Saturday, August 31, 2019

One Pager

Humans first sustained themselves as hunters & gatherers ; Hunters were responsible for killing and capturing animal and using their hung t for food, clothing, or tools; Gatherers were learned how to tell which plants or fruits we re edible ; Early technology consisted of shaping stones into tools and weapons for hunt ; Mostly nomadic societies that had a migration pattern depending on the movement of game and/ or the seasonal growth of plants Major Migrations: 1.East Africa-. Australia-. Middle East-?. Europe-. Asia 2. Asia AL and Bridge) *The Americas The Neolithic Revolution: The Revolution- ; In 8000 B. C. E. Human beings began to develop settled communities Settling was based on successful cultivation of crops and domestication of ann. malls ; the revolution itself occurred independently , in various locations, over a large time period Each agricultural hearth developed different farming practices that worked WI the their own land features Revolution Outcomes: 1.There was more c onstant food supply now that people started controlling food production and animal domestication. . With greater availability and easier access to food sources, much more people were able to eat. This resulted in longer life spans, and an I increasing population 3. Specialized jobs such as priests, traders, and builders are created considering not everyone is needed for food production 4.Women became responsible for raising children, cooking and cleaning while men controlled agricultural production and worked. This resulted into patriarchal systems , where males became dominant in family life, the economy, and the government. 5. Settled peoples considered themselves superior when compared to the remain inning hunters and gatherers, creating social distinctions between the two groups.Vegetative Planting-? ; first form of plant cultivation (according to Carl Saucer) ; plants are produced from direct cloning by cutting stems & dividing roots ; originated in Southeast Asia ; settled peo ple participated in a lot of fishing and hunting ; first domesticated plants/crops include taro, yam, banana, and palm ; first domesticated animals were most likely dogs, pigs, and chickens ; other vegetative planting hearths were West Africa and Northwestern South A America Vegetative planting Diffusion from Southeast Asia:Seed Agriculture-? Eastern Hemisphere: Carl Saucer identified 3 hearths which included western India, northern China, and Ethiopia In SW Asia, wheat & barley were domesticated, along with cattle, sheep, & ago TTS ; Herding animals were used for plowing, meat, skins, and milk ; Millet diffused from the northern China hearth ; Both millet and sorghum were domesticated in Ethiopia Diffusion of in Eastern Hemisphere: 1. SW Asia *Europe *North Africa *India *Indus River Valley 2.NW China ;South Asia -9 SE Asia Western Hemisphere: ; Two identified hearths: southern Mexico & northern Peru Mexico was the origin point for squash and corn (maize) ; Per was the origin point for beans, cotton, and squash ; The Europeans coming to the Western Hemisphere in the 1 5th century create d widespread diffusion in agriculture Innovations: Irrigation allowed water to be channeled to fields ; Fields were plowed to loosen soil Fences kept animals from entering agricultural fields.

Friday, August 30, 2019

Analyze the Role of Religion in American Culture and Politics Since the Beginning of the 20th Century Essay

The first amendment of the constitution of the United States of America states â€Å"Congress shall make no law, respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof†. This law has given the United States of America the status of a secular state since 1791, meaning that its states have to be official neutral in matters of religion. However, many factors strongly contradict its values; Especially in the 20th century, where there have been many cases where citizens weren’t treated equally regardless of religion. In effect, Jefferson’s â€Å"wall of separation† as a metaphor for the separation of church and state promotes free exercise of religion yet its concept has proven to be difficult because the USA governs with a Federal system and today, there is 900 different denominations in the country. The establishment clause hasn’t been equally respected within the states of the country; for example, the constitution of Arkansas states â€Å" No person who denies the being of God shall hold any office in the civil departments of this state, nor be competent to testify as a witness in any court†, this heavily contradicts the USA’s secularity. It has always been a very difficult task for the country to separate religion and government; how has religion played a major role in American culture and politics since the beginning of the 20th century? From the colonial period through the current day, European visitors to the United States have commented on the powerful current of religiousness that appears to affect all aspects of American life. Surveys of American opinion document that religious belief is widespread: nearly all Americans profess a belief in God, anticipate an afterlife, and report that religion is important in their lives. In 2010, the Pew Research Center published a pie-graph illustrating religious denominations among people in the United States of America. The graph gives us a clear understanding of the religious pluralism of the country. Among the many religious belief systems co-existing in the American society, we can see a domination of the Christian religion, with an average of 80 % of the people living in America. Also, there are many other religious beliefs in the country such as Buddhism, Judaism etc. This document shows that religion is a very important factor of the image on the United States of America. Effectively, the American Dollar, the world’s currency, proudly states â€Å"In God we trust†. This is one of the many factors contradicting the establishment of religion clause. The constitution of the United States of America clearly states that religion should not interfere with the government because if it does, it will show a clear preference of the government, eventually contradicting free exercise. However religious beliefs have always had an impact politically on the country. Absence of state religion does not guarantee that a state is secular state; many people believe that the USA is a Christian State. This belief is understanding because many elements contradict the secularity of the country, for example, the congress and state congresses, one of the main institutions in the heart of American politics, have to begin with a prayer, children in publics schools begin the day by swearing allegiance to â€Å"One nation under God† and most importantly, elected officials have to swear an oath on a Christian Bible. Also, the recent presidential candidate Mitt Romney attracted many of his voters because he himself is a deeply religious man, an alleged Mormon. Consequently, electoral statistics of 2012 demonstrated an interesting pattern: most religious states, usually situated in inner America, voted for candidate Mitt Romney. These aspects among many others show that religion does have an impact culturally and politically in the United States of America. The extract for Time Magazine titled â€Å"Are we sliding backward on teaching evolution? published in April 2012 shows that the Scopes trial is still a hot topic even 87 years after the controversy. Effectively, in July 1925, the state of Tennessee passed the butler law, which forbade teachers in public schools from denying the biblical account of creation, therefore forbidding them to teach Darwin’s theory of Evolution. John T. Scopes, a young science teacher and football coach thought evolution in his class and got arrested for disob eying the Butler Law. Due to catholic pressure, this was the 1st case to be broadcasted by the media all over the world, giving the â€Å"monkey trial† immense proportions. This case strongly opposed the fundamentalist opinion of William J. Bryan who was completely against the ideas of evolution and Clarence Darrow, an evolutionist who wanted to â€Å"put Bryan in his place as a bigot†. During a fiery debate, Bryan admitted that some parts of the bible were not to be taken literally, completely overthrowing his beliefs. Many thought Darrow would win the case, yet the court assessed that Scopes was guilty of violating a state law. However, after the Scopes Trial, a 1958 Act stressed the importance of evolution as the unifying principle of biology. Nevertheless, the Time Magazine article demonstrates that anti-evolution forces have prevailed in Tennessee and a new law was enacted in 2012 giving school teachers the right to question the validity of evolution and to teach students creationism. This article helps realize that religion strongly influences human actions. It states that â€Å"13% of biology teachers across the country are currently teaching creationism†. This is an alarming situation because it shows that there hasn’t been much progress even more than three quarters of a century after the Scopes trial and that religion is at the heart of American culture and politics. However, us readers will not have full knowledge of the situation; since it is impossible to report everything, selectivity is inevitable. Usually a journalist gives us a widespread bias contravening the standards of journalism, rather than the perspective of an individual journalist or article. In all, the article shows its readers that we are taking a step backward on teaching evolution, demonstrating that religion, still today, plays a major role in American culture and politics. In the 20th century, other controversies gathering the ideas of separation of state and church existed. Effectively, many political crises were linked with the role of Religion in the United States of America. The Ku Klux Klan movement that first started after the American civil war in 1865 and continues marginally today. The members of the clan preferred the antebellum period where blacks were not free men and were slaves to whites and strongly opposed the passage of the three Reconstruction-era amendments. The 13th Amendment (1865) that banned slavery. The 14th Amendment (1868) that guaranteed equal rights of citizenship to all Americans, with the special intention of protecting the rights of former slaves. The 15th Amendment (1870) provided that voting rights of citizens â€Å"shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude. Theses acts brought fire to a racist fraternity that attempted to intimidate the black freedmen during nightly activities dressed as ghosts and posing a flamed cross where they stood. Progressively, they became more inclined to the idea that they are superior to all people of other colors and religions. They believe in a philosophy of exclusion and claim that whites must maintain control of the United States and keep all people of other races and religions from gaining power. As so called â€Å"defenders of white American Protestantism†, they heavily target African–Americans, Catholics, Jews and Immigrants. Today there are only minorities of the Ku Klux Klan yet the right of freedom of speech in the United States of America allows them to demonstrate their beliefs freely. Hundreds of individuals were lynched and murdered by the clan because of their religious beliefs and origins. The belief of white supremacy was strongly suggested by the Bible according to the KKK. They believed that the bible supports separatism, in effect, many extracts prove that god favored the whites and avoided miscegenation. For example, the bible once says, â€Å"God forbad intermarriage between Israel and other nations†, showing that the mixity of races should be forbidden. This shows how Religion can affect the country; many were condemned to suffer because they did not conform to what the church believed. In addition, another crisis began in 1969 when a woman named Norma McCorvey found herself pregnant without wanting to infant this child her whole life. She wanted an abortion but Texas law would only allow one if her life was in danger. She used the name of Jane Roe and brought her story to court. She declared that the laws prohibiting abortion violated a woman’s constitutional right to privacy implied in the Bill of Rights. Her case was brought to the Supreme Court and it finally agreed that the Texas law was unconstitutional. However, in March 1970, Henry B. Wade, a district attorney in Texas went against the court and stated that the state has a duty to protect prenatal life, most religious individuals believe that life begins at conception. There was an evident split in the USA between the â€Å"Pro-life† and the â€Å"Pro-choice†; Religion is again the main source of the conflict. On January 1973, the Supreme Court gave women the rights of abortion. However abortion is conditional: during the first trimester of pregnancy women can abort without interference of state, during the second trimester states can regulation an abortion only according to circumstances and during the third trimester state can regulate or forbid abortion usually if the mother’s life is at stake. This crisis has involved the United States of America politically because electoral candidates have to choose wisely about their opinions on pro-life and pro-choice. For example, 2012 presidential candidate Mitt Romney was pro-choice as the former governor of Massachusetts but became pro-life while running for president. In addition, the states of Wyoming and Georgia both regard women as live stock meaning they have to carry their child, even if dead, until it comes out of her. Although this crisis in mainly about the right of privacy under due process clause in the 14th amendment, religion has been a major factor of the debate since religious believers usually tend to believe that only god can choose when you die, therefore an abortion goes against this ideology. These many crises have shown that religion plays a major role in American culture and politics. In conclusion, Religion has always been an important factor in the United States of America showing that the country has difficulties holding its secular status. The 20th century has demonstrated many conflicts between the church and the state. Effectively, the country being a federal republic does not ease the complication, as many states prefer to base their values on religion. USA is one of the most religiously diverse countries in the world. A majority of Americans report that religion plays a â€Å"very important† role in their lives, a proportion unique among developed nations. Consequently, religion does play a major role in American Culture and Politics; however, in August 2010, 67% of Americans said religion is losing influence.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

