Saturday, November 30, 2019

Teenage Rights Essay Example For Students

Teenage Rights Essay The Rights of the Young American DismissedUnder the eyes of god we are all created equal, and under the foundation of the country with gods blessing all patrons of the great USA are created equal. Right? Well thats what I thought until my eyes were opened this summer to the cruel REAL world. Is there any reasoning that befalls the United States Police Force to undermine the future of the USA? Are we so evil that we must be Plagued; by the constant harassment of the police to follow us wherever we go no matter what we do? Are we so naive as to let this continue in the world that is supposed to be our Peaceful and Humble abode? No. We are the ones that will soon run this country and change starts with us. So here is our voice. Listen if you will, or listen if you wont. Either way you will hear our voice. We are of millions in size and will not fall to the beck, call, and command of those who only hold age higher than us. Inside this document of our complaints, compliments, and worries you will hear how the young leaders feel and suffer. Points will be explained and many voices will talk. This is not just the viewpoint of me, but that of the entire generation around me. I am just the message bearer.; Take offense to the following if you wish. Though this is not meant to offend, it is meant to constructively criticize. We are here not to exploit ourselves within the name of heroes. We are here to undermine the wrong and uphold the right. We will write a custom essay on Teenage Rights specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now POINT 1: Stereo Typical TeenagerOn Sunday night, September 5th 1999, friends and I were eating outside of Apple Valley McDonalds. Two Apple Valley Police Officers approached us in their vehicles and asked us to leave. Upon a friends departure I threw, a hand signal, which is known as Peace.; Deriving from the old hand signal of victory from the war. It is a hand motion that consists of the middle finger and forefinger being placed in the upright position and the thumb crossing behind them. Do not let this be confused with a gang sign, as did the two police officers. I was told that I was to receive a citation upon the next time I threw this Gang Sign; in public, for Disorderly Conduct. Upon our leaving a police officer followed the car of John Doe; for a block and a half and then pulled over his vehicle. There was no reason for the officers to follow his car in the first place. Upon pulling over his car I walked over to John; and proceeded to ask what they pulled him over for. I was told to back away from his vehicle by the police. As I did this I was then told to place my hands on the hood of their vehicle. I was placed in the back of the police car and detained for about 25-30 minutes. I was now able to view the procedure in which the police take to write and deliver a ticket. What I know now scares me. When did the United States Rules and Statutes for the Police Force of the United States include criticizing, laughing at, and joking about the situation in public? In fact when was this all included even in a private conversation. Now I am no lawyer but as a voice of many I can say that I know this is Non-Ethical and Unjustified behavior coming out of anybody, and especially a citizen highly upheld by society as a whole, that is their to protect and serve. Though I maybe wrong they are not there to humiliate and disrespect, as we are not allowed to our elders. This situation may seem easy to solve to many people. You say, Dont throw the peace; sign anymore.; W hy should we as a culture have to change our behaviors that in no ways have effect on the society as a whole or as a part? In fact all it is, is a sign of respect and departure to those whom you know and respect. Is this

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

Role of Brahmanism in the decline of Buddhism

Role of Brahmanism in the decline of Buddhism Introduction It’s always confusing when answering the question of how Buddhism did spread so widely throughout Asia, yet it declined in India. In the travelogue â€Å"A Record of Buddhist Kingdoms1and later Great Tang Records on the Western Region†2 written by different Chinese Buddhist monks.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Role of Brahmanism in the decline of Buddhism specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More It is revealed that between 399 CE to 645 CE, the descriptions of Indus society clearly indicated the decline of Buddhism in their birth land. In fact, the commencement of this decline was backdated to the times where historians can barely find any trace to prove that Buddhism was still in existence in the Deccan after 11503. Most historians concluded that there were various internal and external factors which led to the disappearance of Buddhism in India. Some of this causes included; the decadence withi n Buddhism and the hostility from Brahmins. Being the main religion throughout the history of India, Brahmanism nourishes the Indian culture dominating around 80% of the Indian population (Hinduism)4. Compare with the impact of Brahmins religion on Indian society, Buddhism didn’t truly challenge the supremacy of Brahmanism. Even at that time of the Mauryan Empire, Buddhism scaled down its peak heights. It is not necessarily important to justify that we ascribe the extinction of Buddhism simply to the influence of its powerful competitor, the Brahmanism. However, it’s evident that the declining influence of Buddhism was also accompanied by the rise of agrarian-based religion of Brahmins on the Indian subcontinent. In addition to this, the persecution of Bramanical Kings together with the anti-Buddhism propaganda was a heavy hit to the Buddhists. Anti-Buddhism There is enough accounts rendered, which revealed all the persecution of Buddhism by Bramanical rulers. The Brah manas never fully accepted the growing of Buddhist faith. In fact, at a later stage they counted Buddha as one of the avataras. Notable to mention is that, Sunga Pusyamitra is the best well-known example, of those anti-Buddhism kings who ordered the persecutions. According to history, these kings were linked in the persecution of Buddhists and the resurgence of Brahmanism. Buddhist texts Ashokavadana and Divyavadana, accused the persecution of Buddhists under his reign stating that â€Å"he would give a hundred dinara rewards to whoever brought him the head of a Buddhist monk†5. Many secular historians regard these accounts as exaggerated K.T.S. This influenced Sarao to examine whether the animosity of the Brahmanas seriously contributed to the decline of Buddhism, especially in the case of Pusyamitra and Sasanka6.Advertising Looking for essay on religion theology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In his concl usion, Sarao stated that there was no exact evidence showing that Pusyamitra and Sasanka did beleaguer Buddhists. However, the only certainty considered was that they withdrew the patronage of Buddhism and often selectively persecuted Buddhists.7 Inspite of many persecution stories being written down on Buddhists accounts, they are widely suspected by modern historians. By the matter of facts, it’s not fair to justify that such stories are not true considering that the author is a Buddhist by identity. There are many extreme examples showing Brahmanas attempt to burn the pavilion, where Xuanzang was to be honored by king Hará ¹ £avardhana and also to kill pro-Buddhist Har–avardhana8. On the other hand, Brhannaradiyapurana declared it a principal sin, whenever any Brahmana would enters the house of a Buddhist even at times of great perils. Vishnupurana regarded the Buddha as Mayamoha who appeared in the world to delude demons. On that note, Sankara vijaya of Madhava re vealed that Sankara led a religious expedition against the Bauddhas as one of his strategies to end Buddhism.9 These accounts which are written by Brahmins avails clear evidence showing that the hostility of Brahmanism towards Buddhists is not some illusion or exaggeration, but was all political. Although it might not appear that there was massive action to destroy Buddhism, it’s sufficient to declare that Brahmanas had no favor towards Buddhism. Furthermore, Bramanical Kings took necessary measures whatsoever to oppress any the development of Buddhism. Such steps include; withdrawal of patronage for the Buddhists. Bearing in mind that the flourishing of Buddhism entirely depended on the generosity of the royal patronage given by kings. Nevertheless, not only Asoka, Kaniska, Harsavarkhana and the Pala kings who gave strong and substantial patronage to Buddhism but, as usually all Hindu kings were bound by custom to assist all categories of religions. Contrary, it was during t he resurgence of Hinduism, when the patronage of Buddhism was sharply diminished. As we know, from the law of India, the patronage of any sects is related to a certain percentage of tax revenue and land grants10 Conclusion In conclusion, it is evident to substantiate that the alleged persecution of Buddhists by Brahmans was one of the greatest hit which resulted to the decline of Buddhism. Other strategies used by Brahmans to ensure that they absorbed all the Buddhists into their religion included the withdrawal from the royal patronage. This was followed by Muslim invasion, which was to drive away all Buddhists communities into extinction. Finally, it is good to understand that this war against Buddhism dint take one day or a single event, but it was a multi-factorial, which took centuries.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Role of Brahmanism in the decline of Buddhism specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Footnotes 1 FaX ian A Record of Buddhist Kingdoms 2 Xuan Zang Great Tang Records on the Western Region 3 Sir Charles Eliot Hinduism and Buddhism: An Historica Sketch vol.2 p108 4 According to Wikipedia 5 Ashokavadana, 133, trans. John Strong. 6 K.T.S Sarao â€Å"On the Question of Animosity of Brahmanas and Persecution of Brahmanical Kings Leading to the Decline of Buddhism in India† Chung-Hwa Buddhist Studies, No. 10, (2006) Taipei: The Chung-Hwa Institute of Buddhist Studies 7 Ibid., 274Advertising Looking for essay on religion theology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More 8 Ibid., 266 9 Dr. S. R. Goyal A History of Indian Buddhism Kusumanjali Prakashan P394 10 Ibid., 399

Friday, November 22, 2019

British Petroleum History - Smart Custom Writing Samples

British Petroleum History - Smart Custom Writing Is Democracy The best Form of Government For All PeopleDemocracy is a widely acknowledged form of political government under which the power to govern is sourced from the people either by a conducting a direct referendum or through an election of various representatives. In the 5th century BC, the Greeks coined this system of government that vests all power to decide as to who shall rule squarely on the people. This system chiefly asserts on equality and freedom as its mainstream virtues. Therefore, citizens are viewed as having equal access to power and deemed as equal before the law. Therefore, every man is entitled to one vote with an equal weight. These rights and liberties practiced by the citizens within such a state are secured by a constitution. Although this system of government implies multiple freedoms to its citizens, it can end up failing and becoming cumbersome to the subjects if proper checks and balances are not put in place to constantly keep the leaders in track. Th erefore, an in-depth analysis of democracy has been carried out herein by evaluating the pros and cons of this system. (Strong, 1998) There are numerous merits as to why a democracy should be the system of choice in governance. First, smooth transitory changes can take place in government without violence. This is enabled through free and fair elections whereby the citizens determine the ruling authority by simple majority. Secondly, democracy prevents monopoly of any one ruling authority. This is since the incumbent government has to compete with other parties and personalities after expiration of its term. This therefore ensures that the ruling authority works for the people and towards their needs or leave office due to the failure to be re-elected. Thirdly, a democracy serves as motivational factor to the people. This is since the government is obligated towards its citizens. By carrying out of all its duties and goals set which are supported by the majority, the people feel appreciative and encouraged to work even harder towards attaining a better economic status. Finally, a democratic government makes the citizens have a feeling of participation and ‘ownership.’ They feel that the government has been legally elected by them and that it is theirs. They are able to express their freedom of choice and opinion through the ballot box or voting process. This has the capacity of enhancing nationalism. (Kukathas, 2004) Despite all these merits, there are various demerits and criticisms that have been put forward against democracies. These have been based on the irrational voters who are widely perceived that they are poorly informed on political, social and economic issues. First, democracies have been deemed to be politically unstable. Though the government is elected in by the majority, during its term, opponents and the media frequently challenge the ruling authority which could lead to a sudden change in the political support. This goes a long way in discouraging foreign investment and economic growth.   (Zorach, 2010) Secondly, democracies have been characterized by short terms. This is especially the case after elections and there is no clear winner leading to formation of coalitions due to the fact that democracies are not after the ideological match but the support of the majority. Any imbalance in the treatment of principal partners may lead to withdrawal from the coalition hence the collapse of the government leading to another election. Thirdly, the democratic governments are slow in responding to key issues in the society. This is because decisions are carried out through consensus rather than a unilateral system that would otherwise speed up decision making. Finally, governments elected into power during elections have been accused severally of vote buying and rigging. This is a way of appealing and influencing voters to vote for one particular party who might not be the most appropriate in ruling. A form of vote buying is the pork barrel whereby some political sectors are awarded specific special benefits whose costs are spread to all taxpayers. (Ratchasima, 2007) Despite multiple criticisms, democracies remain the most popular governments in the world. This is since they allow the citizens to openly express their views which are a vital need among humanity. Therefore, democratic governments can be viewed as the best form of governments.    References Kukathas, G. F. (2004). Handbook of Political Theory. Sage. Ratchasima, N. (2007, November 25). Democracy, and vote buying, returning to Thailand. The New York Times . Strong, M. H. (1998). Public Space and Democracy. University of Minnesota Press. Zorach, A. (2010, September 12). Democracy. Retrieved November 19, 2010

