The Victorian era Essay Example for Free

The Victorian era Essay Magwitchs reaction when Pip shows him where his mother immediately makes the reader feel sorry for him. Now then lookee here! said the man. Wheres your mother? There, sir, Said I. He started, made a short run, and stopped and looked over his shoulder. Due to the fact he is making a short run at the mere mention of someone seeing him, reveals Magwitchs deeper insecurities and fear of being caught. Also the fact he is scared of a woman would create an even greater feeling of sympathy for him, especially amongst those reading in the Victorian era, as it was uncommon to have a man scared of a woman. This reaction also suggests that Magwitch may not be as strong as he originally made out, but is only putting on an act to scare Pip. Magwitch demands Pip bring him file and wittles and as he does so he tilts Pip over the tombstone a little more. You bring em both to me. He tilted me again, Or Ill have your heart and liver torn out. He tilted me again. By recreating the tilting movement again and saying it in the same repetitive manner, represents the mounting fear and unease Pip is experiencing and also stresses the difference in power; with Magwitch at this point, looming over Pip in a menacing manner, thus leading the reader to feel greater sympathy for him in such a situation and much less so for Magwitch. As Pip watches the convict leave, he says glancing about him over the cold wet flat, I wish I was a frog or a eel. Wishing to be a frog or an eel shows us how difficult Magwitch find his surroundings and that in being a frog or an eel means he doesnt not have to suffer in the cold and wet marshes any longer. Also when he says a eel it gives a hint as to the fact the Magwitch is possibly illiterate as he says a eel instead of an eel. This creates sympathy for Magwitch as it not only tells us he is uneducated but also that he may never have had the chance to go to school. Magwitchs departure creates further sympathy for him as he hugged his shuddering body in both arms and limped toward the Low Church wall. The fact he is limping could either indicate he is hurt or that the cold has numbed his body. Either way the reader feels sympathy for Magwitch, as unlike Pip, he does not have the option of going back home. Instead he is forced to pick his way among the nettles, and among brambles. Once again this shows the reader the difficulties he is facing with his surroundings and in turn this makes the reader feel sorry for him as it is clear that he has nowhere else to go. As Pip describes his surroundings once again as the sun is setting, he talks of how he can faintly make out two things on the horizon- a beacon the sailors use to steer and the other, a gibbet, from whose chain a pirate once hung. As Pip describes Magwitch walking towards the latter it gives a sense of foreboding as though something terrible is about to happen and that the gibbet (for Magwitch) might symbolise death. This creates sympathy for Magwitch as it is shown as another reminder to the reader of the punishment he could face if caught. Dickens creates sympathy for his characters, Pip and Magwitch in many ways. By carefully structuring his story; he is able to swing the readers sympathy from Pip to Magwitch as the story progresses. By introducing Pip first, Dickens made the reader feel sympathetic towards his situation. However, he was also able to make the reader empathise with Magwitch as well despite his less than honourable actions. Dickens also uses the characters dialogue and body language to represent how a character feels and what they are thinking.

Khaleeji (Arab Gulf) Dialectic Essay Example for Free

Khaleeji (Arab Gulf) Dialectic Essay Khaleeji dialectic or Gulf Arabic is the language of Arabic native to Arab nationals such as the United Arab Emirates, Qatar or Kuwait. Constitute countries of UAE include Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi among other member countries. Others include Kuwait, Bahrain, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and most parts of Southern Iraq, State of Qatar and the Sultanante of Oman. Khaleeji is not a written but spoken language by many countries in United Arab Emirates (Sami, 1999). Countries within these regions are Arabic which is also known as Modern Standard Arabic (MSA). Gulf Arabic also known as Khaleeji is a variety of Arabic language spoken by nationalities from Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Khaleeji dialectic has some notable characteristics that differentiate it from other Arabian dialects such as a number of slang terms and pronunciation of certain words. The users of the language have similar ethical originality especially true Arabs who trace their origin from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar or Bahrain. Immigrants from Persian Gulf have different language from that of Khaleeji. A good example to reflect this is the use of language by people from GCC who are in a position to communicate and understand each other because their dialect is very similar (Gabriel, 2003). Accent of different users tend to differ from one region to another owing to their place of origin. United Arab Emirates share a lot of slang terms with individuals from Bahrain. People from Bahrain and Qatar both have undeniable similarity in the use of their language. Saudi Arabia itself has a number of dialects whereby people from the northern part of the country sound different from those from the southern part of the country. People from Jeddah have notable accent while those from Eastern province have an accent similar to those from Bahrain, Qatar and Kuwait (Jacques, 2003). The language is used in the press such as television, radios, magazines and newspapers. Officials in the government use this language to communicate important information and it is applied in day-to-day tasks by Gulf Arabs. Gulf Arabic is a variety of Arabic language spoken around the Persian Gulf. Some notable characteristics that differentiate Khaleeji language include small number of Persian loanwords and pronunciation of â€Å"k† as â€Å"ch† (Leslie, 2003). The background of Khaleeji dialectic can be traced from Old North Arabian dialects of pre-Islamic Arabia. As a matter of fact, early Arabic language had noticeable dialect distinctions between Adnan, Himyar and Qahtanite. The spread of Islam in 7th century made Quranic Araqbic to be one of the most prevalent dialects (Buhier, 2001). Vernacular Arabic was first recognized as a written language in contrast to Classical Arabic during the 17th century. In African continent, Egypt was a major developer of elite that led to formation of certain trends towards colloquial writing. In the modern world, Arabs have different spoken dialects from literary Arabic. Another basis of Khaleeji dialect is related to Arabic pronunciation which is central to Semitic language. The language is related to other Semitic languages such as Hebrew and Neo-Aramaic languages. Khaleeji language has more speakers than any other language in Semitic language family. It is the first language with a number of two hundred and eighty million people. Most of the people speaking this language live in Middle East and North Africa. Khaleeji dialect has a variety of geographically distributed speakers some of which are mutually unintelligible. The Islamic world has borrowed a number of words from Arabic languages meaning that they share certain accents. In the middle ages, Arabic was a major concern of cultural