What is a Capstone Project in High School?

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines a capstone as a â€Å"high point: crowning achievement† which, in many ways, defines a capstone project for high schoolers. Capstone projects require students to use all of the skills they’ve built over the course of their schooling to complete a substantial project that highlights their educational and intellectual experience.    A high school capstone project is a way for students to demonstrate the culmination of skills and knowledge gained through their academic career by completing a long-term, multi-faceted project. Typically performed at the end of a student’s high school career, students commonly choose a topic, profession, or social problem to explore and work with a mentor in that field of interest. The mentor guides the student through the project—sharing their knowledge of the field, teaching new skills, ensuring the student stays on task, and fostering a professional, real-world experience. Over the course of the project, students conduct research, maintain a portfolio detailing the steps taken, and create a final paper, product, or presentation that demonstrates what they’ve learned. Often times, a final presentation is given to a panel of teachers, experts in the field, and community members. One of the primary benefits of a capstone project to a high school student is that it highlights their educational accomplishments. Capstone projects provide students with the opportunity to exhibit their capacity for learning and allow them to show off the critical thinking skills they’ve built. Colleges search for well-rounded students and the multi-faceted nature of a capstone project allows students to display a wide range of skills to prospective schools—writing, research, teamwork, planning, self-sufficiency and public speaking are just a sampling of the many skills used by a student to complete such a rigorous project. Capstone projects are a great way to indicate to potential colleges that a student is prepared for the demands of higher education. Capstone projects also benefit high school students by creating self-confidence and building a sense of preparedness for college. A student who has successfully completed a thorough study of a subject and collaborated with an older, experienced mentor is likely to feel ready to take the next step academically. Capstone projects can also add a sense of purpose to a time where interest in education often wanes—consider it a cure for senioritis.    Lastly, capstone projects let students immerse themselves in a field of interest. For some students, it solidifies their interest in a field and clarifies a degree path; others may learn through their capstone project that the field they chose isn’t as interesting as they thought. Either way, it helps create a sense of certainty before taking expensive college courses. Our Early Advising Program helps students in 9th and 10th grade discover their passions and build strong academic and extracurricular profiles to succeed in high school. Though there are numerous benefits to undertaking a capstone project, the question remains: should your child complete one? The simple answer is yes. Completing a capstone project can be a feather in the cap of any prospective college student, so long as the project doesn’t interfere with any of the student’s other activities or interests that may be attractive to colleges and universities. Colleges are always searching for students who maintain a high grade point average (GPA) while challenging themselves academically. The long-term, intense study of a subject will certainly make a student’s academic prowess evident to prospective schools, but this is only valuable if it doesn’t interfere with their studies and negatively affect their GPA. Students challenging themselves with a capstone project should be careful not to undertake the project at the expense of their other intellectual pursuits. Colleges also seek out well-rounded students and you can make the argument that the focused study of one subject is out of line with what colleges and universities hope to see in a student. It’s true that capstone projects highlight the possession of a diverse skill set in a student, but colleges look for students with a wide range of interests in addition to skills. Students should not take up a capstone project if it means sacrificing extracurricular activities and other interests. On a more personal level, students should ask themselves what they want to accomplish via a capstone project. The best projects are often the ones where the student is most passionate. If a student has a sincere interest in the deeper exploration of a field, it should be encouraged and their excitement and enthusiasm for the field can be felt in their work. If a student is solely tackling a capstone project to wow colleges, there is most likely a better way to impress schools more in line with the student’s interest. Looking to get a better sense of what a capstone project is or looking for an idea to get started on your own capstone project? Here are some examples: Business: Study digital marketing and create a digital marketing plan for a local business to help increase awareness and drive sales. STEM: Learn about video game or app development and conceptualize, design, and build a working game or app. Athletics: Research training and nutrition, build a training plan and diet, and perform in an athletic competition (a triathlon or marathon, for example). Community Service: Learn about the work non-profits do, get first-hand experience volunteering with a local non-profit, and build a plan to create an organization that serves your community. Film: Research what makes an effective public service announcement (PSA) and write, direct, and film a PSA that addresses a concern in your community. A capstone project is just one way that high schoolers can boost their college profile. Our Early Advising Program is aimed at 9th and 10th graders—helping them get a jump start on building a resume that will impress college admissions officers with great grades, stellar standardized test scores, and awesome extracurricular activities. In architecture, a capstone is the final stone placed on a bridge or arch, securing all the other stones in place. In combination with our Early Advising Program, a capstone project is a great way to tie together all of the work a student has done during their high school career to complete an inspiring college profile.

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Preparation of Unit Work Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

Preparation of Unit Work - Essay Example During a school inspection, it was found that the teachers tend to rely more on course books and other commercial materials, and take little or no initiative at all to make the course more interesting and appropriate with creativity and zeal. This "coursebook-led" approach makes teaching as well as learning a lack-luster, cumbersome exercise. It has been said that we learn 20% of what we hear, 50% of what we see and 80% of what we do. Therefore, mixing course book with practical work by using creative audio visual methods including discussion in pairs and groups is easily a better option as compared to just course book teaching. Besides language, speaking skills involve voice control, overcoming nervousness, and the art of listening, all of which must be properly taught and ingrained in the students' minds. It is not possible to effectively cover all of these in a rigid follow through of a course book. (How To Write and Speak Better)2. Now this situation leads to a ticklish issue. What is a course book Rather, what is the function of a course book A course book is a resource, a medium. The function of teaching materials including course books is to provide information. It is a resource or a medium to be used for guidance and instruction. When a class is being led by the medium, it is obvious that the medium is assuming the role of a leader. Obviously, a medium cannot, by any stretch of imagination, assume the human role of leadership. Furthermore, it is equally preposterous to think it all right for the teacher to simply go through the daily chore of covering a lesson each day and by the time the entire book is covered, to take it for granted that the students have mastered ESL. This method is not adequate in learning a language where participation and expression are as mandatory as grammar and vocabulary. The Coursebook-based approach The ideal approach to teaching a language is the use of a strong students-teacher bond where the teacher is the best embodiment of a textbook. The teacher must be thoroughly familiar with the study material in order to teach, explain and lead the class with lan. ESL students are greatly starved of English teachers who serve as their role models and living textbooks. These students have the remarkable knack of looking into the textbooks on their own and ratify their teacher's explanations and instructions. What they need is the generous use of question answer sessions, group discussions, and the confidence that they are headed in the right direction. In such an environment, the textbooks and supplements do wonders. The urge to study and learn becomes a passion. To begin with, the student is first given a proper overview of the whole course during the first few sessions. This enables the student to be vigilant, well-prepared and he has a good idea of what to expect. The good leadership provided by the teacher makes learning an edifying and pleasant experience. Communication between the teacher and the student is clear, purposeful and objective. The course book is given its due

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Research project part 4 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Research project part 4 - Essay Example However, the challenges facing the implementation of the program included that nurses saw the program as an imposed program and the documentation required as a burden. Due to the difficulties facing the implementation of hourly rounding programs, this paper will explore the different variables that need to be checked, towards ensuring that hourly rounding offers solutions to the problem of patient falls. The processes and the structures used during the implementation of hourly rounding affect the success of the program. Unlike the traditional approach used, when implementing an hourly rounding program, the current one will engage and consult medical staffs and patients, who will offer their feedback regarding the impact of the program and the areas to be reviewed, so as to maximize the benefits of the program (Rondinelli et al. 326). The major indicators to be reviewed, in determining the effectiveness of the program, include increasing patient satisfaction, where patients feel that they are well cared for and the second major indicator will be the reduction in patient falls. More importantly, the feedback collected from patients and medical staffs will be used for the review and the repositioning of the structure, processes and the administration of the program, towards realizing the desired outcomes (Rondinelli et al. 326). The main difference of this hourly rounding program from others will be that the routinized approach will be abandoned, and flexibility will be maintained at all stages of program implementation. The implementation of the program will employ a person-centered approach to realize the anticipated changes; the person-centered approach will be instrumental in changing the cultural values of the care facility, so as to ensure the effectiveness of the program. The hourly rounding program will involve the medical personnel and also the leaders of the facility, where the cooperative effort of the two groups will be instrumental in

