Saturday, August 22, 2020

How to Add Emphasis to Your Writing

The most effective method to Add Emphasis to Your Writing The most effective method to Add Emphasis to Your Writing The most effective method to Add Emphasis to Your Writing By Mark Nichol A few people consider italics and boldface type and quotes, when they’re utilized other than as discourse markers to be simply such huge numbers of boisterous extravagant accessories. They regularly are, when they’re abused, however when they’re utilized accurately and deliberately, they impart solid signs. The accompanying guidelines apply fundamentally for books and magazines. 1. Italics Italics, in view of penmanship content, serve a few capacities. They distinguish the titles of independent imaginative works like books, movies and TV arrangement, and compositions. In any case, portions of organizations parts, scenes of TV appears, short sonnets gathered into compilations, and such are encased in quotes. They mean a word that would be focused whenever spoken: â€Å"Stop the vehicle I truly need to go to the bathroom.† They demonstrate a word being presented as itself, not as a thought: â€Å"Write, right, and ceremony are completely articulated identically.† Terms of more than single word are regularly encased in quotes, yet this organization may look ungainly when utilized conflictingly close by single emphasized words, so self-alluding phrases are frequently stressed too (â€Å"it’s majority, not rank in file†). They likewise recognize letters utilized thusly: â€Å"The letter n on that sign is backward.† Yet, letters contrasted with shapes (â€Å"turn directly at the Y in the road†; â€Å"I viewed an elegant V of geese fly overhead†) are set in roman sort. (The lowercase term roman alludes to the default type style.) The equivalent is valid for names of letters utilized in articulations (â€Å"dot your i’s and cross your t’s†). They signal the utilization of a new remote term: â€Å"The Roman legatus was what might be compared to a general in an advanced army.† Note, in any case, that numerous words you may believe are remote have been embraced into English, that generally inviting of dialects. Check your dictionary’s primary area (not the remote words index); if an outside term shows up there, no italics are fundamental. Likewise, outside formal people, places or things need no accentuation. The general guideline for reiteration of outside terms is to stress on first reference just, and leave them in roman sort when they repeat. Utilize your judgment, however, contingent upon the recurrence and interim of repeat. 2. Boldface Boldface lettering is best saved for show type (part and segment titles and so forth). In any case, they’re regularly utilized in reading material and other learning materials to underline recently presented terms, for example, those that would show up in a glossary or be on a jargon test. Something else, this sort style is the printed or posted likeness yelling. 3. Quotes Quotes are regularly utilized as what are called alarm cites - accentuation markers that impart oddity, incongruity, or a nontraditional utilization of a word or expression. Scholars abuse alarm cites. With the exception of in unique cases, they should confide in perusers to comprehend the abnormal utilization of a word or expression. The setting in â€Å"I played dumb,† for instance, blocks the requirement for a visual clue to the peruser that the writer’s idiocy was a demonstration, however â€Å"I had a ‘fit’ so she’d go away† may require an unpretentious sign that the fit of rage was pretended. (Fit shows up in single, not twofold, quotes here in light of the fact that they’re utilized inside twofold statements.) Papers customarily discard accentuation since arranging it is tedious, and many sites have a similar arrangement, yet the numerous special cases in the two cases or utilizing quotes instead of italics, as regularly observed on this site recognize that italics and reasonable utilization of boldface and alarm cites help understanding. Just don’t have a fit and go â€Å"overboard.† Need to improve your English in a short time a day? Get a membership and begin getting our composing tips and activities day by day! Continue learning! Peruse the Punctuation classification, check our well known posts, or pick a related post below:100 Words for Facial ExpressionsList of Greek Words in the English LanguageNominalized Verbs