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Discussion board 1 international law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Discussion board 1 international law - Essay Example Two Articles are classified under this Chapter, mainly giving detail on United Nations four Purposes (Article 1) as well as its seven Principles (Article 2). Maintenance of peace and security as well as friendly relationships among nations coupled with cooperation summarizes the purposes. Sovereignty, good faith, peace security and justice, territorial integrity, assisting the UN, adherence by non members as well observance of domestic jurisdiction are the Principles. Contained in this Chapter are membership regulations under Article 3 to Article 6. Original membership, peace loving states admission, any other admission, suspension and expulsion are highlighted across these Articles (Grant, 2009). Articles 7 and 8 fall under this Chapter to give detail on organs of the UN, which include General Assembly, Security Council, Economic and Social Council, Trusteeship Council, International Court of Justice (ICJ) and Secretariat and a provision for subsidiary organs. Eligibility to the organs is not restricted. From Article 39 to 51, this Chapter outlines practices and regulations to follow when dealing with issued threats against peace. It is termed as Action with Respect to Threats to the Peace, Breaches to the Peace and Acts of Aggression (Schweigman, 2001). Schweigman, D. (2001) The authority of the Security Council under Chapter VII of the UN Charter: legal limits and the role of the International Court of Justice. Leiden, Netherlands: Martinus Nijhoff

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

Does Each Country Have A Unique Style Of Leadership Essay

Does Each Country Have A Unique Style Of Leadership - Essay Example The unique style of leadership is useful in transforming the potential into reality. It is the ultimate action which brings into success all the current potentials that an organization and the allied people have into reality. Leadership is about changing the mindset of the people to accomplish the desired goals and to move the organization or the country forward. Nevertheless, it is important to explore the fact that there is no one best way of leadership. The need of every area is different and the style of leadership depends on various factors. An organization might be effective by following a democratic style of leadership and the other by the transformational approach. This is because the demographics of every country and organization are different with dissimilar objectives. Hence, the similar form of leadership might not be effective and lead to the failure of the organization. Furthermore, leadership is based on strong effective pillars which include commitment, character alon g with increasing the level of consciousness. Leadership is unique and effective only when it brings about desired results for the enrichment of the people. Leadership is about building interpersonal skills, competencies, along with influencing and building teams for the accomplishment of the desired level of standards. The uniqueness of leadership is of significance for the effective performance of an organization. The evaluation of the unique traits of the leaders can enable to reach a justified conclusion regarding whether each of these countries demonstrates a unique style of leadership.

Saturday, November 16, 2019

Doll House Essay Example for Free

Doll House Essay In the play â€Å"A DOLL’S HOUSE†, we are presented with a very idealistic version of life in the late 1800’s, and along with that, the very confined roles both men and women were placed into. â€Å"A DOLL’S HOUSE† lends proof to the fact that women do not always enjoy the freedom to say, do and choose a lifestyle that they find fulfilling. The story that the play presents sheds a very domineering light on males as heads of households, and in society in general, and portrays women as dependent and subservient. In the opening scene of â€Å"A DOLL’S HOUSE†, the main character Nora very tellingly hides, and later lies to her husband about eating a sugary treat (Ibsen). Although Nora’s husband Torvald grills with questions such as â€Å"Hasn’t Miss Sweet Tooth been breaking rules in town today? † she continues to deny that she has, despite having hidden a few macaroons in her pocket moments earlier (Ibsen). The question might arise: â€Å"would a man ever be subject to such questioning and severe restrictions†? We do not often see the roles reversed, were the woman controls so much of what a man eats, how much he spends, what he does in his spare time, etc. , especially in literature and other sources of entertainment. Too often, the â€Å"traditional† views of marital and societal roles regarding men and women are presented over and over; the male â€Å"wears the pants†, dictating to the woman how much she should spend, where she should spend it, and how to behave â€Å"Properly†. As the play progresses, we learn that Nora has committed a grievous crime, forging her fathers signature on a bond secured in order for she and her husband to spend time in Europe as part of Torvalds recovery from a grave illness. Nora is shown to be very dependent on money, and things of monetary value, and therefore her husband since he was obviously procurer of their financial status. Nora comes across as is very dependent on Torvald for her financial needs, and also extremely greedy as evidenced when she exclaims like a child â€Å"Money!  Ã¢â‚¬  at the sight of her husband producing more money to give her (Ibsen). She follows that with â€Å"ten shillingsa pound- -two pounds! Thank you, thank you! † (Ibsen). Such exchanges throughout the play place such a childlike dependency on Nora towards her husband. It is interesting that Nora takes a secret pride in her crime, feeling that it sets her apart and gives her more purpose, while at the same time worrying about how â€Å"humiliating it would be for Torvald, with his manly independence, to know that he owed me anything!  Ã¢â‚¬  even fearing that their â€Å"beautiful happy home would no longer be†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Ibsen). Further still throughout the play, we are faced with more evidence to support the fact that women were not seen as equals in marriage, but as someone to be either proud of or shamed by according to their looks, actions, and ability to keep a home running smoothly. Nora herself is very aware of her place as a thing to be admired when she remarks to her friend Mrs. Linde, â€Å"someday†¦when I am no longer as nice-looking as I am now†¦when Torvald is no longer as devoted to me as he is now; when my dancing and dressing-up and reciting have palled on him;† (Ibsen). Another very telling exchange between Torvald and Nora takes place during the preparation for a ball in which Nora is to dance. While trying to discourage her husband from getting the mail, and finding a letter from the man who was going to reveal her crime, Nora plays to Torvalds dominant tendency insisting that she cannot do it correctly without his help. Although their conversation is in reference to her dance and practicing, it seems to shed some light on the type of relationship they have. Nora exclaims â€Å"I can’t dance tomorrow if I don’t practice with you†¦criticize me, and correct me†¦Ã¢â‚¬  to which Torvald replies â€Å"with great pleasure, if you wish me to† (Ibsen). As they practice, Nora’s nerves about her crime being exposed get the best of her and she is unable to perform correctly. Torvald cries â€Å"you will need a lot of coaching†¦you can depend on me† (Ibsen).

Thursday, November 14, 2019

Cyrano De Bergerac :: Cyrano De Bergerac Essays

Cyrano de Bergerac   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Every generation has its own heroes that display what they believe to be idealcharacteristics. While each is different in their own way, many of these role models share similarqualities. Most tend to have courage, strength, compassion, or another respected trait, but this isnot necessarily why they win the adoration of their followers. Cyrano de Bergerac is a perfect and ideal “chevalier servant';, or to put it in simple terms, a perfect example of how many protagonistswin our allegiance because his sensibilities will not be denied. Mainly because he lives life to thefullest, and because he is a victim of his surroundings.If there ever was a figure in this book who would be the ideal “chevalier servant';, it isCyrano. When lovers admit, “I’d die for you';, it is usually taken as a figure of speech. Cyranoactually crossed over enemy lines every day simply to mail love letters. He also confessed toRoxane, “My mother made it clear that s he didn’t find me pleasant to look at. I had no sisters.Later, I dreaded the thought of seeing mockery in the eyes of a mistress. Thanks to you, I’ve atleast had a woman’s friendship, a gracious presence to soften the harsh loneliness of my life.';When he then admits, “My heart always timidly hides its self behind my mind';, the reader can instantly relate to this dilemma but it is the fact that Cyrano is able to overcome it, then thatmakes him the ideal “chevalier servant';.Not only is Cyrano filled with emotion, but he also goes out of his way to live life to the fullest. Cyrano’s introduction to the reader definitely leaves a lasting impression. Not only does he banish an actor from the theater for performing poorly, but he proceeds to recite poetry while dueling with another member of the audience. Every moment of Cyrano’s life is filled with action like this. When he was informed that one hundred men were going to try and kill his frien d, Ligniere, he was trilled with the idea of fighting all these men at once, and, of course, he succeeded. How could anyone not love this man who takes “Carpe Diem'; to its most extreme form? Also, Cyrano is a victim of his surroundings. This may be the one characteristic that completely wins over the reader. Cyrano’s most obvious flaw is his grotesque nose, but this would not be so awful if the people around him didn’t care.