Monday, August 26, 2019

Reflection paper Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Reflection paper - Assignment Example Since it is against the Gods will, gay marriage should be highly discouraged and should not be accorded same rights as the heterosexual type of a marriage. Marriage is biblical and it means that it is Godly and in this case, God created marriage to be between different sexes unlike homosexuality, which is demonic, and contrast to the word of God. It’s impossible to get children through people of the same sex since reproduction takes place only if opposite sexes are involved. In this case, individuals involved in homosexuality can only get children through adoption or paying someone else to assist in getting a child and therefore, denies a child either a mother or a father.Basically,this kid will be raised by either mother or father who they do not have same blood relationship. Gay marriage also encourages immorality and homosexuality in the society (Spilsbury 36) Homosexuality does not help in procreation or the create families since its an unproductive union if a child is needed one is supposed to go to an extent of employing someone to help in getting a

Civil engineering Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 2

Civil engineering - Essay Example The main goal of site assessment is to conduct preliminary a evaluation of the potential development and provide screening analysis. Here the construction company develops a site feasibility checklist in order to provide basic information required to determine if a site meets basic requirements and to provide basic economic analysis. This process also identifies strength and weakness of the retail project and to determine whether or not to pass to the next stage of retail development. (Plummer, F. 2007) There are stages followed in site assessment in the construction of a retail project and they include planning for site assessment, Data collection, data analysis and finally plan development and project layout. Planning for Site Assessment is important stage before designing and laying out the retail project. This will be vital for the Plan Engineer in making informative decisions about the project. Data collection about the site is the next important stage in site assessment. This stage involves a collection of resourceful information pertaining to the site. This information can be obtained from maps, existing publications and other resources. Going to the site to have a visual appreciation of the site and site features is valuable. Important information collected includes vegetative cover, soil information, topographical information, hydrological information and evaluation of adjacent properties and their land use. Analysis of the collected information on the parameters listed above to identify various needs and modification the site may require .Evaluation of the impact of that parameter may help to reduce the negative economic burden and environmental impact of the project. As data analysis takes place the Civil Engineer should be to determine the permits required for the retail project. (Plummer, F.

Sunday, August 25, 2019

Explain Geoffrey Parker's concept of the western way of War How does Essay

Explain Geoffrey Parker's concept of the western way of War How does the Western way of war influence current US action in I - Essay Example From the fifteenth century, the role of the Western military has been to propagate and uplift the cultures of the western nations.   Writers of various genres of military history had a variety of reasons for writing about military life.   Three factors have contributed to the excellence of the western military over those of the neighboring non-European nations and the Americas. First of all, widespread politicization and acceptance of Christianity in the western world contributed to this. Later, the industrial revolution led to innovations in military technology.   Finally, there was imposition of Western cultures into the non-western word through means such as trade and colonialism.  Currently, the imposition occurs through western globalization. Therefore, these three factors have played a role in the western world’s military dominance. This has led to the phenomenon referred to as, Eurocentric Supremacy1. Military historians who describe the phenomenon of Eurocentri c Supremacy explained that many non-Europeans were compelled to convert to Christianity.   The first military officer to convert to Christianity was Constantine. ... It, therefore, led to numerous military attacks and campaigns by the western military. A great number of military attacks resulted from conflicts between the Orthodox Church and Christianity.    The western military took its campaigns outside their jurisdiction. This phenomenon led to widespread colonization of other nations by the west and the norm of slave trade. At this time, the other nations had the difficulty in opposing the western colonies because the western colonies were well equipped due to the dominant industrial revolution and innovation. It is, therefore, clear that the spread and development of Christianity throughout the western nations contributed to the Euro-centrism that was typical of the Western military. The technological advancements and innovations that resulted from the western industrial revolution all led to a supremacy in the western military’s mechanisms of war2.   In his work concerning the advent of technology and modern war, Martin Van Creve ld illustrates the point of technology that was typical of the western way of life. Creveld quips that the modern war is adversely infiltrated by technology. He further adds that technology has now governed war. This he attributes to the western culture which has ensured that the principles of war have been upheld since time immemorial. The western power has experienced invincibility from the past. This is due to the fact that the western word is motivated towards usage of technology in war either at the beginning of the war or at the middle and end of the war. The western world also has unyielding thirst in its quest to discover newer forms of technology that will improve its war and military activities. These are the factors that have all along made the

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Best Buy's Code of Ethics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Best Buy's Code of Ethics - Essay Example 34). Best Buy (2009) defines ethics as â€Å"putting principles into action,† which to the company is a matter of integrity and self-restraint (p. 1). Aiming â€Å"to be a responsible, values-driven global enterprise,† (p. 6), Best Buy declares its values into four strong statements: (1) â€Å"unleash the power of our people;† (2) â€Å"learn from challenge and change;† (3) â€Å"show respect, humility and integrity;† and (4) â€Å"have fun while being the best† (p. 5). These are achieved through mutual partnership, honest and accurate information, respect for employees’ autonomy, recognition of work, strict observance of confidentiality, zero-tolerance on retaliation, responsibility to stakeholders, respect for diversity, legal compliances, health and safety in the workplace, respect for the physical environment, financial integrity, fair competition, corporate social responsibility, protection and proper use of company assets, and pr otecting intellectual property. These values are well-ingrained in the companies stated responsibilities: Responsibility to each other – deals with the company’s internal environment, ranging from the relationship of management to employees, employees to the company, and employees to their co-employees; responsibility to customers – tackles the company’s ethics in advertising, market distribution, and relationship with diverse customers; responsibility to shareholders – emphasizes financial integrity, transparency, and the safeguarding of the company’s assets; responsibility to business associates – highlights fair competition and conflict of interest; responsibility to communities – spells out the company’s corporate social responsibility and its legal and responsible global operations; and the special obligations of employees with financial reporting responsibilities -- stresses honesty, accountability, compliance, obj ectivity, promptness, and full disclosure. Following Takamine’s Justice Model, which integrated both the Blanchard-Peale Model and Velasquez Model (Takamine, Date, p. 38), Best Buy’s code of ethic

Friday, August 23, 2019

Communication and interaction within married couples at church Essay

Communication and interaction within married couples at church - Essay Example This problem depends upon a number of factors, which are both communicational and condemnatory. The principles that underline the seriousness of this problem include blocks like lack of communication, age factor with relevance to immaturity, lack of decision making skills, insensitiveness, early child care situations, and lack of awareness. This prime and most pondered upon issue is being spread like fire all around the researches in contemporary literature, which is why a basis of this issue with reference to its illustration through research will be provided. It is believed that in order for human beings to survive in a society, it is necessary for them to communicate. Is that why man is a social animal? To be accurate, it is true and very much factual. Human beings cannot survive if they are unable to communicate and lack interpersonal skills. Communication skills can be defined as ‘That situation in which a source transmits a message to a receiver with conscious intent to a ffect the latter’s behavior.’ This specifies that the process of expressing thoughts and messages through language or actions is called communication. Hence, it verifies that without the help of communication, human beings cannot continue to exist; especially without speech, because it is thought to be exceedingly imperative as we need to slot in and complete very complex everyday jobs involving collaboration. To validate that proper communication you should be is indispensable; Bach & Grant (2009) said â€Å"There are times, though, when we experience situations where we consider that an interaction did not go smoothly; perhaps we were misunderstood or a friend reacted differently to how we expected.† Explaining the importance of communication between couples, another important term with reference to communication, is ‘nonverbal communication skills’; these skills are meant to make the communicator feel safe, respected, and understood. Petersen (20 07) has verified â€Å"Listening to understand requires a non-judgmental attitude that can go against what most of us were taught, that is, to listen for rights and wrongs.† Therefore, the aspect which has been selected for influencing problems that married couples face is lack of communication. Communication students can directly relate to this topic, as it verifies how lack of communication could reform the society and how these students can elucidate its reach. The fact that problems couples face after marriage has immersed in almost all societies, and what is more essential for elaboration is the fact that it is spontaneously shifting its frame of totality in all societies, which makes it perplexed to be analyzed in a specified precinct. Hence, this problem, its effectiveness and its causes are under assessment with the help of reviewing literature and a qualitative research method. It has been formulated that misunderstandings between couples emerge due to the fact that men and women communicate differently. Instead of communicating with each other, couples tend to talk to others about it and do not gain the idea that this would not solve problems. What needs to be pondered upon is that while staying on this path, couples become hopeless and verify that communication is of no use. Rather than making each other understand the issues they are facing, couples move towards differences which lead to problems like divorces and separations. The specified reason that this topic has been

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Firm value and share price strategy Essay Example for Free

