisation intends to invest heavily in its future endeavours in order to develop its different assets that include technical features, software application programs and har dware components relating with the different phones belonging to the organisation. The other important business tactic of Nokia is greatly focussing upon the aspect of new market as well as new product development strategy. The business organisation also tends to execute other noteworthy strategies with the intention of attaining its expected business objectives (Nokia, 2012). Telecommunication Industry The effective combination of several telecommunication deregulations, enhanced enlargement of various internet related applications and the attractiveness of the mobile services ultimately accelerated the pace of growth in the telecommunication industry. Due to rapid expansion as well as growth in the telecommunication

The English Barrier Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The English Barrier - Essay Example Due to this the import of immigrants is a contributing factor is a heavy offset. Therefore, near perfect accents will be very necessary for a non-native speaker to focus on work-related dealings. Similarly due to the internet burst, business dealing have also been brought to one’s home, free video calling and voice chats now mean that only emails will not be the form of business meetings, hence the need of speaking the language well. All of these factors coupled with more are explicitly explained in this research paper, joined along with personal opinion on the issue (Exforsys Inc, 2007). THESIS Before an opinion is laid out that whether it is necessary to have perfection in speaking of the English language, especially when the person learning will have to deal with people who are also speaking English as a non-native language, one has to skim through the reasons for learning English as a secondary language. The first and foremost being that of getting a job in an English spea king country, also if your interaction is with people who have English as their mother tongue. The second reason; being that of working in an environment where English dominates the working culture even if the mother tongue is not English. Also, the fact cannot be negated that most of the business done in any part of the world has something to do with countries other than yours, therefore a common language for correspondence is more often than not English and hence the need to learn the language is necessary. Similarly as mentioned before, the advent of technology has ensured that English governs the world as no other language ever has done in the history of mankind. Some experts go on record to claim that this is now the king of languages, and may never be dethroned. Some cynics also foresee it as not the case, since some major socio-political issues in the world may deem a universal language unnecessary. All these factors aside, the use of English language for the common man is fa st turning out to be the tool needed for making big bucks in this ever drowning economy of the world (Mydans, 2007). OPINION There are always two faces to a coin, both opposite and totally different. Similarly this topic constitutes a debate about the proficiency of oral English, especially when the people one has to talk to are not well versed with the English language. Many people think that it is unnecessary for a person to be proficient in English speaking skills as there is no such need for them when conversing or corresponding with a person whose native language is not English. I tend to disagree with the hypothesis. There are many reasons to my biasness with this topic. First of them being, the level of professionalism is a key factor in inducing people to do work or business with you. An aura of professionalism oozes out for the person in front of you to see and admire. Such will be the effect that half your problems will be solved. Another major issue that is solved when on e is proficient in speaking English is that; at times, is very unfamiliar with the language, as it is his second language. Therefore one has to change gears in his vocabulary to come to a lower level, this feat can only be performed if you are well-versed in the language, not only in reading and writing but also in speaking. Many people take good

Harley Davidson Motor Company Strategy Analysis