Monday, November 11, 2019

Women and Alcohol

One important problem that requires attention in the society is alcoholism.   Through the course of history, it had been noted that alcohol consumption had established prevalent stance in the society, which is mainly in relation to gatherings and social occasions.Most cases of alcoholism are attributed to men rather than women. Limit of alcohol intake, though, defines the social issue on alcoholism. In this fast changing world, even women nowadays are binging in alcohol when there are occasions and during problems and distress. Too much consumption of alcohol leads to alcoholism. When abuse comes in, alcohol then becomes a threat not only to the person himself but to the community as well.Due to the fact that the issue on alcoholism covers every gender of the society both directly and indirectly, problems can be identified at different levels and subgroups.   The issue on alcoholism that threatens the women population is the main focus in this study.   The reasons that were vie wed are in relation to shifting role of the women in the society.   They are now occupying roles of increasing importance.   This issue had generated concern due to more serious effects of alcoholism in women as compared to the male population as ascertained ailments and even death.This paper aims to discuss the effects of alcohol in women as compared to men. A clearer understanding of how the physical, mental and social well being of women were affected by alcohol will be given. Further remedies and solution to the problem will also be tackled.Identifying the components where recovery will be made possible is also given in the end. This includes the alcoholic individuals, their family and social network, the community and other related environment. Achieving health for the whole population is the key towards success and this can be done by overcoming the problem related to alcohol.Alcohol as a threat to the physical, mental and social well-beingMany people nowadays consider alc ohol as an important constant companion during social gatherings. People can be found drinking alcohol whenever there are occasions, parties and even on dates. Women are expected to take more care of themselves rather than men. On the other hand drinking alcohol in a moderate way has been a subject of controversy. This is because the physical and mental health has been put into test due to rampant alcohol drinking.Attaining a physically fit body and a stabilized mind is now difficult for women who drink alcohol. It has numerous disadvantages aside from the temporary enjoyment that they received during socializations. Women are described as the weaker sex and this makes the situation harder as compared to men who are usual alcohol drinkers.Drinking in moderate amounts during special occasions is not exactly harmful.   What actually poses as a problem is the tendency for people to abuse their drinking behavior. Seeking solution to the problem of alcoholism, thus, require the coopera tion of every member of the society due to the fact that it is not only the alcoholics that become the target of the detrimental effects of alcoholism.Alcoholism and its SymptomsAlcoholism is considered as one health problem which has usual symptoms like loss of control, craving, physical dependence and tolerance.Craving manifests in the constant and strong compulsion to drink. More often women wanted to feel a sense of equality with men. This will make their craving towards alcohol be the same with men. It results to loss of control by exhibiting lack of concept of limitation when alcohol is already in front of them.Tolerance on the other hand is the need of the person to drink in bulk to get their groove. Once the physical and mental state is consumed by alcohol, physical dependence leaves the alcoholic with the withdrawal symptoms of sweating, anxiety or nausea if they are not able to drink for a long period.These symptoms are the main reasons that can bring about problems in the family and society.   This is due to the fact that in their search for the probable solution, they tend to consider giving the alcoholics what they are craving for, thus, escalating the problem and intensifying the possible effects.The tendency for men and women to be alcoholic is a genetic trait but there may be differences in the genes and psychosocial disposition involved. This can be related to the differences in not only the physical but also emotional and mental make-up that results into the varying reactions to particular stimulus.The effect of alcohol on women drinker causes great concern due to the fact that it has tremendous effect in the family and in the society as well.   Women have an important role that consist of inculcating values to the family and weaken their role as the model in the family.

