Variable Cost - 1729 Words

Cost management | Wilkerson Company Case | | 1. What is the competitive situation faced by Wilkerson? The competitive situation faced by Wilkerson is quite severe. Price cutting in its main product has led to a huge drop in profit. While price increase in another product line partially made up the loss. We will discuss the detailed situation line by line. (1) Valves It was the first product line developed by Wilkerson and its high quality brought it a loyal customer base. Even if several competitors could match Wilkerson’s quality in valves, none had tried to gain market share by cutting price. Therefore the competitive situation for valves was not so fierce that Wilkerson could maintain its gross margin. (2) Pumps†¦show more content†¦gineering $100,000 Providing engineering $100,000 Packaging and shipping $150,000 Packaging and shipping $150,000 # of shipments # of shipments Engineering hours Engineering hours Machine hours Machine hours # of production runs # of production runs # of production runs # of production runs Direct material Direct labour Direct material Direct labour Valves, Pumps, Flow Controllers Valves, Pumps, Flow Controllers (2) Activity-based cost driver rates Activity | cost | Cost driver | # of cost driver | Cost driver rate | Machine-related activities | 336,000 | Machine hours | 11,200 | 30 | Setting up machines | 40,000 | # of production runs | 160 | 250 | Receiving and controlling | 180,000 | # of production runs | 160 | 1,125 | Providing engineering | 100,000 | Engineering hours | 1,250 | 80 | Packaging and shipping | 150,000 | # of shipments | 300 | 500 | Summary of product lines’ overhead cost allocation | Valves | Pumps | Flow controllers | ABC overhead cost per unit | | | | Machine-related activities | 15.00 | 15.00 | 9.00 | Setting up machines | 0.33 | 1.00 | 6.25 | Receiving and controlling | 1.50 | 4.50 | 28.13 | Providing engineering | 2.67 | 2.40 | 12.50 | Packaging and shipping | 0.67 | 2.80 | 27.50 | Total | 20.17 | 25.70 | 83.38 | Summary of product lines’ cost and profitability in activity-based costing | Valves | Pumps | Flow controllers | Direct labor | 10.00 | 12.50 | 10.00 |Show MoreRelatedVariable Cost and Company1042 Words   |  5 PagesSection B Attempt Any Six Questions (6*5= 30) 1. Company A’s costs are mostly variable, whereas Company B’s costs are mostly fixed. When sales increase, which company will tend to realize the greatest increase in profits? Explain. 2. Crystal Telecom has budgeted the sales of its innovative mobile phone over the next four months as follows: Sales in Units July. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30,000 August . . . . . . . . . . . 45,000 September . . . . . . . . 60,000 October . . . .Read MoreVariable Cost2976 Words   |  12 PagesDescribe the schedule of cost goods manufactured. How does it tie into the income statement? 5. Why are product costs sometimes called inventoriable costs? Describe the flow of such costs in a manufacturing company from the point of incurrence until they finally become expenses on the income statement. 6. Is it possible for costs such as salaries or depreciation to end up assets on the balance sheet? Explain. 7. â€Å"The variable cost per unit varies with output, whereas the fixed cost per unit is constantRead MoreHarrington: Cost and Variable Costs1062 Words   |  5 PagesFinancial Analysis While doing the financial analysis it is important to calculate the unit price first. Using the wholesale price rather than the retail price, the calculated unit price is $95. Next, we sum up the start-up costs and operating costs, both fixed and variable, and use these numbers to calculate the breakeven units. After calculation, the breakeven point is 289,846 units. Appendix A shows the details of our process. Active-wear sales are expected to double by 2009, and 40% of thoseRead MoreMidterm: Variable Cost1273 Words   |  6 PagesPrime cost. | B | Conversion cost. | C | Period cost. | D | Nonmanufacturing cost. | 2. | Prime cost and conversion cost share what common element of total cost? | A | Direct materials. | B | Direct labor. | C | Variable overhead. | D | Variable overhead. | 3. | On the Schedule of Cost of Goods Manufactured, the final Cost of Goods Manufactured figure represents: | A | the amount of cost charged to Work in Process during the period. | B | the amount of cost transferredRead MoreFixed or Variable Cost886 Words   |  4 PagesCost can be divided into fixed and variable and by considering into fact that fixed and variable cost can be unarguably split into two, even though they behave differently based on the level of sales of volumes. Since, cost is used in every field to determine the price of an item and the unit sold. Two of the main components of cost are fixed and variable cost and is used to differentiate between the costs that have no direct correlation to business and those that do. Definition:- Fixed cost isRead MoreThe Cost Of Variable Cost2557 Words   |  11 Pagestotal variable cost changed depending on the production whereas the total cost stays the same no matter how much a business sells whether it’d be thousands or none. Unlike a fixed cost, a variable cost can be much more difficult to budget, and may at times exceed the limits of the budget when the variable cost is related to an unexpected expense, and sometimes it can come to the stage where the limits of the budget can exceed due to the unexpected expenses rise. The advantages of Variable costingRead MoreDifference Between Product Revenue And Variable Cost1142 Words   |  5 PagesContribution margin is one of the vital tools utilized throughout the Capsim simulation and business operations in general. Bushong and Talbolt (2001) summarizes the contribution margin ratio as the difference between product revenue and variable cost, over variable cost. Recommendations under the Capsim simulation advised that groups maintained a contribution margin no less than 30% as this will aid in long-term business profitability and sustainability (Capsim, 2014). Through the successful understandingRead MoreComputer Equipment : Fixed Cost And Variable Cost804 Words   |  4 PagesExhibit 2 has fixed cost and variable cost both in the report. Other cost we need to look it is the opportunity of the purchased computer equipment which has a value of around $25,500. The lease computer equipment is cannot be cancelled, so we consider it a sunk cost and do not take it into consideration. Next, we need to look at the purpose of creating PDS. The purpose was to help deregulate PTC and rescind the push through of a rate increase. If they shutdown PDS, PTC would have to pay marketRead MoreTotal Variable Costs1408 Words   |  6 Pagespredict costs and manage them on a day-to-day basis, managers must identify: A. cost of resources used B. key activities and resources used to perform activities C. cost drivers D. all of the above 2. Cost drivers are ________. A. measures of activities that require the use of resources and thereby cause costs B. different types of functional areas in the firm C. different types of cost calculations D. the different functions in the value chain 3. Which of the following statements about costs is FALSERead MoreVariable Cost and Net Operating Income3885 Words   |  16 PagesASSIGNMENT P 6-16 , P6-17 PROBLEM 6-16 Variable and Absorption Costing Unit Product Costs and Income Statements; Explanation of Difference in Net Operating Income [LO1, LO2, LO3] Wiengot Antennas, Inc., produces and sells a unique type of TV antenna. The company has just opened a new plant to manufacture the antenna, and the following cost and revenue data have been provided for the first month of the plants operation in the form of a worksheet. Because the new antenna is unique in design, management