Firm value and share price strategy Essay BAE facing challenges on Intensive competition and budget defence cuts by their major customers should focus on increasing shareholders’ equity by reduction of costs, adapting capabilities to the changing priorities of their customers and improve their Programme execution. Directors should monitor working capital expenditures to ensure that unnecessary further debt would be incurred that inevitably has an effect on book values. Higher book values (stockholders’ equity) act as a positive in a buyers assessment of purchase price, to some extent providing at least the illusion of a floor in value (Nation’s Business 2006). 4) Recommendations dealing with corporate governance Currently BAE Systems has faced problems facing its shareholders due to its criticism received on corporate governance and ethical conduct (Daily Mail 2010). As a recommendation, BAE should follow the financial reporting council (FRC) proposition on putting greater emphasis on the principles of UK’s corporate governance code, and apply the annual shareholder re-election. This would have a significant impact a wider engagement for the company’s shareholders. A necessary midyear review process should be conducted by an external facilitator to help in the evaluation process, metrics such as board effectiveness by dealing with issues in a timely manner should be considered. Having a wide and complex set of operations, information dissemination in a timely manner is very important to ensure appropriate decisions. Key performance Indicators should be the guideline across all the managing directors and their performance will be evaluated by comparison of their actual results from targets. 5) Critical evaluation of the model used Using financial models can provide actual figures for projection analysis that can create awareness for a company’s board of directors (Palmgren 1999). The Residual Income Model can be used as a valuation of the firm, based on its total book value and residual income (Financial Education 2010). During recent years it has been used as the primary valuation method due to its measurement of internal corporate performance and feasible estimation of the intrinsic value of common stock. The difference between a residual income and traditional financial statements are for the latter its purpose of preparation is to reflect earnings available to its owners, charges incurred for equity capital and dividends are not included, while the former adds the component of cost of equity capital for its calculation (Dodd 2001). Another limitation of the traditional income model is that it may not actually reflect the value of certain business activities. Such in our case with BAE system’s numerous acquisitions, on its accounting model it seems that BAE have significantly improved profitability on its strategies, however this could not be all false, but using the residual income approach some of the acquisitions doesn’t have the kind of effect, due again to the cost of equity capital (Bild, Guest,Cosh and Runsten 2002). 6) Conclusion BAE Systems being in an industry where intense competition exists should apply necessary strategies to ensure profitability in the coming years both for continuous operation and maximizing shareholders equity. Their current strategies for acquisition may have benefited them but the cost of violation of regulation procedures have definitely impacted over all operations. Using financial models like the residual income model, the board of directors can see, what would happen if they continue with their current policies on corporate strategy and governance, it has shown a negative impact on present firm’s value, thus the recommendation for consideration of a new effective strategy to be implemented across the board. List of References BAE Systems (2010) Annual Report 2009.[PDF] Available from http://bae-systems-investor- relations-2009. production. investis. com/results-reports-and-presentations. aspx [09 May 2010]. Brylawski, M. (1995). Developing a circumstance-based Innovation Strategy for a Midsized Aerospace Manufacturer:Fostering Entreprenuership, Opening Boundaries and Seeding Disruption. [PDF] Available from http://dspace. mit. edu/bitstream/handle/1721. 1/34748/56606619. pdf? sequence=1. [09 May 2010]. Bild, M. , Guest,P. , Cosh, A. , and Runsten, M. (2002). Do takeovers create value? A residual income approach on UK data. [PDF] Daily Mail (2010). BAE flies into storm with shareholders. Available from http://www. thisismoney. co. uk/markets/article. html? in_article_id=503922in_page_id= 3. [09 May 2010]. Dodd, J. (2001). Operating income, residual income and EVA: Which metric is more value relevant. Journal of Managerial Issues. Financial Education (2010). The Residual Income Valuation Model. Available from http://financial-education. com/2007/10/30/the-residual-income-valuation-model/ [09 May 2010]. Financial Times (2010). FT Market Data BAE Systems. Available from http://markets. ft. com/ft/tearsheets/analysis. asp? s=BA.:LSE. [09 May 2010]. Nation’s Business (1996). 10 ways to increase your firms value Net Worth. Available from http://findarticles. com/p/articles/mi_m1154/is_n11_v84/ai_18818240/. [09 May 2010]. Palmgren, B. (1999). The Need for Financial Models. Available from http://www. ercim. eu/publication/Ercim_News/enw38/palmgren. html. [09 May 2010]. Smith, T Frost,L. (2008). BAE Buys Tenix Defence to Double Sales in Australia. [Online] Available from http://www. bloomberg. com/apps/news? sid=aV7YIxXunPvspid=20601087 [09 May 2010]. Wachman, R. (2010). BAE Systems hit by defence cuts. Available from http://www. guardian. co. uk/business/2010/mar/22/bae-systems-defence-spending-cuts [09 May 2010]. West, K (2010). BAE goes top of the global arms league. [Online] Available from http://www. thisismoney. co. uk/news/article. html? in_article_id=502716in_page_id=2 [09 May 2010]. Appendices Appendix 1 Five year Summary Income Statement of BAE Systems. Source: retrieved 9 May 2010 Extract from Annual Report 2009 http://bae-systems-investor-relations-2009. production. investis. com/financial-information/five-year-summary. aspx Appendix 2 Group Income Statement. Source: Extract from Annual Report 2009 for the year ended 31 December. Retrieved 10 May 2010 http://bae-systems-investor-relations-2009. production. investis. com/financial-information/group-income-statement. aspx Notes 2009 ?m Total 2009 ?m 2008 ?m Total 2008 ?m Continuing operations Combined sales of Group and equity accounted investments 3 22,415 18,543 Less: share of sales of equity accounted investments 3 (2,041) (1,872) Revenue 3 20,374 16,671 Operating costs 4 (20,060) (15,386) Other income 5 465 415 Group operating profit excluding amortisation and impairment of intangible assets 2,038 2,003. Amortisation 11 (286) (247) Impairment 11 (973) (56) Group operating profit 779 1,700 Share of results of equity accounted investments excluding finance costs and taxation expense 233 132 Financial (expense)/income of equity accounted investments 6 (7) 44 Taxation expense of equity accounted investments (23) (37) Share of results of equity accounted investments 14 203 139 Goodwill impairment in respect of equity accounted investments 14 (121) Contribution from equity accounted investments 203 18 EBITA1 excluding non-recurring items 2,220 1,897 Profit on disposal of businesses2 9. 68 238 Pension curtailment gains2 261 Regulatory penalties3 (278) EBITA1 2,271 2,135 Amortisation (286) (247) Impairments (973) (177) Financial (expense)/income of equity accounted investments 6 (7) 44 Taxation expense of equity accounted investments (23) (37) Operating profit 3 982 1,718 Finance costs 6 Financial income 1,573 3,380 Financial expense (2,273) (2,727) (700) 653 Profit before taxation 282 2,371 Taxation expense 8 UK taxation (105) (351) Overseas taxation (222) (252) (327) (603) (Loss)/profit for the year (45) 1,768 Attributable to: BAE Systems shareholders (67) 1,745 Minority interests 22 23 (45) 1,768 (Loss)/earnings per share 10 Basic (loss)/earnings per share (1. 9)p 49. 6p Diluted (loss)/earnings per share (1. 9)p 49. 5p Appendix 3 Group Balance Sheet as at 31 December. Source: Extract from Annual Report 2009. Retrieved 10 May 2010 http://bae-systems-investor-relations-2009. production. investis. com/financial-information/balance-sheet. aspx Notes 2009 ?m 2008 Restated ?m Fixed assets Tangible assets 2 4 5 Investments in subsidiary undertakings 3 7,070 5,663 7,074 5,668 Current assets Debtors due within one year 4. 7,468 9,339 Debtors due after one year 4 14 3 Other financial assets due within one year 262 703 Other financial assets due after one year 5 179 478 Cash at bank and in hand 5 2,804 1,988 10,725 12,511 Liabilities falling due within one year Loans and overdrafts 6 (37) (49) Creditors 7 (14,490) (12,873) Other financial liabilities 5 (255) (598) (14,782) (13,520) Net current liabilities (4,057) (1,009) Total assets less current liabilities 3,017 4,659 Liabilities falling due after one year Loans 6 (233) (258) Creditors 7 (3) (6) Other financial liabilities 5 (327) (574). (563) (838) Provisions for liabilities and charges 8 (61) (120) (2,393) (3,701) Capital and reserves Issued share capital 10 90 90 Share premium account 12 1,243 1,238 Statutory reserve 13 202 202 Other reserves 12 119 164 Profit and loss account 12 739 2,007 Equity shareholders’ funds 2,393 3,701 Appendix 4 Group Cash Flow for the year ended 31 December. Source: Extract from Annual Report 2009. Retrieved 10 May 2010 http://bae-systems-investor-relations-2009. production. investis. com/financial-information/cash-flow. aspx Notes 2009 ?m 2008 ?m (Loss)/profit for the year (45) 1,768. Taxation expense 327 603 Share of results of equity accounted investments 14 (203) (139) Net finance costs 700 (653) Depreciation, amortisation and impairment 1,600 755 Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment 4, 5 (17) (33) Gain on disposal of investment property 5 – (5) Gain on disposal of businesses 5 (68) (238) Cost of equity–settled employee share schemes 52 51 Movements in provisions 52 (115) Decrease in liabilities for retirement benefit obligations (657) (272) Decrease/(increase) in working capital: Inventories 6 46 Trade and other receivables 52 (5). Trade and other payables 433 246 Cash inflow from operating activities 2,232 2,009 Interest paid (250) (249) Interest element of finance lease rental payments (2) (5) Taxation paid (350) (261) Net cash inflow from operating activities 1,630 1,494 Dividends received from equity accounted investments 14 77 89 Interest received 66 156 Purchases of property, plant and equipment (483) (520) Purchases of intangible assets (42) (32) Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment 36 44 Proceeds from sale of investment property – 5 Purchase of subsidiary undertakings 27, 29 (357) (1,078). Cash and cash equivalents acquired with subsidiary undertakings 27 33 2 Purchase of equity accounted investments 27 (1) (12) Proceeds from sale of subsidiary undertakings 9 2 131 Cash and cash equivalents disposed of with subsidiary undertakings – (60) Proceeds from sale of equity accounted investments 9 70 16 Net proceeds from (purchase)/sale of other deposits/securities (209) 164 Net cash outflow from investing activities (808) (1,095) Capital element of finance lease rental payments (13) (18) Proceeds from issue of share capital 5 16 Purchase of own shares (25) (43) Equity dividends paid 28. (534) (478) Dividends paid to minority interests (5) (11) Cash inflow/(outflow) from matured derivative financial instruments 36 (440) Cash (outflow)/inflow from movement in cash collateral (11) 106 Cash inflow from loans 920 Cash outflow from repayment of loans (133) (306) Net cash inflow/(outflow) from financing activities 240 (1,174) Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 1,062 (775) Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January 2,605 3,046 Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents 11 334 Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December 3,678 2,605.