Saturday, November 9, 2019

Corrections Trend Evaluation

This paper is the writer's evaluation based on research of past, present, and future correction trends In regard to the development and Implementation of institutional and community based corrections. There Is an urgent need to revamp the antiquated practice of the crime control methodology. The get tough on crime approach requires harsh sentencing laws that subject non-violent offenders to harsh sentencing laws.This has dramatically contributed to escalated prison populations. Reallocation and retribution is ineffective and has resulted in high recidivism rates. Inadequate rehabilitation programs that lack proper funding and substance and long determinate sentences make prison a revolving door for those inmates who lack family support in regard to financial and moral support. Convicted felons are not likely to find suitable employment because they lack the skill or viable training to prepare them for reintegration into society.The get tough on crime, or crime control method of Justi ce is a proven failure and the corrections system is faced with the task f revamping the system that reduces costs and addresses rehabilitation in serious manner. The switch to alternative sentencing Is the new trend in regard to punishing criminals. Alternative sentencing already affects almost twice the number of persons convicted of crimes. The prison population Is aging and the medical cost of these inmates is at levels that could not have been anticipated. The prisons are old and out dated and do dot conform to the needs of the aging prisoners.Specialized medical needs, inadequate space, and structural designs that are needed to make access to he prison facilities easier for older prisoners are not in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. (ACT). This further exacerbates the problem of diminished budgets by forcing the state and federal governments to settle lawsuits filed by inmates. Past The past methods of corrections evolved into several approaches in regard t o punishment. In colonial days, prisoners were subjected to severe forms of corporal punishment that Included whipping and hanging.Theses physical types of punishments were condoned by the public and were accepted as Just and served as a deterrent for committing crimes. There was the medical approach that emphasized treatment for the offender and provided rehabilitation in the form of learning a trade offender become a productive part of society while they were incapacitated in prison or Jail. There were even attempts to lessen the severity of sentencing for capital offences. This was the first form of alternative sentencing. With the advent of prisons, there was a problem with disorderly conduct.This was mainly because there were no activities that adequately occupied the time of inmates. The earlier models of prisons were self-contained industrial compounds. Prisoners were actively engaged and prison sold the products the inmates produced. This made the prisons self-sufficient and gave the prison population trades that could be used when they were released. The depression was the reason for the collapse of the industrial model. Citizens were upset that prisoners were making products that could be manufactured by the citizens.Legislation was enacted that prevented prisons from making products that competed with civilian factories. The reasoning implied that the prisoners were there to be punished. This was the end of the industrial prison. New prisons had to be constructed to house the inmates because the industrial prisons were no longer adequate in regard to housing inmates. Prison administrator developed recreational activities such as movies and sports to mitigate the idle time of inmates. This was not as structured as the industrial prison model, but it occupied their time and quelled the frequent outbreaks of violence. Murrain's and Roberts, 2009, â€Å"Chapter 16, Cycles in Orientation Towards the Sentencing of Criminal Offenders†). Present The sass's presented a problem for the legislative branch of the government and orison officials. The general public did not feel safe in their communities. This prompted a get tough on crime approach that was based on the crime control model. This system was designed to incarcerate offenders for extended periods of time. Public sentiment drives the legislative process in regard to the laws that are enacted to control crime. There is also the belief that the politicians are solely responsible for the laws.The writer believes that the will of the citizens ultimately drives the legislation. There is evidentially support provided to support this. The enactment of three criteria regarding sentencing is an example of the citizens not feeling safe in their communities and the politicians reacting by passing laws that represent their sentiment. The sentencing called for enhanced punishments for repeat or habitual offenders, determinate sentencing, and safeguards that provided fair and equitabl e punishments regardless of the racial and ethnic make-up of the accused.There was legislation enacted that ensured that sentencing adhered to a standard that is non- discriminatory in nature and delivered Just deserts to the offenders. There were two legislative mandates that were enacted to provide oversight and regulate sentencing. The Comprehensive Crime Control Act of 1984 and the Sentencing Reform Act are interrelated in that one regulates the other. The Crime Control law focuses on the punishment and establishes sentencing criterion that is harsher and the Sentencing Reform Act establishes a standard in regard to applying the actual sentence to offenders.These programs are directed toward violent or severe offenders. Legislative initiatives include enhanced sanctions for sexual offenders as well. Habitual offender statute is widely accepted and used by the majority of the states. Most offenders are considered career felony offenders and incapacitation is a deterrent and a sol ution to get these offenders off the streets forever. This process because of mandatory minimums, and other determinate sentencing criteria. The habitual sentencing provides a problem regard to defining what felonies would fit the criteria as habitual.According to the law as it is written a felony is a felony. Now the statute presents treatment unfair to those offenders who have committed non-violent fences, but are considered habitual in the true sense of the statute. Career criminals use the law to avoid the statute by committing crimes in different jurisdictions. The problem with this statute is that there is no standard in regard to what type of felony is defined as a determining factor for this sentencing criterion. Truth in sentencing can be effective as a deterrent, but there is clarification that needs to happen.It is important to apply the law in a fair and equitable manner. The law is for habitual criminals who commit crimes of a violent nature, with guns or paeans, which cause serious bodily harm. It should not apply to lower classes of felonies that are non- violent in nature. (Murrain's & Roberts, 2009, â€Å"Chapter 16, Habitual Offender Statutes†) Sentence enhancements are guidelines for what were originally career criminals but later focused on crime committed with guns. This statute also applies to crimes that are sexual in nature. Drug convictions are included in sentence enhancement.This is the most controversial because drug offenders make up the majority of the inmate population in the country. The enhancement law affects the sentencing according to type of crime that is committed. The enhancement law does not affect the first time offender who uses a weapon but affects sentencing for all subsequent offenses. The drug enhancement law is applied for quantity, location, age of the person who the offender sold the drugs to, and the type of drug. Offenders that commit crimes frequently are also subjected to enhanced sentencing criterion . (Murrain's & Roberts, 2009, â€Å"Chapter 16, † Sentence Enhancement†).Certain sentencing disqualifies certain offenders from articulating in programs that require the interaction with community programs. Conviction for sexual crimes, murder, and alcohol offenses that result in loss of life, and certain drug offenses, (distribution or selling) prevents the offenders to be released to halfway houses and work release programs. The community members and the prison administration consider the risk too great a threat for these offenders to interact with the community. These offenders are released into a minimum- security facility because they require more supervision because of the nature of their crimes.Murrain's & Roberts, 2009, â€Å"Chapter 16, Restricted Housing†). Financial considerations are forcing the government and prison officials to look at alternative solutions that would mitigate sending offenders to Jail. Determinate sentences mitigate the use of paro le of because offenders serve the mandatory minimum sentence, which meet the standard in regard for parole. Some states like Alabama eliminate parole because they satisfy their sentence requirement by requiring inmates to serve at least the mandatory minimum for their offenses. The cost to house offenders is not sustainable.There is already double the number of offenders serving alternative sanctions as compared to those who are incarcerated. The rate of incarceration is increasing at an astounding rate. The amount of criminals that are sent to prison is so overwhelming that the prison system is forced to release large numbers of non-violent inmates to make room for the new offenders. There is regard to enhanced sentencing. There are thousands of criminals serving life without parole sentences for non-violent offenses. The cost is astronomical to maintain inmates for the duration of their natural lives.Politicians are convinced that is the responsibility of the state and federal gov ernment to rehabilitate felons. This means financially too. According to A Living Death Life Without Parole For Nonviolent Crimes (2013), † 3,278 prisoners are serving LOOP for drug, property, and other nonviolent crimes in the United States as of 2012†³, (V. Findings: The use of Life Without Parole for Nonviolent Offenders). Conclusion There is one thing that remains a constant in regard to sentencing enhancement and other sentencing criterion. The costs are not sustainable to the state and federal governments.These ideas appear to deter crime, but the result of these laws has not deterred crime at all. The correction system has seen an increase in the number of incarcerations. There has to be clear and concise language regarding what type of felony is required to subject criminals to enhanced sentencing. First time offenders with non-violent offences should not be sentenced to LOOP. The corrections system and the government must find solutions to stop the rise of the pr ison population and not subject its citizens to this sentencing criterion without exceptions to the law. The age of the prison population is rising.Older inmates need more extensive medical treatment and modifications to the prison structures to eliminate hardship in accessing areas of the prison facility. Community sanctions are needed for non- violent prisoners to help them become productive members of society and earn a decent wage. There was little warning that a large prison population would become such a serious financial burden to the state and federal governments. America is considered the most civilized country in the free world. The prison population is not indicative of the term civilized, and is an embarrassment to the citizens of this great action.There will always a segment of criminals that need to be locked away, especially those who commit violent crimes. The government needs to concentrate on this segment of inmates and find a viable plan as to not apply enhanced s anctions on non-violent offenders. References: A Living Death Life Without Parole for Nonviolent Crimes. (2013). Retrieved from HTTPS://www. UCLA. Org/files/assets/111213a-loop-complete-report. PDF Murrain's, R. , & Roberts, A. R. (2009). Visions for Change. Crime and Justice in the Twenty- First Century (5th deed. ). Retrieved from The University of Phoenix eBook Collection Database. Corrections Trend Evaluation This paper is the writer's evaluation based on research of past, present, and future correction trends In regard to the development and Implementation of institutional and community based corrections. There Is an urgent need to revamp the antiquated practice of the crime control methodology. The get tough on crime approach requires harsh sentencing laws that subject non-violent offenders to harsh sentencing laws.This has dramatically contributed to escalated prison populations. Reallocation and retribution is ineffective and has resulted in high recidivism rates. Inadequate rehabilitation programs that lack proper funding and substance and long determinate sentences make prison a revolving door for those inmates who lack family support in regard to financial and moral support. Convicted felons are not likely to find suitable employment because they lack the skill or viable training to prepare them for reintegration into society.The get tough on crime, or crime control method of Justi ce is a proven failure and the corrections system is faced with the task f revamping the system that reduces costs and addresses rehabilitation in serious manner. The switch to alternative sentencing Is the new trend in regard to punishing criminals. Alternative sentencing already affects almost twice the number of persons convicted of crimes. The prison population Is aging and the medical cost of these inmates is at levels that could not have been anticipated. The prisons are old and out dated and do dot conform to the needs of the aging prisoners.Specialized medical needs, inadequate space, and structural designs that are needed to make access to he prison facilities easier for older prisoners are not in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. (ACT). This further exacerbates the problem of diminished budgets by forcing the state and federal governments to settle lawsuits filed by inmates. Past The past methods of corrections evolved into several approaches in regard t o punishment. In colonial days, prisoners were subjected to severe forms of corporal punishment that Included whipping and hanging.Theses physical types of punishments were condoned by the public and were accepted as Just and served as a deterrent for committing crimes. There was the medical approach that emphasized treatment for the offender and provided rehabilitation in the form of learning a trade offender become a productive part of society while they were incapacitated in prison or Jail. There were even attempts to lessen the severity of sentencing for capital offences. This was the first form of alternative sentencing. With the advent of prisons, there was a problem with disorderly conduct.This was mainly because there were no activities that adequately occupied the time of inmates. The earlier models of prisons were self-contained industrial compounds. Prisoners were actively engaged and prison sold the products the inmates produced. This made the prisons self-sufficient and gave the prison population trades that could be used when they were released. The depression was the reason for the collapse of the industrial model. Citizens were upset that prisoners were making products that could be manufactured by the citizens.Legislation was enacted that prevented prisons from making products that competed with civilian factories. The reasoning implied that the prisoners were there to be punished. This was the end of the industrial prison. New prisons had to be constructed to house the inmates because the industrial prisons were no longer adequate in regard to housing inmates. Prison administrator developed recreational activities such as movies and sports to mitigate the idle time of inmates. This was not as structured as the industrial prison model, but it occupied their time and quelled the frequent outbreaks of violence. Murrain's and Roberts, 2009, â€Å"Chapter 16, Cycles in Orientation Towards the Sentencing of Criminal Offenders†). Present The sass's presented a problem for the legislative branch of the government and orison officials. The general public did not feel safe in their communities. This prompted a get tough on crime approach that was based on the crime control model. This system was designed to incarcerate offenders for extended periods of time. Public sentiment drives the legislative process in regard to the laws that are enacted to control crime. There is also the belief that the politicians are solely responsible for the laws.The writer believes that the will of the citizens ultimately drives the legislation. There is evidentially support provided to support this. The enactment of three criteria regarding sentencing is an example of the citizens not feeling safe in their communities and the politicians reacting by passing laws that represent their sentiment. The sentencing called for enhanced punishments for repeat or habitual offenders, determinate sentencing, and safeguards that provided fair and equitabl e punishments regardless of the racial and ethnic make-up of the accused.There was legislation enacted that ensured that sentencing adhered to a standard that is non- discriminatory in nature and delivered Just deserts to the offenders. There were two legislative mandates that were enacted to provide oversight and regulate sentencing. The Comprehensive Crime Control Act of 1984 and the Sentencing Reform Act are interrelated in that one regulates the other. The Crime Control law focuses on the punishment and establishes sentencing criterion that is harsher and the Sentencing Reform Act establishes a standard in regard to applying the actual sentence to offenders.These programs are directed toward violent or severe offenders. Legislative initiatives include enhanced sanctions for sexual offenders as well. Habitual offender statute is widely accepted and used by the majority of the states. Most offenders are considered career felony offenders and incapacitation is a deterrent and a sol ution to get these offenders off the streets forever. This process because of mandatory minimums, and other determinate sentencing criteria. The habitual sentencing provides a problem regard to defining what felonies would fit the criteria as habitual.According to the law as it is written a felony is a felony. Now the statute presents treatment unfair to those offenders who have committed non-violent fences, but are considered habitual in the true sense of the statute. Career criminals use the law to avoid the statute by committing crimes in different jurisdictions. The problem with this statute is that there is no standard in regard to what type of felony is defined as a determining factor for this sentencing criterion. Truth in sentencing can be effective as a deterrent, but there is clarification that needs to happen.It is important to apply the law in a fair and equitable manner. The law is for habitual criminals who commit crimes of a violent nature, with guns or paeans, which cause serious bodily harm. It should not apply to lower classes of felonies that are non- violent in nature. (Murrain's & Roberts, 2009, â€Å"Chapter 16, Habitual Offender Statutes†) Sentence enhancements are guidelines for what were originally career criminals but later focused on crime committed with guns. This statute also applies to crimes that are sexual in nature. Drug convictions are included in sentence enhancement.This is the most controversial because drug offenders make up the majority of the inmate population in the country. The enhancement law affects the sentencing according to type of crime that is committed. The enhancement law does not affect the first time offender who uses a weapon but affects sentencing for all subsequent offenses. The drug enhancement law is applied for quantity, location, age of the person who the offender sold the drugs to, and the type of drug. Offenders that commit crimes frequently are also subjected to enhanced sentencing criterion . (Murrain's & Roberts, 2009, â€Å"Chapter 16, † Sentence Enhancement†).Certain sentencing disqualifies certain offenders from articulating in programs that require the interaction with community programs. Conviction for sexual crimes, murder, and alcohol offenses that result in loss of life, and certain drug offenses, (distribution or selling) prevents the offenders to be released to halfway houses and work release programs. The community members and the prison administration consider the risk too great a threat for these offenders to interact with the community. These offenders are released into a minimum- security facility because they require more supervision because of the nature of their crimes.Murrain's & Roberts, 2009, â€Å"Chapter 16, Restricted Housing†). Financial considerations are forcing the government and prison officials to look at alternative solutions that would mitigate sending offenders to Jail. Determinate sentences mitigate the use of paro le of because offenders serve the mandatory minimum sentence, which meet the standard in regard for parole. Some states like Alabama eliminate parole because they satisfy their sentence requirement by requiring inmates to serve at least the mandatory minimum for their offenses. The cost to house offenders is not sustainable.There is already double the number of offenders serving alternative sanctions as compared to those who are incarcerated. The rate of incarceration is increasing at an astounding rate. The amount of criminals that are sent to prison is so overwhelming that the prison system is forced to release large numbers of non-violent inmates to make room for the new offenders. There is regard to enhanced sentencing. There are thousands of criminals serving life without parole sentences for non-violent offenses. The cost is astronomical to maintain inmates for the duration of their natural lives.Politicians are convinced that is the responsibility of the state and federal gov ernment to rehabilitate felons. This means financially too. According to A Living Death Life Without Parole For Nonviolent Crimes (2013), † 3,278 prisoners are serving LOOP for drug, property, and other nonviolent crimes in the United States as of 2012†³, (V. Findings: The use of Life Without Parole for Nonviolent Offenders). Conclusion There is one thing that remains a constant in regard to sentencing enhancement and other sentencing criterion. The costs are not sustainable to the state and federal governments.These ideas appear to deter crime, but the result of these laws has not deterred crime at all. The correction system has seen an increase in the number of incarcerations. There has to be clear and concise language regarding what type of felony is required to subject criminals to enhanced sentencing. First time offenders with non-violent offences should not be sentenced to LOOP. The corrections system and the government must find solutions to stop the rise of the pr ison population and not subject its citizens to this sentencing criterion without exceptions to the law. The age of the prison population is rising.Older inmates need more extensive medical treatment and modifications to the prison structures to eliminate hardship in accessing areas of the prison facility. Community sanctions are needed for non- violent prisoners to help them become productive members of society and earn a decent wage. There was little warning that a large prison population would become such a serious financial burden to the state and federal governments. America is considered the most civilized country in the free world. The prison population is not indicative of the term civilized, and is an embarrassment to the citizens of this great action.There will always a segment of criminals that need to be locked away, especially those who commit violent crimes. The government needs to concentrate on this segment of inmates and find a viable plan as to not apply enhanced s anctions on non-violent offenders. References: A Living Death Life Without Parole for Nonviolent Crimes. (2013). Retrieved from HTTPS://www. UCLA. Org/files/assets/111213a-loop-complete-report. PDF Murrain's, R. , & Roberts, A. R. (2009). Visions for Change. Crime and Justice in the Twenty- First Century (5th deed. ). Retrieved from The University of Phoenix eBook Collection Database.