practices by many European languages. Arabic language has influence from many Mediterranean languages especially Spanish, Sicilian and Portuguese (Mufwene, 2001). This owes both to proximity of Arab civilizations and European during the 700 years of Islamic rule. Khaleeji dialect borrows words from other languages including Hebrew, Persian and Syriac in the early centuries. In the modern times, Arabic language has some sentiments of European language. The central dialect known as Khaleeji in Saudi Arabia is one of the closest dialects to classical Arabic. The Arabs are united by one language which is a common aspect that helped the Arabs to change Persian Gulf. A brief description of the Persian Gulf a major development in Khaleeji dialect is very crucial to help understand the background of such language (Hrair, 1998). The Persian Gulf was a re-known transportation route that declined with fall of Mesopotamia. The region was under the control of Arabs, Persians, Western Europeans and Turks. The Arabs, Persians and Turks are our major relevant issues in this paper. The Arab sheikhdoms of Persian Gulf signed perpetual maritime truce that led to formalization of certain truces. The sheiks agreed to stop harassment of British shipping in Arabian Sea and recognize Britain as the dominant power in the gulf. These Sheikdoms became to be known as the crucial States upon the agreements by major powers around 1907. This led to a development of Khaleeji dialect which differentiates individuals from different Arabic background. Arabic language is Semitic with a variety of dialects that diverge from one country to another and within single country. There are two major classification of the language such as classical and standard Arabic with certain variants. Arabic in its native environment occurs in a diglossic situation meaning that native speakers in Arabic countries learn on how to use two different forms of language (Peter, 2001). In the Arabic countries, they learn their mother tongue which is used nearly in all communication including films, plays and music. Modern Standard Arabic is another major class of Arabic language learned in schools and is used in most printed work, formal institutions and public media. The use of the two major classes of language differs from one country to another, speaker to speaker and subject matter of discussion. People make mistakes when they assume that all Gulf Arabs are same in which case there is a big difference. The difference is as vast as in other various forms of national interest such as the dress code. The local United Arab Emirates has origins that come from within and outside Arabian territory. The emirate people have their origin from diverse places such as Yemen, Asian sub-continent, Iran and khaleeji. There are a number of ethnic groups that depict the difference between the users of Khaleeji dialect and other languages. Bani Yas is a major focus in the aspect of discussing Arabic ethnicities. The Balushi people are the entertainers of indigenous population which is more approachable than any other nationals in UAE. They are considered as entertainers because of their humorous nature and their character of easy going. The Balushistans have their roots in Iran and borrows some Pakistan traits (Katzner, 2002). A major concern is their dress code and use of language with slight difference from other Arabic countries. A major development has been made to bring out clearly the speakers of Khaleeji dialect. This is clearly depicted in cultural and religious practices. People try to merge culture and religion to mean the same thing but this is not possible as the two terms mean different things. An important aspect of Khaleeji is its values and meaning it has to different Arabic countries. However, the Arabic society is considered to be one entity but with different cultural practices. The common element in this aspect is the issue of Islamic observations. Islam and Arabs have common traits but they have a number of differences. The Arabian culture is rich with rituals and customs that are not particularly practices by the Islam. Islam tried to borrow some cultural observations from Arabs and in other situations they have tried to abolish some Arabic practices. In the past the Islamic and Arabic interaction was dynamic leading to a development of certain languages. Islam added to Arabian culture leading to existence of new Hadiths with odd endorsed concepts. The Islam was very stern trying to shape a new nation out of the Arabs and abolished Arab nationalism into a new Islamic identity (Gabriel, 2003). However this was never achieved as individuals had different feelings of belonging. There have been various changes in feeling with change of circumstances, time and surroundings. Majority of Arabic countries that use the Khaleeji language are not in a state of take or leave it with Islam. They pick and choose what suits their personal beliefs or lifestyles. Another consideration is what the society makes an easy option relating to what has been accustomed to them. A blend between Islam and Arabia is the current structure of Arabic society. The society has a number of components that vary in proportion from one individual to another. Different cultures that in region aboard merchant ships and commercial jets. Language is an aspect of connecting Gulf’s population at home and on the street. A development of the Gulf Pidgin Arabic (GAP) a testament to the ability of trade and development creates something new. A mixture of Khaleeji Arabic and South Asian languages has gained recognition as Lingua franca on the streets. Many people are interested in learning Khaleeji language so as to get employed in many countries of United Arab Emirates. A country like Dubai is known for its booming business of textile and electronic goods. Business people should have a common language that promotes the extent of doing business (Peter, 2001). A businessperson should be in a position to communicate with customers in a language which is understood by the two partners. Talking to a neighbor or colleagues is of essence and requires each party to understand the essence of communication. Khaleeji has been of importance to business people and other individuals who travel to Arabic countries in search of jobs. Many individuals from Africa and other developing nations opt to look for employment opportunities in UAE countries. This requires the job seekers to learn Arabic language so as to fit in the job market. Communication is of essence and many individuals opt to choose the best way for passing information without a break down of specific channels. Khaleeji dialectic is a major development in Arabic countries used by musicians to entertain their listeners (Barnett, 2000). As a language it is used by media to broadcast news and air entertaining television shows or programs. Arab artists sing in Gulf dialect but many listeners confuse their tones with other languages. Some of the musicians do it for money and others for fame. Diana is one of the best-known artists who use Arab Gulf to entertain her listeners. This is not a new trend and has been going on since the 1970’s and the listeners look at it in terms of performance and implications of the words. Khaleeji dialect is not as simple as people think but if an artist is in a position to master Bedouin dialect in their own countries, they have no difficult when using Gulf dialect to perform their music. Most Arabic countries have close forms of Bedouin dialect