Magistrate Power

Magistrate power to take cognizance of the offence After the stage of investigation is completed and the final report is forwarded by the police to competent magistrate, the second stage of fair trial begins that is taking of the cognizance of the offence by the magistrate. In this stage some of the necessary steps have to be take place. These steps are: – (i)to take cognizance of the offence, ii)then the magistrate enquire that whether any prima facia case exist against the accused person and if it exist then, (iii)to issue process against the accused person in order to secure his presence at the time of trial, (iv)to supply to the accused person the copies of police statement. Cognizance of the offence: – Meaning: – In the Criminal Procedure Code the term ‘Cognizance of the offence' is not defined but taking the cognizance of the offence is the first step towards the trial.The literally meaning of Cognizance is knowledge or notice and the taking cognizanc e of offence means taking notice or becoming aware of the commission of the offence. But the meaning of this expression is now well settled by the Courts. Taking cognizance does not involve any formal action of any kind but it occurs as soon as a magistrate applies his mind to the commission of the offence for the purpose of proceedings to take steps towards the Inquiry or Trial. It also includes intention of intention of initiating a judicial proceedings against an offender in respect of an offence.By whom the Cognizance of the offence is taken: – Under Section 190 of the Code, any magistrate of first class may take cognizance of any offence and any magistrate of second class, if specially empowered by the Chief Judicial Magistrate, may take the cognizance of the offence. But the court of session is not to take the cognizance of the offence directly as it is under the original jurisdiction unless the case is given to it by the magistrate. When the cognizance is taken: â€⠀œ A magistrate take the cognizance of the offence: – i)upon receiving a complaint of facts which constitute such offence. (ii)upon a police report of such facts, (iii)upon information received from any person other than a police officer, or upon his own knowledge, that such offence has been committed The word ‘Complaint' mentioned in the above paragraph is defined under the Section 2(d) of the Code as: – ‘any allegation made orally or in writing to a magistrate with a view to his taking action under this Code, that some person whether known or unknown has committed an offence, but it does not include a police report. So ordinarily a private citizen intending to initiate criminal proceedings in respect of an offence has two ways open to him. He may give information to the police if the offence is cognizable one, or he may go to the magistrate and file a complaint irrespective of the fact that whether the offence is cognizable or noncognizable. Now the quest ion arises whether the magistrate is bound to take the cognizance in the above circumstances. In this the Supreme Court in the case of Gopal Das V. State of Assam (1961) 2 Cri L. J. 39Observe that Section 190 of the Code does not means that once a complaint is filed, a magistrate is bound to take the cognizance of the offence if the facts stated in the complaint disclose the commission of any offence. But it becomes necessary for the magistrate to consider the reports of the police before taking the cognizance in case the final report is made to the magistrate after the investigation by the police. Transfer of case on the application of the accused: – The magistrate may also take the cognizance of the offence upon his own knowledge or information.But Section 191 of the Code requires that the accused person must have to be inform before taking of any evidence that he is entitled to have the case inquired into or tried by another magistrate and if the accused objects the procee dings being conducted before the magistrate taking the cognizance of the offence, the case will have to be transferred to such other magistrate as may be specified by the Chief Judicial Magistrate. Also the refusal to the request of the transfer in such a case would be illegal.Section 192 of the Code, has empowered the Chief Judicial Magistrate or a duly authorise magistrate of first class to transfer a case to another competent magistrate and the transfer made under the Section 192 can only be made after taking cognizance of the offence. Limitation on the power to take cognizance of an offence: – Section 195-199 are exception to the general rule regarding the cognizance of the offence contained in Section 190. These are given below: – 1. Prosecution for contempt of lawful authority of public servents: –Under Secion 195(1) it is provided that the cognizance of the following offences cannot be taken by any court : – (i)offence is punishable under section 1 72-188 of the IPC, (ii)offence of abetment, attempt to commit, etc (iii)offence of criminal conspiracy. except on the complaint in writing by the public officer concerned there or the complaint made by any public servent who is senior to the public officer concerned. The section 172-188 of the Code given in this section relates to the offence of contempt of lawful authority of public servants.For example: preventing the service of the summons, not obeying the legal order of the public servants, not producing documents so required by the public servants. and where the complaint has been made by a public servant, any authority to which he is subordinate can order the withdrawl of complaint and send a copy of such order to the court, and on the receipt of such order by the court, no further proceedings shall be taken on the complaint. 2. Prosecution for offence against public justice and for offences relating to the document given in evidence: –Under Section 195(1)(b) no court c an take the cognizance: – (i)of any offence punishable under any of the following sections of the I. P. C. namely 193-196, 199,200, 205-211 and 228 when such offence is alleged to have been committed in or in relation to the any proceeding in the court, (ii)of the offence punishable under section 475 or 476 of IPC when such offence is alleged to have been committed in respect of document produced r given in evidence in a proceedings in any court, or iii)of any criminal conspiracy to commit or attempt to commit or the abetment of any offence mentioned above except the complaint in writing of that court, or of some other court to which that court is subordinate.3. Prosecution for offences against the State: – Under Section 196(1) of the Code, any court shall not take the cognizance of the: – (a)any offence punishable under section 153-A, 153-B, section 295-A or Section 505 of IPC or (b)a criminal conspiracy to commit such offence,or (c)any such abetment, of the of fence. xcept with the previous sanction of the Central Government or the State Government. The offences above referred under the IPC relates to the offences against the State, for example : – promoting the enemity between the two groups of people, outraging the religious feeling of particular class etc. The object of this restrictive provision is to prevent unauthorised persons of state does not insitute suit against each other for just a small matter. 4. Prosecution for offence of criminal conspiracy: –Under Section 196(2) any court cannot take the cognizance of the offence which is punishable under S. 120-B of the I. P. Code other than punishable under death, imprisonment for life or other imprisonment for which the term is two years or upward unless the state government or the district magistrate has consented in writing to the intiation of the proceedings. The State Government or the District magistrate may before giving the consent can order the investigation by t he police officer.

Exempt or Non Exempt Essay

1. Amy classified the shift leaders for exempt status because some of their job functions fall within the criteria of an exempt employee. The criteria’s she based the exemption status on were their responsibilities and duties which enabled them to have a certain amount of authority and other factors led to the consideration for the exemption status. The nature of their duties as managers allowed them the ability to delegate and assign the employee to the various work areas. They were further classified because of their day to day responsibility that included running the floor, making limited managerial decisions, ability to sit in on potential prospect interviews, knowing first hand who is about to be terminated as well as providing feedback for associates performance review to the assistant managers. In addition to the managerial duties which were done for a small portion of the day, they had to assume the role of the associates by assisting customers and ringing up sales for the greater portion of the day. Since the team leaders has some form of responsibilities as a manager Amy believes that she can appropriately classify them as exempt employees which qualifies for no overtime pay; she even reference the FLSA to Jane. By classifying the shift leaders as exempt allows for Amy to pay them a salary which is not clearly stated in the case. Also under the provisions of the FLSA if you are qualified as an exempt employee, you are not entitled to overtime pay.   Lastly, the department store is benefiting greatly because upper management is able to get more than the regular 40 hours out of the employees with the benefit of not having to pay them time in a half or overtime for the extra hours worked which gives Amy leverage because she’s able to keep her personnel budget down. 2. The shift leaders are not properly classified as exempt employees. In order for consideration for an employee to be exempt the employer must take into consideration several factors. Those factors consist of the type of position that is held by an individual which are executives, administrative, learned professional, creative professional, computer workers and outside sales are qualifications for an employer to consider an exemption status for the employee which falls in line with FLSA. According to the case, none of these leaders fall into any of the above category. The pay is another element that must be taken  into consideration. Although the case does not stipulate how much the team leaders are getting paid, we know for sure that they are not paid nearly as much as the assistant manager however they are paid slightly higher than the associates. Another factor is that they are associates majority of the time with a small portion of time being allocated to managerial duties. To further advocate why they should not be exempt, is due to the needed approval from the assistant manager and or the store manager for sales returns that exceed $50.00 which eliminates them from making any significant judgment calls that is allowed by managers. Finally, the team leaders do not hire they only sit in on interviews, they do not make the daily schedule for associates only the assistant manager does, they don’t give appraisals however they do give input and they are not involved in managerial decisions. In order for managers to be considered exempt they would need to have complete autonym to decision making and the maj ority of their time should be spent on managerial duties instead of doing the work of an associate most of the time. 3. The things that Amy needs to consider before classifying shift leaders as exempt or non exempt employees are the requirements of the FLSA which consist of the salary base test. If the employee are being paid hourly than they are non-exempt and qualifies for overtime, if they are salary than they don’t qualify for overtime. The employee rate of pay, job position (Executive, Administrative, Professional (both learned and creative professionals), Computer professional and Outside sales, as well as a job analysis needs to be done in order to classify the employee as exempt or non exempt. Also the fair Pay Rules that was implemented in 2004 have guidelines for which compensation determines if the employee is deemed exempt. If a careful analysis of manager’s duties was performed she would have been able to determine that they do not qualify as exempt employees; title alone can’t determine ones status. To expand things further her team leads were either quitting or complaining about not getting paid for all the extra hours worked so she should have consulted with HR to ensure that the proper status had been selected. In addition, she should have verified how many hours a exempt employee can work legally in excess of a 40 hour work week without getting compensated. Lastly other things she should have questioned before  stipulating status; are the team leads getting medical insurance, paid vacation, sick pay and all the benefits that is associated with a full time position that is considered exempt.