Harley Davidson Motor Company Strategy Analysis INTRODUCTION This report aims to evaluate the strategic options available to the Harley Davidson organization. Harley Davidson Inc. has two operational segments, motorcycle and financing. Harley Davidson Financial Services (HDFS) offers loans, cycle insurance and protection plans to meet the needs of their owners, whilst the motorcycle segment designs, produces and markets primarily heavyweight touring, custom and performance motorcycles. It also manufactures motorcycle parts and accessories, gear and apparel. The company is the only major American producer of motorcycles and operates globally, with sales mostly in North America, Europe, Asia/Pacific and Latin America. Although in the past the company has experienced growth and continued success, attributed to its brand loyalty, in 2009 Harley Davidson (H-D) had to shut down and consolidate factories due to the effects of the recession and the fall of the US housing market. Strategic options can only be developed after the companys strategic position is known. Thus the first section of the report uses tools and concepts to determine H-D strategic position. In light of the companys strategic position strategic options are then formulated; this is presented in section 2. The third section of the report then uses the success criteria model presented by Johnson, Scholes and Whittington in corporate strategy, as a basis to evaluate the strategic options presented and recommendations are made. THE STRATEGIC POSITION OF HARLEY DAVIDSON INC. This section of the report is concerned with understanding the strategic position of Harley Davidson Inc. in an attempt to formulate strategic options for the company. It first identifies the changes that are occurring in the environment and how these changes affect H-D and its business activities and second the resource strength and capabilities of H-D. 1.1 The Environment In order to understand the environment which H-D operates in the following frameworks are used with the aim of helping to identify key issues and challenges and ways of coping with complexity and change. 1.1.1 Pestle Analysis In 2009 H-D stood to gain from the Economic Stimulus Package, passed into legislation by the Barack Obama Administration. The federal stimulus package gives taxpayers breaks if they purchase a new car, light truck, RV, or motorcycle. In addition, Coachman industries also a manufacturer of leisure vehicles and a competitor of H-D was eliminated from the New York Stock Exchange.(Wachter 2009). According to the Datamonitor report: The motorcycle industry segment has had economic growth for the past three years, and has only recently been experiencing decline. In 2007 it declined 2.3%, yet is forecasted to recover 4.3% by 2012. An economic factor in favor  of H-D, despite this decline, is that the U.S. industry generated total revenues of $10.2 billion in 2007, of which 98.8% were of motorcycles (not scooters, minibikes, etc.). Furthermore, within the U.S. economy H-D holds the majority of motorcycle sales. Therefore, even while industry growth is declining, H-D sales and other motorcycle sales are still continuing to increase. The Motorcyclye Industry Council (MIC) discloses that leisure product industries are facing steep decline however the motorcycle segment though declining ,is not doing so at a steep rate. Tim Buche, President of the MIC says Overall motorcycle sales were down 7.2%, not nearly as sharp a decline as many other consumer products in todays economy (Wasef 2009). Socially H-D has a competitive edge which is owed to its customer base, strong brand loyalty and demographic trends such as the increse in female operators. This loyalty is indicated in the average age of H-D consumers. H-D average consumer buying age is 42 years old and increasing (Gauvin 2005). H-D aspires to increase its consumer demographics, however à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦although the younger generation below 35 years of age has posted the largest gains in ownership, the generation that is on the edge of the baby boomer segment will be the main catalyst of growth for the industry (Koncept 2007). One social factor that may negatively affect the sale of H-D motocycles is the stigma that has been attached to these leisure vehicles. Alot of people believe that motorcycles are dangerous and this belief is strengthened due to the high rate of motorcycle fatalities and crashes. H-D stands the chance of escaping this stigmatisation if the public views their bikes as cruisers and not speed bikes. Technologically H-D can take advantage of antilock brake systems. Antilock brakes could help riders avoid fatal crases according to a study done by the insurance industry. 1.1.2 Porters Five Forces Model Rivalry H-D operates within the Recreational Vehicles industry along with five other major competitors: Winnebago, Polaris, Thor, Arctic Cat and Marine Products, the top performers within the industry which holds 92% of the market share by volume with a market capitalization of 64.653 Billion of a total Industry of 7 Billion. Other firms in different industries that are direct product rivals include Honda Motor Company Limited, Yamaha Motor Co, Ltd., and Suzuki Motor Corporation (Appendix 1). The presence of these large multinational corporations with exceptionally high assets boosts the degree of rivalry within the industry. Because of the small number of material rivals, the markets revenue is shared between fewer firms and enhances the degree of rivalry for bottom line profit. This rivalry forces most competitors to try and diversify their business models through geographical expansion or vertical expansion, leading to interests and investments in a variety of other segments such as the automobile, watercraft, industrial and farming equipment areas. (Datamonitor 2004). Threat of Substitutes The Recreational Vehicle industry faces threats from the Automobile Industry, from public transportation options and bicycles. The threat is largely dependent on the indispensability of motorcycles and other lifestyle products to the end user.