Essay on The Changing Role of the Supernatural in the Bible

The Changing Role of the Supernatural in the Bible - The changing role of the supernatural in the bible Almost every religious scripture references to experiences of supernatural phenomenon by holy men and women. The Bible is no exception .The bible in both forms The Exodus, the old Testamant and the Luke in the new Testament is concerned primarily with the existence of god , the nature of god, the relationship of god with his creratures , primarily humanity. Gods role in the history and creation of the world in essence in the Bible is about the supernatural , god being conceived as a supernatural deity separate and existing from the natural creation. The supernatural phenomena in the Bible are the actions taken by this†¦show more content†¦Moreover he id perceived as a jealous God and also a god of war. In another of his visions to Moses, God displays the desire to be the law giver, â€Å"I will execute judgment I am the lord†(Exodus, 12:12). A further example of god’s want to be obeyed as a ruler is anothe r vision to the people of Israel where god says â€Å"if you listen carefully to the voice of the Lord your god, and do what is right in his sight, and give heed to his commandments and keep all his status, I will not bring upon you the diseases I brought upon the Egyptians†, God is threatening the people to obey him. These supernatural visions are used to install fear in the hearts of the people. Not only do the supernatural phenomena embed fear in the hearts of the Israelites, god uses these supernatural phenomena to make the Egyptians undergo tremendous suffering. In Exodus 10.1 god tells Moses â€Å"go to the pharaoh I have made him obdurate, so that you can tell your children and grandchildren the story how I toyed with the Egyptians, and what signs I showed among them. Thus you will know I am he lord† Subsequently the exodus describes graphically Egyptians being made to suffer such horrifying trials such as he killing of all their firstborn, a pogrom executed with great precision and dexterity by biblical god personally who defines himself on the basis of these very acts of murder and infanticide. Therefore it is through such supernatural phenomena that fear of his prophet. The supernaturalShow MoreRelatedThe Creation Of The Universe, Religion, And Morals1481 Words   |  6 Pagesfuture life. Neanderthals might have had based this belief on some concept of the supernatural that was just, in fact, common natural occurrences. From the moment humans have attained a sense of finite existence they have attempted to give meaning to life. Humans have created gods to explain scientific phenomenons, rituals to bring good fortune, and burials to ease death. History has proven that with the changing of society, God or gods change as well to accommodate for the current people. DeitiesRead M oreThe Life Of Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol1062 Words   |  5 PagesThe Victorian Period lasted from 1832 to 1901 under Queen Victoria’s reign. The culture revealed in this era was a time of rapid change, social inequality, industrialization, supernatural and religious beliefs, and was accurately reflected in the works of Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol. Roles of men and women were strictly defined, as were economic statuses. The hustle and bustle of the streets led to illnesses. Working conditions were destitute and unsanitary. Children often had little to noRead MoreThe Hero With A Thousand Faces1328 Words   |  6 PagesFaces Prologue – The Monomyth Myth and Dream Myths are universal and transcendent through time; many ancient myths are seen recreated in modern times. The author uses Oedipus as a way of comparing myth to psychology. Dreams have also played a major role in civilization; the people who could interpret dreams can understand and create myths. â€Å"Dream is the personalized myth† (19). Tragedy and Comedy People have always been fascinated with the tragedy and death of others. Tragedy is the realizingRead MoreWilliam Shakespeare s Othello And The English Language1649 Words   |  7 Pagesthroughout their lives. Also, his plays talk about social issues that humans still face in today s world as author Gill Stoker says â€Å"the social issues of Shakespeare s day which feature in the plays - class division, racism, sexuality, intolerance, the role and status of women, crime, war, death, disease - are still the burning issues in today s dysfunctional global society.† (Shakespeare: Our contemporary?). One of Shakespeare most beloved play is Rome and Juliet, considered to be one of the firstRead MoreEssay on Creation verses Evolution1388 Words   |  6 PagesCreationist’s believe in a supreme creator, who is responsible for the universe and everything natural that it contains. Creationists believe in Genesis to prove that evolutionists’ theories are false. Mostly everyone know the book they refer to The Holy Bible, and in the book of Geneses chapter 2 verse 19 â€Å"and out of the ground the Lord God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air† is what the creationist whole true. Although evolution is seen throughout nature and proven by ancient fossilsRead MoreThe First Great Awakening And The Age Of Enlightenment1663 Words   |  7 Pagesmost influential writers and new light preachers was Jonathan Edwards. Edwards was born into an Orthodox family on October 5th, 1703, in the city of East Windsor, Connecticut. As a child, Jonathan Edwards had constant exposure to the teachings of the Bible and Christian theology, as well as having the opportunity to learn a variety of languages such as Greek and Latin (University). Throughout his childhood, Edwards received an adequate and excellent education from his father and ten sisters, so thatRead More Scarlet Critique Essay870 Words   |  4 PagesLetter including symbolism and irony. He emphasized the individuals role in the community and the role of women in society. Hawthorne used romanticism as opposed to the classical correctness of writing. Romanticism was an artistic and intellectual movement that originated in the 18th Century and stressed strong emotion and imagination. Puritanism was the belief that all humans are sinful and that it is only though God and the bible that one can find redemption. Hawthorne did not agree with their philosophyRead MoreSharing The Gospel Is Both Simple And Complicated. Listing1693 Words   |  7 Pagesalone without depending on denominational belief statements and Scripture as the only source of information. Not because I don’t value Scripture, but because some listeners have not yet learned to value the Bible as an authority and sacred text. That being said, if possible, I’d have a Bible handy and refer to specific Scriptures. I’d also expect the listener would be participating and my contribution wouldn’t be a monolog. What separates Christianity from other faiths and religions is that JesusRead MoreThe Pentecostal and Charismatic Movements and Speaking in Tongues3214 Words   |  13 PagesPentecostals and Charismatics†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦2 a. Brief History of the Pentecostal and Charismatic Movements†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.2-3 b. The Beliefs of the Pentecostals and Charismatics†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..............3-5 III. The Bible and the Baptism in the Holy Spirit†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.....5 IV. The Bible and Gifts of the Holy Spirit†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..6 V. Scholarly Perspectives on Speaking in Tongues †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..7 a. Speaking in Tongues: A Reversal of the Babel Event at Pentecost†¦.†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..7-8 b.Read MoreEssay on Miracles Happen Every Day2191 Words   |  9 PagesIntroduction Miracles are one of the most common reasons people reject Christianity. People do not believe they could happen and therefore claim other parts of the Bible and biblical story must be in error. Christians have been raised to believe the miracles of the Bible but is it actually logical to do so? God is a complex God and therefore speaks in complex ways, which are beyond human comprehension. Miracles are God conveying a message to his people through divine intervention. Whether it

It’s a Wonderful Life Free Essays

Frank Capra’s 1946 film It’s a Wonderful Life is considered one of the sentimental favorites of our time and a staple of the Christmas television season. The movie was considered something of a failure at the time, since it failed to earn a profit when stacked up against the expenses of filming. However, it is now recognized as one of the most important films made to date. We will write a custom essay sample on It’s a Wonderful Life or any similar topic only for you Order Now Part of the appeal may lie in the timing – the film’s initial release came on the heels of World War II. After years of bloodshed in Europe and Asia, the sentimentality of a hopeful Christmas story might have been what resonated with the American public. (A man, suicidal and depressed on Christmas Eve, is approached by an angel for a walk through the moments of his life – the classic â€Å"darkest before dawn† theme that has always struck a chord with audiences may have been especially poignant after the end finally came in the long war. Though the movie might have been considered a flop at the time, the small moments of beauty have helped it become an enduring classic, such as the little things that changed while George, the main character, was not living but busy walking down memory lane with Clarence the angel – the difference in the wind is appreciated not only by George, but by those in the audience. I would recommend this movie to friends or classmates; it is an important part of iconic cinematography and serves as both a forerunner and a counterpoint to some subsequent â€Å"modern classics†, such as American Beauty, a much more sinister film that nevertheless impresses upon its audience the importance of appreciating all the small blessings one has been given in life, no matter how dour the outlook might be at a particularly dark time. Because of its place in the collective consciousness, It’s a Wonderful Life definitely deserves a mention in the Top 25. How to cite It’s a Wonderful Life, Papers

Strategic Management for Industrial attractiveness- myassignmenthelp

Question: Evaluation of How the Theoretical Concepts Influences Strategic Management; The Case of Toyota Motor Corporation Answer: Industrial Attractiveness Industrial attractiveness can be said to be the ease and the weight of the risks that a company evaluates in venturing in to a business venture. The company will be in a position to base their attractiveness on the levels of competition among the companies that manufacture the same goods, their abilities to outdo them in the new venture the growing demands of the goods and services of the company. (Pulles et al., 2016, p.129). For the success of the company also, the management should be in a position to carry out need assessment and evaluation procedures so as they can provide the goods and services that the customers require. The services should as well be delivered with efficiency and they should be profitable. The Toyota vehicle company management has been held accountable for upholding their industrial attraction virtually in all parts of the world. The issue of industrial management has contributed to a great extent to the strategic management of the company. The company has been presented in the news for the last two years severally providing top quality vehicle designs. For these products, the company has been able to attract very many customers and compete very well in the market. The Toyota company has also obtained the competitive advantage over other companies. This has been as a result of the manufacturing, assembling and also servicing of their products. Innovativeness has taken a course in its market position. According to Porter (2013), Industrial attractiveness can take five (5) forces. These forces can also be used to show how the Toyota Motor Corporation industrial attractiveness, in terms of internal and external forces influence the strategic management practices. However, Toyota Motor Corporation remains at the top in the automotive industries. Competitive rivalry is among the strong forces for Toyota Motors Corporation. The factor shows how other firms producing the same type of product can affect the Toyota company. Some rivals in motor industries can be very aggressive in the market in terms of which company produces the best motors, which company has the best innovations and the company which is best in marketing (Chen, Liu Wu, 2016, p.2145). However, the researches have shown that Toyota competes with very few firms producing motors such as Volkswagen, general motors, Ford, Nissan and Hyundai. Threat of substitute is another factor, the Toyota company can be threatened by the customers needs which may result to desire of a substitute may be because of the economic factors or marketing and manufacturing factors of quality and value. Buyer power regards the ability of the consumers or the customers to purchase the product. The industrial attractiveness can diminish if the Toyota company produces Other forces like barriers of entry and supplier power are internal forces that affect the attractiveness of the industry on the basis of the industry to supply its product and extend its market. Toyota motor corporation has to evaluate these forces and make strategic management based on them to achieve industrial attractiveness. Competitive advantage Competitive advantage is the attribute attached to an organization or the company that makes it to outdo other companies which it is competing with. Toyota motor company is among the companies that has shown efficiency in competitive market (Krishnaswamy, 2017, p.106). In the year 2015, the company was ranked the first in the sales of motor vehicles with more than $16 Billion, $18.7 Billion in 2016 which is more than double for the competitors like Volkswagen, ford, Nissan and General motors. The competitive advantage of the Toyota can be attributed to both the internal and external factors. For the external factors, the company is situated in Japan. Japan is the second country after USA in terms of Gross Domestic Production (GDP) (Ikegami Wang, 2016, p.767). The country is the third in terms of Automotive motor industries in the world. The external factors in this country gives potential for the development of this corporation. The country also has been able to use the vehicles which are produced in the country. The country does not import the motor products from other countries. For this reason, the Toyota company gets more avenues starting from the country and thus getting to a position to expand the market to the outside world and compete all other motor companies in other countries like Hyundai in South Korea and Ford in United States of America. The internal factors boosting the company and placing high competitive position are for example, meeting the aspect of time through innovations, affordability of the motor products such as vehicles of all classes, boat engines and other IT and biotechnology motor products. The diversification of its products offers it a very strong market for all of these products. For achieving this status in the competitive market, the company management has influenced strategic management practices in the company. For the Toyota corporation the strategic management, the customers, suppliers, the products and the competitors as well as marketing, technology and business strategy aspects must be considered in in the Corporation management plan. For instance, the customers plan can be aimed at focusing on provision of more valuable motor products. The management must always seek in their strategic plans on the changing market condition, the response of their customers and seeing if the customers are replacing the products with the others (Davis, 2017, p.05). The products will influence the strategic management too. The products from the Toyota Corporation can become obsolete if the management practices can fail to look on issues like the innovations and technological development. The products from the Toyota corporation are of moderate prices, but the competitors can offer lower prices and advertise their similar goods with lower price. The Toyota company can only lower the product price also so as the consumer or the customer does not replace the product with another brand. Resource based view The Resource based View is a tool in Economics that can be applied to determine the available resources, the available capabilities and competencies in a business firm. The resources, capabilities and competencies aims at achieving competitive advantage and the Industrial attractiveness (Wu Chiu, 2015, p.25). In this theory, there are some points in analysis of RBV of an organization such as Toyota Corporation. One of them is based on identifying the key resources in a firm. For instance, the Toyota Corporation has been in a position to acquire all the needed manufacturing material for their industries. The corporation is also based in a very good economic country which can be able to support the motor industries in Japan. The company also have enough workforce skilled with the newest technology and with the legendary knowledge of the Toyota Corporation. The man power, the technological machinery and a suitable economy in Japan provides the company with good capabilities and compete ncies for enabling it being on top in the market (De Stefano, Montes-Sancho Busch, 2016). Another factor in understanding and examining the RBV is the issue of VRIN criteria based on Value, Rare, Imperfectly Imitable and Non-substitutable. Toyota Corporation products are valuable, the company manufactures high value motor products like cars. Other competitors neither have such brands of products nor easily implement same manufactural products as Toyota. The products from the corporation can also not be substituted easily by other companies because its peculiar. Finally, all the resources that pass these evaluations are maintained so as to enlarge the companys boarders of marketing (Lin Wu, 2014, p.407). Recommendations that would enhance strategic management in Toyota Motors Corporation For the strategic Management in Toyota Motors Corporation, I would recommend setting the goals and objectives for the corporation. Setting a goal helps in clarifying of the vision the company aims to meet. This is in terms of short, medium and long term goals. For instance, the corporation can seek to set a goal in producing a new model of vehicles, on policy amendments to fit the prevailing customer demands or on the sales and profit estimate for the year. Regular assessment of the customers need can also enhance the strategic management. The reason for this is to make sure that the customer is provided with the desirable products and that he/she can acquire. It can be in terms of price or any other consumer related elements. Assessing the customers need will avoid market shift for the company as the customer will substitute the product for another. Another recommendation is that, the Toyota Motor Corporation should study the market and appraise its industrial attractiveness through offering high quality and valuable motor products. This will assist the corporation in meeting a competitive advantage among its competitors. Through industrial attractiveness the trade name will be known for quality and value and the corporation will have more customers over its competitors. References Chen, Y. M., Liu, H. H., Wu, H. Y. (2016). Reputation for toughness and anti-dumping rebuttals: competitive rivalry, perceived benefits, and stage of the product life cycle. Journal of Business Research, 69(6), 2145-2150. Davis, P. J. (2017). How HR can create competitive advantage for the firm: Applying the principles of resource-based theory. Human Resource Management International Digest, 25(2), 4-6. De Stefano, M. C., Montes-Sancho, M. J., Busch, T. (2016). A natural resource-based view of climate change: Innovation challenges in the automobile industry. Journal of Cleaner Production, 139, 1436-1448. Hines, P. (2016). Toyota supplier system in Japan and the UK. In Developments in Logistics and Supply Chain Management (pp. 113-124). Palgrave Macmillan UK. Ikegami, M., Wang, Z. (2016). The long-run causal relationship between electricity consumption and real GDP: Evidence from Japan and Germany. Journal of Policy Modeling, 38(5), 767-784. Krishnaswamy, S. (2017). Sources of Sustainable Competitive Advantage: A Study Industry Outlook. St. Theresa Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences, 3(1). Lin, Y., Wu, L. Y. (2014). Exploring the role of dynamic capabilities in firm performance under the resource-based view framework. Journal of business research, 67(3), 407-413. Pulles, N. J., Schiele, H., Veldman, J., Httinger, L. (2016). The impact of customer attractiveness and supplier satisfaction on becoming a preferred customer. Industrial marketing management, 54, 129-140. Wu, L., Chiu, M. L. (2015). Organizational applications of IT innovation and firm's competitive performance: A resource-based view and the innovation diffusion approach. Journal of Engineering and Technology Management, 35, 25-44.