Ballistics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Ballistics - Essay Example A ballistic body is a body which is free to move, behave, and be modified in appearance, contour, or texture by ambient conditions, substances, or forces, as by the pressure of gases in a gun, by rifling in a barrel, by gravity, by temperature, or by air particles. A ballistic missile is a missile designed to operate in accordance with the laws of ballistics. Forensic ballistics involves analysis of bullets and bullet impacts to determine the type. Separately from ballistics information, firearm and tool mark examinations involve analyzing firearm, ammunition, and tool mark evidence in order to establish whether a certain firearm or tool was used in the commission of a crime. [Anthony A. Braga,1 Ph.D. and Glenn L. Pierce,2 Ph.D.] The specifications like Forensic ballistics, the science of analyzing firearm usage in crimes, Internal ballistics, the study of the processes originally accelerating the projectile, for example the passage of a bullet through the barrel of a rifle, Transition ballistics, the study of the projectile's behavior when it leaves the barrel and the pressure behind the projectile is equalized, External ballistics, the study of the passage of the projectile through space or the air, Terminal ballistics, the study of the interaction of a projectile with its target, whether that be flesh (for a hunting bullet), steel (for an anti-tank round), or even furnace slag (for an industrial slag disruptor) [Wikipedia] Ballistics has been used in forensic technology such as ballistic fingerprinting, imaging, etc. Ballistics imaging technology has received tremendous attention as a potent tool for moving the law enforcement response to violent gun criminals forward by linking multiple crime scenes to one firearm.[www.cybersniper.com] Cost-effectiveness estimates and qualitative evidence also suggest that ballistics imaging technology allows law enforcement agencies to make hits that would not have been possible using traditional ballistics methods. Ballistic fingerprinting, a sub-category of firearms examination, is a forensic method that is intended to help find the gun that was used in a crime by matching the bullet's striations (or striae) with the rifled barrel through which it was fired, or by matching marks on the cartridge case to marks in the chamber and breech. The technique is part of the science of forensic ballistics, and it is an application of tool mark identification. [Wikipedia] Newgard discusses the body's blood loss sensory and compensatory mechanisms (venous constriction, increased cardiac output and vascular fluid transfer), and the degree in which these mechanisms respond to, and compensate for, hemorrhagic shock. He reviews clinical tests of human tolerance for blood loss, which "demonstrate that adequate blood pressure can be maintained with minimal symptoms until a 20% blood deficit was reached." [Newgard, Ken, M.D ] Newgard provides the following example: "For an average 70 kg (155 lb.)* male the cardiac output will be 5.5 liters (1.4 gallons) per minute. His blood volume will be 60 ml per kg (0.92 fl. oz. per lb.) or 4200 ml (1.1 gallons). Assuming his cardiac output can double under stress (as his heart beats faster and with greater force). his aortic blood flow can reach 11 liters (2.8 gallons) per minute. If one assumes a wound that totally severs the thoracic aorta, then it would take 4.6 seconds

Organizational Structure Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Organizational Structure Paper - Essay Example The organization under observance in this essay is Toyota. Toyota uses a matrix structure which is, arguably, an amalgamation of two models; traditional design and horizontal structure. To understand the matrix structure, let us first look into the traditional model and the horizontal model. This ways, the essay will cover multiple styles of organizational structure. Traditional model, also called functional design, is the conventional way of organizational structure. It adopts a centralized manner of task allocation and responsibility-sharing. Generally, traditional model uses a bureaucratic style, and lines of authority are well-defined (Organizational Structure, n.d.). When it comes to considering the customers, the traditional model fails to acknowledge customer feedback and opinions since the structure is strictly function-oriented. On the other hand, a horizontal structure has a flat layout. Also called a flat structure, functions in horizontal structure are spread out and ther e is less authoritative manner to it, while giving room to a greater span of control to employees. Unlike the traditional model, a decentralized approach is employed in a flat structure, whereby, there is increased communication and teamwork. There is room for customer feedback due to the emphasis on high levels of communication. In the last two decades, companies have shown a trend towards shifting to a horizontal structure since it encourages communication and feedback. The traditional model is rather a primitive style of organizational chart; companies in the 20th century were more bent towards the functional approach. However, towards the end of the century, the new-age style of designing the organizational chart was shifting towards being a flatter structure. Subsequently, modern organizations adopted an amalgamation of the primitive models, hence, the matrix model, which is partially centralized and partially decentralized in nature. The illustration below shows how a matrix-s tructured organizational chart would look like. At Toyota, the employees find themselves in an inter-connected group of personnel who know their functions while keeping communication at an optimum level. ‘The Toyota organization structure is designed to support teamwork. Toyota followed the power of coordinated team structures’ (Toyota, 2011). The chart below, clearly, shows how the functions are linked with each other, following a top-down design along with a flat structure. One common advantage of using a matrix-structure is that it allows for expertise and special staff to be efficiently employed, rather than undesired duplication of functions and hence, wastage of expertise. One of the ways that influence the organizational structure is to consider the vital organizational functions. The functions include human resource, finance, marketing, sales etc. During the design phase of the flow chart, the company must analyze the company goals and vision because that will p rovide the appropriate framework for the organization. The functions at Toyota include marketing, finance, operations, R & D etc. to save time, and allow processes to be completed in quick fashion, there needs to be fast communication along with a stringent quality control framework. The higher authority at Toyota needs to be involved in the functions while also allowing for middle managers to

Methods Of Research Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Methods Of Research - Essay Example In examining the level of evidence, there is a hierarchical structure in place. This hierarchical structure is such that the highest level of evidence can be arrived at through the utility of randomized control trial (RCT). At the second level are Quasi-experiments whereby there is no random assignment of participants to treatment groups, however, treatment and the causal relationship is determined utilizing the same standards as RCTs (Penrod & Morrison, 2004). This is followed by case control studies, case series studies and expert opinion (Slade, Kuipers, & Priebe, 2002). An examination of the implications of the research methodology utilized begs a closer look at RCTs and the Phenomenological approach to research. First and foremost, randomized control trials are defined as study designs where treatments, interventions, or enrollment into different study groups are assigned by random allocation rather than by conscious decisions of clinicians or patients. The goal of RCTs is to ensure that the results obtained from a study are strictly based on the treatment administered and not a direct result of bias or other confounding variables (Philadelphia Panel, 2001). The Phenomenological approach to research, on the other hand, is one that dates back further than the advent of the experimental approach which utilizes RCTs. It is an approach that inextricably links people and the environments of which they are an integral part. Furthermore, it operates from the vantage point which dictates that by virtue of being human, we are dynamic in nature and the dete rminants of health, behavior and other attributes can be described and summarized utilizing clear and concise qualitative methods. These methods as delineated in the phenomenological approach to research offers a vehicle for exploring as well as explaining the experiences of the individuals being studied. In so doing, the data is captured utilizing phenomenological methods and are reported utilizing statistical methods designed for categorical data (Sandelowski, 1986). Qualitative and quantitative research methodology In order to fully explore the similarities and differences between RCTs and the phenomenological approach to research, it is prudent that we first make a distinction between quantitative and qualitative data. First and foremost, quantitative data can be utilized to articulate some notions that may be true when applied generally, they cannot be applied to any specific cases. For example, quantitative methods can be utilized to gather data on the number of patients who respond positively to a certain level of radiation delivered to the tumor and how those numbers compare to similar data collected over the course of several years. In so doing, the data cannot explain why the patients respond to the treatment in a positive manner or what may influence the way in which they respond. Essentially, quantitative methods are limited. As a direct result, quantitative methods prove inadequate when the nature of the research dictates that an explanation of behaviors is needed and qualitative meth ods are called to task (Sandelowski, 1986). In connecting RCTs and phenomenological research methods, with the notion

Do you think that juvenile offenders who have committed a homicide Essay

Do you think that juvenile offenders who have committed a homicide should be tried as adults - Essay Example ne has done; so a young offender should at least be evaluated on the matter of psychological abnormality and must be provided with special mental treatment along with some legal measures of punishment like a short sentence in prison. The main question is whether children are capable of acknowledging their actions and their consequences. Thus the claims concerning lack of brain development in kids doesn’t justify any criminal actions that children may do. If it was so, then any juvenile offender would be excused just because it was not his fault for commiting the crime, but it was lack of brain development which made him act cruelly. Such excuses would let children do whatever they want and no one could have blamed them for anything. However, a great argument was stated by representatives of the National Organization of Victims of Juvenile Offenders who reasonably noted in one of NY Times articles concerning this issue: â€Å"While juvenile advocates often note that a youth’s brain is still developing, we all learn from an extremely early age that killing is wrong† (Kozlowska n.pag.). The statement definitely makes sense as it is difficult to imagine a child who wouldn’t know that killing is a bad thing to do. Thus it means that when a juvenile offender was about to make a crime, he had already known that the action was extremely bad and illegal. Moreover, it is obvious that if someone close to a child died, the child would feel grief, because one would know that death is a bad thing, especially when people kill each other. Doesn’t this mean that kids’ brain is developed enough to understand moral standards and discern good from bad? Although when a child kills a human, for some reasons people say that children’s brains are not developed enough, so they shouldn’t be charged for anything. The situation creates a kind of double standard regarding the issue. As far as an action must be evaluated according to a person’s acknowledgement of what is good