(Datamonitor 2008). In most developed countries, motorcycles are leisure items and are not a necessity and are therefore largely dispensable or substitutable by more practical items such as cars or more cost effective means of transportation such as bicycles. This lack of necessity increases the threat of substitutes and is one of the major reasons why the external market goes into decline during economic recession. Buyer Power Overall, buyer power is low due to sustainable competitive advantage of product differentiation which is impossible for other brand competitors to match. Supplier Power Large multinational corporations such as Harley-Davidson can receive materials from many different international suppliers and face low switching costs due to minimal product differentiation. This presence within the international market boosts Industry leaders power. Overall, supplier power is moderate. Threat of New Entrants Overall, this threat is moderate due to high set up costs, high brand recognition, customer loyalty and high research and development costs. 1.2 Resources Strength and Capabilities Organizational Resources H-D has a formal structure that works for the company: decentralized, expert teams and leadership circles that value employee input. Programs they use to plan, report and track inventory and production include their Supply Management Strategy system (SMS), Vibration Tech PdM technology systems, as well as their web-based H-D Distribution supplier network that provides vendors with a wealth of information about supply and demand within the company. Physical Resources The Harley Triangle provides a basis for tracking and monitoring the firms physical resources. Location and Sophistication of management and the expertise of manufacturing personnel and other employees is the key in accessing raw materials, procurement and upkeep related to manufacturing equipment. H-D plants are streamlined and well-maintained, which is a core resource for H-D. Technological Resources H-D has many technological resources: including many different brand name Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights which protect its reputation and image. Human Resources/Capital Trust, Knowledge, Managerial capabilities, as well as organizational culture are H-Ds most valuable human resources. The company culture, gives H-D a major competitive advantage. Employees and suppliers know their input is valued and take pride in their work. People involved are passionate about the brand and this adds invisible value to the company. Innovation Resources Employee and supplier, as well as managements ideas are huge resources for H-D, as these people know the business and know its potential. Since there are such a variety of inputs, H-Ds capacity to innovate and create/develop new product is not subject to stagnation or groupthink. However, H-D does try to stay true to its niche market, and this creates some boundaries for innovative ideas. Reputational Resources Reputation with customers, brand name, perceptions of product, and reputation with suppliers are all very beneficial to H-Ds operations, and keep customers loyal to the product. Interactions and relationships are stressed at H-D in order to ensure quality workmanship and mutually beneficial participation in all stages of production. CAPABILITIES Purposely Integrated Technological Resources H-D ensures that all processes and activities throughout its value chain are integrated using web based SMS systems, barcodes, and reports that enable its JIT inventory flow. This allows production to flow smoothly. Manufacturing H-Ds JIT inventory pull system means that it must have streamlined manufacturing abilities. H-D does this by ensuring quality inputs into its manufacturing plants, flow production methods, and well-maintained equipment. H-D manufacturing plants are capable of producing many different models and base their inventory off of customer pull demand, reducing costs around the board as well as inventory finished products that sit unsold in warehouses (of which H-D has very few). Distribution JIT inventory management needs good transportation flow logistics. H-D has the capability to reduce lead times and ensure pull delivery through its private fleet of trucks and contracts with distribution suppliers. STRATEGIC OPTIONS The identification of possible directions builds on an understanding of H-D strategic position. The adaptation of Ansoffs product/market matrix is used for identifying directions for strategic development. Development directions are the strategic options available to H-D