but this is never heard in main cities. It is commonly used by people in desert town or countryside to promote their cultural values. Many successful singers in Arabic countries who use Gulf dialect are usually best in their own countries dialect. This means that a singer should be very well conversant with his or her own country dialect before using Gulf dialect. Singers without their own countries dialect will have their original accent come through even if they try to use proper vocabulary used in Gulf countries (Sami, 1999). This is a major problem because singers may not be in a position to control turning ‘Th’ into ‘S’. This problem is generally with people living in cities as they are called city dialects. The problem is major because it reaches a certain situation when singers complicate words to pronounce grammar phonics wrong. Once this happens the meaning of the song or communicated message is changed. The problem in this situation arises as a result of poor rooted grammar from young age. However, some other people have no problem with Gulf dialect as they have good command of language. A few number of Gulf artists sing in other Arabic dialects as well as in Arab which is also a Gulf dialect. This means that such artists are on their home turf which promotes production of good music. Khaleeji just means Gulf and it is a regional thing which relates to traditional music styles from Arab Persian Gulf states. The major difference is the rhythms distinct from other Arabic countries. Khaleeji dialectic used in music is drawn from Indian and African sources. Artists from Gulf States perform their music in styles from other countries. Khaleeji dialectic used in music is popular in Arabic countries especially radio stations. The stations play music from this genre in which most Arabic singers normally sing in this particular genre. Most of them record their music in khaleeji style to cater for particular niche audience. Dubai is one of the main production centers for Khaleeji music in the recent past. Rabsha Art Production studio is a major studio in United Arab Emirates that specializes in Khaleeji music. It is one of the best known music studios that promote Khaleeji language. This is achieved through promotional campaigns undertaken by various channels. The studio is equipped with special tools and music software applications available for top quality condenser. This ensures that quality of acoustic recordings meets international standards. Khaleeji music is based on peculiar rhythmic patterns accompanied by hand clapping. The genre of music is linked to belly dancing with particular traditional acoustic instruments. Traditional acoustic instruments create harmony leaving a room for couple of instrument solos. The Khaleeji sound is created through the use of traditional acoustic instruments such as Oud the Arabic lute. Other instruments used include Qanoon which resembles plucked harp and the Rababa a bowed fiddle. Khaleeji style has not changed over time, as people from Persian Gulf are proud of their cultural heritage. The rhythmic layers of the music are pretty much traditional in both style and sound. Recently, the genre of music has taken a new trend whereby there is application of modern instruments which gives the music additional contemporary flavor. The music genre uses certain elements of traditional and modern instruments giving it entertaining beats. The genre of music has found a huge number of customer bases not only in the UAE market but in Syria, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon and Iran. Rabsha is a development that shows the evaluation of digital technologies and virtual instruments. Application of modern technology is a basic consideration in production studios and other digital workstations. This means that application of technology has shaped the music career in Arabic countries. The situation has led to creation of employment opportunities a measure for improving economic development. Many production studios in UAE apply software and other technologies to produce quality music. However, there has been a down play in the process of producing music whereby there are no available plug-in to replace natural sound of real Oud player. The producer of music has his own sound trademark as a result of using real instruments. Once the music has been produced, the producer uses midi-driven samples to spice up the mix. This is a step that has led to promotion of Khaleeji dialectic in many Arabic countries and other states. One major known producer of Khaleeji music is Alali who runs Rabsha radio station. The producer works with a team of known Khaleeji artists such as Qanoon player, Saadek, Hassan Faleh and Haythan Sadoon. Alali is a well re-known television presenter who has helped to change the mode of music composition approach. He says that working in the capacity of editing pictures has dramatically changed the capacity to compose music. This has led to improvement of songwriting and mixing skills of videos. The process of producing music is very extensive and calls for allocation of time in the aspect of promoting music as a career and advancement of entertainment industry. In this case, Alali is in a position to expand his studio so as to meet increased demand of video music. Clients have been in massive demand of his music and he provides them with the capacity to record and edit their music from his studio. The relevant concept of this argument is the fact of promoting Khaleeji dialectic through music videos. A major advantage in this concept is the application of package music track under one roof. The use of khaleeji dialectic in music is destined to be more important in future as it is gaining popularity among other non-Arabic audiences. Although it is based on traditional concepts, the act of producing the music through digital technology means that it is available via the internet. This therefore is an implication that such music is accessible to other listeners all over the world. The production of music through traditional Khaleeji gives it a modern touch that widens its appeal. Khaleeji music is very entertaining and this attracts many people to listen such music. In certain circumstances, individuals develop a mechanism for developing music genre which is basically essential in media (Barnett, 2000). Khaleeji dialect which is developed from different Arabic countries has led to advancement in entertainment sector through music, films and dance. As a major area of concern in the history of Arabic countries, Khaleeji dance basically known as belly dance is a way of promoting Khaleeji dialect. It is a typical style of Arabic peninsula and Persian Gulf including countries such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Yemen and some parts of Iraq. The belly dance performed by different Arabic countries is different from the one that is performed by Egyptians, Turkish and Lebanese. Language in any particular nation is a reflection of cultural practices and dance styles. In this case a major concern is in promotion of language through Khaleeji dance performed by people wearing characteristic piece of clothing called thobe nasshal. Khaleeji dance is performed through an Arabic dance style that involves a lot of focus on footwork, movements and spins. Dancers toss their unbound hair from one shoulder to the other as per the rhythm. Khaleeji rhythm is different from classical Middle Eastern rhythms characterized by heavy beats. One common used rhythm is the Saudi