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Strategy and Positioning Paper Essay Example for Free

Strategy and Positioning Paper Essay Introduction Starbucks is preparing to launch the new Frizzo hand crafted soda. This paper will include an overview of Starbucks and their products. It will also include a SWOT analysis and a competitive analysis of the organization and offering using the Porter’s five competitive forces model. It will include the criteria used to segment the market and select a target market that will include geographic, demographic, and psychographic, and behavioral factors. Next it will include a description of the targeted market and the needs that cause the target market to buy. Finally, it will include a written positioning statement. Starbucks Overview Starbucks legacy began in 1971, in Seattle’s Pike Place market as a roaster and retailer of whole bean and ground coffee, tea, and spices (Starbucks, 2015). The company was sold to Howard Schultz 1987. His vision to bring the Italian coffee bars and the romance coffee experience to the United States became a reality; he was determined to make it a one of a kind company. The Starbucks name was derived from the first mate in Herman Melville’s Moby Dick, and their emblem was influenced by the sea featuring a twin-tailed siren Greek mythology (Starbucks, 2015). Today, Starbucks has the privilege to operate in 21,878 retail stores in 66 countries. Starbucks stores are a gathering place for customers to meet with friends and family while enjoying quality service and an inviting atmosphere. Starbucks customers can expect to get more than coffee, with their wide selection of premium teas, baked pastries, and other healthy delicious foods (Starbucks, 2015). According to Starbucks (2015), Starbucks mission is to â€Å"to inspire and nurture the human spirit – one person, one cup, and one neighborhood at a time† (Our Mission). The company believes in the importance of building an everlasting business, and it strives to have a balance between profitability and a social conscience (Starbucks, 2015). In every step Starbucks takes, it is always performed through the lens of humanity. The company is very adamant about ethically sourcing the highest quality of coffee, caring for the planet through environmental stewardship, and getting involved in their communities. According to Statistics and Facts on Starbucks (n.d.), â€Å"Starbucks has generated by far the most revenue and the largest number of stores worldwide within the coffee chain industry (para.3). It became the second most valuable fast food brand worldwide in 2014, coming right under the only global giant McDonald’s (Statistics and Facts on Starbucks, n.d.). Starbucks has come a long way, and it has no intentions of slowing down. Description of the Product Innovation is in Starbucks DNA, they are always thinking about how to serve their customers better. A company that began as a roaster and retailer of coffee beans and ground coffee, tea, and spices, is now an all-American global company coffee chain. It is now, serving hot and iced coffee beverages along with other exceptional products such as teas, and smoothies. Starbucks introduces a new refreshing drink away from coffee and tea. It wanted to know if it can be more than coffee to its customers, by introducing the New Frizzo Handcrafted Soda. This machine is a breakthrough in carbonation technology delivering a unique soda experience. The soda experience is nothing like the sodas customer’s purchase in a store. Fizzo ensures every ingredient is carbonated to maximize the real flavor (Starbucks News , 2015). In addition, the new Fizzo machine comes with a fizz adjuster, to adjust the right amount of fizz in each beverage. And better yet, it is made by hand the moment the customer orders it. The new Fizzo sodas come in three different flavors the Golden Ginger Ale, Lemon Ale, and Spiced Root Beer (Starbucks, 2015). Fizzo drinks only have 100  calories in a Grande size (16 fl. oz.), and 80 calories in a Tall size (12 fl.oz). They are a special summer treat to any customer who wants to enjoy a refreshing soda any day of the week. The new Fizzo cold drink is available at all local Starbucks locations. SWOT Analysis Strengths Operating efficiencies and strong growth lead to superior financial performance  2014 was just considered one of the best financial years for Starbucks. Starbucks revenue increased by 10%, approximately 1599 additional stores were opened, profit and operational margins have grew and their cash flow continued robust despite the vast growth. In China, Starbucks has the rapidest growing store network as opposed to their competition In the year 2011 they were only 570 Starbucks locations in China, now there are currently 1,367. There are more Starbucks locations than Costa Coffee and Dunkin’ Donuts combined; However, McDonalds still leads with over 2000 locations. Leading brand in the coffee market, valued at $5.2 billion Starbucks has a leading brand reputation because of their excellent coffee and outstanding customer service. Its brand is the most valuable brand the in coffee market and is valued at $5.2 billion. The great Starbucks experience One of Starbucks’s strongest advantages is the experience a customer experiences when visiting Starbucks. They cater to their customers with impeccable blended coffee, first-class music, welcoming staff and just and all around warm atmosphere, which results in incomparable customer service. The effective use of the Starbucks Card, loyalty program, and mobile applications, to simplify the ordering process and to promote continual purchases The Starbucks Card is a stored reward card and is convenient to use when  making a purchase at Starbucks locations. Along with a quicker checkout time, customers who use their cards to pay for their items also receive points for their purchases. The Starbucks Rewards Program lures consumers to return to Starbucks and, of course, make continuous purchases. Going above and beyond the Starbucks Card, there is now a mobile application, which allows customers to pay with their Smartphones. Over 6 million customers use their Smartphone to make purchases weekly. Weakness Too dependent on their profits within the Americas Division American Division including the United States, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Canada and other America countries makes up for the 73% or $11.98 billion of Starbucks total sales. Out of the 14,191 stores in the America division, 11,962 stores are located within the United States. Making the United States their most relevant market. The cost of coffee beans has a considerable impacted on profits Profits and the price of coffee greatly depend on the cost of coffee beans. Coffee beans are considered an uncontrollable commodity, and due to unreliable weather conditions, hedge funds and many other elements, Starbucks is unable to estimate the price of its coffee and their company’s profitability. The price for a cup of Coffee Starbucks has incredible coffee and an amazing customer experience which allows them to charge more for their product. On the other hand, McDonalds McCafe premium coffee is priced significantly lower than Starbucks. Harmful publicity The corporation regularly receives negative exposure over its poor efforts of becoming environment-friendly company and tax evasions. Starbucks has not paid taxes for years 2009 through 2011 in the United Kingdom and other European Countries for the revenue of  £1.3 billion. Opportunities Grow the Teavana store network Tea is categorized as a healthy drink and the demand for Tea is rapidly  increasing in the world. Tea is the most popular manufactured drink consumed in the world (Mac Farlane, 2004). Sales of tea products have grown from $1.84 billion to $10.41 billion in 2013 within the United States (The Tea Association of the U.S.A, 2013). Branch out their supplier network Currently, Starbucks does not grow their coffee beans; they purchase them from a variety of suppliers, which are primarily bunched in Arabia, South America or Africa. In order for Starbucks to guarantee critical product for their operations in Asia, they should branch out their supplier network and ease the dependence of good or bad harvests from their current supplier locations. Starbucks should consider extending its supplier system. A growth of an emerging economy There are vast opportunities for coffee sales in India, in which Starbucks only has a minimal amount of restaurants. Threats Possible rise in the price of coffee beans because of unpredictable weather disasters Coffee beans are the chief material used, and coffee makes up about half of the total company’s sales. Therefore, the profit margins are to some extent reliant on the cost of the coffee beans. In 2011, the cost of coffee beans skyrocketed to $3 a pound (Kollewe, 2011). Over the past few years, pricing has been very unpredictable. Trademark breaches Starbucks has been implicated in several instances over its illegal use of its trademark, which can be pricey and harmful for Starbucks. Potential upcoming change in some of the top executives Since 1985, Howard Schultz has been a very productive and reliable CEO, who managed to develop Starbucks into on the biggest restaurant chains in the world. Along with Howard Schultz, there are many other key executives who have been employed at Starbucks for more than ten years and they have all contributed to the success of Starbucks. The danger here is that many of these key executives are in the age category for retirement. During his attempt to leave in 2008, Starbucks convinced Troy Alstead to stay because  he was the most qualified candidate to fill the position of Howard Schultz as CEO. Unfortunately, Troy Alstead left Starbucks at the beginning of 2015 (Callan and Giammona, 2015). This change could possibly be a threat to the weaken Starbucks management capabilities. Porter’s Five Competitive Forces Starbucks is a competitive organization, and the Porter’s five competitive forces are as such. Starbucks customers have a hefty amount of bargaining power, and there is a small amount of customers who will not go elsewhere due to high prices, even though, there is a vast amount