in terms of products and market coverage taking into account the strategic capability of the company and the expectation of shareholders. (Johnson et al 2005). Figure2, the adaptation of Ansoffs product/market matrix summarizes the strategic options available to H-D. Figure 2. Strategy Development Directions Source: Johnson et al (2005) Exploring Corporate Strategy H-D can choose one or more of the following options: It can protect and build on its current position. It can develop new markets for its products. It H-D can also develop new products in new markets and It diversifies into new markets and develops new products. These options can be pursued through different development methods which are internal development, mergers and acquisitions and strategic alliances. The options chosen has to address the key issues and challenges faced by the H-D, the company must also satisfy stakeholders expectations but most important H-D must have the resources and capabilities to develop the options chosen. In other words the option must be suitable, acceptable and feasible (Johnson et al 2005). The H-D motorcycle has been an American icon since 1903. Harley has built one the most unique reputations within the American motorcycle business. The motorcycles have transformed into a lifestyle, rather than mere transportation. Utilizing the motorcycles image, H-D became a market for recreational vehicles; constituting a sense of freedom and leisure to transportation. Often complementary to other recreational vehicles, such as motor homes, boats and snowmobiles. H-D has taken advantage of their exceptional culture and has used it to create sales. However, regardless of Harleys reputation and heritage, an economic downturn has shown that Harley Davidson Inc. needs to restructure their market. Financial crisis has slowed consumer spending, ultimately leading to low sales motorcycles and recreational vehicles. Due to the economic conditions, H-Ds 2008 profit fell 30 percent, decreasing shipments by 8 percent. (Harley Davidson Annual 2009 Report). The demand for heavyweight motorcycles has dropped dramatically, not only in the US economy but also worldwide. A slow domestic economy forces one to direct a focus on international prospects to open future long-term opportunities. The American dream, associated with Harleys, needs to be changed to fit in other dynamic cultures to increase market size. Also, increasing market size will allow more investment in research and development to apply competitive advantages within the market. H-D already has an upper hand in terms of brand uniqueness and clearly stands out from the ordinary motorcycle. An already attractive product will allow RD to function at an optimal rate. Harley Davidson Inc. currently operates internationally and the demand in foreign countries has forced management to apply their leadership and marketing skills to international markets. The economic slump has forced H-D to restructure its international management team and outlook. More experience and expertise into a countrys culture and legal requirements are essential. A global management team needs to be comfortable and confident when operating with or in foreign countries. Understanding international business practices and ethics is a crucial quality when trying to expand. Harley needs to create country based teams that are determined to make wise cultural decisions. Closely executing legal dimensions, geographic barriers, cultural obstacles, and investments will positively position Harley Davidson Inc. for future prospects. Harley Davidson Inc.s former CEO stated, International markets are a great opportunity, we need to grow them to diversify our revenue base (Harley Davidson Inc. 2009). A new CEO has been appointed and is expected to bring global and manufacturing experience. Keith E. Wandell is well attuned to international sales as well as manufacturing experience. These two qualities are exactly what Harley Davidson needs in order to reconstruct their international markets. This could be a turning point for Harleys selling approach. Building manufacturing plants in bigger foreign markets will help relieve shipping expenses, taxes, tariffs, and will be able to accurately respond to the specialized demand. Starting manufacturing plants in other countries could create numerous job opportunities. Properly trained managers would provide a domestic leadership style that is optimally adjusted to the proper culture. Not only would this create more jobs for US management, but also generate more revenue for foreign economies as locals will be needed for production. Although a long term goal, the production of manufacturing plants would be a plausible and positive future management decision as markets expand over time. Many consumer behavior research studies indicate that consumers are very likely to purchase products that are offered as limited editions. One strategy H-D can use in order to foster growth is to release a limited edition motorcycle, co-created by consumers