Birmingham Case Study free essay sample

After its establishment in 1982, the Birmingham Furniture Company (BFC) expanded significantly, and achieved continuous growth in profits until 2009 when turnover reached a peak of  £15,000. However, since then the company has encountered a number of setbacks. Staff have become increasingly dissatisfied and some have resigned. In addition, a new competitor has started operating nearby. It is likely that these difficulties have led to the fall in turnover, which reached only  £12,000 per week in 2010. The purpose of this report is to analyse these problems, and suggest some practical solutions to enable the BFC to flourish again. 2. Analysis of Data In order to raise profitability, the Vines need to improve company management, boost staff morale, and deal with the new competition. 2.1 Management Structure The BFC has expanded considerably since its establishment. However, it still retains the informal management structure of a small company, which is now inappropriate. As a consequence, management and staff responsibilities are poorly defined and the chain of command is not clear. We will write a custom essay sample on Birmingham Case Study or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page An obvious example of this is the fact that Mr and Mrs Vine’s roles have become blurred, and staff never know who to approach when problems arise; this led to stock being ordered twice from the same supplier in 2008. In addition, Ms Clarke’s unpopular appointment as ‘unofficial’ supervisor is preventing her, as a relative newcomer, from being able to exercise effective authority over the workforce. Most importantly, the Vines are too busy to communicate with each other or their staff. As a result, they were unaware of the dissatisfaction and low morale of their employees. 2.2 Employee Morale Two full time members of staff have recently resigned, and training their replacements is time consuming. The Vines believe this has contributed to  the fall in turnover. However, a more serious problem, and probably the reason for these resignations, is the unfair commission system. Two staff and Ms Clarke have complained that only the cashier receives the commission, and not the sales assistant who oversees the whole sale. In addition, other tasks, such as deliveries, orders and pricing, do not attract commission, and therefore there is no incentive to do these. The result is an unhappy and uncooperative workforce. 2.3 Competition and Products Mr Vine is unconcerned about Big Deal Furniture, which has recently opened nearby. Fortunately, the BFC appeals to a different type of market, as it sells a wide range of top-quality furniture, including hand-made garden furniture. However, the latter is seasonal in demand, and it seems likely, as suggested by Mrs Vine, that competition from Big Deal Furniture has affected sales of the indoor furniture. 3. Alternative Solutions It is suggested that the Vines consider the following solutions to address their difficulties. 3.1 Management Structure A formal management structure, with clearly defined roles and responsibilities needs to be introduced so that all staff know who to report to. In particular, it is essential for the Vines to clarify their own roles with immediate effect, with, for example, Mrs Vine taking charge of administration, and Mr Vine running operations and production. In addition, supervisors must be appointed in a transparent manner. This will involve a formal recruitment procedure, including formulating a job description, advertising the position to all staff, short-listing, interviewing and finally appointing a suitable candidate. This will be time consuming and also incur costs, as middle managers need to be financially rewarded. However, an open and fair system is necessary in order to restore trust and create a cooperative, productive workforce. It is further suggested that the Vines and their supervisors have regular meetings, with each other and their staff, in order to communicate these changes, and discuss staff issues. These actions should clarify lines of communication, create more effective decision-making, raise staff morale, and improve company operations and efficiency. 3.2 Employee Morale The commission system which is causing so much dissatisfaction must be addressed. It should be discussed and agreed at a general meeting for managers and staff. The commission could be shared among the whole sales staff. However, this might be difficult to calculate, if staff do different tasks and work different hours. In addition this will still cause resentment among the non-sales staff. Alternatively, the introduction of a profit sharing scheme might be considered. This would be applicable to all staff, proportional to the level of responsibility within the company and hours worked. An equitable and fair system such as this would give a real incentive to increase productivity and thereby lead to a rise in sales. Most importantly, it would motivate staff and create a more cooperative and contented workforce. It is also recommended that staff should be offered training in sales and production, in order to maintain the BFC’s standards for high quality. The costs of this are likely to be balanced out by improved staff morale and the resulting increased productivity. 3.3 Competition and Products At the moment it is not clear how much impact the budget furniture store is having on the BFC’s sales. However, it would be advisable to analyse future trends and opportunities for development to counter possible competition. A review of product lines and an assessment of their profitability need to be carried out. The BFC offers a different, more sophisticated product than the new discount store, and it seems sensible to continue to focus on different  customers. It should therefore develop marketing and promotion campaigns to enhance its luxury brand, and retain and develop its customer base. It can also consider store and website refurbishment in line with its brand, special offers and loyalty cards. These proposals will incur costs, and should therefore be gradually established, once sales improve. In addition to the core products the BFC should also consider diversification into other lines and distribution channels. The current economic climate and increasing trends in e-commerce must be taken into account. Therefore, the company could explore the possibility of selling flat pack furniture, and increase its on line sales. This will decrease costs, while still maintaining the BFC’s reputation for superior quality. 4. Recommendations 4.1 Short-term There are some urgent actions which need to be taken immediately. To improve staff morale, and thereby increase sales, it is strongly recommended that a new management structure should be established, with clear roles for Mr and Mrs Vine. In addition a staff profit sharing scheme should be introduced. These measures will have minimal cost implications. 4.2 Long-term In the long term, the BFC should invest in strategies to promote its special brand, so as to combat competition. These include staff training, shop and website refurbishment, development of products, and on line marketing programmes. These involve substantial costs, and should therefore be established gradually, as sales increase. However, in order to survive and thrive in an increasingly fierce market, such investment and forward planning is essential.