Rhetoric of Dissent Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Rhetoric of Dissent - Article Example According to the report  the freedom of speech extends to offering protection to maintain parks or camps, as Reisman points out. This can be illustrated by 1st Amendment law precedence. In 1984, a U.S. Supreme Court in Washington ruled on Clark v. Community Creative Non-Violence case in which the Community Creative Non-Violence,   a protester movement petitioned for the right to sleep in National Mall overnight as a way of calling attention of the government to the homeless. The Supreme Court held that sleeping is a form of speech, which deserved constitutional protection. The view of the court was that like other forms of communication, expressions through sleeping in parks have potential social value.This discussion declares that public sphere simply refers to social arenas where individuals come together, exchange their different opinions regarding public affairs, discuss and form a specific public opinion. An arena can be a specific place or location such as town hall meeting , or   a communication infrastructure in which people send and receive information and opinions. Public sphere presupposes freedom of speech and of assembly, a free press, and the right to freely participate in political debate and decision making.   Thus, As Habermas, explains, public sphere is one of the most important aspects of good governance. A functioning and democratic public sphere gives citizens a chance to assert influence over political decisions, and government officials can be held accountable for their actions.... The Supreme Court held that sleeping is a form of speech, which deserved constitutional protection. The view of the court was that like other forms of communication, expressions through sleeping in parks have potential social value (Tedford & Herbeck, 2005). In another case in 2000, which was held in federal court in New York, the judge ruled that the tenants’ advocacy group had a right to sleep on sidewalks overnight to protest against proposed increases in rent for rent-stabilized apartments. The judge ruled that sleeping on sideways is a form of expression, and constitutes speech. Thus, OWS camps constitute speech and should be allowed on this basis. However, the right may be denied in cases where the camps are located in private locations (Ax, 2011). For instance, the federal court denied permission to a union that sought to stage a rally Lincoln Center Plaza in New York in 2000. The verdict described the space as having been historically used primarily for artistic purpos es, and thus could not be used by the public as it was limited property. OWS Zuccotti Park is located in a privately owned space, which must be open to public all times. The fact that the park is privately owned denies OWS absolute right over the space, and the public may be evicted if the owner decides to do so (Ax, 2011). Question 2 Public sphere Public sphere simply refers to social arenas where individuals come together, exchange their different opinions regarding public affairs, discuss and form a specific public opinion (The World Bank, n,d). An arena can be a specific place or location such as town hall meeting, or a communication infrastructure in which people send and receive information and opinions. Public sphere presupposes freedom of speech

African Americans Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

African Americans - Term Paper Example Harriet Tubman was a strong African-American woman born in servitude. Both of her parents toiled as slaves in Maryland. During her development, she endured a harsh life as she was subjected to whipping from a tender age. When she entered into adulthood, she realized that she could be sold as a slave as it was a norm at that time (Siebert, & Hart, 2006). Therefore, in 1849 she decided to escape to Philadelphia with the assistance of an abolitionist. During that period, there were few white people who were against slavery and they helped to free slaves. Harriet was handed a note by her abolitionist neighbor that contained two names that would direct her to a safe place. Harriet was joined by other blacks and went to Subversive Railroad, which were houses. After her escape, she met with other abolitionists whom they planned on how to free other slaves who were left behind. Due to her resilient in fighting slavery, Harriet became the leading abolitionist before the civil war (Lillian, n.d.). The particular event by Harriet was significant in America as it showed her resilience to free other slaves. Her character also gave hope to slaves as they felt that they had a person to fight for them and also keep them safe. In 1877, America witnessed the first person of color ever to graduate in the military academy in the country’s history. Henry Ossian, who was born in slavery, made history by being the first person of color to graduate from West point. During his years in the academy, he never had any contact with a white cadet. The Academy was the preliminary military school to be established in the US. The primary reason the military school was built was to educate and train young men theory and practice of military science. Before Henry was admitted to the military school, there was another black American named James Webster. Although, James was admitted to the military school he never graduated. However, Henry endured all

Investment Strategy and Portfolio Management - 2 Essay

Investment Strategy and Portfolio Management - 2 - Essay Example The move towards conservatism is a reaction to the recent crisis, as more people worldwide felt that not enough regulation was exercised by the government to control risky instruments and markets. However, there is also a possibility that a more protectionist attitude may characterize the new administration, which may hamper economic growth. The more conservative economic policy may work either way; it could provide a more stable environment for business by eliminating risks, but at the same time it might limit business opportunities. Thus new directions must be carefully watched post-election. According to the Wall Street Journal report, this year’s treasury’s budget deficit forecast, at 12.6%, remains to be the highest in the nation’s history, while forecasts for 2011 to 2011 economic growth appear to optimistic. Tax receipts remain weak because of the poor earnings level in both the business and household sectors of the economy (Norman, 2010). However, the Office of National Statistics reported that the UK economy actually grew by 0.1% for the last quarter of 2009, the first following six quarters of economic contraction. It may not be conclusive that the recession is ended, but it does provide a hopeful sign which may be confirmed in the coming quarters (Angus Reid, 2010) According to Price (2010), the current high levels of US government debt is a cause for worry. The uncertainty in the possible outcome of the credit â€Å"tug-o-war† itself exerts pressure on the market to perform with greater volatility (erratic price movements). Price notes that the supply of gilts is moving upwards consistently, and together with it the UK’s credit fundamentals will continue to quickly deteriorate. What would be worse is the threatened debt downgrade from one of the ratings agencies. This could mean that the UK will be able to source additional debt only at higher interest

Information Systems in Healthcare Research Paper

Information Systems in Healthcare - Research Paper Example With reference to the context, Kingston Hospital has been considered for this study to evaluate the process of healthcare units in relation to serving their patients. Moreover, the study also intends to describe the technology related functions, advantages and disadvantages. The study will also offer certain solutions to improve the stated functions or processes efficiently in order to competently serve the patients. Describe and Analyze the Chosen Healthcare Facility Kingston Hospital is amongst one of the healthcare units of London which is located in Kingston, New York. It was established on November 27, 1894 and had a two storied wooden infrastructure. Kingston Hospital initially served 56 and gradually expanded with new staffs, patients and technologies over time (Kingston Hospital, 2010). The hospital was initially known by the name of ‘City of Kingston Hospital’ which was later changed to Kingston Hospital. The hospital had the capacity to serve 150 patients. Alth ough, the hospital went through a wide range of developments in terms of their processes and functions, the fundamental vision of the founder to serve the patients as well as the communities with proper and advanced healthcare facilities was still maintained by the hospital officials and the staffs (Kingston Hospital, 2010). ... ls and equipments of operation along with operation unit, diagnostic unit and its relevant system and machines such as computer systems in order to maintain the records of their performances and relative information. However, the process of storing information was known to be done manually previously which not only increased the chances of making errors while recording information but also engaged a considerable amount of time. However, the hospital adopted fresh technologies and services presently for serving their patients and the communities with proper treatments. New technologies were also introduced for the reason of catering to the modern demands and keeping pace with the developments of the global market as well (Kingston Hospital, 2010). Describe Users of the Health Information at this Facility Kinston Hospital engages specialized doctors and physicians including Ophthalmologist, Gastroenterologist, Neurologist, Medical Oncologist, Infectious Disease Specialist, Family Medic ine Doctor, Orthopedic Surgeon, Internist Infectious Disease Specialist, Geriatrician, Dermatologist, Thoracic and Cardiac Surgeon, Pediatrician, Diagnostic Radiologist and Surgeon for the reason of serving the community and the patients (U.S. News & World Report, 2012). Furthermore, the board members of the hospital comprise Thomas Collins, who is known to be the Chairman, Ronald Myers, serves as the vice chairman and Joanne Frederberg holds the position of treasurer in the hospital. Additionally, Ex-Officio Members of the hospital entailed Mark Josefski, Joseph Christiana, Margo McGilvrey and Robert Seidman. Apart from these mentioned names the other members who are believed to play an active role in functioning the hospital are Emeritus, Robert Hansut, Lew Kirschner, Donald Louie, Donna