rhythm with heavy accents on beats. Instruments used for Khaleeji style are frame drums such as bendirs or tars while ud is used as the primary instrument. Apart from the various issues of Khaleeji music and dance as discussed above which reflects Khaleeji dialect, there is a major issue related to dialectal various in Arabic languages. In some dialects there may be more or fewer phonemes than in non-Arabic languages. The variations exist between written and spoken language a major aspect that differentiates Khaleeji language from foreign languages (Leslie, 2003). Certain Arabic dialects differentiate some letters from other Semitic languages. During the past decades, expansion of Arabic characterized by emphatic phonemes meant a single phoneme. A major distinguishing mark of Arabic dialects is the application of certain stops. The grammatical concept of Khaleeji dialects differs from other Semitic languages. The algebraic looking grammar is the distinguishing mark between Arabic language and other foreign languages. Arabic language a major reflection of Khaleeji dialectic borrowed a number of religious terminologies, academic and economic terms used in every day activity. Arabic worlds with Khaleeji dialect also made their way into several West African languages as Islam tried to spread through the Sahara. Arabic language can be associated with Latin in Europe throughout the Islamic world. Many Arabic concepts are applied in certain fields such as science, commerce or philosophy. People like to use Arabic language with the help of translators who are known from the way they pronounce certain Arabic words. In addition, foreign concepts are translated into Arabic meaning so as to make every person in a given gathering understand message being communicated (Jacques, 2003). Khaleeji dialect is reflected in many different Arabic countries through its application in many aspects of life. References Barnett, N. (2000). Dialogues in Arab Politics: Negotiations in Regional Order. New York: Columbia University Press Buhier, M. (2001). The Formation and Perception of the Modern Arab World. Princeton, NJ: Darwin Press Gabriel B. (2003). Minorities and the State in the Arab World. Boulder, CO: Lynne Rienner Publishers Hrair, D. (1998). Islam in Revolution: Fundamentalism in the Arab World. Syracuse, NY: Syracuse University Press Jacques, M. (2003). Languages in a Globalizing World. New York: Cambridge University Press Katzner, K. (2002). The Languages of the World: Language and Languages. London: Routledge Leslie, J. (2003). Colloquial Arabic (Khaleeji). London: Routledge. Mufwene. S. (2001). The Ecology of Language Evolution. London: Cambridge University Press Peter, C. (2001). Ideology of Power in the Middle East: Studies in Honor of George Lereczowski on Dialectical Progress. Durham, NC: Duke University Press Sami, H. (1999). Arab Socialism: A Documentary Survey of Dialectical Transformations. Salt Lake City: University of Utah Press

Zone fitness market research

Zone fitness market research According to Kotler, P. (1988) marketing is a social and managerial process by which individuals and groups can obtain what they need and what they want. This can be achieved by creating, offering and exchanging products of value with others. The figure below illustrates the core concepts of marketing like needs, wants and demands, Product, value, cost, satisfaction and other concepts. Needs, wants demands Product Value, cost satisfaction Exchange transactions relationships Markets Marketing marketers Fig: 1.0. Core Concepts of Marketing Zone fitness is the new health and fitness company based in Huddersfield. Due to the continued growth of the health and fitness market in the UK, the company was formed. The company offers a range of health and fitness services on a membership only basis. Zone fitness operates 1 mile away from town centre in a place which was previously furniture warehouse. Few of the companys facilities are, rowing machines, exercise bikes, weights etc. One of the important parts of the services to the members is that there is an initial joining fee and the range changes according to the period of membership taken out for. The company was formed by three friends with now previous managerial or marketing experience or knowledge. The company is three years old and now has employs a total of 15 staff. The company is looking to grow in future both in terms of members and also in terms of health and fitness facilities offered but feel it now need to become more effective at marketing in order to face the competition. As a marketing consultant a report has been produced, to increase and improve the companys marketing activities. The overall review of the report covers areas such as, industry analysis, market segmentation, targeting, position, pricing strategy, etc. INDUSTRY ANALYSIS According to Brassington and Pettitt (2006), the industry analysis aim is to determine and understand the evolving opportunities and threats of the markets as they relate to the strengths and weakness of the health and fitness firm. The analysis covers areas such as size, growth, profits, cost structure, competitors, etc. MACRO ENVIRONMENT Economic environment is the general changes the economic conditions and the changes in pattern of the income distribution of the customers as well as the operation of the economic system are responsible for a variety of economic phenomena. These involve factors such as fluctuations, trade, economic growth rate, inflation and recession. (Peter, 2008) Socio-cultural environment is the attitudes towards the physical fitness and general wellness and individual ways of life of the customers and standards formed by the cultures and changing social values. (Johnson, et al., 2008) Political environment is the government with its political involvement and the legislation as the main components which can change the political as well as influence of the key issues in the companies such as policies, regulations etc. (Peter, 2008) Technological environment is responsible for the innovation and changes of the equipments such as tread mills, bikes, weights machines and also supplements. The development and new equipments can have an effect on the future of the Zone Fitness. The technology can change the emergence of the many substitute products. (Armstrong, et al., 2009) MICRO ENVIRONMENT SUPPLIER: Suppliers form an important link to the companys overall value delivery system. It provides the resources needed by the company to produce its goods and services. The Zone Fitness management must watch supply availability such as supply shortages, delays and other events which can cost sales in the short term and damage customer satisfaction. (Gilligan, et al., 2009) CUSTOMER: The Company needs to study the types of customer markets. Consumer markets consist of individuals or households that need services and health care activities for personal consumption. Business markets where the company can sell the services to the employees and for further processing. Reseller markets where the company can buy the facilities for certain profits. (Gilligan, et al., 2009) COMPETITOR: The marketing concept states that to be successful a company must provide greater customer value and satisfaction than its competitors. The Zone Fitness Management must do more than simply adapting to the needs of the customers. They must gain strategic advantage by positing their offerings strongly against competitors offerings. (Armstrong, et al., 2009) MARKET