Guide to Present Tenses for ESL

Guide to Present Tenses for ESL The Basics: Present Tenses: There are two present tenses: The present simple and the present continuous. The two tenses are quite different. Generally, the present simple is used to refer to everyday habits that you have. Use the present simple to talk about activities or routines which take place on a regular basis. Tom takes the A train to work every day.Peter usually gets home at seven in the evening. The present continuous is usually used to refer to events happening at the present moment in time. Theyre doing their homework at the moment.Marys playing tennis with Tom at the club right now. Present Simple Structure: Positive Subject Verb Objects I, You, We, They - eat lunch at noon. Subject Verb s Objects He, She, It - works well in any situation. Negative S do not (dont) Verb Objects I, You, We, They - dont enjoy opera. S does not (doesnt) Verb Objects He, She, It - doesnt belong to the club. Questions (Why, What, etc.) do S Verb Objects? Do - I, you, we, they - work in this town? (Why, What, etc.) does S Verb Objects? Does - he, she, it - live in this city? Present Continuous Structure: Positive Subject conjugate the helping verb be verb -ing. Im, Youre, Hes, Shes, Were, Youre, Theyre - working today. Negative Subject conjugate the helping verb be not verb -ing. Im not, You arent, He isnt, She isnt, We arent, You arent, They arent - coming this evening. Questions Question word conjugate the helping verb be subject verb -ing What - are you, they - doing this afternoon?What - is he, she - doing this afternoon? Study Present Tenses in Depth: Here are detailed guides to the present simple and the present continuous tenses. Each guide provides situations, common time expressions used with the tense, as well as examples. These guides were prepared especially for beginners and include dialogues and a short quiz. Present Simple for Beginners Its also important to know how to use adverbs of frequency with the present simple. Adverbs of frequency such as usually, often, etc. are used to tell how often you do something. I often go out on Saturday nights.They usually take the bus to work. Test Your Knowledge of Present Tenses: Once youve studied the rules - or if you already know the rules - test your knowledge: Adverbs of Frequency Quiz Teach a Lesson about the Present Tenses: There are five absolute beginner lessons related to the present simple on the site: Lesson for the present simple positive formLesson for the present simple negative formLesson on present simple question formLesson on using adverbs of frequency with the present simpleLesson on talking about daily habits with the present simple These lessons are great for helping students learn by rote, rather than through grammar exercises and serve as a good introduction to the tenses for false beginners. For the present continuous, here is a descriptive activity helping learners use the present continuous. Activities Concerning Present Tenses: Here are some fun classroom games that you can use in class, or on your own which will help you with giving instructions. Simon SaysColored Lego Blocks Finally, this grammar chant will help you practice the present simple - especially the third person singular (he, she, it)

Vans Skateboard Marketing Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Vans Skateboard Marketing - Case Study Example With this objective as their motto, they have employed many strategies starting from the designing stage and extending up to the marketing stage. Vans is an American brand which sells all types of shoes and hats that appeal to all the market segments. The product, Vans Skateboard shoes DD-66 Black/Black/Punk Dots is a classic skateboard shoe which targets the youth as its target audience. Van shoes come with latest designs that attracts the intended segment of customers as it supports the aspirations of the youth. The model feature is a boardfeel technology which delivers high performance and quality. The new cupsole design makes the user more comfortable in terms of grip and flexibility. The new screen printed canvass gives the product an elegant look and renders it a stylish appearance. Vans Skateboard shoes are equipped with Boardfeel technology which takes cup sole construction to the next level by replicating the grip and feel of vulcanized but with better support and cushioning. The customer will benefit from its classic styling and performance. The premium look and designing with the suede upper side render the shoes an elegant outlook and style. The screen printed canvass gives the product a more attractive design and comfort. ... These products are Designed in such a manner as to deliver high performance Vulcanized grip will help in gaining increased support and grip. The product comes with high quality which makes it lasts for a long time. Vans Skateboard shoes will give the user an individual style statement and personality and the user will feel more comfortable with its light and flexible design. (Vans DD-66 Skate Shoe - Mens). (Vans Network). (Vans Skateboard Shoes DD-66-Black/Black/Punck Dots). Product Branding: The branding strategy of Vans is based on its long years of heritage that helps them to achieve authenticity and thereby credibility among the customers. Vans is focusing on the core sports like snowboarding, skateboarding, surfing etc, which are generally aimed for fun, and adventure. Thus, the main marketing strategy is to promote these sports and thereby promote the brand. As per the branding strategy of Vans, "the goal of creating a leadership position for our brand and a strong emotional connection with our customers." (Business: Introduction). Target Audience: A target market is a type of market that has want or need of your product or service. (How to Identify Target Market). Vans started its skateboard division after they noticed the booming surfing and skateboard culture in California. The targeted customers of Vans come under the age group of 10-24 years from all over the world who are active participants and emulators of sports culture. The marketing strategy of Vans thus focuses on creating and maintaining these customers through sports and entertainment events, such as Vans Warped Tour, Vans skate parks, Vans Triple Crown etc... The brand name evokes interest in the target audience as many people consider it as

Organizational Effectiveness Amid the Labour Crisis Essay

Organizational Effectiveness Amid the Labour Crisis - Essay Example Professor Peter Cappelli further argued that the problem arises because of the lack of competency to manage the welfare of employees. On the other hand, Blackler and Shimmin (1984) anticipated that the demands for cost savings and improved efficiency will raise many issues of conflict within the organization based on certain events that has been affecting the UK economy. The means to organizational effectiveness were proposed by management theories that were believed to have provided solutions to dilemmas faced by businesses in the past. â€Å"New and theoretical knowledge often becomes part of the repertoire of the science of organisational behaviour, functioning as technologies of regulation which are used to control and discipline employees† (Thompson and McHugh, 2002, p. 297) In addition, these were aimed at discovering the patters to employee behaviour, and the forces that define employee work morale. The scientific management theory concentrated decision making in the ha nds of the employers, while employees were regarded as no more than "manpower—the energy or force required to propel the organizational machine† (Morgan, 1986, p.29). Alternatively, the human relations movement was able to identify other key aspects to employee motivation, and extended the role of the manager. Many changes have occurred since the Industrial Revolution, and while monetary benefits are still the primary objectives in seeking for employment, some tendencies are no longer observed. The assumed patterns of behaviour by employees relevant to their personal and financial interest in the company is hard to prove these days. Current Labour Trends Developing countries are not the only ones to suffer the blows of recession. The United Kingdom, despite favourable performance in the stock market, is also faced with problems associated with the rise in costs of goods and services. The UK per capita income has declined tremendously owing to the trends in the labour ma rket—to include unemployment, underemployment and part-time services. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the unemployment rate increased to 8.1% in 2011, and jobless rate for 16 to 24 year olds totalled to 991,000 in the first quarter (BBC, 2011). Result of the survey by the EEF, a manufacturers’ organization in the UK, showed that the manufacturing sector, which is among the highest provider of jobs, averaged 2.2% in settlements for laid off employees. As a result, the number of people claiming jobseeker’s allowance rose by 19,600 in May, which was twice as expected (Peacock, 2011). The rationale behind the decisions of many companies in the United Kingdom to terminate services of a large portion of their workforce has been defined by economic professionals. The firms are inclined to regulate their internal costs to compensate for the drop in revenues. The government was first to take the move, â€Å"with the vocal support of the bankers wh o caused the recession, by deliberately creating unemployment with public sector cuts†, secretary general of the GMB union, Paul Kenny, said (as cited from Peacock, 2011). Similarly, manufacturers worry about the ever increasing cost of production, and tried to reduce allotment for salaries by retrenchment and insisting overtime on those not removed from the payroll. Others chose to outsource their operations, and resulted in reduced domestic employment. Underemployment is a different issue. Because there is not enough full-time jobs available, underemployed workers were

Annotated bibliography Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 6

Annotated bibliography - Essay Example In this case, therefore, rituals can be discussed as a form of reality that influences the natural existence of human beings. In his work, McNamara (pp.222) indicates that rituals can basically be described as meaningless. He adds that, ritualists ought not to have ascribed meanings to the rituals prior to performance of the same. He quotes that, ‘†¦rituals are not primarily devices for communicating hidden meanings†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ (222). This work puts the view that all forms of ritual studies should not only endeavor to discuss the meanings of rituals, but discuss the contexts in which rituals can be understood. This includes how rituals can be performance, and how the rituals can be performed. He also emphasizes that rituals can always have meanings if the audience want them to have meanings. The work, however, cautions that persons should not misunderstand the fact that rituals may be termed as meaningless, but always try to find the most relevant meanings in the rituals. The work by McNally includes the concept of ritual as a form of survival tactic by the Native American persons. McNally (pp.197) indicates that rituals cannot be understood out of the context of the historical context of a people. This work includes the thoughts of the famous historian, Geertz who believes that, ‘†¦ritual begets the fuel that drives the ‘cultural system’ of religion ... (197). This is an interpretation of the fact that, through rituals, that the existence of humans find meanings as well as are motivated to exist in the world. McNally (pp.198), however, notes that rituals may portray varying meanings and cautions individuals from misinterpretation of the same. With this, he gives the example of Ojibwe community- a traditional community and the Protestant variations of the meanings of rituals in their religions. This work incorporates the study of ritual activities and their implications on the understanding of the truth on the

