Point of Care Devices (POCT) for Creatinine and Troponin Test

Question: Talk about thePoint of Care Devices (POCT) for Creatinine and Troponin Test. Answer: Presentation With huge progression in wellbeing science related examination, various mechanical gadgets are being created, which have the social insurance finding simpler and quicker. Purpose of care gadgets are getting helpful in fast finding, as the tests are done in simple procedures inside brief timeframe and the gadgets gives precise outcomes, in this way invigorating the clinical intercessions (5). In this task, the center is to think about the purpose of care gadgets (PCOT) produced for simple conclusion of creatinine and troponin. Creatinine Test Creatinine is a urgent biomarker and it has a significant commitment in the finding of kidney infection, in light of the fact that, because of failing of kidney, the filtration is hindered and the degree of creatinine in blood builds (4). In this task, four purpose of care gadgets have been thought about, these are I-STAT, ABL 800 Flex, Reflotron and Nova Starsensor. I-STAT and Nova Starsensor, both are created by USA based organizations and requires entire blood as an example, which is increasingly accessible. In any case, ABL 800 Flex and Reflotron incorporate entire blood, plasma or serum as test (9). In this manner, the last two gadgets are increasingly assorted, considering the example type. If there should arise an occurrence of test volume, ABL 800 Flex requires the most noteworthy sum, 250l and Nova Starsensor requires the least sum, 1.2l (6). Nova Starsensor additionally shows the best qualities, in view of time of test examination; it requires just 30 seconds demonstrating the outcome. All the gadgets have endorsement from FDA. Two USA based gadgets are lightweight, contrasted with other two gadgets. All the gadgets follow enzymatic strategy for test estimation. The scope of recognition is higher in ABL 800 Flex (10-2000 mol/L). Aside from Reflotron, every one of the three gadgets use Amperometric biosensor, as a strategy for rule; it h as high affectability contrasted with Dye Reflectance. Nova Starsensor includes minimal load inside these four (400 gram), settling on it the best decision for the patient to convey the gadget anyplace (8). Along these lines, in view of the above measures, convenience and accessibility of test, the Nova Starsensor is suggested as the best purpose of care gadget for creatinine test. Troponin Test Troponin is a critical biomarker, which helps in conclusion of respiratory failure, in light of the fact that, during myocardial localized necrosis, the harmed heart muscle initiates the arrival of this biomarker in blood, along these lines raising its level in blood. As respiratory failure needs prompt conclusion, a few purpose of care gadgets are utilized for simple and quicker analysis, inside which four gadgets, Triage Cardiac Panel Troponin I, I-STAT cardiovascular troponin I, PATHFAST troponin I and RAMP troponin I has been thought about in this task (1). Inside the over four gadgets, all gadgets required entire blood test, yet rather than I-STAT cardiovascular troponin I, different gadgets requires heparinized or EDTA entire blood, in this way, the example can't be tried straightforwardly, through these gadgets, be that as it may, a patient experiencing a coronary episode needs quick finding, subsequently, I-STAT heart troponin I would be a decent decision (7). Then again, contrasted with the Triage heart board troponin I, other three gadgets can be utilized in room temperature. In any case, the I-STAT gadget has the most reduced weight and required the least volume of test (16 L), contrasted with the other three gadgets. The investigation time is likewise least for this gadget (10 minutes), inside these four gadgets; consequently, it is more easy to understand, contrasted with others (2). In Triage cardiovascular board troponin I and RAMP troponin I, chromatography is utilized as the standard of technique, though, I-STAT utilizes EL ISA and PATHFAST troponin I utilizes attractive dots. ELISA is the most significant, risk free and quick method inside the over three standards. Accordingly, in light of the above correlation, I-STAT heart troponin I is suggested as the best purpose of care gadget for troponin test (3). Reference List Bingisser R, Cairns C, Christ M, Hausfater P, Lindahl B, Mair J, Panteghini M, Price C, Venge P. Cardiovascular troponin: a basic audit of the case for purpose of-care testing in the ED. The American diary of crisis medication. 2012 Oct 31;30(8):1639-49. Chan CP, Mak WC, Cheung KY, Sin KK, Yu CM, Rainer TH, Renneberg R. Proof based purpose of-care diagnostics: current status and developing advancements. Yearly audit of systematic science. 2013 Jun 12;6:191-211. Diercks DB, Peacock WF, Hollander JE, Singer AJ, Birkhahn R, Shapiro N, Glynn T, Nowack R, Safdar B, Miller CD, Lewandrowski E. Indicative precision of a state of-care troponin I measure for intense myocardial localized necrosis inside 3 hours after introduction in early moderators to the crisis division with chest torment. American heart diary. 2012 Jan 31;163(1):74-80. Lee-Lewandrowski E, Chang C, Gregory K, Lewandrowski K. Assessment of fast purpose of-care creatinine testing in the radiology administration of an enormous scholastic clinical focus: sway on clinical tasks and patient attitude. Clinica Chimica Acta. 2012 Jan 18;413(1):88-92. Pecoraro V, Germagnoli L, Banfi G. Purpose of-care testing: where is the proof? A deliberate study. Clinical science and research center medication. 2014 Mar 1;52(3):313-24. Pollock NR, Rolland JP, Kumar S, Beattie PD, Jain S, Noubary F, Wong VL, Pohlmann RA, Ryan US, Whitesides GM. A paper-based multiplexed transaminase test for minimal effort, purpose of-care liver capacity testing. Science translational medication. 2012 Sep 19;4(152):152ra129-. Qureshi A, Gurbuz Y, Niazi JH. Biosensors for cardiovascular biomarkers discovery: An audit. Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical. 2012 Sep 30;171:62-76. Skurup A, Kristensen T, Wennecke G. New creatinine sensor for purpose of-care testing of creatinine meets the National Kidney Disease Education Program rules. Clinical science and research center medication. 2008 Jan 1;46(1):3-8. Vashist SK, Luppa PB, Yeo LY, Ozcan A, Luong JH. Rising advancements for cutting edge purpose of-care testing. Patterns in biotechnology. 2015 Nov 30;33(11):692-705.

The Objectives Of Clinical Management Systems Information Technology Essay

The Objectives Of Clinical Management Systems Information Technology Essay CMS represents Clinical Management System, including the data reconciliation, stock control, information handling and instruments for clinical information trade. By and large the significant client for CMS are doctors, and comprise of research center data framework (LIS), radiology data framework (RIS), picture documenting and correspondence framework (PACS). 1In clinical fields, the use of new CMS chiefly creates in the accompanying stages. Mechanized clinical record (AMR) is chiefly utilized for the computerization in clinical information preparing from paper into e-design. Electronic clinical record (EMR) guarantees a decent correspondence for paperless and picture trade and sets up establishment of clinical wording. Electronic patient record (EPR) guarantees the interoperability organizing for the information trade between CMS or different gatherings by utilizing a solitary and standard arrangement. Electronic wellbeing record (eHR) continues the clinical choice emotionally supportive network. In the clinical emotionally supportive network, it conducts information mining aptitudes from getting different information from numerous databases to guarantee the right clinical choice. Recap above stages, the uses of CMS are valuable in clinical documented. Goals Because of the accompanying targets, our group recommends Town Health co Ltd to actualize Clinic Management System (CMS). Expanding business opportunity; Interfacing clinical record with Hong Kong Government guideline standard; Trading clinical information with Hong Kong Government incorporate database. Organization Background Town Health Co Ltd. (The Group) Set up in 1985, the gathering has received the overseen human services model to give high caliber and reasonable clinical administrations to our corporate customers. THMN has a full scope of clinical administrations, including General and Specialists Services, Dental Services, Physiotherapy Services, Laboratories Imaging Services and other helper clinical administrations. The Group has very much evolved and got one of the biggest social insurance administrations suppliers, with around 30 clinical centers and master outpatient facilities, in Hong Kong. Organization arrange Figure 1.1 http://www.thmn.com.hk/our_locations.asp Organization Workflow The Group was working an independent clinical administration framework more than 10 years. Numerous issues happen all through their every day activity. The essential activity work process is appeared as underneath figures 1.1. Analysis New Patient Enrollment Conference Clinical Record Move to Hospital/Other movies Treatment Figures 1.1 For our day by day activity, another patient is required to fill in an enlistment structure for his/her own data in paper group. At that point the obligation specialist counsels and looks at the patient dependent on the foundation and circumstance at that point. The paper clinical record and continuous perception by the obligation specialist will be utilized as apparatuses to help the finding of the patient. At long last, the staff or attendants will enter the conclude treatment planned and clinical record into the current clinical framework. Five Force Analysis For The Group Providers Industry Rivalries Purchaser Potential Contestants Substitutes Danger of New Entrants There are numerous new contestants in Hong Kong social insurance administrations industry. It is a result of the fast changing of prudent scale, for example, new speculations from PRC. Danger substitutes Since the market request is evolving as of late, a wide range of experts are happy to consolidate and maintain their business to give a 24*7 (24 hours with 7days) administrations. Moreover, they join their administrations into a solitary business firm, for example, Chinese clinical administrations, Dental and out patient administrations. Consequently they can share assets to diminish the working expense and increment the income. Bartering intensity of Suppliers The majority of providers partner their item cost because of the expanding cost of most unique materials. For a social insurance gathering, they are required for heaps of stock, similar to drugs and cure gear. This is a primary explanation behind their high working expense. Haggling intensity of Buyers The Government guideline was discharge as advantage to all Hong Kong older folks, for example, social insurance voucher, eHealth clinical record sharing framework, and so forth. Industry Competitors There are numerous solid contenders with expanding and consistent income. Besides, most experts quit their place of employment in open division (Government Hospital) and join the joint endeavor of social insurance gathering to go into business. SWOT Analysis for The Group Quality The gathering is built up for more than 25 years, it is a notable social insurance administrations supplier with trust in offering quality types of assistance. A wide spread of center inclusion is comfort to all patients in Hong Kong. The clinical administration framework helps on keeping patients records that guarantees the effectiveness on day by day information preparing. Shortcoming Execution of existing clinical administration framework turns out to be more slow because of the expanding size of information. Expanding quantities of patient records lessen the presentation of precision. In this manner, numerous blunders were found in day by day activity which impacts the effectiveness. The framework will turn into a bottleneck of the Group for the business development. Opportunity Modernize on PC framework gave a superior administration on patients information and forestall mistake to expand effectiveness on activity. Likewise, availability to Hospital Authority (HA) and insurance agencies database can get favorable circumstances on expanding income and comfort of information trade for the Group. Treats The clinical business rivalry had a tremendous effect on the Group because of the diminishing piece of the overall industry and income while the running expense for hardware and medications is expanding. Research Methodology Research technique Meeting for dissecting the present issues The point of the meeting is gathering data about the comprehension for the present framework and its procedure. Our group directed the meeting to limit the issues individually. Web overview for catch the business technique Because of the quick change for the market, this overview is meant to get the most well-known methodology for our group. Information Gathering This procedure is for the most part utilized for distinguish the current activity issues through the meeting with the organization accomplices, administrations and clients. People groups met: Accomplices Task troughs Clients The inquiries for Partners What is your corporate vision and mission? What is your corporate advancement focus in long haul/present moment? What is your advancement procedure in long terms/short terms? Do you concur the difference in Hong Kong advertise diminishing income of your organization? What number of assets had been spent on your system improvement ventures? What is/are the current problem(s) that your organization is confronting now? Furthermore, how does your organization fix it? The inquiries for Project Managers How would you do the CMS? To what extent do you got ready for your task plan? How the CMS satisfy the improvement of your organization that you had referenced previously? What number of assets had been spent on your methodology advancement ventures? The inquiries for Customers What service(s) do you primarily utilized around Health Corp? Do you OK with the present arrangement of Town Health Corp? 3 Do you have any suggestion(s) for Town Health Corp? Through the meetings, our group perceives the crucial social insurance bunch is giving a thorough human services administration. The momentary arranging is to build up a compelling clinical administration framework, while the drawn out goal is to develop a thorough help for clients, for example, clinical choice help investigation. To accomplish the present moment and long haul targets referenced above, we need to improve: The obligations calendar of doctor Correspondence channels with other insurance agencies The stock control and distribution Normalization of e-wellbeing clinical record Study result All interviewee believed that the eHealth is helpful as it responded to them numerous inquiries and as a stage to speak with others. Whats progressively, over 80% customers having conversation with proficient following a year, which is risky on the off chance that they didnt take yearly body check. Practically 80% customers figured the Clinical administration framework ought to be associated into Hong Kong incorporate database. Because of the old dont realize how to utilize the high innovation (for example PCs), in this way the respondents will not utilize it. There are just 20% of interviewees imagine that the Clinical administration framework cannot be adequately the analysis preparing. Practically 80% of respondents has been utilized the clinical administration framework, particularly the majority of them utilized the Google one. The respondents all are instructed over the elementary school and a large portion of them are in the age gathering of 30-39. Qualities Identified from Interview Objective Timetable The executives Protection interface Stock control e-clinical Record The obligations calendar of doctor Correspondence channels with other insurance agencies The stock control and distribution Normalization of e-wellbeing clinical record Issue Definitions The Group was working an independent clinical administration framework over than 10 years. Notwithstanding, there are as yet numerous issues happen during day by day activity. Information designing obsolete The current clinical framework was created in 1989. All facility workplaces were apportioned an independent workstation for working clinical framework. The clinical framework database was created by FoxPro which couldn't direct information mapping with other new innovation like Microsoft SQL server, MySQL server. Subsequently every clinical framework was completely recorded step by step until present. Enduring in clinical case to insurance agency Each time when distinctive insurance agencies move a few patients information for request, the staff needs to include the patient information individually physically so as to get the relating information from the database. After completely required information have been removed from the database, the staff needs to enter the comparing information to various frameworks