of choices available to them. The threat is substantial with alternate products and services. Alternative for Starbucks Coffee include tea, soft drinks, juices, water and energy drinks, and pubs, and bars can be areas for customers to meet someone and spend their quality time away from home and work environments. There is no threat of new company’s in the coffee business trying to compete with Starbucks. The market is highly saturated, and the substantial amount of financial resources needed to build stores and buy properties are necessary in order to enter the market of the coffee making business. Starbucks and the suppliers have a higher bargaining power because the consumer demand for coffee is high at the universal level. Coffee beans can and will be produced only in certain areas. African coffee producers are being treated unfairly by worldwide companies, and the issues are being resolved with the efforts of various non-related government organizations and this increases the bargaining power of the suppliers. Criteria use to Segment the Market Starbucks decides to choose the demographics and psychographics lifestyles of their customers. The information collected pertaining to these segments suggests that Starbucks can better serve its consumers. Psychographics are primarily based on the consumers activities, opinions, and interests, it is how their consumers spend their time, what their favorite drinks are and what their priorities are, also how they feel about certain current events and issues. Psychographic research is together related to psychological research, especially when it comes to personality and attitude measurements. Though the factors such as personality and behavior are often used to describe marketing segments, the consumers demographic characteristics  should be used to evaluate the size of the target market and to reach it efficiently. Demographics is items such as sex, marital status, occupation, education, and income. Starbucks targets both male and female consumers, mainly 25-40 year-olds. Starbucks does not relate to a younger crowd because children under the age of 18 do not drink coffee. Starbucks company has positioned themselves in a way that it can recognize something different in their products from competition this gives them an advantage in association to their competitors. The mission of Starbucks is that they want to inspire and nurture the human spirit, one person, one cup, one neighborhood at a time (Starbucks, 2015). Their strategy is customer based this allows them to give the best customer service possible. As Starbucks continue to hold onto their sustainable competitive advantage, they hold onto the customer and employees satisfaction. Starbucks is a worldwide company that has slammed the competitors operations, and it looks as if the company will last forever. Their power over the consumer and competition has shown that Starbucks is the king of the coffee industry. Description of Target Market Starbucks target market is to focus on being most known and respected brand in the world. The luxury coffee industry is very competitive, but Starbucks offers the most favorite hot and cold beverages that can be addictive. Starbucks target market ranges from young teenagers, college students, and adults. People of all ages go to Starbucks to enjoy their favorite drink even if it is just coffee. Customers are more willing to pay for lavish coffee products now more than ever, with that in mind, Starbucks aggressive growth in USA and worldwide have begun targeting almost every demographic to be a leader in coffee drinks. McDonalds and other chains try to cash in on the money in the lavish coffee business. There are smaller coffee shops in the market place offering similar products, but Starbuck’s has a great deal of buying power giving them a competitive advantage. McDonalds has a customer base that is enormously large and now has the alternative to get their coffee where they get their breakfast. McDonald’s cup of coffee is less expensive than Starbucks and is one of Starbucks biggest competitors in this economy; Starbucks provides a luxury drink, but that will be what people cut back on when they want to save money. Unfortunately, Starbucks  has closed of over a hundred Starbucks stores in recent years. Emotional and Logical Drivers Starbucks emotional and logical drivers provide a great atmosphere to get together for coffee or the unique flavored hot or cold beverages. Customers can come to Starbucks to study, meet with friends, or read a book. The furnishings usually consist of plenty of tables, chairs, and a welcoming atmosphere. Starbucks offers free Wi-Fi and always has plenty of electrical outlets for laptop chargers. These amenities start a trendy atmosphere consistent with the potential of social meeting places. The Starbucks locations worldwide offer the same experience as the locations in USA. Starbucks has the advantage to promote and advertise same menu items people can try worldwide and even customize some the of menu items to fit the local community tastes. Positioning Statement According to the OFarrell (2015) website, â€Å"Starbucks’ primary target market is men and women aged 25 to 40. They account for almost half (49 percent) of its total business. Starbucks’ appeal to this consumer age group through hip, contemporary design that is consistent with its advertising and decor, and working to keep its products current as status symbols. Customers tend to be urbanites with relatively high income, professional careers and a focus on social welfare. This target audience grows at a rate of 3 percent annually† (Para 2). Based on a personal consumer’s standpoint, many customers return to Starbucks every morning not because their coffee is the best quality. Most of the people in my circle, including myself, used to purchase Starbucks coffee because of the experience that it goes into the purchasing process. It is no surprise that the company uses millions of dollars to study the experience the consumers encounter in each and every step they take before getting a coffee in their hands. Furthermore, a lot of customers including myself enjoy the reward; who would not want to enjoy a nice brewed coffee before a long day? Lastly, I would say purchasing a Starbucks coffee exhibits some egocentric drive or personal, or perhaps shows a level of the individual’s social economic and of course, we cannot leave out the social  energy! Starbucks is not just the number one specialty coffee retailer in its industry for no reason. And it is not just because of their high market cap rate. The corporation serves their famous coffee drinks, their food items and roasted beans along with their coffee accessories, and teas. Starbucks markets its coffee through many military installations around the world, grocery stores including Target, bookstores like Barns and Noble, and other varieties of licensed brands food and beverage products. Additionally, although countless studies and research are put into solving and resolving target issues, one of the most outstanding resolutions that Starbucks ever demonstrated was in January of 2008. According to Nbc News (2015), â€Å"Howard Schultz said Monday (January 2008) he is taking back the role of chief executive, replacing CEO Jim Donald as part of a plan to turn around the struggling chain of coffee houses. Schultz, in a letter to employees posted on the companys website, said Starbucks would slow its United States growth and close underperforming locations, restructure its management organization, and continue to expand globally.†(Para 1-2) The Spider Book (2015) website listed that among the many competitors Starbucks has to war with; McDonald’s is leading the global market competitor’s list. Costa Coffee, Coca-Cola, Caribou Coffee Costa Express, and Coke are also amongst the list of competitors in that order. One of the most enthralling advantages that Starbucks have over any of its competitors is the experience. Not anyone of the other competitors could compete on any given day the amount of returning customers that stay and enjoy the social environment that Starbucks proudly offers. Starbucks has achieved their goal of attracting people to come and visit. Conclusion Starbucks is preparing to launch the new Frizzo hand crafted soda. Their targeted market will be consumers from 18 – 40 years of age. Starbucks has the advantage because they are already popular. People already gather at Starbucks to enjoy high quality drinks and food items and to enjoy the Starbucks experience. They have comfortable large couches, free Wi-Fi, phone charging station, and rewards program for loyal customers. Some consumer have made Starbucks part of their normal routine which will allow Starbucks to stay in business for a long period of time. Reference Callan, J and Giammona, C. (2015) Starbucks’ Operating Chief Will Go on Leave After 23 Years. Retrieved from https://www.bloomberg.com/new/2015-01-08/starbucks-coo-alstead-takes-leave-from-chain-after-23-years.html Kollewe, J. (2011) Coffee prices expected to rise as a result of poor harvest and growing demand. Macfarlane, A and Macfarlane, I. (2004). The Empire of Tea. The Overlook Press. p. 32. Nbc news. (2015). Retrieved from http://www.nbcnews.com/id/22544023/ns/business-us_business/t/starbucks-chairman-schultz-returning-ceo/#.VTX9ZEJppnE New Fizzioâ„ ¢ Handcrafted sodas. Made just for you. (2015). Retrieved from http://www.starbucks.com/ OFarrell, R. (2015). Chron. Retrieved from http://smallbusiness.chron.com/starbucks-target-audience-10553.html Perreault, W. D., Jr., Cannon, J. P., McCarthy, E. J. (2011). Basic marketing: A marketing strategy planning approach (19th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Irwin. Starbucks . (2015). Retrieved from http://www.starbucks.com/ S tatistics and facts on Starbucks. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.statista.com/ Spider book. (2015). Retrieved from http://spiderbook.com/starbucks-competitors.html The Tea Association of the U.S.A (2013). The State of the U.S. Tea Industry 2013. Retrieved from http://www.teausa.com/14654/state-of-the-industry Wong, Vanessa. (2015). Now Brewing: Starbucks Soda. Retrieved from http://www.bloomberg.com/