Moral Standards in the 1960s-1970s Essay Example for Free

Moral Standards in the 1960s-1970s Essay The English social activist Constance Mary Whitehouse was often renowned for her opposition to social liberalism and mainstream media, which she often claimed to be root cause of a more permissive society in Britain. Although, the extent to which we can deem this view valid is debatable. There is evidence leaning on both sides of the argument; but of course it is unquestionable that Britain did see a sudden uprising of permissiveness and overt moral decline to which Whitehouse responded briskly, founding and setting up the ‘National Viewers’ and Listeners’ Association’ via which she campaigned against the BBC n the 60’s. The question is; was she justified in going to these lengths to essentially try and censor media? Surely, if she injected such a vast amount of effort into doing so, then she must have some sort of validity in her view? Or perhaps, there were other factors which she did not take into account. The notion of Television being the main medium of influence of this period is irrefutable, with 95% of British households owning one by the end of the 1960s. Although the fact that the government set up the Committee of Inquiry on Broadcasting could in itself suggest that media had partial censorship (thus disallowing any real explicit broadcasts which could lead to a moral decline), they did little to stop, and actually welcomed the hard-hitting ‘social realist’ plays such as ‘up the junction (1965)’ and ‘Come Home Cathy (1966)’, as they were a replacement for the supposedly ‘vulgar’ American style programmes on ITV such as ‘Take Your Pick (1958-66)’ and the Westerns/Crime Dramas which they feared would erode British culture and make people more violent. Though, these plays did could be argued to have ‘worsened’ the situation as, for example, ‘Up the Junction’ depicted quite a graphic and powe rful home abortion scene, and it is suggested that this may have been one of the causes of the 1967 Abortion Act to be passed; which of course consequently lead to relaxation in attitudes towards sex as there was now an passage, or a ‘life-line’ a woman could use if any accidental impregnation occurred, thus increasing levels of promiscuity. Furthermore, in ‘a taste of honey’ (also part of this social realism movement that swept through theatres in the 60’s), as well as abortion again being key factor in it, there is also an occurrence of a ‘one night stand’, not an ordinary one night stand however, an interracial one night stand. Although this was a very extreme case of moral rebellion, critically it could have lead to the British public to perceiving promiscuity as well as interracial relationships (seen as immoral, abnormal at this time) to be more acceptable, a norm. In other words, the British public would in theory be bellowing â€Å"if she can do it, why can’t I?!† . The Press also have a part to play in this; they contributed largely to a new permissive air in the media when they initiated their launch of colour supplements, sexualised adverts and scandalous news stories and significantly the first female nipple was published by media tycoon Rupert Murdoch who believed this would help the circulation of his paper, The Sun. This conveys the extent to which media was now overtly promoting permissiveness, and could suggest that this directly influenced a more permissive society as the public were fully exposed to these new developments which eased them into a new, more open and bold mind set. Conversely, there is evidence to suggest that Media was not only responsible for the ‘decline in moral standards’, as quoted by Whitehouse. Touching back onto the subject of ‘press’, although it did absolutely encourage some air permissiveness, the Obscene Publications Acts of 1959 and 1964 to an extent conflict that view. These acts were designed to ‘strengthen’ law around public obscenity, in particular the publication of obscene articles and materials used in them. This could thus suggest that there were in fact some restrictions on media, and that they couldn’t possibly fully hold the blame for arousal of permissiveness and decline in moral standards in this period. Additionally, although the ‘powerful’ scene in ‘Up the Junction’ could be blamed for the passing of the Abortion Act in 1967,it is commonly known that it only eased the passage of it, and it was primarily David Steel’s campaign that led the way to this debatably radical change. Prior to the Abortion Act, there were approximately 106,000 illegal abortions a year, and many were sceptical about the idea that the number of abortions would increase when the act was passed as they believed although people had the freedom, it wouldn’t necessarily mean they would exercise it. They were wrong, after a year in 1968 the number of abortions per annum rose by 35,000 to 141,000 a year. This strongly suggests that the Abortion Act itself influenced a more permissive and unmoral society as it offered more freedom to the public in regards to sex and promiscuity. Prior to the passing of the Divorce Act of 1969, divorce was only permitted when there was sufficient evidence exhibiting that one party of the relationship had committed adultery, and statistics show that there were few than two divorces per 1000 married couples. The Divorce Reform Act allowed couples to divorce if they had lived apart for two years and both wanted it or if they had lived apart for five years and one partner wanted it. Following the reform there was a huge increase in the number of divorces, by the mid-1970s nearly one in every two marriages ended in divorce. Although it could be argued that this was due to the growing independence of women, it’s hard to deny that the act had a large effect on this. This thus indicates to us that media was not entirely responsible for the lack or decline of moral standards as legislation such as this, did essentially promote more promiscuity as it gave married couples the freedom to split up and do as they please. In analysing the range of factors, we can conclude that Mary Whitehouse’s view that the media was responsible for the morale decline of the 60’s and 70’s was somewhat valid, as there are a spectrum of sources and pieces of evidence that intrinsically link together and in turn paint a picture where the British society are heavily influenced by media. This was perhaps due to fact that the public at this time, and still to this day, are heavily consumed by the media and are enthralled in its controversy, and although it may not have so much of a profound effect on us today it is obvious people of that period were more vulnerable to it as just coming out of a period of Austerity and slight deprivation, more likely than not they were seeking for something new something fresh, something that kept up with the social norms of other major influences such as America- and perhaps unfortunately, these new trends often entailed social rebellion and permissiveness. And althoug h legislation had a part to play in it, this only ensured de jure change, not always de facto, where as media more times out of 10 had de facto and more profound effect on the British society of the 1960s/70s.