Blog Archive MBA Admissions Myths Destroyed Admissions Is a Science

Blog Archive MBA Admissions Myths Destroyed Admissions Is a Science What does a 3.8 GPA + a 670 GMAT score + four years of work experience + three years of community service equal? It could equal a letter of admission  or  rejection. However, knowing with absolute certainty is impossible because admissions is not a science. If it were, the Admissions Office would just do away with the entire time- and resource-consuming admissions process and use a simple formula. Why not make life that much easier for everyone? In some countries, simple tests are used to establish benchmarksâ€"a candidate gets into a top MBA program with a score of X but not with Y. Some U.S.-based graduate programs have cutoffs for GRE scores or situations in which GMAT/LSAT scores and grades are definitive. Plainly put, no clear-cut criteria exist with top global MBA programs. Instead, the admissions committee reads a file holistically and seeks evidence of the applicant’s ability to contribute in class and perform at the highest levels post-graduation. Although trying to reduce the MBA admissions process to a science can be tempting, doing so would be unwise. By listening to chatter on message boards or blogs about the “right GMAT score” or the “right amount of work experience”â€"rather than keeping in mind that the process is holistic in nature, meaning that the admissions committees evaluate all criteria with no particular scorecardâ€"you are wasting valuable time and energy. Simply be your best candidate and present your full story, rather than focusing on stats. Share ThisTweet Admissions Myths Destroyed Blog Archive MBA Admissions Myths Destroyed Admissions Is a Science What does a 3.8 GPA + a 670 GMAT score + four years of work experience + three years of community service equal? It could equal a letter of admission  or  rejection. However, knowing with absolute certainty is impossible because admissions is not a science. If it were, the Admissions Office would just do away with the entire time- and resource-consuming admissions process and use a simple formula. Why not make life that much easier for everyone? In some countries, simple tests are used to establish benchmarksâ€"a candidate gets into a top MBA program with a score of X but not with Y. Some U.S.-based graduate programs have cutoffs for GRE scores or situations in which GMAT/LSAT scores and grades are definitive. Plainly put, no clear-cut criteria exist with top global MBA programs. Instead, the admissions committee reads a file holistically and seeks evidence of the applicant’s ability to contribute in class and perform at the highest levels post-graduation. Although trying to reduce the MBA admissions process to a science can be tempting, doing so would be unwise. By listening to chatter on message boards or blogs about the “right GMAT score” or the “right amount of work experience”â€"rather than keeping in mind that the process is holistic in nature, meaning that the admissions committees evaluate all criteria with no particular scorecardâ€"you are wasting valuable time and energy. Simply be your best candidate and present your full story, rather than focusing on stats. Share ThisTweet Admissions Myths Destroyed Blog Archive MBA Admissions Myths Destroyed Admissions Is a Science What does a 3.8 GPA + a 670 GMAT score + four years of work experience + three years of community service equal? It could equal a letter of admission  or  rejection. However, knowing with absolute certainty is impossible because admissions is not a science. If it were, the Admissions Office would just do away with the entire time- and resource-consuming admissions process and use a simple formula. Why not make life that much easier for everyone? In some countries, simple tests are used to establish benchmarksâ€"a candidate gets into a top MBA program with a score of X but not with Y. Some U.S.-based graduate programs have cutoffs for GRE scores or situations in which GMAT/LSAT scores and grades are definitive. Plainly put, no clear-cut criteria exist with top global MBA programs. Instead, the admissions committee reads a file holistically and seeks evidence of the applicant’s ability to contribute in class and perform at the highest levels post-graduation. Although trying to reduce the MBA admissions process to a science can be tempting, doing so would be unwise. By listening to chatter on message boards or blogs about the “right GMAT score” or the “right amount of work experience”â€"rather than keeping in mind that the process is holistic in nature, meaning that the admissions committees evaluate all criteria with no particular scorecardâ€"you are wasting valuable time and energy. Simply be your best candidate and present your full story, rather than focusing on stats. Share ThisTweet Admissions Myths Destroyed

Marxism Revolutionaries - 1981 Words

Marxism is a term used to describe, the political and economical theories of Karl Marx; which was later developed, into the foundation for, communism. Karl Marx was a world renowned philosopher, who once said â€Å"capitalism destroyed man†. His criticism of the practice of capitalism has been praised for centuries and is still alive today, prominently in Cuba. The idea of Marxism brought out social change throughout the world and has caused a lot of turbulence worldwide. The views of Capitalism and Marxism sparked controversy and wars between people and countries that shared the opposing view. One of many people, who praised Marxism for its authenticity and change, was Fidel Castro. Fidel was the President of Cuba, from 1959, until 2008; when†¦show more content†¦His face became a sign of change and hope, which left a big legacy in Cuba. (Duetschmann,p.) The third most important figure of the Cuban revolution was, Fulgencio Batsista. Batista was born on January 16, 1901, in Banes Cuba. As he grew older he got an interest into the army, and traveled to Havana to join the army there; where he was promoted sergeant and then a union leader. In 1933, he led a coup that eradicated the government of Gerado Mercado. In 1940, he was elected president, when he won presidency, he instated, the 1940 constitution of Cuba. The constitution gave, Cubans a lot of freedoms, like the right to vote and many other individual rights. The constitution was acclaimed and Batista was praised throughout his political career by many. (1) After finishing his first presidential term, he ran for president again in 1952: and that was when everything started turning. After winning presidency again, Batista eradicated many rights given by the 1940 Constitution of Cuba; freedoms like the right to strike were stripped away from the people of Cuba. He then made a concu rrence with the wealthy farm workers, which resulted, in an economical gap between the rich and the poor. Unfortunately, the American government was in support, of his dictatorship, prominently because their relationship with Cuba was going well. Inevitably, the people of Cuba became upset and started to riot,Show MoreRelatedLenins Contribution to Marxism up to 1905 and the Consequences1247 Words   |  5 PagesLenins Contribution to Marxism up to 1905 and the Consequences Karl Marx was a German philosopher who wrote the Communist Manifesto, which encouraged workers to unite and seize power by revolution. His views became known as Marxism and influenced the thinking of socialists throughout Europe in the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Marx believed that history was evolving in a series of stages towards a perfect state - Communism. 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The National Basketball Association ( Nba ) - 2016 Words

The National Basketball Association (NBA) was founded on June 6, 1949 in New York City and has exploded today to become one of the most popular professional sports leagues in the world, next to the National Football League(NFL). There are a total of 30 teams in the NBA, each worth about $1.25 billion, making the whole league worth about $37.5 billion. The mastermind behind the NBA’s huge profits are the white collared team owners who watch over the respected team franchises for years. In the past, NBA team owners have been caught up in scandals that have created stereotypes and misconseptions among fans that paint the owners as money hungry individuals who give no respect for their blue collared players in the league. The NBA cutting ties†¦show more content†¦Misconseptions on the other hand, are derived from stereotypes of a group that have no origin for the misconseption. Misconseptions are unfounded assumptions a person does or has because he or she is in the grou p. For example, in the 1990’s at the height of the AIDS/HIV scare, it was believed homosexuals are more likely to contract the virus than heterosexuals. The misconseptoion has no basis or any study to back it up and future studies proved that everyone is at equal risk to contract the virus during unprotected sex, which ended the misconseption. Now that stereotypes and misonceptions are understood, it’s time to switch gears to discuss NBA team owners. I have been watching the NBA since 2013, watching my favorite team while not having a single thought about the higher ups of NBA teams. But my view changed quickly in 2014, similar to many other fans, when the Donald Sterling Scandal occurred. Donald Sterling was the former owner of the Los Angeles Clippers whos girlfriend, V Stiviano, recorded Sterling making racist remarks. It started off with Stiviano posting a picture with former basketball star Earving â€Å"Magic† Johnson on her public Instagram. 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Self Reflection on Wellness Promotion - 1761 Words