Thursday, November 7, 2019

Can money buy you happiness

Can money buy you happiness Can money buy you happiness? Can money buy you happiness?Do you feel happy? What does make you feel happy? What are the keys for being happy? Well, people all over the world try to provide themselves and their families with happy life. But each person sees happiness in different aspects. Some may feel happy for getting a highly paid job, some are happy because they have overcome a hard illness and others are happy to have a place to live in. If we ask people from different societies about happiness, so we will be surprised to know about so varied answers. If we speak about those people who live in poverty; let’s take African tribes or Indian people in slums – what is happiness for them? They live in bad conditions, but they have very big families; there are many children who should be provided with food and attention. But in these places, parents cannot send the kids to school; so boys and girls do not get any education. Instead of it, children go to the street in order to save money for the whole family. Can you imagine? But in spite of it, people do feel happy. What make them feel so? If taking into consideration a European person or an American one, they wouldn’t ever survive in such conditions, as they are used to have a luxurious house and the ability to travel all around the world. So is money the key of happiness for them? You may see two different worlds: the one, where money doesn’t have any matter and the second one, where people cannot live without having enough hard cash. So what people from these worlds can feel happy? Telling the truth, no European could get used to a poor society after living in prosperity; and no Indian would know what to do with money. But these poor people who live in big families in humble houses know what happiness is better, than the others. What is the reason for that? Well, it is quite simple. They just see this world from other point of view. They do not corrupt yet, they are not spoiled. They are real; they are honest an d fair. But someone would say: how do they live? How do they provide the family with all necessary things? Well, of course, they do not have an opportunity to buy brand clothes, to fly to another countries or to eat everyday outside. But exactly because poor people don’t spend money on entertainments, they have much love and respect towards each other. Their heart is full of real emotions; they do care about the children, as parents spend a lot of time with them. Instead, rich people usually hire a baby sitter who becomes the parent, friend and teacher of the child. The world of the kid is surrounded around the baby sitter – and that’s it. Yes, maybe, he will have a possibility to watch cartoon all day, but he will be alone. Will it make him happy? The main problem of people of Earth is feeling loneliness. There are many cases when parents who need to spend much time at work, forget about the kids. They try to work hard in order to earn money, but soon they do n ot have any other activity to do except the job. But at this time the child is dreaming about having a friendly and tight family; to have parents who will spend with him the weekends playing football or watching him riding the bike. Such dreams of kids sound silly for adults, but this is the truth. In our modern society the children are lack of attention. So how do parents compensate it? The common thing is to buy something: a lollypop or a toy; sometimes, they just give money and say: here you are, go and buy something. The child will accept the gift, but will it really offset him the love of his mom and dad? From another point of view, poor children dream about having those toys, as they do not have any opportunity to play with such one. The kids are sure that this piece of plastic is the key for joy. We can understand them, as they have never seen something of the kind: it is colorful, bright and it can move or talk – incredible! But how these kids spend their free time? T hey do not watch the TV, they do not go to restaurants. They have a ball or a bicycle – they take them and go outside; call for some friends and can invent all sorts of games with the two subjects. But all of you should agree that living in the 21th century without big income is a problem. Many couples divorce because they cannot earn for living. According the last research of scientists people really feel happier with money. Nowadays this index shows us how much the person is satisfied with his life. It sounds pity. But just think over it: what can be bought or where is it possible to go for free? Even for staying in parks you have to pay. Imagine the situation when you have to buy a gift for your friend’s or child’s birthday. The kid has a dream to get a guitar; but you don’t have money to buy it. In this case both of you will be upset and you even will be irritated, asking yourself: why don’t I have enough money? Why my salary is so poor that I cannot buy even a present for my child’s birthday? It is a sad situation. Or you want to spend your holiday in some beautiful place in nature; you have to spend money on accommodation, meals and transport. After you have counted all costs, many of you will be surprised, as the number will be very high. Do you agree? So, the question of money can affect on the happiness of a person, unfortunately. But still we have to try not to make this problem the one which will destroy our relations with other people.