An Analysis Of The Tui Group Tourism Essay

An Analysis Of The Tui Group Tourism Essay TUI a leading international leisure travel group which has over 200 different tourism brands around the world. The business activities of the TUI Group were attributed to the tourism, logistics and the former industry divisions. Objective of this report is to analyse the strategic position of TUI by applying various tools such as PESTLE, Five forces framework, SWOT and analyse and predict the future implications of its strategic capabilities using Generic strategy and Ansoffs matrix to the case study. Limitations of the tool applied are discussed with the analysis. 2.0 BACKGROUND TUI group earlier known as Hapag Touristik Union of Preussag launched itself in tourism market at the end of 1997 with the purchase of Hapag-Lloyd AG. TUI expended its business using the expansion strategy through acquisition, mergers, and investment through joint ventures all over Europe. TUI AG was spread in three sectors TUI Travel (tour operating, airlines and incoming agencies),  TUI Hotels Resorts  and the cruise ship business form the World of TUI. TUI AG holds, in addition, a financial investment in the container shipping industry. TUI in 2005 was the tour leaders with 3500 travel agencies in 17 countries with 37 incoming agencies. TUI owned more than 100 aircrafts and was the largest Hotelier in Europe with 285 hotels (Case study). Currently, the group owns 43,3 percent stake in Hapag-Lloyd AG. In  the 2008 financial year  TUI AG returned a revenue of à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬24.9 billion with total earnings (underlying EBITA) of à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬759 million. As at 31 December 2008 the Group had 70,200 employees (TUI group, company profile). 3.0 ENVIRONEMNTAL ANALYSIS: To understand and apply the Environmental analysis on TUI it is essential to perform an internal and an external analysis. External analysis on an industry is further sub-divided in two environment macro-environment and micro-environment. In order to understand the likely impact of these environments on the tourism industry PESTEL analysis and Porters five forces is under taken for possible impacts on the industry competitive strength and advantage over competitors. 3.1 PESTLE ANALYSIS 3.1(a) POLITICAL Political factors have a moderate impact on the performance and the growth on tourism industry. Where Political instability generates negative publicity and the risk perception influences the tourists decisions which results in an unavoidable decrease in tourist arrivals (Hall and O Sullivan, 1996). On the other side Terrorism has led serious tourism crisis, and has been affecting the financial condition significantly in recent periods (Sonmez et al 1999). Terrorist attacks, the Iraq war has reflected a decline of approximately 6.6% in TUIs tourism turnover from the first six months of 2002 to the first six months of 2003 (excluding turnover contributed by Nouvelles Frontiers, which we acquired later in 2002). Health Crisis like SARS in 2003 has also had a traumatic effect on international travel (Case study). 3.1(b) ECONOMICAL Tourism is one of the growing industries, fuelling the growth and employment and has become a critical component of the world of economy. Due to Recession, a downward momentum was seen because most of the tourism operators were handicapped by the high level of fixed assets and less able to manage their airlines and hotel industry(case study). Fluctuations in fuel costs, Exchange rates and currency fluctuations, The Growth of low cost airlines has lead to economic risk in tourism industry. 3.1(c) SOCIO-CULTURE: Change in lifestyle has changed the demands of consumer; they have become more price sensitive and has increased its demand for new experiences. Consumer has developed a new attitude of WAIT AND SEE ATTITUDE (Reisinger 2009) facilitated by last minute purchase resulting in late bookings. As tourism involve movement of people to different locations which calls for cultural clashes. Tourism has also Led to commercialization of local culture, standardization of destinations and adaptation to tourist demands (coastlearn.org) 3.1(d) TECHNOLOGY Use of information technology gave a boost to tourism business for reservations and administrative operations. With the advent of the internet, tour operators can now spread out their activities and make available appropriate information, conquering new customers (Wyner, 2000). With launch of touropa.com in Germany, TUI captured a top position in European market in 2005 with a turnover of 2.6bn euro (Case study). Similarly in Island locations high-tech venue networking was adopted to attract new visitors and to communicate to tourists (The Daily Business Buzz, Nov. 2/09) 3.1(f) LEGAL Air Travel Organizers License ATOL Regulations were imposed on any person who advertises or sells air-inclusive holidays in the United Kingdom,granted by the Civil Aviation Authority. A number of TUIs businesses operating in the United Kingdom, including Thomson Holidays and Lunn Poly, hold ATOLs. There were many European and national restrictions on airline ownership which could loss of airline operating and route licenses and cause other adverse effects on tourism business. TUIs hotels and destination agencies are subject to a variety of laws and regulations in the countries in which they operate and, on a periodic basis, must obtain various licenses and permits. They are subject to a broad range of labour, environmental and health and safety regulations in each jurisdiction in which they operate (Listing Memorandum, TUI group). 3.1(g) ENVIRONMENTAL: International tourism can play the role of both victim and villain when it comes to climate change(Holmes 2007 BBC news). To attain sustainability TUI is continuously improving on environmental performance, TUI focuses on ISO 14001 environmental standards. Hence TUI strongly supports the environmental protection policies like, species protection, nature protection and landscape protection. TUIs main area of concern is the efficient use of energy and climate protection. (TUI Group, environment management) 3.2 PORTERS FIVE FORCES FRAMEWORK: A firm needs to neutralise as many as possible of the five forcers in order to create competitive advantage.(Porter 1998) Porter defines five forces impacting a firms competitiveness- threat of substitutes, threat of new entrants in the industry, bargaining power of suppliers, bargaining power of customers, and the intensity of competition within the industry. Understanding the nature of each of these forces gives organizations the necessary insights to enable them to create the appropriate  strategies  to be successful in their market (Thurlby, 1998) . 3.2(a) Threat of New Entrants (Medium) For a new company to launch itself in the tourism industry needs a high investment and innovative ideas to sustain its presence in the highly competitive tourism market. The existing company have the capabilities of providing tailored deals on cheap prices because of their established brands and long chains of tour operator. TUI being the market leaders of tourism industry does not have much effect of threats developed by new entrants. 3.2(b) Bargaining Power of Buyers (High)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Tourism industry fluctuates with the buyers changing needs. With increase in competition, buyers have a wider range of services to choose from hence the tourism industry are forced to comply with changing demands and needs of customers. As the switching cost is not too high Brand loyalty is low and with increase in purchasing power of a buyer the likelihood of travelling also increases. Buyers even eliminate the tour operators and prefer make a direct sale from suppliers (hotels, airlines ect). 3.3(c) Bargaining Power of Suppliers (Low)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   TUI uses backward integration which means it has its own suppliers; in fact TUI itself acts as its own suppliers. 3.3(d) Threat of Substitutes (High)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   With the growing world of tourism there is a demand for strategic differentiation. Customers are looking for new experiences, diversified attractions around the world. The wide spread of TUI in Europe increases the threat of substitute due to growth of tourism industry in other parts of world. 3.3(e) Competitive Rivalry (medium) Tourism industry involves many competitors with an approach of performing better than the other. The competition level increases because of distribution of market based on the regional operators, privately owned, highly fragmented, and geographically marketed. Even though there was a moderate level of service differentiation, TUI has sustained the competition because of its brand and leadership in market 4.0 TUIS CURRENT POSITION AND STRATEGY: TUIs strategic goal is to create superior shareholder value by being a global leading leisure travel group providing customers with a wide choice of differentiated and flexible travel experiences to meet their changing needs. TUIs five strategic priorities for sustainable development are Embedding, Climate Change, Destinations, Our People and Our Customers (TUI Travel PLC, Strategy) . Since 1998 to 2005 main focus of TUI was on achieving cost control and differentiating its product in market. This was achieved by adopting Hybrid strategy which is a combination of differentiation, price and cost control (Campbell 2002) refer to Appendix (A). TUI creates enhancing margin quality through product differentiation by creating unique travel experiences for its customers which helps them achieve brand loyalty and competitive advantage. With controlled distribution process the cost of acquisition can be reduced and flexibility is achieved. The five key elements of TUI strategy: Expand our core tourism business Exploit synergies and cost efficiencies across our markets and products Leverage the benefits of our vertically integrated tourism model and our wide distribution network Identify new trends and exploit developments in the tourism industry Continue to grow our container shipping business Over the years TUI has maintained its position as the market leaders of tourism industry by covering all the stages of tourism value chain by owning its own travel agencies, hotels, incoming agencies, airlines and cruises (Business week 2009). It has positioned itself to be its own supplies, buyers and travel services and had become a strong example of vertical integration. Vertical growth can be accomplished by forward and backward integration. Though the vertical integration does not give 100 percent success guarantee in complete value chain, TUI has successfully build its business with selection of travel agencies in European market by having Thomas cook airlines with 100 aircrafts and owning more than 3000 travel agencies (case study). Vertical integration also helps in attracting more customers, differentiate its product and gain more power in market and gain economies of scale by reducing the coordination cost and reducing the profit margins of intermediaries (Enz 2009). Other advantages and disadvantages can be referred in Appendix (B). Major strengths on which TUI had built its leadership and its weaknesses which empowered them to overcome and maintain its position. 4.1 STRENGTHS: TUIs greatest strength is its brand recognition and fully integrated business model with wide spread distribution network to provide operational advantages. TUIs confidence is based on (i) ability to recover increases in input costs, (ii) flexible business model, (iii) delivery of merger synergies, and (iv) diversity of the Groups businesses(TUI Travel Plc, third quarter report). Appropriate strategic choices with the diverse work force and economic of scale in competitive marketing and efficient distribution has proved to be its core competence. TUIs global presence provides wide variety of holiday services and has successful container shipping business. 4.2WEAKNESS TUI Travels existing shareholder loan amounts to approximately  £900 million is the major drawback for TUI (financial times 2009). The consumers are increasingly holding off on booking holidays in order to save money in recession. Whereas limited bookings transparency (growing trend toward short-term travel bookings; uncertain earnings performance) has also effected the revenue growth of TUI. Another factor is the impact of seasonality on sustained growth and performance of nature based tourism. 5.0 CHANGING TRENDS AND TUIs FUTURE: 5.1 Key Drivers of change Beside PESTLE (Appendix (C)) it is important to identify the number of key drivers of changes which are forces likely to affect the structure of a business (Johnson et al 2005). To understand the drivers of changes in tourism industry it is required to analyse the change in consumers behaviour, lifestyle and priorities. In years to come the demographic shifts (ageing population), technology penetration, changes in work pattern, time pressure and changing modes of consumption (further destinations, greater expectations, more specialization) will make heavy impact on travel and tourism industry(Lockwood and Medlik 2002). According to Peter Long, chief executive of TUI Travel (sustainable development report 2008), Sustainability is one of the four key drivers for growth in TUI, the four main drivers for a sustainability programme for TUI Travel: Aviation and climate change Protecting destinations from the impact of climate change Protecting destinations from the impact of tourism Shifting demographics and consumer trends These aspects will analyse progress of TUI which is made towards providing holidays that cause minimal environmental impact, respect the culture and people of destinations, and offer real economic benefit to local communities. 