The enhancing effects of music on happiness

The enhancing effects of music on happiness This thesis examines the enhancing effects of music on happiness.Music is the purest form of art. It can be said that it has an impact on almost everyone. Certain pieces of music have a relaxing effect, while others stimulate us to act, and some cause change in or emphasize our mood. This work specifically concentrates on how listening to different kinds of music can increase the level of happiness and the factors associated with it. Defining Music The word music basically comes from the Greek word mousike meaning art of the muses.As generally percieved, music is one of the fine arts which is concerned with the combinition of sounds with beauty of form and the expression of thought or feeling.It can be defined as vocal or instrumental sounds having some degree of rhythm, melody and harmony. According to the Australian Oxford dictionary (2004), music is the art of combining vocal or instrumental sounds (or both) to produce beauty of form,harmony and expression of emotion. The Collins dictionary (2000) relates music as an art form consisting of sequences of sounds in time, especially tones of definite pitch organized melodically, harmonically,rhythmically and according to color. Music is also known as, the art of combining sounds so as to please the ear (Chambers dictionary,1987) . Music is also viewed as an art that is difficult to tie down . According to Wikipedia , the definition of music varies according to culture and social context. The artists may view music as a performing art, a fine art, and an auditory art .William Sheakspeare has defined it as as the food of soul.Humanistic psychologists view music as a means of self fulfillment,integration and self actualiztion.For existentialists it is another department of choice and freedom. Music in any form has a universal appeal, like an international language,it is understood and spoken everywhere,and its charm and penetrating power cannot be denied.(Malik, M.S., 1983). Components of Music According to a physicists point of view, music consists of a set of a set of sounds with particular frequencies, amplitudes, and timbres which are organized into highly predictable patterns. The social and cultural meanings by people turn these sounds into music (Hargreaves, D. J and North, A. C., 2000).The components of music are, Musical note is a single sound of definite pitch and duration which can be identified in writing. Rhythm, is the arrangement of sounds in time, this arrangement is a complex arrangement of notes into a mixture of short and long durations within a single bar or a series of bars. Regular pulse groupings are called bars or measures. Rhythm is one of the most central features of many styles of music, especially jazz and hip-hop (Lerdahl Jackendoff, 1983). Scale, is a progression of notes in an ascending or descending order. Melody or tune assembles a series of notes into recognizable musical shapes. The notes of a melody are created with respect to pitch systems such as scales. A melody usually though not necessarily possesses rhythm. The rhythm of a melody is often based on the tones of language, the physical rhythms of dance or just periodic beatings. (Narveson, 1984). The beat of a piece of music is its regular pulse, determined by the bar lines by which music are metrically determined. Pitch, is the height or depth of a note in relation to other notes or in relation to an absolute pitch. The absolute pitch has internationally been set at A=400 Hz that is, the A above the middle c has a frequency of 440 cycles or vibrations per second. Pitch is determined by the sounds frequency of vibration. The process of assigning note names to pitches is called tuning. The difference in frequency between two pitches is called an interval. The interval indicates either the doubling or halving of the base frequency. (Machlis Kristine, 2007) Harmony is the study of vertical sonorities in music. A vertical sonority refers to considering the relationship between pitches that are together. Harmony can also be implied by melodies that outline a harmonic structure. A larger structure involving multiple pitches is called a chord (Darmschroder Williams, 1990).Harmony in music can be analyzed through Roman numeral system. A system of chord symbols is used in popular and jazz music. (Friberg, 1991). Musical texture is the overall sound of a piece of music .It is described as the number of parts or lines and their relationship. The perceived texture of a musical piece can be affected by the interval between each musical line, the timbre of instruments or the number of instruments used. Monophony, homophony and polyphone include musical textures. Monophony is the texture of a melody. The texture of homophony is achieved when a melody is accompanied by chords. The melody in homophony is usually voiced in high notes. Polyphony consists of several simultaneous melodies of equal importance (Temperly, 2001). Form, is a feature of musical theory that explores the concept of musical syntax, on a local and global level. The syntax is often explained in terms of phrases and periods or sections or genre respectively. (Juslin, 2003). 1.1.2 Musical Instruments The earliest and largest collection of prehistoric musical instruments was found in China and dates back to between 7000 and 6600 BC. (Wikipedia).People of different cultures have developed musical instruments of their own distictive fashion,the sounds of these instruments thus,affect different prople differently.Some distict musical instruments are, Sitar, it has been the king of indian court music since 14th century. It is the modification of an earlier instrument,the Keena.The sitar is made of teak,jackwood and a seasoned gourd.Its neck towers above the players head while it is played.It mainly has six or seven playing strings running above the feet and below them, a dozen or so sympathetic strings,that set up a steady running echo.The sitar is played with a wireplectrum worn on the right finger of the sitarist.The sitar music is a world in itself.Learning to play the instrument with proficiency needs ten or twelve years of intensive study(Bhattacharya, McDonald Carter,2008). Rebab, is the name for various Arabic bow string instruments found in Islamic countries. They occur usually with three strings in various shapes like elongated boats, trapezoid rectangles etc. The Rebab was both carried eastwards and westwards with the spread of Islam (Kartomi, 1990). Guitar is a string instrument, originally brought to Spain by the moors in the middle ages. It has a flat back. The modern instrument has six strings. The guitar is a popular instrument used to provide a simple choral accomplishment to a dance or a song. Flute, is a cylindrical tube closed at the upper end where these is a side hole, though which the player bows air and makes the internal air column vibrate. The modern flute was largely developed by T.Bohm, he made it possible to pierce finger-holes in correct positions. The flute did not come into general use in chamber and orchestral music until 18th century (Taylor, 1992). Saxophones are classified as members of the single reed family. Saxophone was invented in about 1840 by Adolph Sax, a Belgian instrument maker. Saxophones are regular members of dance bands military bands and are also used to play distinctive solo in orchestral work. The sound of the saxophone is extremely variable. Its timbre being intermediate between wood and brass, it passes from the softness of flute over the broad, mellow tone of cells to the metallic strength of the coronet (Ingham, 1998). Drum, is the generic name for instruments consisting of skin stretched over a frame or vessel and struck with the hands or a sticks. The drum was introduced in the western world through Greece (Kinnear, 1985). Tabla, is a type of an oriental drum. It exists in different forms. The Indian table is a single headed drum resembling a small tympano, having a similar sound. The Arabic tabla is beaten by the hands and the tone is much drier than that of the Indian instrument (Holroyde, 1972). Xylophone is a set of tuned wooden bars beaten with sticks. The bars usually rest in a frame and are arranged in order of pitch. Most xylophones are provided with resonators, either in the form of a cradle shaped box under the bars, or in the form of a separate gourd for each bar gourd for each bar. When playing the xylophone, the player uses mallets of various weights and hardness according to the quality of tone required.( Nettl Bruno ,1956). Piano, Classicism is the greatest and the best known period of piano music. The pianist uses a flexible system of levers connected by four joints, knuckles, wrist, elbow and shoulders. It can also be played by placing the finger on the key and raising the arm slightly in a relaxed action. Piano is a mechanical instrument through which the notes are produced by the strike of keys (Krumhansl, 1997). Violin is the most important of the stringed instruments in the orchestra as well as in chamber and solo music. Its main parts are the, body consisting of label sound board, back and ribs (sidewalks), the finger board, string holder, the bridge. The violin provides expressiveness ranging from soft lyricism to extreme dramatic excitement and a sensitive timbre (Cremer, 1984). Harmonium is a keyboard instrument that sounds by means of thin metal tongues being set in vibration by a steady current of air which is provided by a pair of pedal operated bellows. The metal tongues act as free reeds. Modern harmonium can produce expressive graduations of sounds by means of the expression stop. The harmonium was developed in the 19th century from a number of experimental instruments (Encyclopà ¦dia Britannica (11th Ed.), 1911). Types of Music The aim of all music is to touch the core of the heart and thus music can be called an expression of our hearts sayings. Different types of music help in soothing ones disturbed soul, in the growth of concentration and also cheer us up to live life to the fullest. There are various types of music as people have different tastes i.e., classical music, rock, hip-hop, folk, opera, mystical etc. The objective behind listening to music remains the same. Classical music is a complex form of music as it requires high musical skills like learning the ragas and ability to coordinate with other musicians .The one who wants to learn, he/she has to go through proper training in this field of music (Bhattacharyya, 2008). Rock music, originated in the rock n roll era of 1950s. The singers are accompanied by a guitar, bass and drum. Certain rock groups use pianos, saxophones, flute, mandolin and sitar for a deeper effect. This type of music has several subtypes such as hard rock, progressive rock and metal rock. All these types of rock music are popular to date.(Warren , Romanowski Parles ,2001). Hip-hop (Pop-Music) music always includes the use of instruments such as guitar, violin, fiddle, piano, bass and drums. In these types of music, the bass is the main instrument. This can be used in different intensities to emote feelings of anger, pride and others. This type of music is the result of hip-hop culture and is known as hip-hop music. This music shows a heavy influence of Jamaican music. The roots of the music are found in African American and West African music. (Light, 1999). Folk music is a kind of traditional music that is handed down from generations in every culture. Folk music shows the social upheaval that lies among various classes of people. This also portrays their struggle for survival and their culture (Bhattacharyya, 2008).The term can be applied to music that has been evolved from rudimentary beginnings by a community uninfluenced by popular and art music and it can likewise be applied to music which has originated with an individual composer and has subsequently been absorbed into the unwritten living tradition of a community. It is the re-fashioning and re-creation of the music by the community that gives it a folk character (Lloyd, 1975). Opera music first emerged in Italy in the 17th century. This genre of music a remarkable combination of theatrical art and musical inventions and is specifically played in theatres. This has greater demand for its amusing orchestral supplements. The introduction and interval of this music set the tone for the action on stage. (Grout Williams, 2003). Mystical music Music is an outburst of the soul  .Mystic music includes spacious, contemplative, heartfelt, trance inducing and psychedelic sounds in such genres as space music, electronic, ambient, visionary, acoustic, world fusion, classical, neo-classical, and even some progressive rock; a mix of entrancing drones, structures, and rhythms. Mystic music extends from Bach to rock. Mystic music is that kind of sonorous sound experience that lifts and awakens you above normal consciousness, even if only for a few moments. If you listen sensitively, it puts you in touch with your most special memories and forgotten dreams. It is relaxing and good for your plants (and your body too; not to mention your mind, heart and soul). Mystic music remains true to the original purpose of music: to help us contact the spiritual dimensions of life and reveal the secret to us; and to, keep the spirit alive (Nasr, 1997) 1.1.4 Effects of Music Music holds a very significant position in our lives since the beginning.From the early beginning to the present day,interest in music with reference to healing and therapeautic experiece has sustained (Bartlett ,1996) The qualities of music were known even in earliest times. Evidence suggests that dance and song preceded speech. Researchers have found that about two-thirds of the inner ears cilia