Introduction Everyone expects a high quality life, while the definition of â€Å"high-quality† among different individuals varies. A more general definition might be to achieve â€Å"Wellness†. The concept of â€Å"Wellness† is stated as a life-long process that at any given time produces a positive state of personal well-being, of feeling good about oneself, of optimal physical, psychological, and social functioning, and the control and minimization of internal and external risk factors for both diseases and negative health conditions (Anspaugh, Hamrick, Rosato, 2006). To be more specific, wellness should be achieved in fulfilling 7 aspects: Physical, Spiritual, Intellectual, Occupational, Environmental, Social and Emotional. Stress Control†¦show more content†¦When I am under stressed situation, it is easy for me to review the previous defeated experiences, such as being hurt, disappointed, loses, and embarrassed. Such bad experiences make me more tensed and lead to another failure. The author encourages people to conduct â€Å"self-talk†. Each time when I feel tense, I could try to say some supporting words to myself (e.g. I can do it, I have learned and improved from last failure), try not to think about the poor experiences and negative wordings to discourage myself, hence to reduce the high pressure in facing different situations. Self acceptance Believing ourselves is also necessary since it can build up self confidence. It is undeniably we need others’ appreciation and confirmation; however we cannot rely on it. We should not just do the things appreciated by others and ask for their acceptance, it is impossible to be accepted by everyone in real situation. We should trust ourselves and our own values sometimes, yet if we being criticized, it is also needed to review our performance, admit and correct the fault if we really make it. We should gain experiences from each failure and fault as to be improved in the future. Also, we should discover our strengths since it can give us confidence about ourselves and let us show better performance. Having enough self confidence could reduce the stress when facing unfamiliar situations; it is no doubt that preparation can also lower the stress too. Supportive mottoShow MoreRelatedMy Experience That I Influenced My Patient896 Words   |  4 Pagesphysical activity. I was surprised that he was very receptive of my questioning about wellness side of his health. After advocating wellness into his lifestyle, he understood the benefit of freedom from incapacity due to obesity and co-morbidities. While we were making short term goal of walking towards the bathroom independently; as he was not able to do it before when he got admitted to the hospital, he was self realizing his poor lifestyle and what adverse effect it did to his body that made himRead MorePersonal Health Promotion Plan858 Words   |  3 PagesPart Two: Identify a NEW wellness focus and personal goal that is meaningful to you in one of the following five areas: physical, emotional, mental/cognitive, spiritual, and relationships. My areas of focus will be physical and emotional. In the one I will focus on exercise. In the other, I will choose a related field to meditation/ mindfulness/ enhanced self-knowledge that is called focusing. Part Three: Write a personal health promotion plan using the following outline. 1. Personal definitionRead MoreCommunity Health Nursing Reflection Essay948 Words   |  4 PagesCommunity Health Nursing Reflection NUR/405 2012 Diane Schlicke RN MSN Community Health Nursing Reflection The role of the community health nurse in the participating family’s community is to focus on the health needs of the aggregate or group. Community health nursing refers to a systematic, comprehensive focus on wellness, health protection, and disease, and injury prevention for the population residing in a specific area. The nurse functions as advocate, case manager, consultant, healthRead MorePurpose. The Purpose Of The Study Is To Have An Understanding1289 Words   |  6 Pagesmanagement problems than non-Hispanic White Youth. It also provides an insight on how assessment of participation and weight management strategies promote greater engagement in healthy weight management and guide program development in wellness and health promotion for immigrants and refugees. Some research questions that protrude in this study are whether limiting access to healthy food choices and few opportunities for exercise affect’s one’s occupational performance and occupational ch oices whichRead MoreThe Perception Of The Nursing Profession944 Words   |  4 Pagesrequires special education, training, or skill† or â€Å"a calling requiring specialized knowledge and often long and intensive academic preparation.† Respectively, the American Nurses Association (2010c) currently defines nursing as â€Å"the protection, promotion, and optimization of health and abilities, prevention of illness and injury, alleviation of suffering through the diagnosis and treatment of human response, and advocacy in the care of individuals, families, communities, and populations† (p.10).Read MoreProfessional Competencies : Knowledge From The Foundational Sciences978 Words   |  4 Pagespatient healthcare needs using human, financial, technological, and physical resources to optimize the safety and efficacy of medication use systems. 2.3 Health and wellness (Promoter) – Design prevention, intervention, and educational strategies for individuals and communities to manage chronic disease and improve health and wellness. 2.4 Population-based care (Provider) – Describe how population-based care influences patient-centered care and influences the development of practice guidelines andRead MoreCritique Of Peplaus Interpersonal Relations In Nursing Theory1274 Words   |  6 PagesPeplau’s theory (Peplau, 1991). After a theory is described, Chinn and Kramer (2011) report that it is important to critically reflect on how well the theory relates to practice, research, or educational activities. The questions for critical reflection relate to the complexity, generality, accessibility, and importance of the theory. The level of clarity for Peplau’s theory was adequate for the theory’s purpose with clear definitions of concepts that were explicitly and implicitly congruent,Read MoreCultural Awareness And Delivery Of Appropriate Care1392 Words   |  6 Pagesacknowledge the relationship between cultural awareness and delivery of appropriate care. The first step in creating cultural awareness may begin by the health care provider assessing their own cultural heritage, and it’s views on health and wellness. Reflection on one’s cultural heritage requires knowledge and understanding of the concept of cultural heritage itself. 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Mid-range theories provide guidance for everyday practice and scholarly research rooted in the discipline of nursing and are a reflection of nursings ability to grow and change with the needs of different populations (Liehr Smith 2008: xvii). For example, Nola Penders Mid-Range Health Promotion Model was developed in conjunction with her work with adolescent girls and women to encourage them to model more healthy behaviors, such as exercise and weight control

Customer Relationship Management Research Proposal - Free Sample

Question: Discuss about theResearch Proposalfor Customer Relationship Management. Answer: Introduction A study on the impact of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) on acquiring and retaining customers in the hospitality industry of Singapore: A case study of Hotel Ibis Singapore. Research Background Global hospitality industry is currently booming with the prediction of $550 billion US dollars revenue in 2016 (Killarney, 2015). Singapore, being one of the top tourist destinations in the Asia has witnessed a tremendous growth in the hospitality industry. The competition is also getting fierce and the companies are implementing new and latest technologies to attract and retain customers. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) is one such technique which is gaining importance in attracting and retaining customers. CRM refers to technologies, strategies and practices used by firms to analyze and manage customer data and interactions throughout customer lifecycle (Kanchan Sharma, 2015). In this study, the researcher will analyze the impact of CRM on acquiring and retaining customers in the hospitality industry of Singapore by considering Hotel Ibis as Case Study Company. Hotel Ibis is one of top 3 star hotels in Singapore. This hotel has been chosen because the results obtained from here can be generalized it medium-large sized hotels in Singapore who can adopt CRM. Further, collecting data would be easier from this hotel due to easy accessibility. Research Aim and Objectives Research Aim This study aims to analyze the impact of CRM on acquiring and retaining customers in the hospitality industry of Singapore, specifically in Hotel Ibis. Research Objectives To identify the significance of CRM to hospitality industry in Singapore To evaluate the relationship between CRM and customer acquisition To evaluate the relationship between CRM and customer retention Literature Review Mohammed, Rashid, Tahir (2014) defines CRM as the process of using technology to manage, collaborate, systematize and categorise customer interactions and data in order to find the most profitable customers and to identify customer patters or trends to provide more specialized services or for strategy formulation. According to the study of Padmavathy Sivakumar (2012) hotels can implement CRM in three parts. The first part is operational CRM which involves with the automation of basic business processes such as service, sales, marketing etc. (Dubihlela Khosa, 2014). The second part is analytical CRM which involves collecting and transforming customer data to useful knowledge that will help identify the behavioural patterns of customers, demands, wants etc. (Becker, Greve, Albers, 2009). The third part is cooperation CRM which enhances the relationship i.e. contact with customers. Further, according to the study Kanchan Sharma (2015), CRM streamlines and enhances the processes wit hin the company, which helps the company to focus on the acquisition of most profitability customers and thus it helps in customer acquisition. Further, the study of Chadha (2015) CRM improves the relationship of company with customers which further leads to customer retention. Proposed Research Methods Both Primary and secondary data will be used to achieve the objectives of this study. Secondary data will be collected through accessing journals and books. Primary data will be collected through interview with 4 mangers of Ibis hotel. Interview would provide in-depth information to the researcher about the relationship between variables in the study. The main ethical issue is concerned with the collection of primary data. Consent will be obtained from the managers and their identity and data collected will be kept confidential. Timetable for the Research Month Week Activity Month 1 Week 1 Devise key words for secondary data collection, collect secondary data Week 2 Scan the data collected and select most relevant data Week 3 Write up Introduction and first half of Literature review chapter Week 4 Complete Literature Review chapter Month 2 Week 1 Frame Questionnaire for Interview and get appointment for interview Week 2 Conduct Interview Week 3 Conduct Interview Week 4 Gather, read and analyze the interview responses Month 3 Week 1 Write Research methods chapter Week 2 Write Findings and discussion chapter Week 3 Write Conclusion Chapter Week 4 Complete the entire dissertation, proof read and spell check References Becker, J., Greve, G., Albers, S. (2009). The impact of technological and organizational implementation of CRM on customer acquisition, maintenance, and retention.International Journal Of Research In Marketing,26(3), 207-215. https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ijresmar.2009.03.006 Chadha, A. (2015). Case Study of Hotel Taj in the Context of CRM and Customer Retention.Kuwait Chapter of Arabian Journal of Business and Management Review,4(7), 1-8. https://dx.doi.org/10.12816/0018976 Dubihlela, J. Khosa, P. (2014). Impact of e-CRM Implementation on Customer Loyalty, Customer Retention and Customer Profitability for Hoteliers along the Vaal Meander of South Africa.Mediterranean Journal Of Social Sciences. https://dx.doi.org/10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n16p175 Kanchan, Sharma, A. (2015). Application of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) practices in Hotel Industries: A Review.International Journal Of BRIC Business Research,4(3), 1-6. https://dx.doi.org/10.14810/ijbbr.2015.4301 Killarney,. (2015).Hospitality Net - The Global Hotel Industry and Trends for 2016.Hospitality Net. Retrieved 16 September 2016, from https://www.hospitalitynet.org/news/4073336.html Mohammad, A., Rashid, B., Tahir, S. (2013). Assessing the influence of customer relationship management (CRM) dimensions on organization performance.Journal Of Hospitality And Tourism Technology,4(3), 228-247. https://dx.doi.org/10.1108/jhtt-01-2013-0002 Padmavathy, C. Sivakumar, V. (2012). Dimensions of CRM Effectiveness and its Effect on Relationship Quality.International Journal Of Customer Relationship Marketing And Management,3(1), 1-17. https://dx.doi.org/10.4018/jcrmm.2012010101