5.2 Ansoffs Matrix According to Johnson et al. (2008) Ansoff Product/market growth can be used to analyse the implications of corporate strategy applied to look for the opportunities open to the industry. This matrix consists of four quadrants which are used to evaluate four types of strategic decision(Appendix (D)). It allows marketers to consider ways to develop the business via existing and/or new products, in existing and/or new markets. With an initial start in tourism business from end of 1997 to 1999 TUI saw a real scope of penetration of its business in German market with its existing products and aim to increase its market share. With a vision of new opportunities TUI expanded its horizons by stepping into European market in 2000 with complete dominance and strong market share with existing products in new markets by taking over Thomson travel group, Nouvelles Frontieres(France) and Fritidsresor(Scandinavia) developing its market. With time TUI focused on Product development and introduced low-cost travel airlines in 2003, setting up TUI china and then increased its cash flow by signing joint ventures in Russia. In 2005 with launch of a virtual tour operator, TUI captured the top position in tourism industry and was able to develop a successful brand Image. In 2005 TUI penetrated in most of the Europe, tourism division was subdivided into the five sectors Central Europe, Northern Europe, Western Europe, destinat ions and other tourism activities. TUI was diversifying geographically and that has helped to compensate the ups and downs of individual countries, which can be due to any macroeconomic factor. TUI has diversified geographically in Europe, India and China. They have also diversified in their business segments in logistics of container shipping department in order to achieve economies of scale. TUI opted consolidation for long term growth and global brand development to ensure cash flow from developed market in economic downturn hence TUI considered consolidation has one of their product and market strategy suggested by Johnson et al.(2008). 5.3 EXTERNAL OPPORTUNITIES AND THREATS OPPOURTUNITES Changes in emerging and fragmented markets provide greater opportunity for growth in TUI, acquisition and joint ventures can provide a platform to build stronger product portfolio. Improving TUIs local business, improving in marketing, sales and distribution can support growing demands for specialist holidays. Tour operators still have scope for consolidation by easing geopolitical tensions. Refer to Appendix (E) for more information about the opportunities and TUIs approach towards it. THREATS Protracted economic downturn has been a major threat to the tourism industry. Geopolitical uncertainties (terrorist attacks and natural calamities), operators relatively high debts, limited earning transparency of some companies and seasonal-led volatile earnings performances are some other setbacks for tourism industry. Less attention towards environment and global warming may cause a devastating impact on travel business. 6.0 LIMITATIONS OF TOOLS 6.1 PESTEL FACTORS PESTLE analysis is done to simplify the decision making process while following a strategy. PESTLE factors helps in identifying the past trend of an organisation on which future trends are identified. Practically PESTLE analysis makes it difficult for a company to analyse the entire macro-economic factor as it can be very time consuming and costly. In this fast changing environment, capturing adequate data might be difficult and capturing too much of data can cause Paralysis by analysis this predicted data might not be accurate. PESTLE does not help is finding out the level of uncertainty in an organisation. For effective results this process needs to be undertaken on regular basis. (Cipd, 2008). 6.2 PORTERS FIVE FORCE Porters five forces model works on relatively static market structure because of which it cannot explain or analyze todays dynamic changes (Recklies 2001). This model equally imply to all the competitors in an industry and this model cannot be applied in isolation where porter accepted that outcome by applying his framework were only relevant while the macro environment remained constant (Campbell et al., 2002). Five force analyses takes into consideration industry as a whole but it does not segregate different segments. The individual analysis of each of the segment can be of much assistance than industry as a whole. It even assumes that relationships with competitors, buyers and suppliers are adversarial. It oversimplifies industry value chains (Grundy, 2006) and It ignores the human resource aspect of the strategy 6.3 SWOT The SWOT analysis gives an overview of the subject but doesnt help to get the details. The categorization of some aspects as strengths or weaknesses, or as opportunities and threats is to some extent subjective. From the case study numerous strength and weaknesses were identified, but those all were a snapshot of the success and failure on TUI over all business performance. According to Mintzberg (1990) the assessment of strengths and weaknesses may be unreliable, being bound up with aspirations, biases and hopes. Moreover, Frost (2003) describes SWOTs downsides from a managers point of view as it would be difficult for a manager to identify strengths than things they see as wrong with the organization and managers tend to describe an effect as a weakness and do not get to the causes. (Zarkos et al., 2007) states, an opportunity can also be a threat for a company; hence the same problem appears in the distinction of strengths and weaknesses. 6.4 ANSOFFS MATRIX Ansoffs matrix is only focussed on growth of a company it focuses on the tangible aspects of products and services and very little attention is paid to intangible aspect like brand. Another weakness of the Ansoff Matrix approach is that it doesnt really address the issue of brand elasticity as a part of the strategic decision-making process.( pringle and field, 2008). the use of Ansoff matrix as a marketing tool may not be really useful as the matrix is critical for analysing the strategic path that the brand may be following, and does not essentially identify marketing options(Macmillan et al., 2000). 7.0 CONCLUSION In this report the strategic analysis is carried out on TUI tourism industry using various tools. Firstly, macro-environment was analysed to understand the possible impacts on the industry competitive strength and advantage over competitors and develop an appropriate strategy. On a corporate level hybrid strategy and vertical integration was discussed in support to TUIs success. Next segment of internal analysis described TUIs core competences and focussed on future trends of TUI. The analysis of this case study concluded high level of sustainable development which is inimitable. 8.0 REFERENCE LIST Campbell, D., Stonehouse, G. and Houston, B. (2002), Business Strategy: an introduction, 2nd Edition, Butterworth-Heinemann publication, Oxford, UK. Enz, A. C., (2009), Hospitality Strategic Management: Concept and Cases, 2nd Edition,    Haboken, New Jersey. Frost, A. (2003), The Use of Strategic Tools by Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises: an Australasian study, Strategic Change, Volume. 12, Page: 49-62. Grundy, T. (2006), Rethinking and reinventing Michael Porters five forces model, Strategic Change, Volume. 15, Page: 213-229. Hall, C. And OSullivan, V. (1996), Tourism political stability and violence in Wahab, S. and Christopher P. C.,(2001), Tourism in the age of globalization , pp-234, Routledge. Johnsons, G., Scholes, K. and Whittington, R. (2005), Exploring Corporate Strategy, 7th Edition, Prentice Hall, UK. Johnsons, G., Scholes, K. and Whittington, R. (2008), Exploring Corporate Strategy, 8th Edition, Prentice Hall, UK. Lockwood, A. and Medlik, S., (2002), Tourism and Hospitality in the 21st Century, Butterworth Heinemann Macmillan, H. and Tampoe, M. (2000), Strategic Management, Oxford University Press. Available at: http://www.coursework4you.co.uk/ansoff.htm, Access on: 21st Oct 2009, 17.23pm. Mintzberg, H. (1990), The Design School: Reconsidering the Basic Premises of Strategic Management, Strategic Management Journal, Volume. 11, Page: 171-195. Porter, M. E,. (1985), Competitive Advantage: Creating and Sustaining Superior Performance. The Free Press Pringle, H. And Field, P., (2008), Brand immorality how brands can live long and prosper, Kogan page, IPA Recklies, D. (2001), Five Competitive Force (porter), Available at http://www.12manage.com/methods_porter_five_forces.html, Assessed on: 28th Oct 2009, 8.45pm. Reisinger, Y., (2009),International Tourism: Cultures and Behaviour Elsevire Ltd. Sà ¶nmez, F. S., Tarlow, P.,(1999) Tourism in Crisis: Managing the Effects of Terrorism Journal of Travel Research, Vol. 38, No. 1, 13-18 Thurlby, B., (1998), Competitive forces are also subject to change, Management Decision London Zarkos, S., Morgan, R. E. and Kouropalatis, Y. (2007), Real Options and Real Strategies, Strategic Change, Volume: 16, Page: 315-325. http://www.cipd.co.uk, (2008), PESTLE analysis, CIPD, Accessed on 3rd Nov 2009 at 15.56pm http://www.tui-group.com/uuid/68045be7dc26a80404db1d381be42f4b TUI Group Listing Memorandum, Accessed on 1st Nov 2009 at 19.24pm http://www.scribd.com/doc/17015152/TUI-Environmental-ReportTUI TUI Group Environmental report, Accessed on 5th Nov 2009 at 12.03am http://investing.businessweek.com/research/stocks/snapshot/snapshot_article.asp?ric=TUIGn.DE Business week 2009 , TUI AG(Consumer Directory sector, hotels restaurants and leisure) Accessed on 8th Nov 2009 at 13.33pm http://www.dailybusinessbuzz.ca/2009/11/02/pe-cutting-edge-technology-to-boost-tourism/ Daily business buzz, Cutting -edge technology to boost tourism 8th Nov 2009 at 22.54pm http://www.coastlearn.org/tourism/why_socioimpacts.html Coast learn, Sustainable Tourism : Socio-Culture Impact, Accessed on 6th Nov 2009 at 16.22 pm http://www.tui-group.com/en/sustainability/env_management TUI Group , Environment management and ecological sustainability, Accessed on 29th Oct 2009 at 16.16pm http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/7094559.stm Holmes, S., 2007 How to make tourism greener , BBC news, Accessed on 8th Nov 2009 at 23.08pm http://www.tui-group.com/en/company/profile TUI Group, company profile Accessed on 30th Oct 2009 at 09.52am www.tuitravelplc.com/tui/uploads//TUITravelQ3Results.pdf TUI Travel Plc, third quarter report 2008, Accessed on 25th Nov 2009 at 11.52am http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/258da2ca-acd0-11de-91dc-00144feabdc0.html Yuk, K. P., 2009 TUI Travel takes steps to refinance loan, Accessed on 7th Nov 2009 at 22.14pm http://sd2008.tuitravelplc.com/tui-sd/pages/aboutthisreport/datamaterialityTUI Group, sustainability report 2008, Accessed on 28th Oct 2009 at 20.22pm 9.0 APPENDIX: APPENDIX (A) Market price responsiveness Price insensitivity Price sensitivity Cost-based Strategy Differentiation Strategy Stuck in the middle strategy Hybrid strategies Appropriate strategic approach Adopted form David Campbell, George Stonehouse andBill Houuston , Business Strategy (2000), 2nd edition. APPENDIX (B) Advantages and Disadvantages of vertical Integration Advantages Disadvantages Can eliminate steps and reduce duplication 1)need for overheads to coordinate vertical integration Avoid time consuming tasks and negotiate contracts Burden of excess capacity if not at all output is used. Improve marketing or technological intelligence Obsolete process may be penetrated Can create differentiation through coordination process Reduce strategic flexibility due to being locked in a business Provide superior control of firms market environment May link to an unprofitable adjacent business Offers an increased ability to create credibility for new products. May not be potential for synergy Adopted from Enz, A. C., (2009), Hospitality Strategic Management: Concept and Cases, 2nd Edition. Appendix (C) FACTORS REASONS POLITICAL/LEGAL Political instability of developing countries Government regulations and regulatory reforms. High taxation policies of developed countries. labour, environmental and health and safety regulations ECONOMICAL Rise in disposable income in developing countries Currency fluctuation. Rise in fuel cost Emerging market. SOCIAL Changing priorities of consumers Health and safety concerns Urbanisation. Disposal income in consumer level TECHNOLOGY Use of information technologies systems for reservations Use of internet Implementation of new sales and distribution channels Enhanced flexibility ENVIRONMENT Natural calamities Global warming limitation on carbon emission Appendix D STRATEGIC DIRECTION ANSOFF MATRIX Existing Product New Product A Market Penetration Consolidation B Product Development C Market Development D Diversification Existing Market New Market Adapted from H. Ansoff, Corporate Strategy, Penguin, 1988, Chapter 6 Appendix (E) Opportunity Our goal Embedding into our core business Ensure our business decisions take into account sustainable development principles Operational impacts Minimise the negative sustainability impacts (particularly on climate change) of our day-to-day operations Supply chain management Support our supply chain in managing their sustainability impacts Choice editing Edit out the holiday options that do not meet our minimum sustainability standards Choice influencing Make it easy for customers to choose a more sustainable holiday Awareness raising Help customers appreciate the sustainability impacts of tourism, driving demand for more sustainable holidays Changing behaviour   Encourage customers to change their actions in a way that maximises the positive and minimises the negative impacts of their holiday Innovation and product development   Develop new, more sustainable experiences in response to demand   Collaborating with our industry   Share best practice with others in the tourism industry where our competitiveness is not affected   Advocacy   Use our influence responsibly and in line with our commitment to sustainable development   Putting something back   Put something back into the environment or community wherever we cannot avoid a negative impact   http://sd2008.tuitravelplc.com/tui-sd/pages/ourapproach/ourstrategy?whoareyou=addstudent=truesubmit=Submit Threat of new Entrant Innovative ideas Wide range of holiday packages Threat of substitute Worldwide tourism attractions