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Project Plan To British Airport Authority Construction Essay

Project Plan To British Airport Authority Construction Essay This report is aimed at producing an effective project plan to British Airport Authority (BAA) using Heathrow terminal 5 as a case study. The methodology used in this project is the problem solving approach where a major problem is identified, the possible solution to the problem is analysed and the best solution for the implementation of the project is recommended. In producing this plan, a major problem of airport congestion was identified and an option appraisal was carried using the SWOT tool to determine whether the proposed project plan was worth doing, the projects scope, definitions and deliverables were clearly stated. Some assumption, considerations and constraints had to be made to assist the project team consulted for this project in understanding and delivering the plan effectively. The projects critical factors, measurable targets dependencies and resource requirements were outlined in this report. Also a detailed cost estimate was done for the allocated budget. Microsoft project package was used to prepare and produce a Gantt chart including a work breakdown structure for each task identifying the major milestones. A communication and risk plan is also included in this report to ensure a smooth implementation of the project plan. Finally this report recommends time duration for the project and a sustainability framework. INTRODUCTION This is a detailed report based on the project plan presentation made by group 5 project consultants to British Airport Authority (BAA) on the 14th of December 2009. The problem solving approach was used in this project plan using BAA terminal 5 as a case study. This report identifies and addresses the problem of passenger and airline congestion in Heathrows existing terminal. In order to fully understand this report, the project background and rational would be discussed in the following section. 1.1 Background Heathrow located in the London borough of Hillingdon was initially a private airport with one grass runway used to assemble and test aircrafts. During World War II, the land occupied by this private airport was acquired by the government to build a Royal Air Force (RAF) Heston Aerodrome which was an army surplus tent small grass airfield. In 1946 it was handed over to Air ministry as Londons new civil airport. Due to the closure of the old terminal on the North side by 1961, airlines either operated from the Europa terminal or the oceanic terminal which handled long haul carriers (now terminal 2 and 3 respectively). Terminal 1 was opened in 1969 by which time about 5 million passengers were passing through the airport travelling from Heathrow to and from all parts of the world (British Airport Authority 2009). The demand for air travel and increased congestion in the central area further created the need for the development of terminal 4 in 1986. As at 2006, Heathrow owned and operated by British Airports Authority (BAA) can boast of nearly 1.4 billion commuters over 14 million flights (British Airport Authority 2009). It is UKs only international network hub airport. As traffic of commuters increased Heathrow Airport is faced with an ever increasing demand for passenger facilities and capacity constraint which has lead to frequent flight delays. This need has further lead to the construction of terminal 5. Terminal 5 is said to be a passenger terminal and associated facilities that would complement Heathrows existing terminals The planning and building of a new terminal (Exciteh 2009), presents a distinctive challenge compared to the construction of any other structure. Building this new terminal would expand Heathrows capacity to accommodate the rapidly increasing number of passengers, improve the safety and security of air transport, introduce high quality facilities, and increase the status of the British airport worldwide. The new Heathrow terminal 5 would be a gateway between the UK and the world. Group 5, is a project management consultancy team based in Aberdeen. This team has been retained as project consultants by BAA to produce a project plan for the successful delivery of her terminal 5 project at its very best. This report shows explicitly all the steps and phases required to produce the final deliverable (the project plan). 1.2 Project Rationale Heathrow is synonymous with international travel and is one of the UKs most significant fiscal assets. As a two runway and four terminal airports in 2005, it is one of the worlds leading airports in terms of passenger and airline capacity. If Heathrow continues to operate within its existing limits, it is forecasted that the airport will handle 87 million passengers a year by 2015 and thereafter 90-95 million passengers a year (Heathrow airport interim master plan 2005). With such an increase in the yearly passenger travel a new terminal is inevitable. Over the years, these existing terminals could accept more traffic because of the implementation of risk reduction measures. However, the continual congestion in Heathrows terminals may reach a condition such that it cannot be said with confidence that these terminals will continue to be safe. However, since the airline industry is a peoples industry without passengers the industry will not thrive. So the objective to build a structure that would stand the test of time and serve its millions of prospective customers thereby reducing congestion cannot be over emphasized. 2.0 PROJECT BUSINESS CASE The development of a business case to all intents and purposes is to gain support, commitment and eventually approval from the top management. The Business Case depicts the reasons for undertaking for the project, based on the estimated costs of the project, the risks and the expected business benefits and savings (APM 2006). The business case highlights the justification for the project. Reports by BAA (2009) shows that Heathrow runway operates at 95% capacity compared to 75% of its major European competitors. This congestion has lead to increased delay, lower resilience and fewer destinations served. Statistics taken from the UK Parliamentary office of Science and Technology (2000) and Airport council International (2008) shown in the table below portrays a rising trend in Heathrows passenger capacity from 1978 2008. Year 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 No. of Passengers (million) 45.4 49.2 50.4 50.7 51.1 53.7 59.4 61.6 Year 1986 1986 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 No. of Passenger (million) 66.3 76.3 82.3 87.1 89.9 84.3 94.6 100.2 Year 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 No. of passengers (million) 109.2 115.6 120.7 130.7 142.2 150.9 64.61 60.74 Year 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 No. of passengers 63.34 63.49 67.34 67.92 67.53 68.07 67.06 Figure 2.1 Average passenger capacity (Adopted from UK Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (2000) and Airport Council International (2008) To further explain the table above is a graphical representation of the passenger capacity plotted against years. Figure 2.2 Graph showing increasing passenger trend (Adopted from UK Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (2000) and Airport Council international (2008)) GRAPH ANALYSIS The statistics used for this graph shows all fights into Heathrow airport for terminals 1 to 4. From year 1998 to 2000 there was quite a steady rise in the number of passengers passing through Heathrow. From year 2001 to 2009 Heathrow experienced a decline in airline and passenger capacity. This could be attributed to the global economic situation in many parts of the world and the threat to aviation from international terrorism. On the other hand with the UK economy gradually coming out of this recession there is an expected rise in the number of aviation travel. 2.1 Available options for addressing the opportunity Option Appraisal An option appraisal to determine the best means to achieve the project objectives was done. In carrying out an option appraisal, a need and a cost benefit is first carried out, then objectives are set and options are created and reviewed (Department of Treasure UK 2009). An option appraisal is a decision making technique that identifies the project objectives and explores other alternatives for attaining these objectives. It determines whether the proposal is worth doing and clearly communicates conclusions and recommendation. After a critical analysis a preferred option was taken and used in establishing this project plan. The approach for this project plan also incorporates the traditional project management concept which breaks the project into the various life cycle phases. The three major options identified for this project is as shown below; 2.2 OPTION 1 Do Nothing This option is the base option it involves not embarking on the project. If chosen it may result in undesirable and increasing risks to air passengers due to airport congestion. 2.3 OPTION 2 Expansion of the existing terminals Measures could be taken to expand current terminals including runways to accommodate the increase. However carrying out an expansion work on the existing terminals, would be quite challenging on airlines and passengers. This would require a temporal closure of some of the terminals which may lead to potential loss of customers as they would seek alternative routes. In addition, this approach may leave current structures with minimum factor of safety and do little to improve the deficiencies and congestion in current airport. 2.4 OPTION 3 Construct a new terminal In this option constructing a new terminal of the anticipated capacity would mean that the new terminal would be constructed to expand the operations of older terminals and can potentially replace them. A SWOT analysis for this option was carried out. 2.5 SWOT Analysis SWOT analysis is a technique used to evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats involved in the project. This method involves specifying the project objectives and identifying the internal and external factors (Nigel and William 2002) that could stop or improve the success of those objectives. The environmental factors internal to the firm are classified as strength and weakness while the external factors are classified as opportunities and threats. These terms are further explained below: Strengths Strengths could either be a positive tangible or intangible attribute and they are usually within the organisations control. Weakness These are the areas that project needs to improve on. They can be considered as the projects fault or disadvantage that might prevent them from attaining their goals. Opportunities Opportunities propel an organisation. These factors represent the reason for the project or business to exist and develop. Opportunities are beneficial and may assists to negate threat. Threats Threats are factors beyond the organisations control which could result in project failure. The SWOT Matrix for this project is as shown in Appendix 1. Furthermore a cost estimate is also carried out to determine the preferred option 2.6 Cost Estimate 3.0 PROJECT DEFINITION James P. Lewis defined project as a onetime job that has defined starting and ending dates, a clearly specified objective, or scope to be performed, a pre-defined budget, and usually a temporary organization that is dismantled once the project is complete. For this project the objectives and scope are explained below. 3.1 Goals and Objectives Project objectives as defined by Westland (2007) are statements describing in more details what it is that the project will achieve. It is the desired outcome of the project. Unclear objectives could result in conflict when information is not adequately understood. The objectives of this project plan include the following: To supplement Heathrows other existing terminals to accommodate her increasing customer base and increase the airport current capacity by 30% BAA (2009) To reinforce Heathrows position as Europes principal intercontinental hub To provide excellent customer service and travelling experience to her highly esteemed customers 3.2 Statement of the Project Scope The project scope can be defined as the specific and overall definition of what the projects end result should accomplish (Briggs 2009). It specifies what work is included and excluded in a project perhaps defining in effect the boundaries of the project (Carmichael 2004). 