resonate only at the higher frequencies that are commonly found in music (3,000 20,000 Hz). This seems to indicate that primitive humans communicated primarily through song or tone.India has one of the oldest musical traditions in the world, references to Indian classical music (marga) can be found in the ancient scriptures of the Hindu tradition, the Vedas (Wikipedia). There are references to the divine alliance of music and medicine in classical antiquity and the healing function of much among primitive people (Schullian and Schoen,1948). Recent work on music has confirmed the effectiveness of music too. This is of the fact that music can trigger Endorphins in human body that help the mind in creating sound images,allowing people to escape into a painless worlds sheltered by their imaginations. Music can speed up or slow,regularize or disturb our heart beat,relax or tense the nerves,can affect digestion,respiration and blood pressure(Tame,1984) Ansdell(1995) says that we make and experience music because or body is made up of cells,organs,and muscles that have pulses and tones,tensions and resolutions of the tensions.Emotions share with music the qualities of speed force attack and intensity.It has also been suggested that music could be a powerful tool to use within neuro-disability and the structure of music can help organize and retrieve information. (Taylor, 1992). In many instances it has been found that people with brain related problems were able to function in better ways while being exposed to music. (Erdonmez, 1993; Nordoff Robbins, 1997). Mc Carty (1999) described how music could reduce negative emotions and increase positive emotions in healthy as well as clinically ill people. In the words of Janet Towell(2000), Music can soothe the soul, excite the emotions and provide a sense of cultural identity. Music can decrease pain and depression while increasing mood and self esteem. A study showed that tempo affected arousal while mode of the music affected the mood (Husain, Thompson Schelenburg, 2002). Well ness is a product of healthy body, mind, spirit interactions, and, as a result music can an important asset in creating the appropriate environment for persons healing (Stewart, 1990).Musics appeal to us is primarily emotional and psychological. Music has been noted for its ability to enhance peoples moods, move them to tears, make them want to rejoice or just move them emotionally in both negative and positive ways (Goldstein, A, 1980). Radocy and Boyle(1979) suggest that there are eight types of affective responses to music.Some of these relate to an innate sensory perception of the sound while others are associted with images,experiences and emotional context of these experiences.These responses may include simple feelings;negative and positive organic feelins;moral religious feelings and emotions and tempraments.Because of this entity,music often can help people in confronting issues which they have not dealt earlier in their lives.This is because of the association between the events of our past with the particular piece of music (Bright ,1993;Levine , 1999;Ortiz ,1997). Stewart(1990) believes that music is an affective therapeutic agent under the right circumstances as it can allign patterns of emotion,structures of conciousness and /or psychic energy (P.62).It does not appeal to logic and rarely meets with intellectual resistence to iniciate its actions(Guzzetta , 1995).Music can help us to initiate psychological movement by modifying our mental states and cuing us towards more positive affirmations such as sad to cheerfull,discouraged to hopefull,or plain to peaceful.Music has an essential ability to create another world of virtual time(Blaking,1990).Menuhin(1972) reveals furthur that Music creates order out of chaos, for rhythm imposes unanimity upon the divergent ,melody imposes continuity among the disjointed,and harmony imposes compatibility among the incongruous.Listening to music can create and expand out internal space where we can retreat from the norms and the reality of the world.This is achieved by creating an internal imaginative world of sound which is rich in symbolism and personal meaning,and allowing us to revisit the emotional context of particular memories(Bunt,1996). According to Sloboda(1989) ,the reason most of us take part in musical activities is that music is capable of arousing in us deep and significant emotions.These emotions range from the aeshetic delight in sound construction,through emtions such as joy or sorrow which music sometimes enhances to simple relief from boredom of depression.The music itself cannot have extra musical meaning unless the experience to which it refers already exists in the mind of the listener.When music has similar connections with human life,then it can make people more aware of feelings they experienced by intensifying the emotions.Particular music can help in moving painful memories or the unresolved issues in life .Stor(1992) also refers this arousal as being a condition of heightned alertness,awareness,interest and excitement.He also believes that apart from the relations between seeing an emotional arousal,the relation between hearing and emotional arousal is stronger. Campball(1992), observed that when we communcate with the emotional centres of our being such as through the use of music,we can better reduce stress and achieve a sense of welbeing.Music can also help in achieving peace and relaxation (Ortiz ,1997). Diamond (1979) suggests that music can be an important part of primary preventative health care at a psychosocial level. Bunt(1996) shows that how music can be used to assist people in realizing their feelings, going beyond their everyday experiences, resolving hurts and pain and appraising significant live events. Music can also evoke memories of the emotional context of past events and times and aid people to explore issues for a different angle and retrieving events and emotions. Music evokes not only the memories of past time but also the emotional context of those times(Bunt,1997).It has been reported that music is an activity that the healthy impaired talented and interested enjoy, because it provides them with a relief from their stress ,anxiety, depression and mourning(Blacking,1995).Music coupled with personal attention and care of other people, can provide gratification and restore a sense of worth to people who may be experiencing depression or low self-esteem (Crystal, Grober Masur,1989). According to Spingte (1998), music is the most intense means of emotional communication. In view of Hallan, S Price, J. (1998), calming music led to better participant performance on arithmetic and memory tasks. Music can align patterns of emotions, structures of consciousness and / or psychic energy (Stewart, 1990). Thus, music has great influences on a listener. It can take the mind and body to do spontaneous things whether they are good or bad. Depending on the type of music and the inner message it has, music can influence a person and his/her actions (Cassidy, 2008). Happiness There has been a surge of interest in Positive Psychology during the last quarter of this century. There has been a huge amount of interest and research on happiness, wellbeing and satisfaction among all positive fields (Diener 1995).The classic definition of happiness by Jeremy Bentham(1800s) is that happiness is the sum of pleasures and pains. Happiness  is a state of mind or feeling characterized by contentment, love, satisfaction, pleasure, or  joy.It is a positive emotional state that is defined by every person on a subjective level. The term subjective well-being is used as a synonym for happiness. Happiness is defined as an overall appraisal of life, where the good and the bad is balanced (Diener Scolon, 2003). Happiness in this older sense was used to translate the Greek Eudemonia, and is still used in virtue ethics.(Wikipedia). Happiness is a belief about yourself and the outside world. You can be doing something you normally experience as pleasurable but not be happy. Pleasure is born from the external world; happiness is born from the internal workings of our own minds. Martin Seligman,( 2002) one of the founders of positive psychology, describes happiness as consisting of positive emotions and positive activities. He categorizes emotions related to the past, present and future. Positive emotions relating to the past include satisfaction, contentment, pride and serenity. Positive emotions relating to the future include optimism, hope and trust. Veenhoven (1997) has defined happiness or subjective well-being as the degree to which one judges the quality of his life favorably. According to Schwartz and Strack (1999), even very minor incidents in life can affect the level of happiness. The findings of a Pakistani research have shown that number of happy people is more than that of unhappy people and that the eastern people have higher levels of happiness than western people. Work satisfaction, social support, religious affiliation, social class, income level, and marital status and satisfaction were found to be predictors of happiness (Suhail, Chaudary, 2004).Individual differences in the levels of happiness also have significance. Theories of happiness The theories of happiness have been divided into three types, Need/goal satisfaction theories, Process/activity theories, Genetic/personality predisposition theories (Diener et al, 2002). Psychoanalytic and humanistic theorists believed that reduction in tension and satisfaction of needs lead to the achievement of happiness. It was theorized that people were happy as they had achieved their goals. (Compton, 2005). According to the process/activity theorists, participating in activities generates happiness. Csikszentmihalyi (1990) proposed that people who indulge in interesting and challenging activities, and thus experience the feelings of flow, are happier. Emmons (1986) has also emphasized how pursuing goals generates happiness. The genetic/personality theorists view happiness as a stable construct. A Research by Costa and McCrae (1986) proved that happiness is based on personality and genetics. Lucas (1996) also found in a research that personality traits were closely related to happiness. Keyes and Lopez (1995) presented another model of happiness. They defined happiness as a complete state of mental health while combining many principles of pleasure. They defined emotional happiness as the presence of positive affect and life satisfaction with the absence of negative affect. Social happiness was achieved by incorporating acceptance, actualization, contribution, coherence and integration. However, self acceptance, personal growth, purpose in life, environmental mastery, autonomy and positive relations with others were the components of achieving psychological well-being, Most of recent researches agree with idea of happiness being a combination of psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. Causes of Happiness Sex: No significant differences have been seen between the levels of happiness of men and women (Nolen-Hoeksema Rusting, 1999).In a study by Wood,Rhodes Whelan (1989), it was found that women report slightly higher levels of happiness. Fujita, Diener Sandvick (1991) also reported that women showed greater capacity for joy. Shayam and Yadev (2006) found that elderly men scored higher on well-being as compared to elderly women. However the impact of gender accounts for only 1 percent of variability in happiness in people. Finances: Financial status is related to happiness, however with an increase the effect diminishes (Diener, 1997).Diener (1995) found that positive correlations existed between the GDP and subjective well being of fifty five nations. According to Keely,(2000) increase in income does not lead to increase in happiness.Most people are happy regardless of their material wealth(Diener , 1996). Marital status: Research has shown that married people are happier as compared to unmarried, divorced, separated or widowed people. Shields Wooden (2003) found that married women and men were consistently happier than unmarried men and women. Education: Education has greater affect on the happiness levels of people with lower incomes (Campbell, 1976).Education appears to have only small direct influence on happiness. Culture: Diener Lucas (1999) found that some nations appear to be more emotional than other nations. It was found that people in individualistic cultures had higher subjective well-being as compared to collectivistic cultures. (Ball, 2001). Health: Physical health is strongly related to levels of happiness. If one is physically healthy he/she would have higher levels of happiness as compared to a person who is sick. According to physicians, Brief, Butcher, George Link (1993) a strong correlation exists between subjective well-being and health. Religion: Many researches support that people who are religious tend to be happier. Studies have found that engagement in religious activities is significantly related to higher well-being (Donahue Benson, 1995).James Peacock and Margret Poloma (1999) found that ones perceived closeness to God was a very strong predictor of happiness. Life Events: The number of positive events correlate with positive affect at .33 in people whereas, the average intensity of positive affect when subjects were feeling happy correlated with happiness at .25 (Schimmack, Diener Oishi 2002).Happiness correlate with a number of friends and the relationships with them (Diener Lucas, 1999).Peak experiences however have been found to be due to religion music or other intense activities. Thus, immense research has been done on the effects of music on physical as well as mental health which has shown promising results.