SUMMARY The UK health fitness clubs can be divided into two sectors: health clubs which are privately owned and leisure centres which are owned by the local authorities. Leisure centres which are defined as public facilities are changing to cope up with shifting consumer priorities and financial measures. UK has over 5,750 indoor facilities for keeping fit. The health club is still fairly fragmented, but there are now 10 large chains including David Lloyd leisure, Fitness First, Virgin Active and LA Fitness. (The Leisure Database, 2007) MARKET DEMOGRAPHICS Population of UK: 62,348,447 as of July 2010. Age Structure: 0-14 years: 16.7% (male 5,233,756/female 4,986,131) 15-64 years: 67.1% (male 20,774,192/female 20,246,519) 65 and over: 16.2% (male 4,259,654/female 5,612,953) Median Age: Total: 39.8 years Male: 38.6 years Female: 40.9 years (Mouseprice, 2010) MARKET SIZE GROWTH The UK health fitness industry has a revenue estimated almost  £3.6 billion and 11.9% of the UK population are registered as members in the health and fitness or publicly-owned fitness facilities. The membership has been growing up by 3% since 2006 and now there are over 230 new public and private facilities that have been added to the health and fitness industry portfolio. Almost 90% of the UK population lives within 2 miles of a private health or publicly-owned fitness facilities. UK market for health and fitness club has increased by a moderate of 1% in nominal terms, by 2010. (Research and Markets, 2010) On contrary to this, annual growth rates have been declined from 7% in 2006 to just 1% by 2010. Both of which, exerted a downward pressure on disposable income and consumer confidence, reducing demand for health and fitness centres as the money is spent on necessities rather than luxuries. Moreover, annual growth is also believed to have slowed due to increased saturation and competition in the market, which has led to a reduction in membership fees in the private sector. (The Leisure Database, 2007) The membership penetration is 33% higher in London than the UK average and also obesity risk rates are 65% lower in London. The Southwest region is another area in UK to have lower risk in obesity by 34%, but the membership penetration level is higher by 3% the UK average. The regions of North East and South West have largest membership growth in private club memberships whilst the East Midlands topped the impressive growth rates in the public sector. (Corporate Fitness, 2010) 3.0. PORTERS FIVE FORCES A Porters five forces analyses explore five different principal factors, which determine the attractiveness of a health fitness market. Bargaining power of buyers Zone Fitness Threat of new entrants Bargaining power of suppliers Competitive rivalry within an industry Threat of substitute products Fig.2.0. Porters five forces for Zone Fitness Threat of new entrants: The barriers to the new entrants are very high. The main development of private gymnasium and leisure centres on the country which take years and capital required have put smaller companies out of the picture. Some of the health clubs are combined and franchised, but all existing major big companies have sufficient back up support to make themselves unattractive for acquisitions. The domination of some of the big health and fitness companies insure that they can manage a threshold level of profitability. (Euromonitor International, 2010) Bargaining power of suppliers: Suppliers have low bargaining poor over health and fitness centres due to strong brand power and distribution capabilities of the companies and due to fragmented supplying industry. The need for facilities and equipments is to explore and re-conceive their business models, like by playing on the customers experience issue and to try to arrive at a more profitable but risky mode. These kinds of initiatives might also help moderate the stance of health and fitness companies. (Market and Business Development, 2010) Bargaining power of buyers: Buyers have a strong bargaining power over health and fitness companies because of the range of choices the buyers have. All major companies sell same facilities and at nearly same price so buyer can switch to another company without any doubt. Nearly 94% of customers today have choice of three or more health and fitness companies which can be available to them within 5 minutes of range and many other leisure centres as well. Numerous companies are competing for their business with facilities of varying size and formats. Power of buyers is high and companies that raise prices are likely to lose customers. (Research and Markets, 2010) Threat of substitute products: Health and fitness centres in the available sector are an available alternative for customers, but there has been some convergence between these two sectors as the companies extend their formats. (Euromonitor International, 2010) Competitive rivalry within an industry: The rivalry is intense even though the market is concentrated, especially among the top companies. At a micro level the industry rivalry is centred and a limitation strategy that the major companies resort to if one initiative is successful. The rivalry among major companies is intense and this has led to a price war between companies. This is because the companies sustain the declining profitability without exiting the market and there is no incentive for major companies to rush into extreme and profit eroding price war. (Aaker and McLaughlin 2010) 3.1. COMPETITION Zone Fitness has a highly competitive market in Huddersfield, but the following four will be direct competitors due to their establishment in and around Huddersfield. Bodyzone Fitness Centre Unit 11f/Nortonthorpe Mills/Nortonthorpe Industrial Estate Wakefield R Scissett Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD8 9LA Website: www.bodyzonefitnesscentre.co.uk Services offered: gymnasium, beauty centre, health club, aerobics, swimming, and sauna and cardio theatre. (The Fitmap, 2008) Fitness First Lockwood Park Brewery Drive Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD4 6EN 01484 429000 Website: http://www.fitnessfirst.com Services offered: gym, cardio theatre, spinning room, x-press workout, crà ¨che, squash, studio, lounge, juice bar, personal trainers, sauna, and steam room, aroma and sun bed. (The Fitmap, 2008) University of Huddersfield Gym Sports Hall Queensgate, Huddersfield, HD1 3DH 01484 472093 Website: http://www.hud.ac.uk/uni/about/campus_facilities/06_sports_hall/1_html/the_gym Services offered: cardiovascular training, step n tones, boxercise, groove n move, hula hoops, kettlebell, boot camp, pilates, abdominal blast, sports team camp, yoga, kung fu, spinning, tae kwon do and swimming. (Bizplan Cover, 2009) MARKET SEGMENTATION, TARGETING AND POSITIONING Market segmentation can be defined as the process of dividing the total market into segments or target market of consumers with common needs or characteristics and selecting one or more segments to target with a marketing mix. Zone Fitness company needs to know the needs and wants of their customers to better enable them to provide facilities and services that will satisfy the customer needs and wants. This may be problematic as there are numerous health and fitness facilities in the consumer market which the company can satisfy. Therefore, Zone Fitness must divide its market into various needs and wants. This is the process of the segmentation. (Cant, et al., 2009) The company must next decide which market segments needs it can