3.2.1 Scope The scope of this project is as follows: An effective project plan for the successful delivery of BAAs Heathrow Terminal 5 project Recommendation of a sustainable development plan for the new terminal 3.2.2 Scope Exclusions Exclusions are done in order to avoid misunderstandings they spell out what the project wont do. The following are the exclusions considered in developing this project plan The project plan would not include the conceptual design of the project The effects of inflation on budgeted cost would not be included The project plan does not include obtaining the necessary permits and authorization documents The project plan does not include the ground rules to be adopted during the implementation of the project plan 3.3 Project Deliverables A deliverable is any unique and verifiable product, result or capability to perform a service that is identified in the project management planning documentation, and must be produced and provided to complete the project (PMBOK 2004). It can also be described as the output of the project during the project and at the end. According to PMBOK (2008) there are four generic life cycle phases for a project. However since this is a mega project, five distinct phases have been identified for efficient planning. For this project, the key deliverables are grouped into the various project life cycle phases as shown in the diagram below: Fig 3.1 Project Life cycle diagram showing the deliverables The life cycle for this project is made up of the conception, planning, execution and control, completion/handover and post project review. These phases are further explained below. Conception phase This is the birth phase of any project in which the scope of the project is defined along with the methodology for delivering project desired outputs. Planning Phase This is the phase where all the plans required to deliver the project objectives and scope is done. This phase is characterized by breaking down the project into smaller more manageable work packages. Execution/ Monitoring phase This is the implementation phase of the project where work towards direct achievement of the projects objectives and the production of the projects deliverables take place (APMBOK 2006).This phase also involves monitoring and control. This involves recording, analysing and reporting project performance and comparing it to the planned performance in order to identify and report deviations as well as develop targets and plans. Completion/Handover Phase This is the project exit phase and the formal orderly end point of a project, either because it has been completed or because it has been terminated early (PMBOK 2004). Post project Review In this phase the lessons learned are reviewed. Below is a detailed explanation of the various deliverables at each project phase, their targets, dependencies and resource requirements. Description of Deliverables Project phase Deliverable Brief Description, targets, dependency and resource requirement Conception Business case This is a document that describes the project justification Target: Approval of top management Dependency:Project objective Resource Requirement:Project client or sponsor Project Initiation document (PID) Project initiation document is a statement of the scope, objectives and participants in a project. It defines the authority of the project manager and roles and responsibilities of project stakeholders. Target: Dependency: Resource requirement:project manager Planning Responsibility matrix It is a tool used to assign tasks relating to each project activity in the Work breakdown structure. It indicates clearly the role and responsibility of each project player Target:roles and responsibility of project players Dependency:work breakdown structure Resource requirement: Project manger Work breakdown structure (WBS) It is a hierarchical decomposition of the project into smaller elements or deliverables called work packages thereby allowing for effective management and control of project scope and objectives (PMBoK 2008). Target: work packages in relation to project objectives Dependencies: Project scope and deliverables Resource requirement: Project manager and input from project team Gantt chart This is a Microsoft project tool that illustrates the project schedule. It is a useful tool in planning, predicting and deciding how resources are used to achieve time and cost goals. Target:Project schedule and project resource requirements. Dependency:Work breakdown structure Resource requirement:Project manager Risk matrix This is a plan used in assessing risk Categories their probability of occurrence and the impact on the project it also highlights controls identified to mitigate the risks. Target: Dependency:Risk assessment Resource requirement;project team Execution/ control phase Completion/ handover Certificate of practical completion (CPC) it is a certificate handed over to the project manager after the project has been completed and has been certified to meet clients and stakeholders requirement. Target:client satisfaction Dependency:Project completion Resource requirement: project owner Lessons learned it is a documentation of all lessons learned in course of executing the project and is kept for future references in order to prevent pitfalls in the execution of similar projects in future. Target;should clearly highlight lessons learned from the project. Dependencies: project completion and client satisfaction Resource requirement: Project manager 3.4 Critical Success Factors The primary objectives of any project being completed within the specified cost, time and good performance are not the only determinants of a successful project. These primary objectives can identify immediate contribution to profit (kerzner 2006) but will not identify if the project has been properly managed. These success factors can be seen as value enhancing practises (VEP). The following are some required factors that will determine the success of BAAs Heathrow terminal 5 project (HT5): Clearly established project goals and procedures Strong support and shared vision from BAAs top management Satisfaction of the various groups of stakeholders with minimum or mutually agreed upon scope changes. The contracting strategy employed would enable suppliers focus on delivery Excellent teamwork and good communication among key players to align and convey objectives The use of standard project management methodologies, tools and techniques. For example monitoring and change management practices should be employed to identify and resolve problems early Availability of technological expertise and equipment 3.5 Critical Project Barriers Unlike risks, critical project barriers are overwhelming issues that can be critical to a projects plan. Should any of these events occur the project plan would become invalid. In this project, the following are possible critical barriers: Removal of project funding Occurrence of force majeure e.g. natural disasters or acts of war 4.0 PROJECT CONSTRAINTS CONSIDERATIONS AND ASSUMPTIONS According to APM Body of knowledge (2006), constraints are issues that could cause a delay or restrictions that would affect the project; considerations are the key elements required to have a binding contract; and assumptions are statements that will be taken for granted as fact and upon which the project business case will be justified. 4.1 Constraints In an airport environment, height limitations are placed to avoid interference with the airport radar systems and this could affect the project team during construction. Logistics challenge due to condensed site area. Ecological constraints and the landscape of the area to support such a project Permit, licensing or consent approvals could take a long time to be obtained considering the sensitive nature of this project Health and safety of the project team and locals during and after construction due to pollution Legal requirements of the construction regulation and environmental act 4.2 Considerations There could be potential changes to the structure in future so provision would be made available for that in the project design. Satisfaction of the projects large and diverse group of stake holders. 4.3 Assumptions BAA the project sponsor and client will accept the project plan offered by this consultant team All project participants will abide by the guideline identified within this plan All necessary approvals have been obtained The time frame for the project is 10 years Management will ensure that the project team is available as at when required to complete project tasks. All project participants will abide by the guideline identified within this plan The required resources are available, and the estimated budget would be adequate for the project Inflation would be constant throughout the period of the project 5.0 PROJECT DEVELOPMENT PLAN A project development plan defines the phases that connect the beginning of a project to its end (PMBOK 2004). Because projects have a beginning and an end, there is a logical sequence of activities or tasks to accomplish projects objectives. This sequence of activities leads to the Work Breakdown Structure 5.1 Work Breakdown Structure Work breakdown structure is defined as a way in which a project may be divided by level into discrete groups for programming, cost planning and control purposes (APMBOK 2006). It acts as a control and monitoring tool in any project and also shows full clarity and understanding of the project scope. The work breakdown structure for this project is shown in appendix 2. 5.2 Gantt Chart The Gantt chart is used in scheduling the work breakdown structure. It is a useful tool in planning, predicting and deciding how resources are used to achieve time and cost goals. It is a type of bar chart used to represent when activities are being carried out or when resources are required. It uses time lines and other symbols to illustrate multiple time-based activities of a project on a horizontal time scale (Carmichael 2004). The Gantt chart for this project is as shown in appendix 3 6.0 Project Organisation and Management Project organizational structure clarifies the makeup of the project board and teams. It identifies the roles and responsibility of the various stakeholders involved in the project. Lock (2007) defined stakeholders as the people and organizations who affect, or will be affected by the project. Stakeholders can be grouped into primary and secondary stakeholders. The principal/primary stakeholders stand to make profit or loss from the project while the secondary stakeholders are non profit making stakeholders. The following are the stakeholders for the HT5 project. Primary Stakeholders Her Majesties Government British Airport Authority (BAA) British Airways (BA) Local Authorities Major contractors Suppliers Project managers Project team Secondary Stakeholders Sub-contractors Local communities Non-Governmental Organisations Employees of Heathrow airport Regulatory Authorities Customers 6.1 Project Structure The diagram shown in Appendix 4 depicts the project organisation structure. 6.2 Roles and Responsibilities Roles and responsibilities needs to be clearly defined among the project team to avoid conflict. The responsibility charts clarifies the duties of each persons involved in the project .The roles and responsibilities table for this project is as shown in Appendix 5. 6.3 Project Approach/Methodology The methodology for managing the implementation of this project plan for BAA Heathrow terminal 5 is the problem-oriented approach. With this approach, a major problem is identified, the cause and the possible solution to the problem and finally a best solution for implementation recommended. For this project, the problem identified was the congestion of passengers and airline capacity constrain which lead to the decision to construct a new terminal in Heathrow. 6.4 Project Controls Lewis (2001) described project control to be the process of comparing where you are and where you are supposed to be so that corrective action can be taken when there is a deviation from target The project manager will monitor and control the project on a daily basis ensuring that issues are properly resolved. The steering committee shall meet at the completion of each milestone as indicated on the Gantt chart, to ensure that no previous issues are carried over and that quality has not been compromised in any form. 6.5 Project Communication In any successful project, there must be a continuous need for communication to issue directives, solve problems, make decisions, resolve conflicts and keep everyone supplied with the required information (Burke 2003). According to Westland (2007) the communication plan identifies the type of information to be distributed to stakeholders (what), the methods of distributing the information (How), the frequency of the distribution (when) and the responsibilities of each person in the project team for distributing the information (who). For this project, the communication plan as shown in appendix 6 is divided into the external and internal communication for the following stakeholders: Project sponsor Project team Steering committee Local community General public 7.0 Project Risk Management Project risk is defined as the cumulative effect of the chances of uncertain occurrences which will adversely affect project objectives. It is the degree of exposure to negative events and their probable consequences. Project risk is characterized by three factors: risk event, risk probability and the amount at stake (PMBOK 2004) Project risk management is a structured process that allows individual risk events and overall project risk to be understood and managed proactively, optimising project success by minimising threats and maximising opportunities (APMBOK 2006). In order words risk management is an approach of identifying, assessing and controlling risk that occurred during the project life cycle 7.1 Project Risk Assessment Issues of risk (uncertainties) cannot be over emphasized. It must be properly identified, analysed and mitigated. The political, technical, financial, environmental and sociological aspects are the key factors that were considered during the risk assessment. For this project, the probabilities of risks occurrence were classified as: 1 Almost impossible to occur 2 Slight tendency of occurrence 3 Likelihood of occurrence 4 Expected possibility of occurrence 5 Extreme possibility of occurrence And the risks impacts were classified as:   1 Little or no impact and work will continue 2 Slight impact but work will continue 3 Limited Impact but could slow down activity and extend completion date 4 Significant impact and could result in the project standstill 5 Massive impact and could result in termination of project The risk breakdown structure and risk identification mapping for this project is as shown in Appendix 7 and 8 respectively. 7.2 Risk Mitigation and Control The process of lowering the probability of a risk occurrence or reducing its effect or impact should it occur in a project is project risk mitigation and control. To be able to mitigate and control risk, we classified the resulting risk indices into three categories using the colour coding as shown below: Colour Coding Red: High Risk (18 25) Yellow: Medium Risk (11 16) Green: Low Risk (1 10) For this project, the risk assessment matrix is as shown in Appendix 9 8.0 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT BAAs sustainability development policy sets a context for improving its environmental performance. This recommendation will look at the following: noise, air, water and the building. AIR Aviation is one of the fastest growing sources of the UKs carbon emissions. It currently represents 6.4 % of the UKs CO2 emissions or 13% of the total climate change. For an important and massive project like the Terminal 5, the following should be considered; Air quality should be weighted on the overall balance of costs and benefits An elaborate air quality computer modelling should be done around major vicinity where the Terminal will be located and around the local areas. Pollutants to model should include but not limited to NO2, PM10 ,Ozone and CO2 The benefit of another runway will surely be of great benefit to the UK Government as facts below states; Benefit to the UK economy of mixed mode at Heathrow is  £2.5 bill