as part of the promotional mix. H-D can use this promotional strategy to get consumers involved, appeal to their desires for rarity, and increase sales. While H-D has released several limited edition motorcycles in the past, this promotion can be adapted into a new strategy. The new limited edition motorcycle would require the involvement of consumers to help co-create the product. H-Ds research and development department would design three different motorcycles and then they would be uploaded to the H-D website. Then, consumers would be able to log on and vote for their favorite motorcycle. The winning motorcycle would then go into limited production. Those who voted would have first priority to purchase the motorcycle. Owners would then get an all-inclusive trip to the H-D Sturgis Rally. This promotion would be relatively inexpensive, yet highly effective. The designers could design the motorcycles in a way that reuses as many existing parts as possible, while still creating a unique style. This design process would lower production costs for the limited edition motorcycle. A limited edition motorcycle release of this nature would be an effective strategy because consumers are flocking to brands that are playing hard to get. Now more than ever, rarity is important for the high-end luxury sector, affluent 30-40 year olds, baby boomers, generation X and Y, and creative class consumers. This trend has shown that successful selling involves building a niche market rather than appealing to the masses. The world is becoming saturated with products that are very similar to each other, and the quest for rarity has been driven by the feeling that certain products will help us to stand apart from the masses. A limited edition H-D motorcycle is the perfect way for consumers to do just that. H-D is not new to the limited edition market scheme- the strategy just needs to be adjusted to todays consumer. One of H-Ds previously successful limited edition motorcycles is the 50th Anniversary Nightster. This model was popular because it made people want what they couldnt have. This model was embellished with a gold anniversary emblem and the year 1957 embroidered on the seat. The motorcycle also was aligned with the traditional masculinity of H-D, including the traditional colors, chrome pipes, and rugged-look. Only 2000 of these were manufactured and they retailed at only $10,000- now thats buzz-worthy. Even H-D representatives say they dont know of a single dealership with one in stock. (Harley Davidson Inc 2009). Even in the declining economy, H-D can still grow their company by altering their promotional mix. H-D can create hype and buzz by releasing a limited edition motorcycle, co-created by consumers. Consumer behavior research shows that consumers respond positively to product campaigns focused on rarity and scarcity. The buzz created due to this product release will help to increase brand awareness, and more importantly, brand resonance. These two factors ultimately result in more sales for the company. RECOMMENDATIONS There are many strategic options available to H-D however the choice made should be one that the company can pursue with existing resources and one that is line with the companys vision and mission. H-D should protect and build on their current position through consolidation and market penetration. Consolidation is where organizations protect and strengthen their position in their current markets with current products. Market penetration, is where an organization gains market share. (Johnson et al 2005). Appendix 1 pages 5 and 6 shows that H-D used this strategy they consolidated some of their operations so as to adjust cost structures and invested in their brand as a means of market penetration. Appendix 1 page 7 also states that H-D plans to add 100 to 150 dealer points through 2014. This is a good strategic option for the future but H-D should pursue this only after they have regained market share, reason being so that the company would have enough resources, especially financial resources to successfully pursue this option. Product development and market development as discussed above are also good options but should not be pursued by H-D at this point in time as these options require extensive resources and investment. Whilst new products may be vital to the future of the organization, the process of creating a broad product line is expensive, risky and potentially unprofitable. (Johnson et al 2005).H-D should use all their available resources to develop the company internally and focus on their brand. (as they are presently doing; Appendix 1 page 6) CONCLUSION H-D has a strong foundation and a uniquely powerful brand however this was not enough to allow the company to escape the problems associated with the recent economic downturn. H-D has to pursue strategies that will enable them to sustain growth and market share to endure economic hard times and to keep away competitors. The company has laid down their business strategy quite clearly in their 