Distribution Channel Efficiency in the Hospitality Industry

Distribution Channel Efficiency in the Hospitality Industry Advances in technology combined with its more effective use are generally assumed to be a good trend for the global expansion of trade and commerce. Technological advances are commonly believed to quicken the globalization process with improved economic growth and business profitability is consequently assumed to be the beneficial results. Globalization and the use of improved technology increase the potential for increasing efficiency as the electronic and digital transfer of information and financial transactions means that customers can be gained on a global, regional, or national level. Like most other industries or economic sectors, the hospitality and tourism industries have been affected by the use of and improvements in technology in recent years. Hospitality as will be argued, is an industry like any other that can potentially increase its distribution channel efficiency through more widespread or more effective use of technology. Traditionally the use of technology was conf ined to improvements in the mode of transport available to travellers. Hotels and places of hospitality have been strategically placed for the benefit of travellers. For instance the development of trains, cars, ships, and planes all helped to expand the tourism and hospitality industries as people found it easier, quicker, and more cost-effective to travel further distances. However, it is the use of technology such as television advertising, personal and business computers, and the Internet that arguably has the potential to increase the distribution channel efficiency in hospitality. For the purpose of this essay it would be sensible to remember that the hospitality industry deals with two main types of customer, tourists or holiday -makers alongside business travellers. Whatever motivates people to travel is not as important as the factors that makes pick a place to stay and possibly tempts them to stay there again and again. As will be discussed the use of technology is not the sole factor in distribution channel efficiency in the hospitality industry, yet it can be the decisive factor. To begin with the hospitality industry has always been reliant upon the transport infrastructure available at any given time, the less developed that infrastructure the less likely people are willing to travel great distances or so often. Prior to the onset of improvements in transport and communications technology during the 19th century there were little pressures for the hospitality industry to have Distribution Channel Efficiency. Poor roads and sail powered ships meant that most travellers only went short distances. Only the very wealthy could afford the time and the expense of travelling widely. Luxury hotels existed in small numbers to cater for their needs. More generally hospitality was confined to small hotels and inns, often located on main roads. Without the development of the railways, steam powered ships, and later the car, the modern hospitality industry would not have evolved. The railways made short breaks and day trips affordable for the masses, whilst steam ships r educed the sea voyages from weeks to days (Cooper, Fletcher et al, 1998 p. 395). Transport costs are still a vital consideration for the hospitality industry to consider. For instance the greater availability of charter flights made package holidays more affordable from the 1960s (Vellas Becherel, 1995, p.79). For instance, for a time after the 9/11 attacks higher insurance costs as well as safety concerns reduced the number of travellers (Higley, 2004). The expansion of newspaper sales combined with the invention of the telegram and the telephone made international and national communications quicker and more effective. Such developments meant that hospitality was able to develop marketing and advertising strategies on a national and sometimes an international basis. The need for Distribution Channel Efficiency in hospitality developed in conjunction with the expanded opportunities that resulted from improving technology (Cooper et al, 1998, p.424). Income levels also have an impa ct upon the hospitality industry; people who cannot afford to travel will not be effected by Distribution Channel Efficiency (Vellas Becherel, 1995, p.91). The appropriate use of modern information technology equipment can certainly help improve Distribution Channel Efficiency in hospitality although it does not guarantee commercial success. Individual travellers and hotels can use computers systems and databases to make travel and accommodation arrangements with increasing ease (Outhart, Taylor et al, 2000 p. 16). The use of automated booking and payment arrangements means that customers no longer have to make travel and accommodation arrangements in person or via correspondence. As long as hotels are linked to national and international databases and network bookings can be made at any travel agency, booking office and even online. The automation of the payment process began once the use of credit cards became more widespread, especially in North America, Japan and Western Europe. Credit cards, debit cards, and the use of automated credit transfers allowed transactions to take place anywhere in the world at any time of day. Travel age ncies, transport companies, and hotels have developed booking systems that allow tourists and business travellers to arrange their travel and accommodation more effectively (Killingworth-Baird and Carter, 1996 p. 12). The expansion of automated payment systems has had the greatest impact on hotel reservations, with hotels and booking agencies using computer databases to know the level of vacancies and reservations at every hotel within a local area network or now across the globe. As with other areas of commerce the efficiency and speed of those systems has improved markedly with adaptation of Internet technology (www.gcis.ca). It was developments in the United States that led to the modernisation and expansion of hospitality industry through the invention of computer reservation systems. The computer reservation systems are usually referred to as global distribution system or GDS. The most widely used GDS systems are Sabre, Galileo, Amadeus, and Worldspan. Once compatibility problems were resolved these systems have proved invaluable for the global hospitality industry. For travellers the main benefit of GDS is that it gives them the ability to make their arrangements in advance, provides a good level of customer service and it means that holidays or business trips are efficiently planned. For the parts of the hospitality industry that have fully automated bookings and payment procedures the ability to make bookings in advance is a great help for the achievement of Distribution Channel Efficiency. The companies that pioneered GDS such as Thomson used it to expand rapidly (Outhart, Taylor et al, 2000 p. 16) . The taking of advanced bookings means that hotels can budget for a known amount of income coming in at any given time and set staffing levels accordingly. Hotels have more time to attract more visitors if they know that the hotel will have a higher number of vacancies and therefore offer discounted stays at short notice to hire out as many rooms as possible. Logically the more accurate information that hotels have about the number of bookings already made and the amount of bookings still available then they can make suitable arrangements for extra marketing, discounted room hire and the holding of special events. The development of GDS when combined with the increase in charter flights and package holidays meant the rapid growth of the hospitality industry on a greater scale and fashionable new destinations such as Benidorm in Spain (Outhart, Taylor et al, 2000 p. 149). The hospitality industry had already began to make use of improved Distribution Channel Efficiency before the internet became widely available and dramatically altered the prospects for commerce and marketing. For the hospitality industry the use of the internet has made it possible for hotels to advertise their vacancies and their locations on a global basis. Individual hotels and international hotel chains were quick to realise how the internet could increase the chances of improving Distribution Channel Efficiency through the effective use of technology. The internet allows the opportunity for hotels to advertise and make bookings online, as well as gaining bookings through travel agents as well as being in brochures and tourist information offices. Many customers now prefer to make their own travel and accommodation arrangements online so the hotels have their own websites or can be booked through other websites have a stronger opportunity to increase their sales compared to thos e hotels that cannot be booked online. The internet provides the chance to book hotel rooms as customers can view what the hotel is like without going there in person. Customers can learn about a hotels precise location, transport links to the hotel, and the closeness of tourist attractions or important business sites that could be nearby (www.gcis.ca). The internet is also a great media for showing other features of the hospitality and leisure facilities available at hotels. For instance, hotels no longer just provide somewhere to sleep and eat. Facilities, which can be attractive to customers, include gyms, swimming pools, bars, and restaurants. Customers’ expectations of what hotels should provide them with have also altered due to changes in technology. Whereas travellers would have once been happy with a bed, tea- making facilities with en-suite bathroom, now they would like televisions, mini bars and phone sockets so they can access the internet via their laptops (Outha rt, Taylor et al, 2000 p. 17). For larger hotels and hotel chains the hospitality they provide has certainly changed for the reasons mentioned above. Hotels are no longer about having a bed for the night; they are about having an enjoyable experience, which means the customer will wish to use the hotel company again. It could be argued that providing such services and facilities make the hospitality industry more expensive to run, yet such expenditure could be justified if hotels are able to increase the number of happy guests and keep the loyalty of their customers. The Distribution Channel Efficiency of technology will, if used effectively, prove more profitable to the companies that are prepared to implement changes as soon as they become possible. Keeping pace with technological changes allows hotels and other hospitality providers to improve and maintain their standards of customer service. Hotels are not able to provide their guests and customers with a higher level of service when it comes to providing info rmation about travel and the leisure activities available at the hotel itself or within the surrounding areas of it. It is possible if the hotel or hospitality provider is linked with travel and leisure companies that customers can arrange to pay for all other services not provided by the hotel when they make their hotel bookings. Smaller hotels and hospitality providers might not be able to match all the services provided by a larger or chain of hotels, yet they can still provide their customers with a higher level service than they did before the internet became widely available (Higley, 2004). Improvements in technology do not automatically equate to a better Distribution Channel Efficiency for hotels and other hospitality providers. There are certainly actual and potential drawbacks to the greater use of technology within the hospitality industry. Staff and managers have to have enough training to use new technology properly, whilst not all customers may be able to use new technology and will need to make their hospitality arrangements by more traditional means such as going to a travel agent, booking by telephone, or even by letter. For smaller companies and hospitality providers it might not be cost effective to use every piece of new technology as their income and resources would not be increased by as much as the cost of upgrading their equipment. Smaller hospitality providers have tended to avoid such drawbacks by forming links with the larger companies such as Thomson. The use of GDS suits small operators as the larger companies fill up their rooms, whilst the arran gements suit the large companies as it increases the number of bookings from customers that they can meet (Outhart, Taylor et al, 2000 p. 16). For smaller hospitality providers there is another potential drawback that new technology becomes obsolete too frequently. Once again strong links with the larger tour operators can mean that even with older technology that the smaller hospitality providers can still stay connected to global databases or booking systems such as GDS. It also means that the efficiency of the payments they send and receive is increased (www.gcis.ca). Another drawback that could provide problems for the hospitality industry when it is seeking Distribution Channel Efficiency is that when tour operators and smaller hospitality providers are so busy meeting current demands that they do not plan adequately for the expansion or contraction of tourist destinations. When growth levels in certain resorts are very strong hospitality providers have found it difficult to match demand with actual capacity. Tourism booms that in some holiday resorts may seem destined to last for a long period yet such resorts are prey to the changing tastes or budgets of tourists. Unplanned or too rapid an expansion of holiday resorts could lead to the areas becoming spoilt and burdened with declining popularity and profits. Experience has shown that the decline of popularity in some holiday resorts can be as rapid as previously high levels of tourists staying. Perhaps the classic example of a tourist resort expanding rapidly and suddenly declining in populari ty is Benidorm. For the best part of two decades the demand for bookings was barely met as new hotel construction only just stayed ahead of demand. Rapid expansion had spoilt the original character and attractiveness of the area for tourists and the level of hospitality provided varied greatly across the resort. The popularity of Benidorm fell sharply at the end of the 1980s with bookings down by a third. Expansion is never infinite and the consistent adoption of technology to Distribution Channel Efficiency cannot make people go to certain destinations (Outhart, Taylor et al, 2000 p. 149). The popularity of hospitality providers and holiday resorts can be affected by factors outside of their control such as poor weather, changes in tastes and income, or especially relevant after the 9/11 attacks on the United States by security concerns. Regional conflicts can have detrimental affects on tourism and hospitality as people are unwilling to travel near war zones (Outhart, Taylor et al , 2000 p. 196). American hotels frequently responded to the downturn in business after 9/11 by shelving or reducing company training programmes which arguably affected efficiency and certainly lowered customer services standards. To some extent the availability of online training has addressed some of those training needs (Higley, 2004). To some extent the Internet provides an alternative way of making hotel and travel arrangements. People that use the Internet are in a position to make their own plans, as they are able to bypass travel agents and make bookings directly from travel and hospitality providers themselves. People that want to arrange things independently of other people are using the technology developed by the hospitality providers to do so. The main alternative to the evolving electronic booking and payments systems would be to use older less efficient offline versions although they would still work they would not be as fast or as accurate (www.gcis.ca). Therefore the use of technology can greatly assist the Distribution Channel Efficiency of the hospitality industry. However technology alone does not make or break hospitality operators. A combination of information technology, plus advances in transport, changes in consumer tastes, and effective marketing can make all the difference between success and failure. Technological advances since the 1960s have radically altered the ways in which hospitality is provided, booked, and paid for. The expansion of charter flights and the development of GDS allowed large international travel and hospitality companies like Thomson to flourish and to form links with hotels, airlines, and other transport providers to offer complete travel packages that could be booked and paid for at the same time. Perhaps the most single important technological advance that affects Distribution Channel Efficiency in the hospitality industry is the Internet. On the Internet customers can make their own travel and a ccommodation arrangements by assessing operators deals and taking advantage of the payment and GDS that are part of websites and hospitality networks. Bibliography Cooper C, Fletcher J, Gilbert D, Wanhill S, (1998) Tourism – Principles and Practice, 2nd edition, Longman, London and New York Higley J, Hoteliers need to rediscover training benefits, Hotel Motel Management Sep. 6 2004 Outhart T, Taylor L, Barker R, Marvell A, (2000) Advanced Vocational Travel and Tourism, Collins, London The General Center for Internet Services Inc, The Internet has greatly helped to increase the efficiency of transactions, July 15, 2002 from www.gcis.ca Vellas F Becherel L, (1995) International Tourism – An Economic Perspective, MacMillan Business, Basingstoke