Credebility of Hypnotherapy :: essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  It is the purpose of this paper to bring attention to the credibility of people in the field of Hypnotherapy (Hypnosis, Self-Hypnosis, and Guided Imagery). By reading through several websites it became apparent that no Ph.D. is necessary to be a Hypnotherapists. All that is required is that you pass and complete 200+ hours of Hypnotherapy training.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Marla A. Sloane at the website www.marlasloane.com is a Member of the American Board of Hypnotherapy and a member of the National Guild of Hypnotists. Sloane is currently working on her Ph.D. She has shown in the past a strong drive in academics by completing high school at age 16, getting a college degree, and starting a corporation. The name of the Corporation however was not stated; nor was the college at which she obtained her degree. She is currently a Registered Hypnotherapist and claims to be able to â€Å"recreate your destiny.† She does have testimonials form people she has treated that support her claim. She sites hypnotherapy being used to help overcome Kevin Costner’s seasickness (which she did not assist in) and states that statistically it is the best way to stop smoking and lose weight. Sloane also sites a random experiment comparing two basketball teams where one was under hypnosis and did better overall.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Chaplain Paul G. Durbin Ph.D. at the website www.durbinhypnosis.com has Professional Affiliations and Awards from numerous organizations. These awards and affiliations can be viewed at www.durbinhypnosis.com/bio.htm. Durbin was in the military, served as Special Assistant to Chief Chaplain, and had a title of Brigadier General. Durbin received his Bachelor of Arts from the College of Louisiana, his Master of Divinity from Emory University in Atlanta GA, his Ph.D. from the American Institute of Hypnotherapy in Irvine CA, and has completed 4 quarters of Clinical Pastoral Education at Walter Reed A.M.C., Washington D.C.. Durbin has been published in hundreds of times in magazines of Religion and Hypnotherapy. Durbin Has also written two books, one of which is out of print, and one of which is in it’s second publishing. Kissing Frogs: Practical Uses of Hypnotherapy published by Kendall/Hunt Publishing Company (educational 1st-college material) and received two awards. The awards were the Pen and Quill Award from NBHA and the Outstanding Performance Award from IMDHA. Durbin did not however have testimonials on his site to back his claims and he uses biblical passages to help promote his business.