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

Amazon.Com Case Studies

Kannan Submission Date: 07. March. 2009 [pic] TABLE OF CONTENTS ChapterTitlePage 1. 0Executive Summary 2. 0Problem Statement1 3. 0Analysis of Causes 3. 1 Amazon’s Debt 2-3 3. 2 Competition3-4 3. 3 Expansion4-6 4. 0Decision Criteria and Alternative Solutions 4. 1 Reduce expenditure in inventories and better management7 in supply chain 4. Presenting a competitive edge to competitors7 4. 3 Expansionto Asia8 5. Recommended Solutions 5. 1 Technology Integration and RD9 5. 2 Strategic Cost Analysis9 5. 3 Differentiation9 5. 4 Inventory10 5. 5 Visionary Informative10-11 5. 6 Keep customers in the loop on everything11 5. 7 Shipping Delivery11 5. 8 Expansion to Asia Region11-12 5. 9 Word-of mouth advertisement12 6. 0 Expand the product lines13 6. 0Appendices14-16 7. 0References17 Executive Summary The study comprises of Amazon. om which started its history by selling books and now one of the online market leaders globally not only for books but products from various categories. Compa ny started with a mission to be Earth’s most customer centric company. In order to become the largest and convenience online store for all, there are major problems or threat being faced by Amazon. com in succeeding its mission. The major problems are Amazon facing high amount of debt, it’s less initiative in not expanding to other developed countries, and also competition from other online retailers and one tough opponent is Barnes Nobles. Many plans of actions can be taken and some of it is; Amazon. com should decrease long–term debt by increasing expenditure on research and development, increasing word-to-mouth advertisement and good customer service. Amazon. com should also expand the five most common languages in Asian region. Focus marketing strategies on customer feedback to find out what Asian customers tend to buy and willing to spend on. Strategize new plan on improving sites to be informative and attractive as much as possible so Amazon. com should also adapt to the best technology where it can sustain as a strong innovator in ever increasing retailer market. Amazon. com also must strive to give customers the best service in shipping and delivery as it’s an important aspect in online business to out beat its entire competitors on this online industry. Problem Statement The main problem faced by Amazon. com now being an online retailer can be divided to three in overall. Amazon. com is in confronting huge debt behind their successful screen. Amazon. com is lack of expansion to other regions or Asia which be said as another big market for a huge online bookseller as Amazon. com. Another problem is the competition being faced by them with one of the tough opponent as BarnesNobles. Analysis of the Problem Amazon. com’s in Debt 3. 1 Amazon’s Debt One of major causes of Amazon’s huge debt is its large expenditure. In order to keep its advantageous position, Amazon has no choice but to continue to spend astronomical amounts of money on sales marketing, research development and general administrative costs. (Table 1 Table 2) â€Å"One misstep, and its love affair withy investors and sources of capital could be over. (Kimberly Weisul, 1999) †¢ Competitors Although Amazon won the battle soon after entering the online cd and music market, there are some competitions in other product lines that may be too immensely strong to beat. For example, in March of 1999, Amazon introduced an auction service. After a few months effort, its auction business performed slightly, indicating how difficult it is to challenge the giant’s eBay and Y ahoo! Auctions. |Auction Sites |27-Sep-99 |Multiplier needed to equal eBay listings | |Amazon Auctions |4. 0% |15. 3 | |eBay |73. 60% |   | |Yahoo! Auctions |21. 60% |3. 4 | Source: Auction Web sites and C. E Unterberg Towbin †¢ Consumer Behavior Amazon. com is widely regarded as having one of the best management team of any internet company. However, there are some outside forces that are not easy to manipulate. Security; as the number of Internet crimes increases, customers are becoming aware of the possible danger involved in the process of on-line shopping. This security problem may not be difficult to improve since security technology is innovated quickly, but to convince customer of this is not as easy ? Etailers vs. retailers Another factor is hard to manage customer purchasing habits. Most consumers still prefer the capability of seeing a product before buying it. Additionally, the number of people buying personal computers and that of the Internet population will dir ectly affect Amazon’s sale. . 2 Competition †¢ Michael Porter’s Model ? Supplier ; Amazon started to build its own distribution centers in different locations and moving the products directly form the factory rather than from other distributors such that Amazon can lower its marginal costs. (Chao Janice C. Rice, Brandi S. Dec 8, 1999) ? Consumers ; Amazon. com continues to spend a lot of money in advertisement to reach customers as well as to increase customer awareness of eCommerce in general and brand name in particular. (Chao Janice C. Rice, Brandi S. Dec 8, 1999) ? Substitutes; The Substitute of eCommerce, the traditional retailers, is still more attractive than the Etailers. For example, we as consumers more than likely would rather go to the bookstore and browse through a book before we buy it. (Chao Janice C. Rice, Brandi S. Dec 8, 1999 ) 3. 3 Expansion †¢ Lack of Spanish website version (Latino and Hispanic Americans are the fastest-growing online ethnic group) †¢ Amazon. com is very less popular or it can said there are people without knowing the existence of Amazon. om †¢ Website is not more expanded with more languages options where currently there are options only for Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, France and China (www. amazon. com) Competition with Barnes Nobles Amazon. com Weakness ? Difficulties of handling large number of customers ? Limited operating history ? Security awareness ? Low margins in the sector ? Risk of introduction of wrong new categories which could damage company’s bran d ? Company’s offered free shipping might affect future financial outcome ? Certain products (high volume/weight) have high shipping costs which could confront with local offline retailers Threats ? eBay, Barnes Nobles, and Wal-Mart ? Population segment not targeted to on-line sales due to their lack of internet access ? Weak economic performance of Germany and France in the last year ? Competition will increase due to the low barriers to entry in the market: offline companies are coming online ? Heavy investments in Partnerships (Dustin Nadeau Donatas Sumyla. April 2006) Barnes and Nobles and Amazon. com are competing, but both stores and other online stores recognize what works and are studying one another – often duplicating one another’s business strategies. This has resulted in them having more similarities than differences and it helps the consumers find similarities across the Web such as; †¢ When a description of an item is given, Amazon and Barnes and Nobles both place the shopping cart option prominently displayed to the upper, right portion of the screen. This makes it very efficient and useable for the viewer and they do not have to search around the page for this button. (Clementina Imobhio May 5, 2001) †¢ In pricing, both Amazon. com and Barnesandnobles. com display the average price or their items above their own discounted rates so that the users feel as though they are saving money. (Clementina Imobhio May 5, 2001) †¢ Both sites are â€Å"Flexible†, there is an option of buying things at a later date and placing them in the shopping cart temporarily. This option is called the wish list and it is displayed just beneath the â€Å"Add to Cart† button. Users can access this saved information and acce ss it on their next visit. (Clementina Imobhio May 5, 2001) †¢ Both sites offer â€Å"Security† that provides safe shopping, privacy and efficiency by requiring customers to join as members at a certain point during a transaction. Membership is free and requires an email address, full name, home address and phone number. It allowing customers to maintain an order status and helps provide a history of what they bought. (Clementina Imobhio May 5, 2001) †¢   Both sites are very â€Å"Scalable†, allowing for a huge selection of items to be added to the product catalog or taken away. A Field size is accommodated in the database. (Clementina Imobhio May 5, 2001) 4. 0 Alternative Solutions 4. 1 Reduce expenditure in inventories and better management in supply chain ? Use increased income to pay down long-term debt ? Keep operating costs low (efficiencies of scales) ? Increase expenditure on Research Development arena ? Strategic cost analysis ( WOU , MIS notes) ? Determining Differentiation ( WOU , MIS notes) 4. 2 Presenting a competitive edge to competitors †¢ Create more expertise in marketing and more product launches compared to competitors; †¢ Do a more through research on the customers needs and come up with something new that has its own brand and establishes as only Amazon. om could have the product. (Sujan Sarkar. April 23, 2007) †¢ A new Strategy on only books should be brought up in order to outcome one tough opponent as Barnes Nobles. For example, Amazon. com’s booth’s can be set up in country sides where there is no access for Internet and give knowledge to country people that there also business through online. This is because; giving more exposure and awareness to people might be a business opportunit y as well. †¢ Product review information; Customers would have n a clear description, synopsis and other customer’s review on the book as it gives a clear rating of the book and there won’t be any sort of disappointments for them after purchase. 4. 3 Expansion to Asia †¢ Create different website versions based on the five most common language in Asian region †¢ Focus marketing strategies on customer feedback to find out what Asian customers tend to buy. †¢ Word of mouth advertisement (Onder Savas Devrim Dirik. January 9, 2003) †¢ Continue expanding its product lines 5. 0 Recommended Solution Implementation 5. Technology Integration and RD Amazon. com should increase expenditure in the research and development arena. We believe that Amazon should prepare itself for additional telecommunications implementations such as high speed internet and network security. These types of implementation, though representative of considerable RD costs, are pro bably most significant factors that etailers must prepare for near future. As users, connections increase in speed, any delays on the part of the etailer they are connecting to will become obvious and less tolerable. Amazon can stay ahead of the pack by preparing a unique and comfortable interface for the users. 5. 2 Strategic Cost Analysis Amazon. com should also use Strategic cost analysis process where identify the firm’s value chain, diagnose the key elements that drive the costs of each value activity, identify competitors value chains, develop a strategy to lower relative costs by controlling cost drivers, ensure that any cost reduction does not erode differentiation in service and test the cost reductions if its sustainable in the end of the analysis. . 3 Differentiation They should also consider by costs by determining Differentiation where the process goes as determine who the real buyer is, identify buyer’s value chain and put in rank order the buyer’s reason to purchase, asses the current potential sources of diffentiation, identify the cost of these resources, design a value chain to maximize value relative costs, test for sustainiablity and reduce costs in activi ties that do not affect the chosen forms of differentiation. 5. Inventory; There are programs built to be extremely user-friendly, and most offer great support along the way of usage for online businesses to maintain the book database. Amazon should invest in software to best highlight and maintain the data on the site and importantly back up systems. Keep inventory accurate and up to date; This is also an important aspect that Amazon can out beat its competitors with as this is first step towards building a long-term relationship with that customer. Inventory of the books stock-out and sold out will be kept up to date on the site. 5. 5 Visionary Informative A picture is worth a thousand words; Uploading pictures by decreasing explanations or descriptions could attract customer’s attraction and curiosity in exploring the book. Somehow it boosts up sales compared to other online booksellers who give attention in words. Product Review Information; In case of books, editorial reviews are provided by the company and it applies for all books. Customers can also rate each other’s review. A rating is placed against each review so that customers can decide whether to read or not based on that. Most online booksellers do not include this but they display the customer’s satisfaction on the delivery service provided by them which is less important to boost up sales. People out there want to pay you for your books; Amazon should use own merchant service account or a service offered by a listing site, make sure that customers can buy books quickly and painlessly with a credit card while you have them on the brink of finalizing said purchase. Don’t judge a book by its cover; First impressions are lasting impressions. When a customer receives the book they’ve ordered, make sure the first thing they see is a product and package that you are proud to have supplied by using use clean, new boxes without writing (or envelopes for low-cost paperbacks) for shipments. Customers will be expecting an excellent service but if its vice versa then they are chances for them to switch to other online retailers. 5. 6 Keep customers in the loop on everything; Amazon should update the status of order to customers on the order made and also keep them in loop by e-mail the listing service directly with questions about their orders and keep updating the latest events and new stocks of books through emails. 5. 7 Shipping Delivery Follow-up; After shipping out an item to the customer, Amazon should send them an e-mail a day or two after expecting that they’ll receive their package, asking them if they’ve received it and are satisfied, and reminding them that there customer rep are there to help should they have any questions about their order. This is also a great time to remind them that you have similar items in stock or to offer them a coupon towards future purchases. 