Living in George Orwells 1984-Today Essay example -- George Orwell 19

Living in George Orwell's 1984-Today George Orwell's horrendous yet prophetic vision of the future in his novel, 1984 has come and gone. In this nightmarish novel, Oceania, where the story takes place, is the perfect depiction of "Negative Utopia" in which the government is in total control of their citizens. They control every aspect of their life. From the smallest things as the clothes their citizen wore on a daily basis to the person they were allowed to marry to their thoughts. Freedom of choice and thought was unquestionable and was not allowed and anything or anyone that went against this principle or resisted oppression was completely suppressed themselves. Now, under our current government there are a lot of similarities between the haunting novel of the "Negative Utopia" which George Orwell portrays in 1984 and ours. Many tactics which were used in 1984 by the Party and which are being used today in American by our current government are psychological manipulation of people, physical torture and the shaping o f human thought through language. In reality, democracy or true democracy has never existed in the United States of America. If we look back in time and read the creation of this nation in our history books, our founding fathers were the better off people during their time when talking about money. They were the only few that met the profile, which they created, that allowed a person to run for office; in essence, you had to be a white adult male (at least giving the fact that the youngest "freedom fighter" was 26 years of age) and owned your land (which meant wealth in that era). If the United States was truly established as a democracy, why did only a few white male who were the powerful ones during that... ...t and radio host in Austin, Texas. Barnes, Fred. "A War without Heroes? Only if you're Reading the Mainstream Media." Weekly Standard. 26 December 2005: Volume 011, Issue 15(1) http://www.weeklystandard.com/Content/Public/Articles/000/000/006/496eeymx.asp">http://www.weeklystandard.com/Content/Public/Articles/000/000/006/496eeymx.asp "Pat Tillman." Wikipedia: The Free Encyclopedia. 20:56, 5 May 2006 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pat_Tillman">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pat_Tillman Nichols, John. The "Plane Crash" of Senator Wellstone. 2002. 8 May 2006. http://www.oilempire.us/wellstone.html">http://www.oilempire.us/wellstone.html Guantà ¡namo: Lives torn apart - The impact of indefinite detention on detainees and their families. 2006. 8 May 2006. http://web.amnesty.org/library/Index/ENGAMR510072006">http://web.amnesty.org/library/Index/ENGAMR510072006

Virgin Atlantic Essay -- essays research papers

Virgin Atlantic Market The airline industry was affected more than most by the tragic events of September 11th 2001. There was an immediate and significant reduction in passenger demand, particularly across the North Atlantic, and a number of airlines became bankrupt. 9/11 was quickly followed by further challenges of SARS and the effects of the Gulf War. The industry is slowly rebuilding passenger confidence and recent traffic figures show signs of a recovery from 9/11. However, it is clear that in order to survive and compete in this challenging environment, it is vital for airline companies to adapt and evolve, focusing on capturing the market with an ever-improving range of services. Airlines with strong brand leadership, like Virgin Atlantic, should be most likely to emerge from the challenge strengthened. Achievements The brand's achievements have been recognised by a number of prestigious award schemes. In recent years the airline has won a huge number of well respected awards including the Best Long Haul Business Airline at the Business Travel Awards and FX and Design Week awards for the Upper Class Suite. In 2003, Virgin Atlantic won the Business Superbrands Awards for 'the brand that most values its employees'. In 2002, the airline won an array of awards including Best Business airline at Condà © Nast Traveller Awards; The Guardian and Observer Awards; Best Transatlantic Airline at the Travel Weekly Awards and in 2001 Virgin Atlantic won OAG Airline of the Year. In addition, the brand has been consistently voted as a Superbrand and in 2001 was given Cool BrandLeader status by the Superbrands organisation. Despite tough trading conditions in 2003 Virgin Atlantic achieved a turnover of  £1.4 billion and carried almost four million passengers. History In the early 1980s, transportation - rather than customer care - appeared to be the top priority of the airline industry. When Virgin Atlantic burst on to the scene offering not only better service and lower costs for passengers but a commitment to put the customer first, the effects were radical. The company was set up in 1984 when an Anglo-US lawyer called Randolph Fields approached Richard Branson - the young and unorthodox chairman of the Virgin Group -with an idea for a new airline that would fly between the UK and the US. Better known at the time as the leading light in the world of pop and rock mus... ...the airline had limited marketing budgets and by attempting (and setting) a number of marine and aviation records Virgin Atlantic was put firmly on the map. Brand Values Virgin Atlantic strives to provide the best possible service at the best possible value. It is a distinctive, fun-loving and innovative brand, which is admired for its intelligence and integrity. Judging from the results of a poll conducted by research agency NOP the public also associates it with friendliness and high quality. Virgin Atlantic also recently won an NOP World Business Superbrands Award for the 'brand most perceived to keep its promises'. Things you didn't know about In 1999 Richard Branson received a knighthood for his services to entrepreneurship. Virgin Atlantic employs over 200 Inflight Beauty Therapists to give Upper Class passengers beauty treatments in the air. Virgin Atlantic serves approximately 2.5 million ice cream bars and 120,000 bottles of champagne each year. The average age of Virgin Atlantic's fleet is around five years old - one of the youngest fleets in world aviation. Virgin Atlantic has recently spent two years and  £50 million developing its award-winning new Upper Class Suite. Virgin Atlantic Essay -- essays research papers Virgin Atlantic Market The airline industry was affected more than most by the tragic events of September 11th 2001. There was an immediate and significant reduction in passenger demand, particularly across the North Atlantic, and a number of airlines became bankrupt. 9/11 was quickly followed by further challenges of SARS and the effects of the Gulf War. The industry is slowly rebuilding passenger confidence and recent traffic figures show signs of a recovery from 9/11. However, it is clear that in order to survive and compete in this challenging environment, it is vital for airline companies to adapt and evolve, focusing on capturing the market with an ever-improving range of services. Airlines with strong brand leadership, like Virgin Atlantic, should be most likely to emerge from the challenge strengthened. Achievements The brand's achievements have been recognised by a number of prestigious award schemes. In recent years the airline has won a huge number of well respected awards including the Best Long Haul Business Airline at the Business Travel Awards and FX and Design Week awards for the Upper Class Suite. In 2003, Virgin Atlantic won the Business Superbrands Awards for 'the brand that most values its employees'. In 2002, the airline won an array of awards including Best Business airline at Condà © Nast Traveller Awards; The Guardian and Observer Awards; Best Transatlantic Airline at the Travel Weekly Awards and in 2001 Virgin Atlantic won OAG Airline of the Year. In addition, the brand has been consistently voted as a Superbrand and in 2001 was given Cool BrandLeader status by the Superbrands organisation. Despite tough trading conditions in 2003 Virgin Atlantic achieved a turnover of  £1.4 billion and carried almost four million passengers. History In the early 1980s, transportation - rather than customer care - appeared to be the top priority of the airline industry. When Virgin Atlantic burst on to the scene offering not only better service and lower costs for passengers but a commitment to put the customer first, the effects were radical. The company was set up in 1984 when an Anglo-US lawyer called Randolph Fields approached Richard Branson - the young and unorthodox chairman of the Virgin Group -with an idea for a new airline that would fly between the UK and the US. Better known at the time as the leading light in the world of pop and rock mus... ...the airline had limited marketing budgets and by attempting (and setting) a number of marine and aviation records Virgin Atlantic was put firmly on the map. Brand Values Virgin Atlantic strives to provide the best possible service at the best possible value. It is a distinctive, fun-loving and innovative brand, which is admired for its intelligence and integrity. Judging from the results of a poll conducted by research agency NOP the public also associates it with friendliness and high quality. Virgin Atlantic also recently won an NOP World Business Superbrands Award for the 'brand most perceived to keep its promises'. Things you didn't know about In 1999 Richard Branson received a knighthood for his services to entrepreneurship. Virgin Atlantic employs over 200 Inflight Beauty Therapists to give Upper Class passengers beauty treatments in the air. Virgin Atlantic serves approximately 2.5 million ice cream bars and 120,000 bottles of champagne each year. The average age of Virgin Atlantic's fleet is around five years old - one of the youngest fleets in world aviation. Virgin Atlantic has recently spent two years and  £50 million developing its award-winning new Upper Class Suite.