2009 annual report (See Appendix page 6) and this is an excellent start to do achieving this. If the company can turnaround itself around from the verge of bankruptcy in the 1980s then with the right tangible and intangible resources, current technology and the knowledge of past strategies used Harley Davidson can become the leader in the motorcycle industry internationally. REFERENCES Datamonitor (2007) Motorcycles in the United States: Industry Profile. [Online] Available at: http://web.ebscohost.com/bsi/pdf?vid=6hid=115sid=60f53058-dbd4-402c-8546-03baa6899d4a%40sessionmgr107. [Accessed: 5th March, 2011]. Gauvin, T (2005) Harley Davidson. [Online] Available at: http://209.85.173.132/search?q=cache:lVbpsaLDfmAJ:perleybrook.umfk.maine.edu/slides/spring%25202005/bus411/harley%2520Davidson.ppt+harley+davidson+external+analysishl=enct=clnkcd=2gl=us. [Accessed: 5th March, 2011]. Harley-Davidson Inc (2009) 2009 Annual Report. [Online] Available at: http://www.harley-davidson.com/en_US/Content/Pages/Student_Center/student-center.html?locale=en_USbmLocale=en_US#annualreport [Accessed: 27th February, 2011]. Harley-Davidson Inc (2009) Harley-Davidson Reports 2008 Results, Plans Lower 2009 Shipments and Unveils Strategy for Current Environment. [Online] Available at: http://www.harley-davidson.com/wcm/Content/Pages/HD_News/Company/newsarticle.jsp?locale=en_USarticleLink=News/0375_press_release.hdnewsnewsYear=2009history=news [Accessed: 27th February, 2011]. Johnson, Gerry, Scholes, Kevan and Whittington, Richard (2005) Exploring Corporate Strategy. Seventh Edition. Harlow, Essex: Pearson Education. Print ISBN 0 273 68734 4. Koncept, A (2008) Recreational Vehicle Market: Aging Baby Boomers to Fuel Growth. [Online] Available at: http://www.konceptanalytics.com/. [Accessed: 27th February, 2011]. Wasef, B (2009) Motorcycle Industry Council Reports Drop in Motorcycle Sales, Upswing for Scooters and Dual-Purposes. [Online] Available at: http: //motorcycles.about.com/b/2009/02/06/motorcycle-industry-council-reports-drop-in-motorcycle-sales-upswing-for-scooters-and-dual-purposes.htm. [Accessed: 25th February, 2011]. Wachter, D (2009) Motorcyclists Reap Benefits from the Stimulus Package. [Online] Available at:http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/article/motorcyclists_reap_benefits_from_the_stimulus_package/20722/. [Accessed: 3rd March, 2011].

References to Homosexuality in Walt Whitmans Song of Myself Essay

References to Homosexuality in Walt Whitman's Song of Myself "WHITMAN WAS MORE MAN THAN YOU'LL EVER BE," said a student of Louisiana State University. When asked questions of your sexual preference or thoughts on the issue of sex, I would venture to say it makes most people uncomfortable. This is an age-old topic that people know about, yet do not want to talk about. He was particularly reticent about his issues regarding sex and his particular sexual preference. In fact, of Whitman's struggles the most difficult for him to deal with was his ever so strong homosexual desires (Hubbell 283). Whether homosexuality is right or wrong is not for me to decide. Though I feel it should not be used so explicitly in works of literature. Homosexuality, by definition, is the act of having relations with members of the same sex (Webster's Dictionary). In today's society, we chose to either disregard homosexuality, to accept it, or to engage in it. Someone you least expect is probably a homosexual to some extent. Most heterosexuals tend to pretend that homosexuality does not exist or judge those who chose to engage in it. This issue is not new. In fact, in the early nineteenth century many letters and diaries that have been examined show that middle class men and women of all ages participate in relations that verged on sexual- homosexual love. Today these acts would be judged as homoerotic, yet were viewed with tolerance and were even encouraged by leading middle class moralists. Readers of the time took little notice to poets like Whitman, not even to condemn them for immorality, a charge which they typically reserved for poems with heterosexual themes (Killingsworth 98). Whitman was a unique poet and a... ...e had no idea when writing this work what the future would hold, we are now reading this in our literature class. Is this really appropriate? We are college students, and as mature adults, this material should be something we can handle. What do you think? I believe that homosexuality is very real, and that we need to learn about it and educate ourselves about the issue. Yet, I don't think we should go as far as being explicit about it in our textbooks. Works Cited Hubbell, Jay B. Eight American Authors- A review of Research and Criticism. The Modern American Language Association of America. New York, 1956. Killingsworth, Jimmie. Whitman's Poetry of the Bdy. University of North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill and London. 1989. Lauter, Paul. The Heath Anthology of American Literature, Third Edition. Houghton Mifflin Company, New York. 1998.