Extensive Reading free essay sample

Timothy Bell timothy [at] hsc. kuniv. edu. kw Kuwait University Abstract An extensive reading program was established for elementary level language learners at the British Council Language Center in Sanaa, Yemen. Research evidence for the use of such programs in EFL/ESL contexts is presented, emphasizing the benefits of this type of input for students English language learning and skills development. Practical advice is then offered to teachers worldwide on ways to encourage learners to engage in a focused and motivating reading program with the potential to lead students along a path to independence and resourcefulness in their reading and language learning. Introduction: The Reading Program An extensive reading program was established at the British Council Language Center in Sanaa, Yemen. An elementary level class of government employees (age range 17-42) was exposed to a regime of graded readers, which was integrated into normal classroom teaching. Students followed a class reader, had access to a class library of graded readers, and had classes in the British Council library, which gave them access to a collection of 2000 titles. We will write a custom essay sample on Extensive Reading or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Questionnaires were used to examine students reading interests, habits and attitudes, both prior to, and following the program. The class library contained 141 titles in the published readers of some major publishers (see inventory of titles in Bell, 1994). Familiar titles (e. g. popular Arab folk tales) were selected for both the class readers and the class library, so as to motivate the students to read. These titles proved very popular, as did the practice of reading aloud to the class. Students reading was carefully monitored; formal and informal records being kept both by the researcher, and by the students themselves. Reading diaries and book reports were used, together with a card file system to document the program and record both the titles read and students written comments on the books. A wall chart acted as a focal point for in-class reading, discussion and exchange of titles. Reader interviews were conducted throughout the program, which ran for a period of six months over the course of two semesters. Students became actively involved in running the class library; tables were arranged and titles displayed attractively during the periods set aside for the reading program. Students were taken into the main British Council library for one lesson a week, during which they participated in controlled twenty-minute sessions of USSR 1 (cf. Davis, 1995). With reference to research evidence, we now turn to the role of extensive reading programs in fostering learners progress in reading development and improvement. The Role of Extensive Reading in Language Learning 1. It can provide comprehensible input In his 1982 book, Krashen argues that extensive reading will lead to language acquisition, provided that certain preconditions are met. These include adequate exposure to the language, interesting material, and a relaxed, tension-free learning environment. Elley and Manghubai (1983:55) warn that exposure to the second language is normally planned, restricted, gradual and largely artificial. The reading program provided in Yemen, and the choice of graded readers in particular, was intended to offer conditions in keeping with Krashens model. 2. It can enhance learners general language competence Grabe (1991:391) and Paran (1996:30) have emphasized the importance of extensive reading in providing learners with practice in automaticity of word recognition and decoding the symbols on the printed page (often called bottom-up processing). The book flood project in Fiji (Elley amp; Manghubai: op cit. ), in which Fijian school children were provided with high-interest storybooks, revealed significant post treatment gains in word recognition and reading comprehension after the first year, and wider gains in oral and written skills after two years. . It increases the students exposure to the language The quality of exposure to language that learners receive is seen as important to their potential to acquire new forms from the input. Elley views provision of large quantities of reading material to children as fundamental to reducing the exposure gap between L1 learners and L2 learners. He reviews a number of studies with children bet ween six and twelve years of age, in which subjects showed rapid growth in language development compared with learners in regular language programs . There was a spread of effect from reading competence to other language skills writing, speaking and control over syntax, (Elley 1991:404). 4. It can increase knowledge of vocabulary Nagy amp; Herman (1987) claimed that children between grades three and twelve (US grade levels) learn up to 3000 words a year. It is thought that only a small percentage of such learning is due to direct vocabulary instruction, the remainder being due to acquisition of words from reading. This suggests that traditional approaches to the teaching of vocabulary, in which the number of new words taught in each class was carefully controlled (words often being presented in related sets), is much less effective in promoting vocabulary growth than simply getting students to spend time on silent reading of interesting books. 5. It can lead to improvement in writing Stotsky (1983) and Krashen (1984) reviewed a number of L1 studies that appear to show the positive effect of reading on subjects writing skills, indicating that students who are prolific readers in their pre-college years become better writers when they enter college. L2 studies by Hafiz amp; Tudor (1989) in the UK and Pakistan, and Robb amp; Susser (1989) in Japan, revealed more significant improvement in subjects written work than in other language skills. These results again support the case for an input-based, acquisition-oriented reading program based on extensive reading as an effective means of fostering improvements in students writing. 6. It can motivate learners to read Reading material selected for extensive reading programs should address students needs, tastes and interests, so as to energize and motivate them to read the books. In the Yemen, this was achieved through the use of familiar material and popular titles reflecting the local culture (e. g.. Aladdin and His Lamp). Bell amp; Campbell (1996, 1997) explore the issue in a South East Asian context, presenting various ways to motivate learners to read and explaining the role of extensive reading and regular use of libraries in advancing the reading habit . 7. It can consolidate previously learned language Extensive reading of high-interest material for both children and adults offers the potential for reinforcing and recombining language learned in the classroom. Graded readers have a controlled grammatical and lexical load, and provide regular and sufficient repetition of new language forms (Wodinsky amp; Nation 1988). Therefore, students automatically receive the necessary reinforcement and recycling of language required to ensure that new input is retained and made available for spoken and written production. 8. It helps to build confidence with extended texts Much classroom reading work has traditionally focused on the exploitation of shorts texts, either for presenting lexical and grammatical points or for providing students with limited practice in various reading skills and strategies. However, a large number of students in the EFL/ESL world require reading for academic purposes, and therefore need training in study skills and strategies for reading longer texts and books. Kembo (1993) points to the value of extensive reading in developing students confidence and ability in facing these longer texts. 9. It encourages the exploitation of textual redundancy Insights from cognitive psychology have informed our understanding of the way the brain functions in reading. It is now generally understood that slow, word-by-word reading, which is common in classrooms, impedes comprehension by transferring an excess of visual signals to the brain. This leads to overload because only a fraction of these signals need to be processed for the reader to successfully interpret the message. Kalb (1986) refers to redundancy as an important means of processing, and to extensive reading as the means of recognizing and dealing with redundant elements in texts. 10. It facilitates the development of prediction skills One of the currently accepted perspectives on the reading process is that it involves the exploitation of background knowledge. Such knowledge is seen as providing a platform for readers to predict the content of a text on the basis of a pre-existing schema. When students read, these schema are activated and help the reader to decode and interpret the message beyond the printed words. These processes presuppose that readers predict, sample, hypothesize and reorganize their understanding of the message as it unfolds while reading (Nunan 1991: 65-66). Practical Advice on Running Extensive Reading Programs 1. Maximize Learner Involvement A number of logistical hurdles have to be overcome in order to make an extensive reading program effective. Books need to be transported, displayed and collected at the end of each reading session. Considerable paperwork is required to document the card file system, reading records, inventories, book reports and in maintaining and updating lists of titles. Students should therefore be encouraged to take an active role in the management and administration of the reading program. In the Yemen program, students gained a strong sense of ownership through running the reading resources in an efficient, coordinated and organized manner. 2. The Reader Interview Regular conferencing between teacher and student played a key role in motivating students in the Yemen to read the books. This enabled effective monitoring of individual progress and provided opportunities for the teacher to encourage students to read widely, show interest in the books being read, and to guide students in their choice of titles. By demonstrating commitment in their own reading, teachers can foster positive attitudes to reading, in which it is no longer viewed as tedious, demanding, hard work, but as a pleasurable part of their learning. 3. Read Aloud to the Class In the Yemen study, reader interviews conducted with students revealed the popularity of occasions when the teacher read aloud to the class. The model of pronunciation provided acted as a great motivator, encouraging many students to participate in classroom reading. Students gained confidence in silent reading because they were able to verbalize sounds they previously could could not recognize. This resulted in wider reading by some of the weaker readers in the class. Often thought of as bad practice, reading aloud should play a full part in motivating the emerging reader to overcome the fear of decoding words in an unfamiliar script. 4. Student Presentations Short presentations on books read played an absolutely crucial role in the program and students frequently commented on the value of oral work in class for exchanging information about the books. The reader interviews revealed that most of the book choices made by students resulted from recommendations made by friends and not by the teacher. This demonstrates that given the right preparation, encouragement, sense of ownership and belonging, an extensive reading program will achieve a direction and momentum governed by the learners themselves; a large step in the promotion of student independence and autonomy. 5. Written Work Based on the Reading Effective reading will lead to the shaping of the readers thoughts, which naturally leads many learners to respond in writing with varying degrees of fluency. Elementary level students can be asked simply to write short phrases expressing what they most enjoyed about a book they read, or to record questions they wish to ask the teacher or other students in class. With intermediate students, book reports may be used, with sections for questions, new vocabulary, and for recording the main characters and events. At this level, summary writing is also a valuable practice because it allows learners to assert full control, both of the main factual or fictional content of a book, and of the grammar and vocabulary used to express it. Advanced students can be asked to write compositions, which, by definition, are linguistically more demanding written responses to the reading material. 6. Use Audio Material in the Reading Program The use of audio recordings of books read aloud and of graded readers on cassette proved very popular with the students in Yemen, and is advocated for wide application. Listening material provided the learners with a model of correct pronunciation which aided word recognition, and exposed students to different accents, speech rhythms and cadences. Student confidence in their ability to produce natural speech patterns and to read along with the voice of a recorded speaker is central to maintaining their motivation to master the language as a medium for talking about their reading. 7. Avoid the Use of Tests Extensive reading programs should be without the pressures of testing or marks (Davis 1995:329). The use of tests runs contrary to the objective of creating stress-free conditions for pleasure reading because it invokes images of rote learning, vocabulary lists, memorization and homework. Extensive reading done at home should be under the learners control and not an obligation imposed by the teacher. By their very nature, tests impose a rigor on the learning process, which the average student will never equate with pleasure. 8. Discourage the Over-Use of Dictionaries While dictionaries certainly have a place in the teaching of reading, it is probably best located in intensive reading lessons, where detailed study of the lexical content of texts is appropriate. If learners turn to the dictionary every time they come across an unfamiliar word, they will focus only on the language itself, and not on the message conveyed. This habit will result in slow, inefficient reading and destroy the pleasure that reading novels and other literature are intended to provide. Summarizing comments on the extensive reading done by his subjects, Pickard (1996:155) notes that Use of the dictionary was sparing, with the main focus on meaning. 9. Monitor the Students Reading In order to run an extensive reading program successfully, effective monitoring is required, both to administer the resources efficiently, and to trace students developing reading habits and interests. In the Yemen program, a card file system was used to record titles and the dates the books were borrowed and returned. Input from the monitoring process helps us to record students progress, maintain and update an inventory of titles, and locate and select new titles for the class library. It therefore serves both the individual needs of the reader and the logistical task of managing the reading resources. 0. Maintain the Entertainment This is perhaps the most important aspect of the program to emphasize. Teachers need to invest time and energy in entertaining the participants by making use of multimedia sources to promote the books (e. g. video, audio, CD ROM, film, etc. ). They should also exploit the power of anecdote by telling the students about interesting titles, taking them out to see plays based on books, exploiting posters, leaflets, library resources, and even inviting visiting speakers to give a talk in class on a book they have read recently. In these ways, teachers can maintain student motivation to read and secure their full engagement in the enjoyment the program provides. Conclusion Tsangs (1996) study, carried out in Hong Kong secondary schools, provided further persuasive evidence of the effectiveness of extensive reading in fostering learners language development. He found that the reading program was significantly more effective than the writing program (1996:225) . Extensive reading programs can provide very effective platforms for promoting reading improvement and development from elementary levels upwards. Although they do require a significant investment in time, energy and resources on the part of those charged with managing the materials, the benefits in terms of language and skills development for the participating learners far outweigh the modest sacrifices required. If such programs receive institutional support and can be integrated into the curriculum so that they become agreed school policy, as suggested in Davis (1995), they will likely be more readily and widely adopted, particularly in countries where material and financial resources are adequate.