best satisfy. The company should develop its marketing offers such as facilities and membership discounts and the process of deciding which segment to pursue is referred to as targeting market. Therefore, targeting deals with the process whereby a marketing mix is tailored to fit some specific customers. (Aaker and McLaughlin 2010) Positioning refers to the creation of a specific image or perception of the facilities and services by consumers in a selected target market. It is therefore the way in which consumers view competitive brands or types of products. For new products it means how the company wants to compare the new item in terms of its predecessors. The company will need attempt to establish a favourable position for its product by means of marketing communication such as advertising, however as it is believed that the product positioning is limited to advertising is no longer appropriate. (Ouwersloot and Duncan 2008) 4. SWOT ANALYSIS Many companies evaluate opportunities utilizing an analysis framework referred to as SWOT. It is an acronym for strengths, weakness, opportunities and threats that can be investigated and can be used in early stages like market planning and decision making for zone fitness. On one hand it operates the matching of vital strengths with major environment opportunities and on the other hand it provides for improvising weaknesses and possibilities of risk in the zone fitness marketing. (Cant, et al., 2009) STRENGHTS: Zone Fitness is more committed towards a result orientated approach to maintain its customers in a highly competitive market. Facilities and health programmes are well taught according to the need of Zone Fitness. Reduction in fees and discount in membership service in entire market of UK. Also Zone Fitness has well trained and qualified staff. Personal services, individual programmes and advice are seen as being a key part of competitive success. (About Health Clubs, 2009) WEAKNESS: Personal training and individual programmes can be expensive. There are no swimming facilities which can be a problem in providing services to a large pool of members. Marketing budget is very short to attract business clients. (NetMBA, 2009) OOPURTUNITIES: Health and fitness clubs are rapidly growing in UK. Increasing health conditions and diseases such a obesity are causing people to join and pay more importance to exercise and health care activities. Health clubs and gym have become a routine of life in the peoples daily schedule. A low income area can be of special focus for zone fitness which is mostly ignored by rival competitors. (NetMBA, 2009) THREATS: One of the main threats could be because of recession and economic downturn, which can slowdown the growth of health and fitness industry. Low cost equipments are also available in the markets for home exercise. Although market is rapidly growing a small level threat can be of low cost offers from well established competitors. (About Health Clubs, 2009) MARKETING MIX Zone Fitness companys marketing mix is based on the factors of product, cost, distribution and advertising. PRODUCT: Health and fitness services: Rowing machines Exercise bikes Weights Aerobics Yoga Steam room Sauna, tanning rooms Massage services and Jacuzzis PRICE: Zone Fitness will be facing a challenge with highly competitive markets such as David Lloyd, Fitness First, etc. Therefore company is offering services at cost less than existing market standards with reduced fees for the under 18s and over 55s and discounts for the family memberships, etc. A new member for yearly membership would pay an initial joining fee of  £100 and a yearly membership of  £500. This would give members an unlimited access of the services and facilities of the company. PLACE: Zone Fitness company is located within the 1 mile radius of the town centre of Huddersfield. The company has a direct supply of their facilities and will not be involving in any kind of franchise or network. PROMOTION: Zone Fitness can use newspapers, magazines, internet, television and radio as the medium of advertising. In addition they could also print brochures for creating awareness in the market about their health and fitness services. (Cant, et al., 2009) INTEGRATED MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS (IMC) STRATEGY Integrated Marketing Communications is a cross-functional process of creating and nourishing profitable relationships with customers and other stake holders strategically controlling or influencing all messages sent to these groups and encouraging them. The marketing mix of an organisation for tangible products compress of four elements, these are; marketing communications, price, promotions and distribution. The marketing communication element influences the other three elements; therefore it is important for Zone Fitness to be aware of their relationship between these four elements, while designing and planning the marketing strategy. (Ouwersloot and Duncan 2008) The responsibility of Zone Fitness management is to compile a programme that establishes a framework for the development, implementation, coordination and control of companys marketing communications. The aim of such a programme is to develop an effectiveness IMC programme that targets the customers in an attempt to influence their attitudes and behaviour. STRATEGIES OBJECTIVES Setting the IMC objectives and compiling it with the budget are crucial activities in the marketing communications department. IMC objectives and the budget constitute two basic guidelines and constraint in the formulation of an IMC strategy and for the various elements. The period within which the IMC objectives and strategies must be achieved covers the same period which all activities of the various marketing communication elements are implemented. (Hutt and Speh 2009) IMC objectives and strategies the Zone Fitness can follow are: The objectives must be formulated and once they have been, a provisional marketing communication budget must be prepared on the basis of the formulated goal. Marketing communications development and different strategies for each element are usually the most comprehensive of all phases. Each marketing communications element plays a unique role in achieving the integrated marketing communications objectives. The IMC decisions must be co-ordinated to prevent element being singled out. The decision taken must be synchronised by the company so that the ultimate objective can be reached without any form of duplication and resultant additional cost. After that there should be the development of an action plan for each IMC strategy. This is the operational programme, which is very detailed and contains activities, responsibilities and time frames. The penultimate is the measurement of the IMC effectiveness. It is important to ascertain whether the IMC programme has achieved its objective. The continual feedback on the effectiveness of the IMC strategy and programme so that deviations from the formulated objectives can be evaluated with a view to taking corrective measures. In the overall summary the IMC objectives and strategies must be derives from the marketing strategies and elements such as advertising, personal selling, promotions, publicity, public relations and e-communications must be derived from the marketing communications strategies for Zone Fitness company. (Ouwersloot and Duncan 2008)

The Purpose of Sati in Jane Eyre Essay -- Jane Eyre Essays