Income for College Football Athletes Essay

College football athletes have been selling their jerseys, selling signature footballs, and committing crimes in order to be able to feed and support themselves financially to survive in the real world. Student athletes don’t have enough time on their hands to work during the season or during off season workouts. It’s considered a year round sport due to the fact that in offseason, college football players in training to stay in shape for the return of their upcoming season in the fall. Football takes up more than half of their daily time each year. Maintaining a steady grade point average is often enforced because of the demands held by the football program. Should football receive income while on a scholarship? Football athletes should get paid, not necessarily as professionals, paid every game, but at least to receive some form of money to help increase their monthly pay. They should be paid because college football players are making money based off of their perform ance, football athletes are compensated for free education while 70% percent of the athletes don’t even graduate, football consumes too much of the athlete’s time, and are exposing their selves daily to serious injuries that may lead up to a paralyzed body or as far as death. College football and basketball for years have been the highest producing revenue sports in NCAA. More than $470 million in new money poured into major college athletics programs last year, boosting spending on sports, even though we’re in rough economic times. Most of the money made in athletics revenue was because elevation in money generated through multi-media rights deals, donations and ticket receipts, but schools also continued increasing their subsidies from student fees and institutional funds (Berkowitz). Helping with the success of revenues in schools are wins by football teams and basketball teams. 6.2 billion was spent in 2010 on athletics at 218 schools and spending grew by 3% while revenue grew by 5.5%. Money spent on athletics was equated to make a good amount of profit. Could this profit be distributed to the performers? In the years of sports in NCAA revenue, media agreements have created about 86 percent of revenue while the other 14 percent was made from ch ampionships ticket sales. Where does the money go? It is distributed directly to the Division 1 membership. 60 percent of NCAA revenue is distributed to Division 1 members which, in 2009-2010, totaled to a little more than $433 million (where does the money go?). Some of the distribution is used for particular uses, such as academic support or those that meet special student athlete needs. Most of the money is distributed to scholarships and sports sponsorships. These funds are paid to conference offices and divided among conference institutions. The common uses of the money would be for salaries, financial aid for student athletes, and facility maintenance and travel. Only some of the 60 percent is used for the athletes which pays for the tuition and living expenses. NCAA in the article â€Å"Where does the money go?† states that their revenue is relatively small part of the overall intercollegiate athletics fiscal structure. NCAA research estimates the college athletics spend about 10.5 billion annua lly. Overall annual revenue for college athletics programs is 10.6 billion. NCAA total expenses for 2009-2010 were 707.2 million. Schools are making profit off of the athletic programs and NCAA are just an helping hand. The schools are a big impact in budget managing. According to khan, college football and college men’s basketball generate professional level revenues. 757 million in 1999 were total ticket revenues for football and men’s basketball. The broadcast revenue from NCAA of all football, in season and off season, exceeds professional basketball at 2.2 billion. In the modern day, has increased by 8 billion. The university of Louisville’s budget has grown from 52.4 million to 68.8 million from football and basketball revenue. Even other larger schools, winning conferences, are making more from the revenue. Millions and billions of dollars are generated by the players, media and ticket sales, but few are given to them. Without the players performing, there would be no money generated. Televised games are one of the key contributors to generating revenues. In 1950s until 1984 NCAA exerted complete control over college football telecasts. Randall Bennett and John Fizel present the analysis of competitive balance in NCAA division 1 College football after the supreme court ruling. Supreme Court argued that NCAA had been successful in preventing a â€Å"power elite† from developing in college football because of bigger schools being televised while smaller schools are at a disadvantage. The results were the winning percentages in conferences significantly declined in two conferences and increased in two other conferences. NCAA control over television wasn’t focused on generate equality of playing strength among division 1 football teams. The teams with the most wins were highly focused by the NCAA in televising. Television is very important in gaining wins and more attraction â€Å"Televising is more important than money† as quoted by the Supreme Court in Bennett and Fizel’s article. Money is the NCAA’s center point and though most of the money generated by the players, most of it is not necessary for the players. In addition to generating revenues, recruits and players are compensated for free education while only under 70 percent of football player’s graduate. Division 1 student athletes who entered college in 1994 were the ninth consecutive class that met higher initial-eligibility. Student athletes who entered college and received an athletics scholarship as a freshman in 1994 graduated at a rate of 58 percent (NCAA). â€Å"The data of this class of student-athletes continues the pattern set by previous classes of graduating at a rate one to two percent higher than the general student body. Student-athletes in the two classes prior to the new academic standards graduated at a rate one to two percent lower than the general student body† (NCAA). These showings are obvious in the determined average football player who will graduate. What is interesting is that graduating is the number one goal as coaching staff and NCAA emphasize to football athletes. Overall, graduation rates for freshman class entering in 1994 were the same as the year before. This class equaled the rates of the 1988 through 1990 classes, as well as the 1992 and 1993 classes. In 1968 study of all Michigan state university athletes over a five year period revealed that 49 percent of team sport and 60 percent of individual sport athletes had graduate. In 1976, less than 20 percent of football players who entered North Texas State University graduated with a degree (Purdy, Eitzen and Hufnagel). 24 percent in that time were the graduating rate fort football players. Division 1 football and men’s basketball players continue to lag behind in graduating rates among all athletes, but it has grown since then. In 2004-2005 statics by (division 1 athletes’ graduation rates) NCAA division 1 rates for all sports is 82 percent and football and basketball stand at 68 to 69 percent in graduating rates. It has grown yet still the average is inadequate to the standards stressed by NCAA and faculty. NCAA could at least boost up the income for college football athletes if graduation is a main goal stressed. Below three quarters are exceed in graduation rates. Football players are getting their tuition paid for free with an addition of 1,000 to 1,500 monthly incomes if they are living on their own. It sounds like a decent amount, but when you break it down it becomes frustrating for the individual to live off of it. The minimum wage in the United States is $7.25 (Cowan). UNLV football athletes with scholarships receive 12000 dollars monthly for 10 months. The yearly salary is 12,000 dollars. So in reality, only 1,000 is received for each month. The weekly pay is $250. For one day, an UNLV football athlete is paid $35.71. The hourly salary is $4.46. Are we really worth this amount? College football athletes take four classes just to be eligible. In addition to the four classes, from2:00 to 6:30 is all football relation in during seasons. Lifting twice a week is mandatory. Study hall is also mandatory for new comers and those who have failed to meet the requirements by the NCAA. In a whole, all your time is needed to meet the standards set by NCAA. Passing all your classes include, studying (2 hours) and taking 1 to 2 classes a day(2-4) hours, lifting weights (2 hours), studying football, means watching tapes (2 hours), football meetings (2 hours) and football practices( 2 and half hours). Mandatory Study hall consumes about an hour of your day. In all, 12 to 13 hours is taken up by football daily. The rest of the hours are used for sleep and break times. The full time schedules, homework’s, practice, and travel for road games are big burdens for athletes to find other sources of income. NCAA prohibits payments beyond educational scholarships and specified expenses to athletes responsible for revenues. According Goldman that NCAA restricts the ability of college athletes to earn outside income because of the time consumed by the sport itself. Even if a part time job is allowed for student athletes, it raises concerns about over-taxing a student athlete’s already fragmented time schedule and increasing the opportunity for boosters to make â€Å"illegal† payments to favored athletes (Acain). There wouldn’t be a need for boosters or part-time jobs if NCAA could allow increasing the scholarship aids for football athletes. A study on football and basketball individual with scholarships, both generating revenues, say that they had less money. Ernie chamber, in Parent’s article, introduced a bill to pay college athletes but was lacking persistent. One of his arguments were that athletes are not getting enough money to eat and wash their clothes. Former All- American football player at USC who admitted that even though he was getting money from the grants there still wasn’t enough because he was sending it back home ( came from a poor family) to his family. He noticed how he was struggling to put food in his fridge and how the school was selling his jersey making money off of him. California state senator said â€Å"it was unfair that men’s division 1 basketball or football players do not receive at least a portion of the money that athletes have earned for their school and that NCAA has kept quiet about discussing these issues over the past years† (Parent). If a portion of the revenue is distributed to the performers, food and other expenses would be easy access. Also illegal money would not be a problem if more was given to the athletes. Adding to reasons why the collegiate football players should be paid, they are risking their lives for free education with some support for expenses and hopes of making it to the professional level. A data of five teams from major college in the nation were surveyed during practices and games in the 1976 season. Data were based on during drills in practice and games of the season. The injury rate was calculated very high in 12 specific drills, practice games, and other activities. Practice games, drill that simulate real live game emphasis had the lowest injury exposure, but are the highest risk factor. Agility drills were calculated as the fewest injury rates. Calisthenics had no injury rates because it’s a warm-up drill that prepares for the body for the practice. The study, according to Cahill and Griffith, was to determine harmful factors to prevent in the future and in other schools. The drills that were calculated high are often practiced throughout football even till to day. Head injuries are deadliest results of playing football. A survey commissioned by the NFL indicated that it retires have been diagnosed as having dementia or other memory related disease at rates higher than the national population. Helmet manufacturers have begun on protecting against concussion by designing air releasing shock absorbers that could handle a wider range of forces than foam alone (Schawz). Even though it focuses on the concussion taken, it is still not effective in how the head postioned.Dave Halstead states in Schwarz’s article, as advanced as helmets have become, they do not yet protect against dramatic rotational, rather than linear, forces. The position of the head is essential to avoiding head injuries and major risks. Major injuries in football could cost your life and productive time. A 22 year old football player at frostburg state university in Maryland died from head trauma sustained on the field. Dreks sheely died late Sunday at university of Maryland R Adams Cowley Shock trauma center in Baltimore. According to Castillo, a spokesman for Frostburg State said sheely had been participating in â€Å"regular drills† with his teammates in Aug. 22 when he began feeling woozy. He was being helped off the field when he collapsed. This incident of dying is not likely, but has had cases like this 9 times in high school football. Head injury cases are at large with those who are paralyzed. Rutgers defensive tackle Eric LeGrand was paralyzed below the neck when making contact with player returning the ball against army. Doctors says, in â€Å"Rutgers football player paralyzed from neck down†, that he will remain in hospital for the near future. Legrand was headed to the Hackensack University Medical Center where he had emergency surgery overnight to keep stabilized after making the tackle against the returner. Tight end Kevin Everett, from buffalo bills, in 2007was memorized when he duck his neck making a tackle during second kickoff. He was paralyzed from the neck down with the same situation as LeGrand is in. These are the horrors and risks of playing football. College football players are struggling while the NCAA generates income off of their performance. NCAA distributes money thorough out the Division 1 members and only few is given to players.Even when revenue is increasing each year the same amount of money used to support college football athletes. College spends a lot on the athletic programs even in our declining economic times. As athletes, coaches and staffs stress the goal of graduating football players graduate at a rate of under 70 percent. It has increased since 1960 but it still doesn’t meet the NCAA emphasis on graduating in exchange for their performance. Football players from back in the 80’s till today still struggle the life of being a college football player with the financial aid. The amount of money supplied by the NCAA is unfortunately short for paying living expenses and for those who may send the money back home. Also more illegal attempts, boosters giving money and players selling their jerseys, that attract attention may be prevented by providing a little more to the aids. Finding sources of money becomes impossible because of the time that football consumes. Lastly, the game of football exposes football players to many injuries. Players dying to players being paralyzed are a risk that cost more than what there are given in college. Health insurance may pay for the minor injuries, but can it pay for death that is the last thing in a football players mind? These are the reason that football players should get paid, in an increase in their monthly income.

Top 10 Words Confused in English [M]

Top 10 Words Confused in English [M] Top 10 Words Confused in English [M] Top 10 Words Confused in English [M] By Maeve Maddox My cumulative list of â€Å"words commonly confused† continues with ten that begin with the letter M. The confusion relates to spelling or meaning. 1. manner / manor Manner is a way of doing or behaving. Ex. â€Å"The waiter has a pleasant and helpful manner.† A manor is a house on an estate. Ex. â€Å"Cardinal Thomas Wolsey acquired the 14th Century manor at Hampton Court in 1514.† Until King Henry VIII took it away from him, Wolsey was â€Å"lord of the manor.† Ebook authors and celebrity-watchers seem to be especially prone to write the erroneous â€Å"lord of the manner.† 2. mantle / mantel A mantle is a cloak. The prophet Elijah designated Elisha as his successor by throwing his mantle over him. A mantel is the ornamental shelf above a fireplace on which people display trophies and knick-knacks. 3. marshal / Marshall In modern English, a marshal is an officer of the U.S. Justice Department or a parade leader. In Old English, a marshal was a servant whose job was to tend the horses. The occupation of marshal is reflected in the surname Marshall, but the double-l spelling is only for the proper name. Marshal also functions as a verb meaning â€Å"to arrange or set things in methodical order.† For example, â€Å"I’m glad that I wrote my book, because it made me marshal my thoughts.† 4. martial / marital The error here is one of transposed letters. Martial is pronounced like marshal and means warlike. Marital is pronounced with three syllables, MARE-ih-tul, and means â€Å"relating to marriage.† The error, when it occurs, is always good for a laugh. Ex. â€Å"New York law also has what is known as constructive abandonment which means one spouse refuses to have martial relations for one or more years.†- Divorce lawyer’s site. 5. meter / metre Both words are nouns. A meter is a measuring device, like a gas meter. Metre is a metric unit or a type of rhythm in verse. 6. metal / mettle / meddle Metal is a hard, shiny, malleable material used in the manufacture of tools or artifacts.  Mettle  derives from the same source as  metal  and was once used in the same way, but now is used only figuratively to mean the quality of a creature’s disposition. A saucepan is made of metal. To really test  their mettle, put presidential  candidates  in crisis. Note: A mettlesome person or animal is full of spirit. Meddlesome individuals make themselves unpopular by interfering in affairs that do not concern them; they meddle. 7. militate / mitigate Militate is â€Å"to wage war.† Its current use is usually figurative, with the sense of â€Å"to weigh against.† Ex. â€Å"All the facts militate against this policy.† Mitigate is â€Å"to make something less severe.† Ex. â€Å"Homeowners can mitigate the loss of butterfly habitat by breaking up expanses of grass with forage plants.† 8. morbid / moribund Morbid means â€Å"in a diseased state.† Moribund means â€Å"in a dying state.† Both words derive from the Latin word for death and are used literally and figuratively. 9. mordant / trenchant Both words are applied to language and humor. Mordant comes from a French verb meaning â€Å"to bite† and means â€Å"bitingly sarcastic.† Trenchant comes from a French verb meaning â€Å"to cut.† A â€Å"mordant remark† hurts, whereas a â€Å"trenchant remark† enlightens. 10. mucous / mucus Mucus is a noun: â€Å"a viscous substance secreted by the mucous cells and glands of animals.† Mucous is an adjective: â€Å"of the nature of, resembling, or consisting of mucus.† A mucous gland excretes mucus. Related posts: Top 10 Confused Words in English [A-B] Top Ten Confused Words [C-D] Top 10 Confused Words in English [E-F] Top 10 Confused Words in English [G-H] Top 10 Confused Words in English [I-L] Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Misused Words category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:70 Idioms with HeartOn Behalf Of vs. In Behalf OfWoof or Weft?