The Life of Henry David Thoreau essays

The Life of Henry David Thoreau essays Henry David Thoreau was an American born writer, born in the early 1800s. He led a simple life as a scholar, a brother, and a friend. Thoreau wanted only to live life and enjoy it. He didnt want to worry himself with money, or the burden it causes. Thoreaus life, though short lived and long ago, was devoted to change, simplicity, and defiance. Thoreaus ideas and beliefs were not common in his day. In fact, some of his work was even frowned upon. His essay Civil Disobedience is one example. Under a government which imprisons any unjustly, the true place for a just man is also a prison. (Thoreau, essays 12). Thoreau means that while men are being unjustly imprisoned, the men that imprisoned them, believing they are just, are the ones that are wrong. Another example of Thoreaus non-conformity is prevalent in his essays on slavery, and his defensive arguments for John Brown, an abolitionist who was on trial. During Browns trial, Thoreau makes a speech to the court, and in it says We can at least express our sympathy with, and admiration of, him and his companions, and that is what I now propose to do. ... Slavery he deemed to be wholly opposed to, and he was its determined foe (Thoreau essays 43). Thoreau was defending a man who was on trial because of his hate for slavery. In his time, when slavery was widely accep ted, it was a very brave thing for him to do. Thoreau wanted only to make change in the world, and contest the beliefs of society. Thoreau was bent on the simple life, and relaying this love to his followers. "Simplicity, simplicity, simplicity! I say, let your affairs be as two or three, and not a hundred or a thousand. . . " (Thoreau walden) Thoreau is trying to convince people that there is no sense in letting life overwhelm you, only concern yourself with what you must. In an exploration of Thoreaus life, Robert Richardson wrote...

How global warming is causing the spread of disease Essay

How global warming is causing the spread of disease - Essay Example Only very wealthy people could actually own and operate cars. However today almost everyone owns a car. This is because machines produce other machines and thus reduce the costing of building. Thus it can be said that humans live in a much mechanized world today. The machines however need energy to operate. The biggest source of energy for these machines comes from fossil fuels. This is because humans have still not invented a widely usable perfect substitute for non-renewable energy. The energy used has a very bad impact on the environment. The carbon is residue of most combustion process. This is because humans have still not formed a combustion system which could burn with 100 % efficiency. This level of efficiency means that all the fuel I converted to energy. However the current combustion systems give shockingly less amount of efficiency even lower than 50% in many cases. The carbon fuel that does not converted into energy because of this low efficiency level is emitted into th e atmosphere. Combined with other harmful products it becomes major contributor to ozone depletion and global warming. Thus not only is it hazardous to health is inhaled in large quantities but it almost causes irreparable damage to our environment. In definition global warming refers to the increase temperature near the Earth’s surface. According to scientists this process started in the mid-twentieth century and is still going on. The reports recently released by IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Control), in the last few years global temperatures have shown an increase of 0.74  Ã‚ ±Ã‚  0.18  Ã‚ °C (1.33  Ã‚ ±Ã‚  0.32  Ã‚ °F). Along with burning of fossil fuels as explained above, the deforestation of rain forests is also a major cause of this increase. According to some shocking reports released by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Control the temperatures are expected to rise another 1.1 to 6.4  Ã‚ °C (2.0 to 11.5  Ã‚ °F), in the next few decades.

US Economic Situation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

US Economic Situation - Essay Example This essay discusses that  the problem lies in somewhere else. As the country is technically upgraded enough, the production technique they use in the industrial sector is mostly capital intensive. This leads to unemployment as the labour input is not extensively used in the production system. Nevertheless, the population of the country is not as high as the developing countries. Hence the unemployment rate is not so severe in this country. It has been found that the rate of unemployment in this country has remained at the level of 5.8 per cent for the last two years. The country has witnessed economic growth near about 5 per cent in the last quarter of this year.From this paper it is clear that  US economy is globally considered as a developed economy. However this paper will examine the amount of stress the country has witnessed in the path of development for the last two years. Globalisation has caused the integration of this economy with various developing as well as under de veloped and many other developed countries. The appreciation of the exchange rate causes low inflation and it influences the international trade in a greater extent. The United States achieves the score 76.2 in case of economic freedom. The freedom in business has fallen compared to the last year. However, control over the government spending has achieved modest gains compared to the recent past.  It has been found by the US officials that the unemployment rate of the country has fallen to 5.5 per cent in the last quarter.

CMR Enterprise Essay Example for Free

CMR Enterprise Essay This particular case depicts the history and issues faced by a relatively small company active in the custom architectural millwork industry for the past 25 years. The new owners wanted the newly-acquired company to grow even further. The first few months seems to have been a success Marcus spent a lot of his time with employees and customers, learning the field since he was, as mentioned in the text, an outsider. However, keeping the companys integrity and image intact was a priority. However, the problems outlined in the case seems to start or at least have been worsened with what will become CMRs largest account, Blackstone Homes. Problem Identification After reviewing the text in question, three major problems stand out: 1) Customers change requests: When Blackstone Homes sell a house, it does of course! come with a pre-finished and installed kitchen, included in the price. However, if the customer wishes, he or she would visit CMRs showroom and they would build these woodwork according to their new specifications. The added cost will then be charged to the contractor, which will later add it to their bills. This takes time and lead to price increases. This is, in part, what contributed to the clash with Blackstone Homes. 2) IT solution not adapted: InfoCentral, the software implemented by Marcus, does not work out as intended and do not fit the business needs. It is not always updated as required by the employees. According to the text, it may be helpful for the commercial and financial/accounting side, but is lacking several features for its residential counterpart to be really as useful as it can be. 3) Deteriorating business relationship The business relations between the two companies started well and was fulfilling for both part. When the business expended, so did the problems. The root cause seems to be the change requests made by the homeowners. This lead to late delivery, poorly reviewed performance and then the 7% price increase. Future homeowners started considering the prices charged by CMR to be too high. We could therefore expect lower level of sales and revenues in the future. Alternatives generation While we will mostly concentrate our alternatives on the three points mentioned above, we will also include other alternatives, even if they may not be realistic or feasible in the short/medium term. 1) Review customers change requests: We obviously cannot stop change requests and modifications made by the customers. The company and its employees pride themselves by offering flexibility and higher customers satisfaction. It would be therefore self-destructive for CMR to put a term to these showrooms. Any person also deserve to have reasonable alternative options when they are buying an object, a home more than anything. However, there is a clear misunderstanding between CMR and Blackstone Homes regarding the fixed allowances for kitchen ($6,000) and the final cost of the installation. In order to solve this issue, it may be a good thing to review the billing part: Instead of having the installation costs forwarded to the contractor, all expenses over $6,000 (parts + labor) should be charged to the homeowners themselves; customers can have access to all options made available by CMR, whilst eliminating cost forwarding and the said related disagreements. 2) Software adaptation It seems clear from the text that the whole issue also come in part from InfoCentral. In order to remediate this issue, we would suggest that all account managers from CMR and employees involved with this software should meet and discuss its performance. What should be changed, what must be kept, or what should be included in order to fit everyones needs. However, for any IT solution to bring tangible additional value, it must be easy to use and should not impose additional work. It is supposed to simplify the work, not making it more complicated. 3) The right people on the right place Again, according to the text, there was a clear misunderstanding between both parties; it was even referred as a shouting contest, which is far from being a normal and healthy business relationship. The Key Account Managers (from both sides) could not agree on contract terms and conditions. It could therefore be a good thing to change points of contact and see if the situation can be resolved; a stronger relation, transparency, honesty and business awareness between the two companies might also help straighten things out. 4) Additional ideas The solution to increase profit may not be by simply increasing selling price. We would suggest CMR to run an audit on their Supply Chain, Logistics and Selling, General Administrative Expenses to see if cost reductions are possible. Could modern machinery help cut their production costs? Could they outsource some of their non-core business or reduce raw material costs by creating a joint-venture with a competitor? Chasing down inefficiencies in the production line can be even more effective than a price increase. Recommendations Using the previous points, we would suggest the three following recommendations: 1) Change the billing process: If possible, all additional costs over $6,000 should be charged to the homeowner directly. In order to make this easier for the customers, offering various financing options may be a good idea. 2) Adapt InfoCentral: Review, correct and revamp the software in order to meet real business needs. May be a good thing to check what competitors are using. 3) Organize recurrent meetings: The situation with Blackstone did not get bad in one day. It may be a good idea to set up weekly or monthly operational reviews; meetings lasting no longer than 30 minutes, where all potential issues can be discussed among stakeholders and managers. The idea is not to let such situation worsen and take the correct actions as soon as possible.

Jackie Bouvier Kennedy :: essays research papers

"She held us together as a family and a country." - Ted Kennedy. Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy, the charming young wife of John Kennedy, had a huge impact on America. Everyone seemed to love her. She was admired worldwide. Jackie was one of the most influential women of her time. She set the style and held the interest of many Americans. Sometimes people seemed more interested in her than the president himself. On a tour in India, more people came to see her than Queen Elizabeth! There are countless articles and books about her. Even a doll was created in her image. Besides that, there are Barbie clothes modeled after her outfits, Jackie Christmas ornaments, and a Jackie stamp set. People looked up to her, she was an influential role-model. A 1964 poll showed that she was the most-admired woman in America. Jackie was more appealing than the previous presidential wives. She was young, pretty, original, and dignified. She definitely helped increase the popularity of her husband. John and Jackie were viewed as a "dream couple". They were young and attractive. They seemed very much in love and their years at the White House were referred to as the "Camelot years" because of the couple?s fairy tale, happily-ever-after appearance. People wanted to be like the Kennedys. The citizens liked having a good looking, happy couple for their president and first lady. Many people liked the president because of his wife. Jackie brought big changes to the White House. She transformed it from a museum-like residence to a "real" home. She redecorated the White House with beautiful furniture and art. To help raise money for the restoration, Jacqueline wrote a book about the White House that raised $250,000 in the first three months. Jackie also brought young children with her. There hadn?t been children as young as Caroline and John Jr. in the White House for many years. She brought in a French chef and threw elegant parties. For the 1961 inauguration, she hired Oleg Cassini to create a glamorous wardrobe. These beautiful clothes dazzled the nation. Jackie inspired a whole new look and had a big influence on the current styles.