The general image of Sati and the reasoning that surrounded it filled the Western imagination with repulsion as well as admiration. In the nineteenth century, Westerners publishing diaries of their travels always included their experiences when viewing Sati. Although these travelers, usually men, watched with horror, they also admired the courage and the dignity of the women involved (Hawley 3). What was known in England of Sati was from the accounts of the colonial officials and travelers who witnessed it (Courtright 28). It would not surprise one to assume that Charlotte Bronte, in her drive for knowledge and her stand on women's freedom, would have taken an interest in such an act; and indeed she incorporates it in Jane Eyre. In 1829, the British government prohibited the act of Sati. Twenty years later, Charlotte Bronte presents a text in which she presents the "topos of feminism in imperialism" (Perera 80). With the use of the custom of Sati, Charlotte Bronte writes a novel whic h coveys the contrast between the east and the west, the old and the new, revealed sexuality and repressed sexuality. The two characters, Jane and Bertha, each represent a different region; while Bertha represents the East and the ancient, Jane represents the new and the modern. Dorothy K. Stein finds that Sati was a motif used for feminist discussions in Victorian England: [Sati] did not occur in England, but many manifestations of the attitudes and anxieties underlying the practice did. Nineteenth-century respectability in both England and India divided women into exalted and degraded classes, not only on basis of actual or imputed sexual behavior, but also on the basis of whether that behavior was at all times controlled and supervised, pref... ... the anger that she had expressed as a young girl, due to the fact that her society does not accept it. This anger that she once held inside is prevelant in Bertha's act. It is in the Red Room that Jane "became increasingly alive with bristling energy, feelings, and sensations, and with all sorts of terrifying amorphous matter and invisible phantoms" (Knapp 146). This igniting energy and flow of feelings, are very similar to those that Bertha realises at Thornfield. With the death of Bertha, Jane is now able to live with the man she loves. Bertha's death precedes a successful union between Rochester and Jane. When they are finally reunited, they are equal (Showalter 122). When Rochester and Jane finally get together, their relationship succeeds due to the fact that he has learned how it feels to be helpless and how to accept the help of a woman (Showalter 122). The Purpose of Sati in Jane Eyre Essay -- Jane Eyre Essays The general image of Sati and the reasoning that surrounded it filled the Western imagination with repulsion as well as admiration. In the nineteenth century, Westerners publishing diaries of their travels always included their experiences when viewing Sati. Although these travelers, usually men, watched with horror, they also admired the courage and the dignity of the women involved (Hawley 3). What was known in England of Sati was from the accounts of the colonial officials and travelers who witnessed it (Courtright 28). It would not surprise one to assume that Charlotte Bronte, in her drive for knowledge and her stand on women's freedom, would have taken an interest in such an act; and indeed she incorporates it in Jane Eyre. In 1829, the British government prohibited the act of Sati. Twenty years later, Charlotte Bronte presents a text in which she presents the "topos of feminism in imperialism" (Perera 80). With the use of the custom of Sati, Charlotte Bronte writes a novel whic h coveys the contrast between the east and the west, the old and the new, revealed sexuality and repressed sexuality. The two characters, Jane and Bertha, each represent a different region; while Bertha represents the East and the ancient, Jane represents the new and the modern. Dorothy K. Stein finds that Sati was a motif used for feminist discussions in Victorian England: [Sati] did not occur in England, but many manifestations of the attitudes and anxieties underlying the practice did. Nineteenth-century respectability in both England and India divided women into exalted and degraded classes, not only on basis of actual or imputed sexual behavior, but also on the basis of whether that behavior was at all times controlled and supervised, pref... ... the anger that she had expressed as a young girl, due to the fact that her society does not accept it. This anger that she once held inside is prevelant in Bertha's act. It is in the Red Room that Jane "became increasingly alive with bristling energy, feelings, and sensations, and with all sorts of terrifying amorphous matter and invisible phantoms" (Knapp 146). This igniting energy and flow of feelings, are very similar to those that Bertha realises at Thornfield. With the death of Bertha, Jane is now able to live with the man she loves. Bertha's death precedes a successful union between Rochester and Jane. When they are finally reunited, they are equal (Showalter 122). When Rochester and Jane finally get together, their relationship succeeds due to the fact that he has learned how it feels to be helpless and how to accept the help of a woman (Showalter 122).

The House on Mango Street Cisneross Style :: House Mango Street

The House on Mango Street Cisneros's Style Sandra Cisneros's writing style in the novel The House on Mango Street transcends two genres, poetry and the short story. The novel is written in a series of poetic vignettes that make it easy to read. These distinguishing attributes are combined to create the backbone of Cisneros's unique style and structure. The novel has confused many critics and readers because it reads like poetry, yet in actuality it is a narrative. Cisneros admits that many of the vignettes are "lazy poems." This means that they could be poems if she had taken the time to finish them (Olivares 145). At many times throughout the novel the words rhyme and can almost be put to a catchy tune. For example, the chapter "Geraldo No Last Name" reads like a poem with end rhyme and a structured pattern. "Pretty too, and young. Said he worked in a restaurant, but she can't remember which one" (Cisneros 65). At the other end of the spectrum, the novel is a series of vignettes. "I would affirm that, although some of the narratives of Mango Street are 'short stories,' most are vignettes, that is, literary sketches, like small illustrations nonetheless..." says critic Julian Olivares (145). Cisneros has stated that she wants a reader to be able to pick up the novel and understand its meaning from any point within; therefore, the novel is told in a series of vignettes, each of which makes it own point. The vignettes are combined to create a larger story (Olivares 145). "Chanclas" is an example of Cisneros's sound prose vignettes. "Meanwhile that boy who is my cousin... asks me to dance and I can't" (Cisneros 47).This chapter is a literary sketch which illustrates Esperanza's insecurity about being poor. Mango Street isn't necessarily structured in chronological order. There are no drastic nor specific changes in time. The reader understands that the character is growing up, but the existing structure can be rearranged without compromising the reader's understanding. The chapters "Hips" ("They(hips) bloom like roses, I continue because it's obvious I'm the only one who can speak with any authority...") and "The First Job" ("So the next morning I put on the navy blue dress that made me look older.