5. 8 Expansion to Asia Region Amazon should strive to expand its expertise to Asia region as well as high potentials are there which huge population. Education is becoming one important aspect in Asia and lack of important reference books are always a problem in many parts of Asia. It should diversify its marketing capability in Asia too to capture the market. Amazon is very less popular in Asia regions. Amazon. om should take Asia to consider for its business expansion. Amazon could also diversify its marketing and research ability to expand mostly to the developed countries of other territory. In order to grow big and always sustain in the market and competition, Amazon should takes this sort of steps to expand. International Sites; Amazon. com has got an added advantage of international sites on Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, France and China. All about what the customers have to do to browse the site with their language is by clicking to their national site. For example, if you clink Japan, immediately the whole website will change its descriptions and instructions into Japanese language. This is not at all applicable for a customer in Malaysia or any other regions of Asia. It should expand and add more languages options in its site to accumulate its customers. Giving customers what they want is also one strategy not all online business can do but if this can be proven in Amazon’s case then it have all the potential to be the one. 5. 9 Word-of mouth advertisement Amazon also should increase its word-of mouth advertisement. This might seem odd for an industry leader to rely upon such a quaint tactics as this, but we truly believe that in the world of Internet this is a powerful tool. We are quick to visit sites that our friends identify as being fabulous, and Amazon might capitalize on this by rewarding its customers who can reel in a new prospects. 6. 0 Expand the product lines Amazon should expand its product lines. Given’s Amazon’s vision and its unique position in the etailer industry, the cost associated with entering new markets is significantly lower than that of its competitors. There is no reasons to let this advantage slip away unused. Conclusion In order to stay focus on business Amazon. com has various ways and strategies that can be implemented with proper organizations communication networks. Financial reports should be reviewed annually and quarterly if necessary to come up with decisions whether to boost up sales or to maintain on a certain criteria for the wellness of business. Amazon. com also should have a frequent customer feedback program where they could exchange view on the services and products most desired to be acquired online by customers. Top level management meetings should be initiated to assure goals are achieved. A proper corrective action should be determined after the first year if annual objectives weren’t accomplished. However there are difficulties and competitions to overcome, and how companies attack these difficulties will separate the winners form the losers. Appendix |AMAZON. COM, INC. HISTORICAL INCOME STATEMENTS | |(in millions, except per share data)(quarterly information unaudited) | |Amazon. com Investor Relations | | | | | | | |Calendar Years Ended – December 31, | | |2008 |2007 |2006 |2005 |2004 |2003 |2002 | |Media |   | $ 5,350 | $ 4,630 | $ 3,582 | $ 3,046 | $ 2,589 | $ | | | | | | | | |2,270 | |Other |   | 448 | 326 | 263 | 222 | 130 | | | | | | | | | |110 | |International |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | |Media |   | 5,734 | 4,612 | 3,485 | 2,885 | 2,513 | | | | | | | | | |1,780 | |Other |   | 94| 57| 20| | | | | | | | | |8 |2 |- | |Consolidated |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | |Media |   | 11,084 | 9,242 | 7,067 | 5,931 | 5,102 | | | | | | | | | |4,050 | |Other |   | 542 | 383 | 283 | 230 | 132 | | | | | | | | | |110 | Table 2- Source; www. amazon. com (Investors Relations) |Total U. S. Home, Work and University Locations, Unique Visitors (000) | |Source: comScore Media Metrix | |Rank |Property |Unique Visitors |Rank |Property |Unique Visitors | | | |(000) | | |  (000) | |   |Total Internet : Total Audience |191,863 |   |   |   | |1 |Google Sites |151,010 |26 |Target Corporation |28,628 | |2 |Yahoo! Sites |146,131 |27 |Time Warner – Excluding AOL |27,209 | |3 |Microsoft Sites |125,568 |28 |Weatherbug Property |26,944 | |4 |AOL LLC |108,441 |29 |Bank of America |26,322 | |5 |Fox Interactive Media |90,510 |30 |United Online, Inc |26,048 | |6 |Ask Network |74,742 |31 |Gorilla Nation |25,585 | |7 |eBay |72,160 |32 |ATT, Inc. 25,574 | |8 |Amazon Sites |64,768 |33 |Answers. com Sites |25,563 | |9 |Wikipedia Foundation Sites |62,737 |34 |Demand Media |25,447 | |10 |FACEBOOK. COM |57,232 |35 |CareerBuilder LLC |24,750 | |11 |Glam Media |55,293 |36 |Everyday Health |24,717 | |12 |Turner Network |54,877 |37 |Shopzilla. com Sites |24,097 | |13 |Apple Inc. 54,194 |38 |Photobucket. com LLC |23,928 | |14 |CBS Corporation |53,539 |39 |WordPress |23,730 | |15 |New York Times Digital |49,110 |40 |Real. com Network |23,359 | |16 |Viacom Digital |46,510 |41 |Expedia Inc |22,703 | |17 |Weather Channel, The |40,056 |42 |JPMorgan Chase Property |22,399 | |18 |craigslist, inc. 39,437 |43 |Monst er Worldwide |22,244 | |19 |ATT Interactive Network |38,184 |44 |Gannett Sites |21,829 | |20 |Adobe Sites |35,315 |45 |WorldNow – ABC Owned Sites |21,586 | |21 |Comcast Corporation |33,940 |46 |WebMD Health |21,185 | |22 |Wal-Mart |33,513 |47 |iVillage. com: The Womens Network |21,002 | |23 |Superpages. com Network |32,558 |48 |NBC Universal |20,974 | |24 |Verizon Communications Corporation |32,412 |49 |WhitePages |19,351 | |25 |Disney Online |30,345 |50 |ESPN |19,266 | Table 3; Media Matrix; http://www. comscore. com References 1] Chao Janice C. Rice, Brandi S. Dec 8, 1999 http://www. rhsmith. umd. du/faculty/jbailey/ents630/amazon. pdf 2] Dustin Nadeau Donatas Sumyla. April 2006- Amazon. Com Inc 2004. (Accessed Feb 20, 2009) 3] Clementina Imobhio May 5, 2001 – E-Transaction: Shopping Carts Comparison (Accessed Feb 20, 2009) 4] Paul Larson. February 14, Amazon. com – Motley Fool Research, Stock Report http://www. fool. com/search/index. aspx? go=1site=USMFq=am azon. com (Accessed Feb 16, 2009) 5] Onder Savas Devrim Dirik. January 9, 2003 – Informat? on Management (Accessed Feb 16, 2009) 6] Strategic Analysis of Amazon. com (Accessed Feb 19, 2009) 7] www. wikinvest. com/wiki/E-Commerce, (Accessed Feb 20, 2009) 8] www. ikinvest. com/stock/Amazon. com_(AMZN), (Accessed Feb 20, 2009) 9] www. wikinvest. com/stock/Barnes_%26_Noble_(BKS), (Accessed Feb 20, 2009) 10] Sujan Sarkar. April 23, 2007 – Amazon vs. Barnes Noble: www. santarosa. edu/~ssarkar/cs66sp07/fprj/abn. htm (Accessed Feb 16, 2009) 11] Table 1- Source; www. amazon. com (Investors Relations) (Accessed Feb 17, 2009) 12] Table 2- Source; www. amazon. com (Investors Relations) (Accessed Feb 17, 2009) 13] Table 3; Media Matrix; http://www. comscore. com (Accessed Feb 17, 2009) ———————– AMAZON Supplier New Entrance Substitute Consumers Amazon.Com Case Studies Kannan Submission Date: 07. March. 2009 [pic] TABLE OF CONTENTS ChapterTitlePage 1. 0Executive Summary 2. 0Problem Statement1 3. 0Analysis of Causes 3. 1 Amazon’s Debt 2-3 3. 2 Competition3-4 3. 3 Expansion4-6 4. 0Decision Criteria and Alternative Solutions 4. 1 Reduce expenditure in inventories and better management7 in supply chain 4. Presenting a competitive edge to competitors7 4. 3 Expansionto Asia8 5. Recommended Solutions 5. 1 Technology Integration and RD9 5. 2 Strategic Cost Analysis9 5. 3 Differentiation9 5. 4 Inventory10 5. 5 Visionary Informative10-11 5. 6 Keep customers in the loop on everything11 5. 7 Shipping Delivery11 5. 8 Expansion to Asia Region11-12 5. 9 Word-of mouth advertisement12 6. 0 Expand the product lines13 6. 0Appendices14-16 7. 0References17 Executive Summary The study comprises of Amazon. om which started its history by selling books and now one of the online market leaders globally not only for books but products from various categories. Compa ny started with a mission to be Earth’s most customer centric company. In order to become the largest and convenience online store for all, there are major problems or threat being faced by Amazon. com in succeeding its mission. The major problems are Amazon facing high amount of debt, it’s less initiative in not expanding to other developed countries, and also competition from other online retailers and one tough opponent is Barnes Nobles. Many plans of actions can be taken and some of it is; Amazon. com should decrease long–term debt by increasing expenditure on research and development, increasing word-to-mouth advertisement and good customer service. Amazon. com should also expand the five most common languages in Asian region. Focus marketing strategies on customer feedback to find out what Asian customers tend to buy and willing to spend on. Strategize new plan on improving sites to be informative and attractive as much as possible so Amazon. com should also adapt to the best technology where it can sustain as a strong innovator in ever increasing retailer market. Amazon. com also must strive to give customers the best service in shipping and delivery as it’s an important aspect in online business to out beat its entire competitors on this online industry. Problem Statement The main problem faced by Amazon. com now being an online retailer can be divided to three in overall. Amazon. com is in confronting huge debt behind their successful screen. Amazon. com is lack of expansion to other regions or Asia which be said as another big market for a huge online bookseller as Amazon. com. Another problem is the competition being faced by them with one of the tough opponent as BarnesNobles. Analysis of the Problem Amazon. com’s in Debt 3. 1 Amazon’s Debt One of major causes of Amazon’s huge debt is its large expenditure. In order to keep its advantageous position, Amazon has no choice but to continue to spend astronomical amounts of money on sales marketing, research development and general administrative costs. (Table 1 Table 2) â€Å"One misstep, and its love affair withy investors and sources of capital could be over. (Kimberly Weisul, 1999) †¢ Competitors Although Amazon won the battle soon after entering the online cd and music market, there are some competitions in other product lines that may be too immensely strong to beat. For example, in March of 1999, Amazon introduced an auction service. After a few months effort, its auction business performed slightly, indicating how difficult it is to challenge the giant’s eBay and Y ahoo! Auctions. |Auction Sites |27-Sep-99 |Multiplier needed to equal eBay listings | |Amazon Auctions |4. 0% |15. 3 | |eBay |73. 60% |   | |Yahoo! Auctions |21. 60% |3. 4 | Source: Auction Web sites and C. E Unterberg Towbin †¢ Consumer Behavior Amazon. com is widely regarded as having one of the best management team of any internet company. However, there are some outside forces that are not easy to manipulate. Security; as the number of Internet crimes increases, customers are becoming aware of the possible danger involved in the process of on-line shopping. This security problem may not be difficult to improve since security technology is innovated quickly, but to convince customer of this is not as easy ? Etailers vs. retailers Another factor is hard to manage customer purchasing habits. Most consumers still prefer the capability of seeing a product before buying it. Additionally, the number of people buying personal computers and that of the Internet population will dir ectly affect Amazon’s sale. . 2 Competition †¢ Michael Porter’s Model ? Supplier ; Amazon started to build its own distribution centers in different locations and moving the products directly form the factory rather than from other distributors such that Amazon can lower its marginal costs. (Chao Janice C. Rice, Brandi S. Dec 8, 1999) ? Consumers ; Amazon. com continues to spend a lot of money in advertisement to reach customers as well as to increase customer awareness of eCommerce in general and brand name in particular. (Chao Janice C. Rice, Brandi S. Dec 8, 1999) ? Substitutes; The Substitute of eCommerce, the traditional retailers, is still more attractive than the Etailers. For example, we as consumers more than likely would rather go to the bookstore and browse through a book before we buy it. (Chao Janice C. Rice, Brandi S. Dec 8, 1999 ) 3. 3 Expansion †¢ Lack of Spanish website version (Latino and Hispanic Americans are the fastest-growing online ethnic group) †¢ Amazon. com is very less popular or it can said there are people without knowing the existence of Amazon. om †¢ Website is not more expanded with more languages options where currently there are options only for Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, France and China (www. amazon. com) Competition with Barnes Nobles Amazon. com Weakness ? Difficulties of handling large number of customers ? Limited operating history ? Security awareness ? Low margins in the sector ? Risk of introduction of wrong new categories which could damage company’s bran d ? Company’s offered free shipping might affect future financial outcome ? Certain products (high volume/weight) have high shipping costs which could confront with local offline retailers Threats ? eBay, Barnes Nobles, and Wal-Mart ? Population segment not targeted to on-line sales due to their lack of internet access ? Weak economic performance of Germany and France in the last year ? Competition will increase due to the low barriers to entry in the market: offline companies are coming online ? Heavy investments in Partnerships (Dustin Nadeau Donatas Sumyla. April 2006) Barnes and Nobles and Amazon. com are competing, but both stores and other online stores recognize what works and are studying one another – often duplicating one another’s business strategies. This has resulted in them having more similarities than differences and it helps the consumers find similarities across the Web such as; †¢ When a description of an item is given, Amazon and Barnes and Nobles both place the shopping cart option prominently displayed to the upper, right portion of the screen. This makes it very efficient and useable for the viewer and they do not have to search around the page for this button. (Clementina Imobhio May 5, 2001) †¢ In pricing, both Amazon. com and Barnesandnobles. com display the average price or their items above their own discounted rates so that the users feel as though they are saving money. (Clementina Imobhio May 5, 2001) †¢ Both sites are â€Å"Flexible†, there is an option of buying things at a later date and placing them in the shopping cart temporarily. This option is called the wish list and it is displayed just beneath the â€Å"Add to Cart† button. Users can access this saved information and acce ss it on their next visit. (Clementina Imobhio May 5, 2001) †¢ Both sites offer â€Å"Security† that provides safe shopping, privacy and efficiency by requiring customers to join as members at a certain point during a transaction. Membership is free and requires an email address, full name, home address and phone number. It allowing customers to maintain an order status and helps provide a history of what they bought. (Clementina Imobhio May 5, 2001) †¢   Both sites are very â€Å"Scalable†, allowing for a huge selection of items to be added to the product catalog or taken away. A Field size is accommodated in the database. (Clementina Imobhio May 5, 2001) 4. 