The Motivational Reasons behind Consumer Choice in Branded Coffee Shops Abstract Essay

The coffee-shop industry has been undergoing substantial change during the latter part of the twentieth and early part of the twenty-first century, reflected by continuous changes in consumer behaviour. The aim of this study is to improve the understanding of the motivational reasons behind customer choice in branded coffee shops, both international and local. A quantitative data collection of 300 questionnaires was used in the UK to assess consumer behaviour to branded coffee shops. The findings concluded that most respondents visit coffee shops with friends, with locally branded coffee shops the preferred choice. Consumer motivations to branded coffee shops are most influenced by three factors: past experience/ familiarity; convenience of location/travel; and friends and family. With friendly staff, high quality of coffee and food, good atmosphere and good reputation the most important aspects for branded coffee shops. Recent exposure of tax avoidance from companies such as Starbucks have had negative influence on consumer choice of branded coffee shops. Introduction Rapid developments and a monumental boom, the popularity of the contemporary coffee shop continues to grow in the twenty-first century. Starbucks entered the UK market in the 1990s (Bishop, 2012), which awakened a new era for branded coffee shops. Key Note (2012: 29) verifies that three major players exist; Costa, Starbucks and Caffà © Nero, representing over 80% of branded coffee shops in the UK, confirming the power of international coffee brands. This major market penetration has been to the detriment of smaller, locally branded coffee shops, which struggle to compete (Bishop, 2012). However, some news articles suggest that locally branded coffee shops, e.g. Cadwaladers, can survive, using the power and competitive advantage of the local market. Recent exposure of tax avoidance (see ‘Starbucks’ paid just  £8.6m UK tax in 14 years’, BBC News 2012) questions the future influence of international coffee brands. From analysis of the above it may be inferred that local and international branded coffee shops divide opinion. Reviewing literature of brand concepts, it is evident branding has been widely addressed (Butcher, 2005; Caruana, 2002; Schuiling and Kapferer, 2004; Young and Rubicam, 2000), and more especially, branding in the hospitality industry, (Allegra Strategies Report, 2012; Bashaw, Brumm and Davis, 2008; Bell, 2008; Chathoth and Olsen, 2003; George and Stefanos, 1999; Hanson et al., 2009; Hyun and Kim, 2011; Kim et al., 2003; Kim and Kim, 2004, 2005; Kim, Ma and Kim, 2005; Kwun and Oh, 2004; O’Neill and Mattila, 2010; Ruddick, 2012; Ryu et al., 2008; Wanke, Hermann and Schaffner, 2007), though it finds little research specifically concerning branded coffee shops. Against the above background, the aim of this research is to improve understanding by providing an in-depth analysis of the motivational reasons behind customer choice in branded coffee shops, both local and international. This addresses the gap that exists within literature concerning branded coffee shops, especially regarding what factors influence customer behavior, perceptions and motivations to both local and international branded coffee shops in the UK. Literature review This review considers visitor motivation, theories of motivation in general, hospitality-specific and influential factors such as social influence, socio- demographics and branding, with particular focus on brand perceptions. Visitor Motivation Sharpley (2008) refers to motivation as a logical process that results from deep, psychological needs and motives or external forces and pressures; social relationships and lifestyle. Often unrecognised by an individual, it can kick-start the consumer decision-making process, to ‘reflect an individual’s private needs and wants’ (Pearce, 2005: 51). However, Witt and Wright (1992) argue that needs and desires may arouse motivated behaviour, meaning behaviour is not necessarily predicted, whereas Fodness (1994) claims motivation is the driving force in interpreting an individual’s behaviour. A range of research is related to tourism motivation or visitor motivation (Cooper et al., 2005; Dann, 1977, 1981; Eagles, 1992; Fodness, 1994; Iso- Ahola, 1982; Krippendorf, 1986; MacCannell, 1989; Mathieson and Wall, 1982; McIntosh and Goeldner, 1990; Mill and Morrison, 1985; Moutinho, 1987; Pearce and Caltabiana, 1983; Pearce, 2005; Sharpley, 2008; Sims, 2009; Urry, 1990; Witt and Wright, 1992; Wolf, 2002). However, very little research is related to coffee shop visitor motivations. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs (1943), a theory of human motivation, provides a strong concept for consumer decision choice of branded coffee shops. Two constructs of this theory, i.e. ‘love and belonging’ support the desire to create a sense of connection. Witt and Bruce (1972) and Bearden and Etzel (1982), suggest individuals seek social approval, wanting to be ‘liked’ or ‘be like’ other individuals in society. The desire to achieve social security motivates individuals to choose the same brand as others, by external public observation or internal, social group attitudes. The power of the international brand as the ‘place to be seen’ creates a motivated behaviour choice. Lewis (2012) argues that superficial desires and behaviours are less influential factors and basic needs are more common-human. Maslow’s concept of ‘psychological needs,’ the need for life basics, supports this alternative motivator, therefore the drive to satisfy thirst alone is another determinant for visiting a coffee shop. The study of needs provides a ‘partial explanation of motivated behaviour’ (Witt and Wright, 1992: 44), but according to Mill and Morrison (1985: 2) individuals are often unaware of the real reason for doing certain things, suggesting true motivations lie hidden in the subconscious. So other influential factors must be examined as reasons why people visit an international brand over a local branded coffee shop and vice-versa. Influential Factors Wolf (2006: 19) notes that ‘nearly 100% of tourists dine out while travelling, and food and beverage consistently rank first in visitor spending’, supported by Shenoy (2005). These findings suggest one explanation for the major growth of coffee shops in high-footfall leisure areas, with an increase in number of branded coffee shops to 3041 in the UK by 2009-10 (Bishop, 2012: 1). Tourist typologies provide tourist/visitor behaviour differences, e.g. Brand Seekers, Convenience Tourists, Culinary Tourists, etc. Hall and Mitchell’s (2005) Taxonomy of Consumers can be used to classify the importance of food within their decision-making processes. Hall and Mitchell (2006: 147; Wolf, 2002) suggest a tourist may want to ‘taste’ the region they are visiting, with the culinary tourist (Shenoy, 2005), supporting motivated behaviour to a locally branded coffee shop. However, with many local coffee shops disappearing, this typology is questioned. Other influences like the power of a brand may alter ones attitudes and consequently change behaviour, research into brand power highlights this. Perceptions are influenced by motivational push factors, e.g. socio-demographics, familiarity, security, social norms, prestige and peer pressure (Swarbrooke and Horner, 1999). Ajzen’s (1991) theory of planned behaviour examined how initial intentions and attitudes are affected by perceptions and account ‘for considerable variance in actual behaviour’ (Ajzen, 1991: 179). Social Influence Moutinho (1987) suggests 4 sources of social influence; family, social class, culture and reference groups. He argued these internal and external pressures were detrimental to behaviour when exerted on individuals. Thornton (2001) supports family as a powerful influence in tourist motivation. Merton (1957) and Rossi’s (1949) reference groups, describes the process when people adjust their attitudes and values to that of the reference group, e.g. product preferences (Burnkrant and Cousineau, 1975) and brand choice (Bourne, 1957; Stafford, 1966; Witt, 1969). Bruce (1970,1972) finds reference group influence can spread to other consumers explaining behaviour of visitors to a new area, seeking information when uncertain (Bearden and Etzel, 1982). Another example derives from the need to seek social status and social approval (Witt and Bruce, 1972). The term value- expressive, is the need for psychological association with a person or group, to the liking of the reference group (Bearden and Etzel, 1982) and ‘need’ to be identified as using the same brand ‘publically consumed luxury’ (Bourne, 1957: 219). French and Raven’s (1959) propose 5 bases that explore how a social group derives power to exert influence. Socio-demographics also determine behavior (Bishop, 2012: 55), e.g. major coffee chains were more popular among men (29.4%) than women (20.6%) compared to independents in the UK. Additionally 54.6% of 20- to 24-year-olds were most likely to choose a branded chain compared to 17.7% of those aged 65 years and over (Key Note, 2012). Consumer research by NEMS UK Market Research on behalf of Key Note (2012: 1) claim during the recession 30.7% of people cut back on visiting coffee/sandwich shops, with, consumers more attracted by outlets offering discounts (Allegra Strategies, 2012). Mattila (2001) claims that social variables from the business perspective are critical for generating customer loyalty, e.g. social regard influenced new customers and perceived core service quality influenced existing customers (Butcher, 2005). Caruana (2002) recognises service qualities like customer satisfaction, results in service loyalty, while friendly behaviours in service interactions enhance business success (Bitner et al., 1990; Driver and Johnston, 2001; Hall, 1993; Iacobucci and Ostrom, 1993; Price and Arnould, 1999). Servicescape is also regarded as a critical factor. Wight (1996) argues the avoidance of crowds is important in explaining customer behaviour. Branding For this research a brand differentiates the international service/product from a local service/product. The brand is a powerful tool that attracts positive consumer behaviour, influencing perceptions and choice, i.e. purchase intention. Wanke, Herrmann and Schaffner (2007) found that a brand name evokes specific associations, creating a brand perception e.g. ‘Starbucks’ – where ‘star’ may be interpreted as star quality and excellence, influencing consumers’ link with quality (Ginden, 1993). Berry et al. (1988) suggests a well-chosen name creates a marketing advantage and should include key characteristics i.e. simple, flexible, memorable, distinctive and relevant – e.g. ‘Costa’. Rooney (1995) suggests a brand name is a major asset, enhancing company success, generating consumer confidence (Assael, 1995) and active consumer behaviour (Assael, 1995; Meadows, 1983), as consumers perceive one brand as more desirable than its competitors (Rooney, 1995). Chernatony and Dall’Olmo Riley (1998: 426) identified twelve themes associated with defining a brand, e.g. shorthand, risk reducer, identity system and image, influencing the consumers mind. Memory shortcuts (Jacoby et al., 1977) help speedier decision-making, advantageous for the time pressed consumer. The recognisable brand becomes the favoured choice (Chevan, 1992), as a distinguishable international brand satisfies demand expectations (Chernatony and Dall’Olmo Riley, 2010; Montgomery and Wernerfelt, 1992), so a brand relationship is established that may explain international brand market dominance. Sweeney and Soutar (2001) suggest branded products have four consumption values that drive consumer purchase behaviour i.e. emotional, social, quality/performance and price/value for money. Explaining how one brand can differ from the next; international branded coffee shops may be perceived the best at delivering these values. The Customer-Based Brand Equity Model (Keller, 1993), conceptualises the idea that brand knowledge affects the consumer response, leading to a positive effect on consumer reactions, generating brand attitude (Tuominen, 1999; Yoo and Donthu, 2001). Research has explored how past experience has the ability to influence and change buyer behaviour (Busch, 1980; Gaski, 1984a; MacKenzie and Zaichkowsky, 1981). Research found that power can influence aspects such as satisfaction (Bachman, 1968; Bachman, Smith, and Slesinger, 1966), attraction (French and Raven, 1959), conformity (Warren, 1968, 1969), and social influence (Lippitt, Polansky, and Rosen, 1952). Crosno et al.’s (2009) 5 Base Social Power Theory adapted from French and Raven’s (1959) original framework (appendix 1), found a brand wielding these concepts had a greater overall brand social power. These findings provide significant explanation to brand difference between international and local coffee shops. An investigation by Tsai (2011) strengthened the Strategic Management of Service Brand Relationships Model, finding service brand commitment and love, influence relationship e.g. satisfaction, self-concept connection