Internet Users Turn Addicts :: social issues

Internet Users Turn Addicts On June 14, ABC news reported that an "internet-crazed" Cincinnati woman was arrested for neglecting her three young children. The woman reportedly spent 12 hours straight online, while her hungry kids were locked away in one room so she could be online without interruption. The three kids were placed in county custody while the mother was tossed in jail. The Internet is rapidly becoming an addictive source to a lot of its users. Users of the Internet include students, housewives, and business professionals. Some of these Internet users spend a minimum of thirty-eight hours per week on the "net"; hence, losing touch with reality and reeking havoc on their studies, family lives or careers. Individuals such as these are classified as "Internet Addicts." Based on level of addiction, there are three groups of Internet addicts: i) the "I'm-not-addicted users," ii) the "I-only-use-it-when-I-have-to-users" and iii) the "Internet junkies." The "I'm-not-addicted users" are the users who try to convince themselves that they are not addicted to the Internet. This group includes college students who don't go online during the day to prove to fellow students that they can do without getting online; only, to stay up all night in a chat room online. Or businesspeople who stay after office hours to supposedly get a late report done; only, to stay online until the security guy's ready to lock up the building. Or husbands who stay offline all day, only to get online for hours after their family members are asleep. These users are addicts but portray themselves otherwise in the presence of people. Next, are "the I-only-use-it-when-I-have-to-users." These users make convenient excuses to use the Internet. Mothers who claim they have to visit their child's school's website, to read the highlights of the last PTA meeting, while they could have waited for the minutes of the meeting in the mail. They end up staying online for hours. Or college students who insist on checking out the ratings of a movie online, using this as an excuse to stay online for hours; while they could have looked in the local newspaper. Or businesspeople who use checking for e-mail, as an excuse to get online; even though, the computer announces when there's new mail. These addicts make excuses to justify their use of the Internet. The third group of Internet users is the "Internet junkies." Unlike addicts in the previous two groups, these users neither sneak online nor make excuses to get online.

Great Traditions In Ethics Essay

The overcoming of the fear of death figures as a key component of Epicurean philosophy. Because the Epicureans valued above all other accomplishments, the living of a good life and that â€Å"pleasure is the end of all morality and that real pleasure is attained through a life of prudence, honor, and justice† the acknowledgment in Epicurean philosophy that the fear of death intrudes upon individual happiness is not at all the same as admission that fear of death is an insurmountable condition, (â€Å"Epicureanism†). To the contrary, the epicurean philosophy seeks forts to identify the root causes of the fear of death, which are: â€Å"1) The fear of being dead. 2) The fear that one will die, that one’s life is going to end. 3) The fear of premature death. 4) The fear of the process of dying† and for each of these considerations, Epicurean philosophy provides a response. The intention of epicurean philosophy is to persuade its adherents that â€Å"death is not bad for the person who dies although death is inevitable and is the total annihilation of that person†; despite the belief in â€Å"total annihilation† Epicurus held no regard for death itself. The basic center of the Epicurean refusal to fear death lies in the epicurean belief that â€Å"God should not concern to us. Death is not to be feared† and these facts are unchangeable despite one’s subjective, emotional reactions. because death means the end of consciousness and the total annihilation of the individual, nothing exists beyond death which may cause fear at all,(Warren 4-7). It is only by admitting the fear of death and addressing it straight on through applied logic rather than religion or mysticism that the fear of death can be conquered. The Epicureans regarded the overcoming of the fear of death â€Å"at the very heart of their ethical project. They identified the goal of a good life as the removal of mental and physical pain. Mental pain they further characterized as anxieties and fears† because fear of death causes pain to the individual it must be overcome and it can be overcome by logical acceptance of the fact that death holds no pain for the person who experiences it. (Warren 6) Just as the fear of death prevented many individuals from achieving happiness in life, justice (or lack thereof) provides enmity to happiness in the Epicurean ethical tradition. For Epicurus, laws and justice are a matter of personal bearing and dignity as well as intelligence and experience. Under an Epicurean ethic, in a â€Å"world full of Epicurean sages there would be no need for written prescriptive laws. Everyone in that case would be able to see and remember what contributes to the utility of the community and would act accordingly† (Warren 183). The idea of breaking a rule of justice is wrong because it causes the eventual pain or threat of pain or disturbance to oters’ happiness as well as one’s own. Unlike Epicurus, St. Augustine sees the need for rigid law to control human society and he envisions this law emanating directly fro the Divine. In his distinction between the â€Å"City of God† and the â€Å"City of Men† he makes clear that the â€Å"church is divinely established and leads humankind to eternal goodness, which is God† and that in the ideal city, â€Å"The state adheres to the virtues of politics and of the mind, formulating a political community. Both of these societies are visible and seek to do good. † (Bonner 54) By contrast, the City of Man exists to serve selfishly driven needs and does not partake of the Divine spirit of creation and Divine Law. † The idea of self-love against the love of God separates the two cities an idea which â€Å"springs from what Augustine was afterwards to regard in The City of God as the architect of the Earthly City–love of self to the contempt of God† (Bonner 54).