0 Alternative Solutions 4. 1 Reduce expenditure in inventories and better management in supply chain ? Use increased income to pay down long-term debt ? Keep operating costs low (efficiencies of scales) ? Increase expenditure on Research Development arena ? Strategic cost analysis ( WOU , MIS notes) ? Determining Differentiation ( WOU , MIS notes) 4. 2 Presenting a competitive edge to competitors †¢ Create more expertise in marketing and more product launches compared to competitors; †¢ Do a more through research on the customers needs and come up with something new that has its own brand and establishes as only Amazon. om could have the product. (Sujan Sarkar. April 23, 2007) †¢ A new Strategy on only books should be brought up in order to outcome one tough opponent as Barnes Nobles. For example, Amazon. com’s booth’s can be set up in country sides where there is no access for Internet and give knowledge to country people that there also business through online. This is because; giving more exposure and awareness to people might be a business opportunit y as well. †¢ Product review information; Customers would have n a clear description, synopsis and other customer’s review on the book as it gives a clear rating of the book and there won’t be any sort of disappointments for them after purchase. 4. 3 Expansion to Asia †¢ Create different website versions based on the five most common language in Asian region †¢ Focus marketing strategies on customer feedback to find out what Asian customers tend to buy. †¢ Word of mouth advertisement (Onder Savas Devrim Dirik. January 9, 2003) †¢ Continue expanding its product lines 5. 0 Recommended Solution Implementation 5. Technology Integration and RD Amazon. com should increase expenditure in the research and development arena. We believe that Amazon should prepare itself for additional telecommunications implementations such as high speed internet and network security. These types of implementation, though representative of considerable RD costs, are pro bably most significant factors that etailers must prepare for near future. As users, connections increase in speed, any delays on the part of the etailer they are connecting to will become obvious and less tolerable. Amazon can stay ahead of the pack by preparing a unique and comfortable interface for the users. 5. 2 Strategic Cost Analysis Amazon. com should also use Strategic cost analysis process where identify the firm’s value chain, diagnose the key elements that drive the costs of each value activity, identify competitors value chains, develop a strategy to lower relative costs by controlling cost drivers, ensure that any cost reduction does not erode differentiation in service and test the cost reductions if its sustainable in the end of the analysis. . 3 Differentiation They should also consider by costs by determining Differentiation where the process goes as determine who the real buyer is, identify buyer’s value chain and put in rank order the buyer’s reason to purchase, asses the current potential sources of diffentiation, identify the cost of these resources, design a value chain to maximize value relative costs, test for sustainiablity and reduce costs in activi ties that do not affect the chosen forms of differentiation. 5. Inventory; There are programs built to be extremely user-friendly, and most offer great support along the way of usage for online businesses to maintain the book database. Amazon should invest in software to best highlight and maintain the data on the site and importantly back up systems. Keep inventory accurate and up to date; This is also an important aspect that Amazon can out beat its competitors with as this is first step towards building a long-term relationship with that customer. Inventory of the books stock-out and sold out will be kept up to date on the site. 5. 5 Visionary Informative A picture is worth a thousand words; Uploading pictures by decreasing explanations or descriptions could attract customer’s attraction and curiosity in exploring the book. Somehow it boosts up sales compared to other online booksellers who give attention in words. Product Review Information; In case of books, editorial reviews are provided by the company and it applies for all books. Customers can also rate each other’s review. A rating is placed against each review so that customers can decide whether to read or not based on that. Most online booksellers do not include this but they display the customer’s satisfaction on the delivery service provided by them which is less important to boost up sales. People out there want to pay you for your books; Amazon should use own merchant service account or a service offered by a listing site, make sure that customers can buy books quickly and painlessly with a credit card while you have them on the brink of finalizing said purchase. Don’t judge a book by its cover; First impressions are lasting impressions. When a customer receives the book they’ve ordered, make sure the first thing they see is a product and package that you are proud to have supplied by using use clean, new boxes without writing (or envelopes for low-cost paperbacks) for shipments. Customers will be expecting an excellent service but if its vice versa then they are chances for them to switch to other online retailers. 5. 6 Keep customers in the loop on everything; Amazon should update the status of order to customers on the order made and also keep them in loop by e-mail the listing service directly with questions about their orders and keep updating the latest events and new stocks of books through emails. 5. 7 Shipping Delivery Follow-up; After shipping out an item to the customer, Amazon should send them an e-mail a day or two after expecting that they’ll receive their package, asking them if they’ve received it and are satisfied, and reminding them that there customer rep are there to help should they have any questions about their order. This is also a great time to remind them that you have similar items in stock or to offer them a coupon towards future purchases. 5. 8 Expansion to Asia Region Amazon should strive to expand its expertise to Asia region as well as high potentials are there which huge population. Education is becoming one important aspect in Asia and lack of important reference books are always a problem in many parts of Asia. It should diversify its marketing capability in Asia too to capture the market. Amazon is very less popular in Asia regions. Amazon. om should take Asia to consider for its business expansion. Amazon could also diversify its marketing and research ability to expand mostly to the developed countries of other territory. In order to grow big and always sustain in the market and competition, Amazon should takes this sort of steps to expand. International Sites; Amazon. com has got an added advantage of international sites on Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, France and China. All about what the customers have to do to browse the site with their language is by clicking to their national site. For example, if you clink Japan, immediately the whole website will change its descriptions and instructions into Japanese language. This is not at all applicable for a customer in Malaysia or any other regions of Asia. It should expand and add more languages options in its site to accumulate its customers. Giving customers what they want is also one strategy not all online business can do but if this can be proven in Amazon’s case then it have all the potential to be the one. 5. 9 Word-of mouth advertisement Amazon also should increase its word-of mouth advertisement. This might seem odd for an industry leader to rely upon such a quaint tactics as this, but we truly believe that in the world of Internet this is a powerful tool. We are quick to visit sites that our friends identify as being fabulous, and Amazon might capitalize on this by rewarding its customers who can reel in a new prospects. 6. 0 Expand the product lines Amazon should expand its product lines. Given’s Amazon’s vision and its unique position in the etailer industry, the cost associated with entering new markets is significantly lower than that of its competitors. There is no reasons to let this advantage slip away unused. Conclusion In order to stay focus on business Amazon. com has various ways and strategies that can be implemented with proper organizations communication networks. Financial reports should be reviewed annually and quarterly if necessary to come up with decisions whether to boost up sales or to maintain on a certain criteria for the wellness of business. Amazon. com also should have a frequent customer feedback program where they could exchange view on the services and products most desired to be acquired online by customers. Top level management meetings should be initiated to assure goals are achieved. A proper corrective action should be determined after the first year if annual objectives weren’t accomplished. However there are difficulties and competitions to overcome, and how companies attack these difficulties will separate the winners form the losers. Appendix |AMAZON. COM, INC. HISTORICAL INCOME STATEMENTS | |(in millions, except per share data)(quarterly information unaudited) | |Amazon. com Investor Relations | | | | | | | |Calendar Years Ended – December 31, | | |2008 |2007 |2006 |2005 |2004 |2003 |2002 | |Media |   | $ 5,350 | $ 4,630 | $ 3,582 | $ 3,046 | $ 2,589 | $ | | | | | | | | |2,270 | |Other |   | 448 | 326 | 263 | 222 | 130 | | | | | | | | | |110 | |International |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | |Media |   | 5,734 | 4,612 | 3,485 | 2,885 | 2,513 | | | | | | | | | |1,780 | |Other |   | 94| 57| 20| | | | | | | | | |8 |2 |- | |Consolidated |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | |Media |   | 11,084 | 9,242 | 7,067 | 5,931 | 5,102 | | | | | | | | | |4,050 | |Other |   | 542 | 383 | 283 | 230 | 132 | | | | | | | | | |110 | Table 2- Source; www. amazon. com (Investors Relations) |Total U. S. Home, Work and University Locations, Unique Visitors (000) | |Source: comScore Media Metrix | |Rank |Property |Unique Visitors |Rank |Property |Unique Visitors | | | |(000) | | |  (000) | |   |Total Internet : Total Audience |191,863 |   |   |   | |1 |Google Sites |151,010 |26 |Target Corporation |28,628 | |2 |Yahoo! Sites |146,131 |27 |Time Warner – Excluding AOL |27,209 | |3 |Microsoft Sites |125,568 |28 |Weatherbug Property |26,944 | |4 |AOL LLC |108,441 |29 |Bank of America |26,322 | |5 |Fox Interactive Media |90,510 |30 |United Online, Inc |26,048 | |6 |Ask Network |74,742 |31 |Gorilla Nation |25,585 | |7 |eBay |72,160 |32 |ATT, Inc. 25,574 | |8 |Amazon Sites |64,768 |33 |Answers. com Sites |25,563 | |9 |Wikipedia Foundation Sites |62,737 |34 |Demand Media |25,447 | |10 |FACEBOOK. COM |57,232 |35 |CareerBuilder LLC |24,750 | |11 |Glam Media |55,293 |36 |Everyday Health |24,717 | |12 |Turner Network |54,877 |37 |Shopzilla. com Sites |24,097 | |13 |Apple Inc. 54,194 |38 |Photobucket. com LLC |23,928 | |14 |CBS Corporation |53,539 |39 |WordPress |23,730 | |15 |New York Times Digital |49,110 |40 |Real. com Network |23,359 | |16 |Viacom Digital |46,510 |41 |Expedia Inc |22,703 | |17 |Weather Channel, The |40,056 |42 |JPMorgan Chase Property |22,399 | |18 |craigslist, inc. 39,437 |43 |Monst er Worldwide |22,244 | |19 |ATT Interactive Network |38,184 |44 |Gannett Sites |21,829 | |20 |Adobe Sites |35,315 |45 |WorldNow – ABC Owned Sites |21,586 | |21 |Comcast Corporation |33,940 |46 |WebMD Health |21,185 | |22 |Wal-Mart |33,513 |47 |iVillage. com: The Womens Network |21,002 | |23 |Superpages. com Network |32,558 |48 |NBC Universal |20,974 | |24 |Verizon Communications Corporation |32,412 |49 |WhitePages |19,351 | |25 |Disney Online |30,345 |50 |ESPN |19,266 | Table 3; Media Matrix; http://www. comscore. com References 1] Chao Janice C. Rice, Brandi S. Dec 8, 1999 http://www. rhsmith. umd. du/faculty/jbailey/ents630/amazon. pdf 2] Dustin Nadeau Donatas Sumyla. April 2006- Amazon. Com Inc 2004. (Accessed Feb 20, 2009) 3] Clementina Imobhio May 5, 2001 – E-Transaction: Shopping Carts Comparison (Accessed Feb 20, 2009) 4] Paul Larson. February 14, Amazon. com – Motley Fool Research, Stock Report http://www. fool. com/search/index. aspx? go=1site=USMFq=am azon. com (Accessed Feb 16, 2009) 5] Onder Savas Devrim Dirik. January 9, 2003 – Informat? on Management (Accessed Feb 16, 2009) 6] Strategic Analysis of Amazon. com (Accessed Feb 19, 2009) 7] www. wikinvest. com/wiki/E-Commerce, (Accessed Feb 20, 2009) 8] www. ikinvest. com/stock/Amazon. com_(AMZN), (Accessed Feb 20, 2009) 9] www. wikinvest. com/stock/Barnes_%26_Noble_(BKS), (Accessed Feb 20, 2009) 10] Sujan Sarkar. April 23, 2007 – Amazon vs. Barnes Noble: www. santarosa. edu/~ssarkar/cs66sp07/fprj/abn. htm (Accessed Feb 16, 2009) 11] Table 1- Source; www. amazon. com (Investors Relations) (Accessed Feb 17, 2009) 12] Table 2- Source; www. amazon. com (Investors Relations) (Accessed Feb 17, 2009) 13] Table 3; Media Matrix; http://www. comscore. com (Accessed Feb 17, 2009) ———————– AMAZON Supplier New Entrance Substitute Consumers