and finally trust. Research on the importance of building and achieving brand equity, loyalty and awareness exist, yet little investigation into consumer decision of branded coffee shops. Literature suggests quality perception was most important for determining brand purchase (Bao et al., 2011; Grewal et al., 1998; Richardson, 1994, 1996). This provides support for research into customer perceptions of coffee brands and how they influence our behaviours. Local Brands vs. International Brands Schuiling and Kapferer (2004) argue with local brands’ adaptability and better response to local needs, e.g. flexibility of pricing strategy for specific local markets highlighting a significant difference to international brands, which lack intimate relationships with local markets (Schuiling and Kapferer, 2004). Their research on the differences found that local brands have a higher level of awareness (85%) than international brands (73%) linked by the number of years local brands have been in the market (Schuiling and Kapferer, 2004: 105). Their database revealed other variables suggesting local brand advantages, for example, as being trustworthy, reliable, good value, high quality and traditional (Table 3 in Schuiling and Kapferer, 2004: 105). Local brands have the ability to create a brand value system (Chernatony and Dall’olmo Riley, 1998) by endorsing personal and cultural values (Engel, 1993; Reynolds and Gutman, 1988). Chernatony and Dall’olmo Riley (1998) argued that Brand Relationship and Brand Personality (Blackston, 1992) were important for repeat custom and strong bonding, e.g. Cadwaladers, a local Welsh example, provide ‘distinct character’ and ‘culture’ of its destination (Jones and Jenkins, 2002: 116) and help establish a more unique selling proposition (Haven-Tang and Jones, 2006). Evidence exists of community support for local brands to support, stimulate and revitalise local economy (Boyne, Hall and Williams, 2003), creating regional development (Hall, Kirkpatrick and Mitchell, 2005; Steinmetz, 2010) and preventing ‘cloning’ (Kelly, 2012). A case study by Patterson et al. (2010) highlights local brand power in Australia. Closing three quarters of Australian Starbucks, Australians continued to remain loyal the their own coffee brand Gloria Jeans. Schuiling and Kapferer (2004) support local brands as the leading competitor, arguing the qualities and traits of local business have proven superior. They conclude that cost is responsible for local disadvantage, with inability to generate economies of scale. Schuiling and Kapferer (2004) argue that international brand development benefits from global marketing, e.g. portfolio enhancement, compared to local brands who lack global status (see Daily Mail, 2009). Schuiling and Kapferer (2004) suggest a balanced mix of local and international brand development is key to entire industry success. The aim of this article is to improve our understanding by addressing the gap that exists within research and literature concerning branded coffee shops. Little research explores what factors influence customer behavior, perceptions and motivations to local and international branded coffee shops in the UK. Methodology Given the nature of the research, formal quantitative data collection using questionnaires was deployed. Target market analysis highlighted the most prominent influential factors, internal and external motives (Gnoth, 1997) and push and pull factors (Swarbrooke and Horner, 1999). This establishes what factors influence consumer perceptions, behaviour and purchase intention, similar to the survey conducted by Boa et al. (2011). Providing explanation as to why branded coffee shops (local/international) maintain their position within their industry, this research addresses the lack of research in this field, benefiting coffee shop businesses seeking competitive advantage or improvement. Providing insight to customer attitudes and perceptions, it proposes realistic prospects for brands, like the Y&R Brand Asset Valuator (Young and Rubicam, 2010). ‘Surveys are, arguably, the most important source of information for tourism analysis, planning and decision making’ (Smith, 1995: 42). Questionnaires are components of survey work (Finn et al., 2000), its purpose here is to obtain reliable and valid data on the research subject (Finn et al., 2000). A street survey of 300 questionnaires was undertaken, covering a cross- section of the community (Veal, 1992). Allowing generalisation of similar socio-demographic areas, this survey size gives representative data of the population (Seale, 2004), compensating lack of sufficient response data and weakness of randomness (Prentice et al., 1998), e.g. population and ecological validity (Finn et al., 2000). Clearly there is likely to be differences in demographics in the Southern cities/areas covered for this research compared to larger, major cities/areas across the UK such as London. Measures for the questionnaire are conceptualised from the secondary literature research, as discussed consultation of research literature like this facilitates internal validity (Finn et al., 2000). This identified deficiencies concerning consumer choice and behaviour to the branded coffee shop, reflecting research objectives for appropriate instrumentation and statistical treatment of data (Cohen et al., 2007). The questionnaire (appendix 2) included a standardised set of questions, allowing all respondents to interpret them in the same way, establishing standardisation and control (Finn et al., 2000). A pilot study identified improvements to the questionnaire before being confirmed as reliable, removing ambiguity or bias (Finn et al., 2000). Similarly to methodology by Bramwell (1998) and Prentice et al. (1998) this research was a non-probability sample of 300 shoppers, no sampling frame therefore is administered. Critics of this sampling argue that this method is weak, lacking randomness, approaching shoppers on an ad hoc basis (bias selection) inevitably means not everyone has an equal chance of being selected (Finn et al., 2000). To help overcome questionnaire distributer bias, a ‘first to pass’ system was used (Tourism and Recreation Research Unit, 1993). Shopping centres, high streets and small town centres in various locations in the South West (e.g. Plymouth, Taunton) and South Wales (e.g. Cardiff, Penarth and Chepstow) were identified as valid target areas, where street surveys are natural settings (Bogdan and Biklen, 1992; Cohen et al., 2007; Lincoln and Guba, 1985). The aim was to target up to 50% of shoppers within these fields (according to capacity of area). A total of 10 days was allocated for research collection, to reach a total of 300 responses. The procedure was validated and controlled by replicating each data-gathering activity, with the interviewer remaining neutral throughout the study, avoiding interviewer bias or the Halo Effect. Consent ensures content validity and reduces ethical implications (Cohen et al., 2007) while consequential validity was also confirmed; briefing participants their responses will not exceed the ‘capability of the research’ (Cohen et al., 2007: 140). This maximises interest and elicits a positive response rate (Brunt, 2012; Finn et al., 2000). The research method allows for completed questionnaires suitable for coding and analysis by SPSS, enabling the study to be easily replicated. Cross-tabulation examined results and chi-square tests ‘measured how well the data fits the hypothesis’ (Gravetter and Wallnau, 2009: 611) i.e. testing for goodness of fit, measuring what it is supposed to measure confirms validity (Finn et al, 2000: 28), creating a descriptive statistical account to interpret and generalise reality. Findings and discussion This section presents the results of the questionnaire, analysing the descriptive statistics to establish the independent variables and dependent variables: Experience of coffee shops; Coffee-drinking behaviour; Motivation; International vs local coffee shops; Effects of tax avoidance. Discussion reviews their linkages to the existing literature to determine if this new data supports or contradicts existing information. Profile of the respondents A large count for each gender was recorded, finding a higher degree of female respondents (55.7%). Their ages varied, with a large segment of the sample aged between 15 and 24 (42.3%). The population of England is larger than Wales. Results from the 2011 census (Office for National Statistics, 2011) reveal that England has 53.0 million residents, compared to 3.1 million in Wales. Further reporting that ‘there were 27.6 million men and 28.5 million women in the two countries’ (Office for National Statistics, 2011: 4). Looking more specifically at the UK regions used for this research, the South West and Wales, a marginal population difference exits between these two regions (see table 6). However closer examination of the gender populations of these two regions are fairly similar (see tables 7 and 8), both regions see more females than males for people living to an older age. These statistics support findings regarding the higher female count found in this research. Local coffee brands were the preferred type by respondents (53.7%) compared to international coffee brands (46.3%). Correlating with recent actions in Totnes (Kelly, 2012 – BBC News Magazine), this supports Schuiling and Kapferers’ (2004) assessment that local brands are the leading competitor. It also suggests that local brands may endorse stronger consumption values posit by Sweeney and Soutar (2001) to explain consumer purchase behaviour. Dismissing assumptions made within the literature review that international branded coffee shops could be perceived best at delivering these values. Respondents reported they visit coffee shops predominately with friends (50.3%). Only 4.7% of respondents visited with work colleagues, suggesting escapism from daily routine by Iso-Ahola (1987) may explain why coffee shops are less likely to be visited with work colleagues, avoiding an association with work related activities. This sustains popular belief that coffee shops are a social activity, with behaviour socially influenced by friends or family (French and Raven, 1959). Motivations to coffee shop Table 3 presents motivations of the respondents to Coffee shop using a 1-5 Likert Scale Analysis found that past experience/familiarity was the main reason why respondents were motivated to their chosen coffee shop (4.09). Confirming the influence of motivational push factors like familiarity and security (Swarbrooke and Horner, 1999), to satisfy expectations, meet private needs and wants (Pearce, 2005; Witt and Wright, 1992) and influence behaviour (Brand Social Power Theory, 2009; Busch, 1980; Crosno et al., 2009; French and Raven, 1958; Gaski, 1984a; Lippit et al., 1952; MacKenzie and Zaichkowsky, 1981; Warren, 1968, 1969). Confirming Brand Values are endorsed from personal experience with the brand subject (Bradley, 1995; Chernatony and McDonald, 1992; Clark, 1987; Doyle 1998; Jones, 1986; Tuominen, 1999), e.g. ‘Attachment of place’ (Phillips, 2013: 202), a principle Rowles (1978) and Smith (2009) claim is associated with exposure to a place. The second highest motivation was convenience of location/ or travel (3.99), which supports convenience is an important consideration (Kim et al., 2005) and convenient location is more important than the brand (3.61) (Allegra Strategies, 2012). Friends and Family rated third strongest motivator (3.75), confirming friends and family are powerful motivators influencing behavior (Bearden and Etzel, 1982; Bourne, 1957; Burnkrant and Cousineau, 1975; Moutinho, 1987; Stafford, 1966; Thornton, 2001; Witt and Bruce, 1972 and Witt, 1969). This reinforces Merton and Rossi (1949) and Moutinho’s (1987) significance of ‘reference groups.’ That Strong local identity rated the weakest (3.31) may suggest that local identity does not have the same impact as that of the brand itself, e.g. marketing advantage (Berry et al., 1988), enhanced success (Rooney, 1995) or active consumer behaviour (Assael, 1995; Meadows, 1983). This suggests that promoting local identity in coffee shops may not significantly affect customer behavioural intentions. International branded coffee shops vs local branded coffee shops A 1-5 Likert Scale was also used to identify what aspects were most important for both international coffee brands and local coffee brands, summarised in table 4 below. High quality of coffee/food was found the most important aspect (4.36) concerning international brands. Reinforcing perceived core service quality influenced existing customers (Butcher, 2005), similarly confirming Bao et al. (2011); Grewal et al. (1998) and Richardson (1994, 1996) that quality perception was most important for determining purchase. Rated second most important for an international brand was good reputation (4.08), confirming that social regard is a critical influencer (Butcher, 2005; Mattila, 2001). Friendly staff was rated most important for local brands (4.37). These findings are consistent with Bitner et al., (1990); Driver and Johnston (2001); Hall, (1993); Iacobucci and Ostrom, (1993) and Price and Arnould, (1999); who found friendly behaviours between service and customer enhance business success. High quality of coffee/food rated second most important, as mentioned above consistent with Butcher (2005) and Mattila (2001). Good atmosphere was also considered important for local coffee shops (4.13), supporting Kotler (1973) that atmosphere is often the primary product to effect purchase decision, physical surroundings and environment are also influential (Gardner, 1985; Obermiller and Bitner, 1984 and Donovan and Rossiter, 1982). Table 5 shows respondents’ attitude towards recent news claims regarding tax avoidance (centered around Starbucks). The results below confirm that a significant number of respondents were affected by the story (34%), claiming they would avoid using international chains in the future. Though 53.3% of respondents said it would have no effect, an additional 12.7% stated they were unsure of their future intentions. This provides a case which represents how important brand equity (Aaker, 1991) is for building the product’s image (Clearly, 1981), value promotion to attract and keep customers (Rooney, 1995), positive image (Ginden, 1993), consumer generated image (Chernatony and Dall’olmo Riley, 1998), brand value (Park et al., 1994) and likings and perceptions (Moore, 1993). Damage to the brand can be critical; the findings demonstrate how negative brand exposure against Starbucks now evokes a negative association and brand perception (Wanke, Herrmann and Schaffner, 2007). This confirms the power of Keller’s Brand Equity Model (1993); brand knowledge can affect consumer response, suggesting it had hindered brand attitude (Tuominen, 1999; Yoo and Donthu, 2001). Brand reputation (Romeo, Weinberger, and Antes 1994; Siomkos and Malliaris 1992) is a feature affected by consumer response to company crisis (Jorgensen, 1996). Jorgensen (1996) and Weiner’s model (1986) found the higher degree of responsibility and controllability a company was for said event the higher it elicit feelings of anger, effecting judgment, purchase and behaviour intentions (Jorgensen, 1994). The high number of respondents not affected could be explained using attitude strength, brand commitment and brand loyalty (Ahluwalia et al., 2000; Keller, 2003; Tuominen, 1999; Yoo and Donthu, 2001) i.e. brand equity (Aaker, 1991; 1992), confirming the importance of the Service Brand Relationship Model (Tsai, 2011). Cross Tabulation and Chi-Square Tests studied the relationship between independent variables and dependent variables to determine whether a significant association between two variables existed (Brunt, 2012). This research revealed a number of significant associations existed, providing insight of consumer behaviour to coffee shops, discussed below. A chi-square test between gender and 12 motivational items was carried out, which found one positive cross tabulation between women and ‘Popular and Thriving Atmosphere.’ This shows a significant association; women are more positively affected by servicescape (Gardener, 1985; Kotler, 1973; Obermiller and Bitner, 1984) and environment than men (Raajpoot et al., 2008). Popular and thriving maybe associated as busy, men are more negatively affected by waiting time than women (Grewal et al, 2003) which explains this gender association, suggesting Wight’s (1997) avoidance of crowds to explain behaviour is more prevalent in men than in women. A chi-square test between age and 12 motivational items was carried out; 4 positive cross tabulations were found: ‘Age’ and ‘Support Local Brand’ The cross tab indicated that more people aged 65+ rated ‘support local brand’ as the strongest reason to coffee shop. Age groups ’15-24†² and ’25-44†² rated ‘possible’ highly. Most ages rate ‘support local brand’ highly as a motivator to chosen coffee shop, though the older you are the stronger this motivates you. Approving Boyne, Hall and Williams (2003) that community support to stimulate and revitalise the local economy exits. ‘Age’ and ‘Avoids Crowds and Noise’ Age group ’65+’ rated avoiding crowds and noise strongly as a motivating factor. This test reveals the older you are the more avoiding crowds and noise motivates you when choosing a coffee shop. Supporting Day et al. ‘s (2000) Minimizing Sensory Overstimulation Theory, as suggested by Phillips’ (2013) study, older participants were startled by sudden, heavy or loud noises. ‘Age’ and ‘The Brand and Reputation’ This cross tab suggests that for ages ’25-44†², ’65+’ and ’15-24, Brand and Reputation was a strong motivator, confirming this does affect and influence a large majority of consumer motivations. These findings are consistent with those of Wanke, Herrmann and Schaffner (2007) that brands evoke perceptions, which can link with quality (Ginden, 1993) influencing consumer decisions. Findings support brands make memory shortcuts (Jacoby et al., 1977), which create consumer confidence (Assael, 1995) and active consumer behaviour (Assael, 1995; Crosno et al., 2009; Meadows, 1983). ‘Age’ and ‘Somewhere New/Different’ The cross tab indicated that somewhere new/different rated a high motivator among respondent, thus an influential factor in consumer coffee shop decisions. This is consistent to the framework created by Pearce and Caltabiano (1983) and Sharpley (2008) whom signify biological and social motives change over time. Social changes influence behaviour, i.e. consumer taste and style changes (Moutinho, 1987; Rooney, 1995) and social influences are motivators found by Dann (1977); Iso-Ahola (1987) and McIntosh and Goeldner (1990). The findings agree with Bearden and Etzel (1982) and Witt and Bruce (1972) that social security and social approval motivates human behaviour. A further test found a significant association existed between age and preferred coffee shop. The two youngest ages groups 15-24 and 25-44 were found to prefer international branded coffee shops more than local branded coffee shops, supporting Key Note (2012), compared to the two oldest age groups 45-64 and 65+, which found a higher preference for local brands. Conclusion and implications Reviewing this exploratory study, we suggest that consumer motivations to branded coffee shops are influenced by the following three factors: past experience/familiarity, convenience of location, and friends and family. This research reveals that social influence is a strong motivator in consumer choice and purchasing behaviours to branded coffee shops. This research also identified some similarities between factors perceived most important from the consumer perspective for local and international coffee brands. The most important factors for a local coffee brand were, in order, friendly staff, high quality of coffee and food and good atmosphere. Whereas the most important factors for an international coffee brand were, in order, high quality of coffee and food, good reputation and friendly staff. Respondents indicated high quality coffee and food and friendly staff were important for both branded coffee shops. The results of this research exposes that a difference between coffee brand preference and influential factors exists. The following section presents practical implications for businesses or individuals within the branded coffee shop industry. This research identified that a strong liking for coffee shops exists, with local brands the preferred coffee brand choice. The difference between important factors suggests it contributes and influences consumer coffee brand preference, motivations and behaviours. So to understand the motivational reasons behind consumer choices in branded coffee shops the consideration of these factors is necessary. Differentiating the local brand from the international brand, the results suggest local brands endorse a more personal relationship compared to the professional, quality relationship found from international brands. These findings provide additional theory on the power of social influence from the consumer and business perspective as a motivator to branded coffee shops, i.e. perceptions and social brand power. In addition, this research reveals that significant associations did exist between motivation and social demographics such as age and gender; e.g. women were more motivated by the popular and thriving atmosphere of the branded coffee shop than men. Whereas age presented larger differences between motivations e.g. ‘support local brand’, ‘avoid crowds/noise’, ‘somewhere new/different’ and ‘brand and reputation’. This research could be used for coffee shop businesses seeking to target a specific audience. Regarding tax avoidance, results from a specific question (see appendix 2, Question 7 and table 5) illustrated that consumer attitude was affected and that it negatively influenced future decisions, motivations and behaviours towards all internationally branded coffee shops, especially Starbucks itself. Detrimental to the brand reputation, this draws attention to the importance of maintaining a good reputation for successful coffee shop businesses. The findings suggest theories and literature on brands, motivation and influential factors is applicable to branded coffee shops, e.g. theory concerning local brands as leading competitors endorsing qualities and traits superior to those of international brands. Quality perception is important for determining brand purchase and can explain consumer behaviour to branded coffee shops. This research addresses the gap that exists within literature concerning branded coffee shops, especially regarding local brands and their ability to influence consumer perceptions. Little research explores what factors influence customer behaviour, perceptions and motivations to local and international branded coffee shops in the UK, therefore this research creates a foundation for others to explore and develop further. Given the rise in interest and boom of the coffee shop industry in recent times, this provides market research consideration for new start ups in the tourism and beverage industry in the future. A multi methods approach using an in-depth interview could improve understanding and explore customer attitudes further. A comparison of consumer preferences across different countries could also reveal whether cultural differences influence decisions. Limitations to this study exist, e.g. the sample selection was taken from the South West and South Wales and other UK regions were not explored, meaning a holistic mix of social demographic across the UK is not confirmed. Likewise, an equal count for each age group and gender was not achieved. A larger study may discover a difference between gender and preference of branded coffee shop, or whether significant associations exist between age and importance of aspects, which chi-square tests in this study could not validate due an insufficient sample size. Clearly the results demonstrate coffee shops are an integral part of popular British culture and this research presents findings to support this theory. Acknowledgements I would like to take this opportunity to express my profound gratitude and appreciation to my guide, Professor Rong Huang, for her exemplary guidance, monitoring, constant encouragement and kindness. Her support and time has been invaluable and inspiring throughout the development of this article. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Professor Graham Busby for the valuable information provided by him in his respective field. I am grateful for his support. Lastly, I would like to thank my parents, brother and friends for their constant encouragement, support, care and kindness throughout this entire process. Appendices Appendix 1: French and Raven’s (1959) power typology Legitimate power is based on the perception of an individual that another person has the legitimate right to influence him or her, and that he or she is obligated to accept the influence. Reward power is based on the perception of an individual that another person has the ability to reward him or her. Coercive power is based on the perception of an individual that another person has the ability to punish him or her. Expert power is based on the perception of an individual that another person has some specialized knowledge or expertise. Referent power is based on an individual’s identification with, and desire to be similar to, another person. Crosno et al. (2009:93) Appendix 2: Questionnaire Appendix 4: Questionnaire Appendix 3: Table 6: 2011 Census – The populations for English Regions and Wales Table 6: 2011 Census – The populations for English Regions and Wales (Office for National Statistics, 2011:22). Table 7: The Population of Wales 1999-2009 by age and gender Table 7: The Population of Wales 1999-2009 by age and gender (Office for National Statistics – Statistics for Wales, 2010:3) Table 8: The Population of the South West by age and gender Table 8: The Population of the South West by age and gender (Smith, 2010:47) Notes [1] Sophie Burge has recently been awarded a First Class BSc Honours Degree in Business and Tourism at the University of Plymouth. 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