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

Should I Bundle or Unbundle my Products

Should I Bundle or Unbundle my Products © Shutterstock.com | DSBfotoIn this article, we will try to answer whether you should bundle or unbundle products by 1) providing a brief overview on product bundling, 2) an overview on unbundling products, and 3) a conclusion whether to bundle or unbundleyour products.PRODUCT BUNDLING: AN OVERVIEWProduct bundling is a procedure or process of clubbing or combining two or more products to form greater value and to create a level of differentiation. In the context of marketing, this process is followed by packaging together several products, services or components to create a bundled solution. The main idea behind product bundling is that consumers or customers always value a group of products more than a single item. This is a strategy or technique that is mostly applied in imperfectly competitive marketplaces or industries. Some of the common industries that may use this method include financial services, information, telecommunications and health care.Product Bundling is being foll owed for a long time, but it has increasingly become popular in the last few years because it enables businesses to overcome the acquisition costs. This technique is not only beneficial for businesses but also for customers but only if done correctly. The main reason why product bundling is often considered beneficial by organizations is because it helps them offer a diverse product mix to consumers, while minimizing the costs. Since product bundles are more attractive to consumers, they tend to go for them and this in turn benefits the businesses.One of the most popular examples of a product bundle is a software pack including a word processor, presentation program, a spreadsheet, etc. In other terms, such bundles are also known as package deals. Even electronics retailers may offer attractive product bundles to attract consumers. A good example of such a bundle is of a computer system with keyboard, mouse, cables, printers and antivirus protection. Banks, restaurants, hospitals, i nsurance companies and many other entities to offer product bundles for minimizing costs and raising profits. Restaurants like McDonalds are known for their value packs called ‘Happy Meals’ which consist of small portions of different items like burgers, fries, cold drink and a toy. These value packs too are an example of product bundling.Four variables to take into consideration for product bundlingQuantity If you wish to engage in the method of product bundling, then you will need to take into consideration the quantity of items to be combined. You will need to strategically decide how many items or service options must be included in the bundle to attract consumers and minimize the costs.Margins It is a fact that product bundling can greatly reduce the margins. The product combination, the method of combination and other similar things should be taken into consideration so that the margin is not reduced considerably.Risk One must pay attention to the fact that there is hug e risk in product bundling technique or strategy. If it is not executed properly, bundling can reduce chances of profitable sales and may lower the contribution margins as well.Exposure Product bundling is a technique that can provide new channel chances, as well as increase exposure to new consumers.Types of product bundlingThere are several types of product bundling techniques and strategies, and the following are the main types:Pure bundling Pure bundling is the kind of bundling in which the consumers have the option of either purchasing the entire pack or bundle of products or services or nothing. They do not have the option to pick and choose the product components as per their wish.Mixed bundling Mixed bundling is a kind of bundling in which the customers or consumers are given a choice between either buying the entire pack of products or selecting and buying individual items from the pack.Leader bundling Leader bundling can be considered a type of pure bundling in which a consumer can avail a discount on a leader product but only if it is bought along with a non-leader item.Joint bundling This too is a kind of pure bundling in which two items or services are offered to the consumers or customers for the price of one bundle. This means that it is up to the consumers whether they want to buy the bundle items separately or for a reduced price of the bundle.Mixed leader bundling This is another kind of leader bundling in which the consumers or customers get the option of buying only the leader product without non-leader products included in the bundle.Benefits of product bundlingProduct bundling can offer several types of advantages and benefits for a business organization, and the following are some of the main benefits:Minimization of costs One of the main benefits of product bundling is that it helps a business or brand minimizes its costs by mixing products together and hence selling certain items that the consumers may not have bought otherwise. This raises profits and improves chances of selling out products that are not popular among consumers.The business benefits The strategy of product bundling can effectively raise the profits on everyday sales and over a period of time, this can result in profit for the business. By selling together several products or services, businesses tend to get or avail a much better initial return on the costs that are needed to acquire customers. When you sell the customers multiple products from your brand, then this can help create opportunities for add-on sales in the longer or extended period of time.Consumer related benefits All consumers aim to get the best combination of products and services and always aim to achieve value for money when they go shopping. What product bundling does is that it lets consumers experience a bunch of satisfactions by purchasing only one big entity. A bundled pack can help consumers meet several requirements at a reduced price and without feeling the sh opper’s guilt of buying ‘too much’. This is why product bundling proves useful or beneficial for customers as well.Other benefits Product bundling may offer consumers the experience of using certain products that they may have not bought if it wasn’t offered in the pack. This may make them accidently use or experience a product and realize its benefits. If the consumer happens to like such a product, he/she may be motivated to purchase it again. Another reason why product bundling is preferred by many businesses is because it is profitable and helps to bring down the profits of the competitor companies or businesses. This may drive the competitors from the market, thus creating a better scenario for your business.How to gain maximum benefits from Product Bundling?In spite of the many benefits of product bundling, it can also tremendously fail for certain businesses. If you take into consideration the convenience of the customers as well as the value of the bundles, then you r business can achieve long term business benefits and profits. Moreover, this can bring about a drastic positive change in the relation that you have with your customers. Thus in order to gain from product bundling; make sure you always put the consumer interest first and the benefits of the pack before your personal agenda.Also, to make the most of the product bundling technique, every business must first carefully examine and analyze the profit assumptions and revenue projections not just for the option of bundled packs but also for the unbundled options. This is exactly the reason why it is important to monitor the performance of bundling as well as the customer response and satisfaction level closely.PRODUCT UNBUNDLING: AN OVERVIEWIn the most general sense of the word, unbundling refers to the process of breaking up or disintegrating something into smaller components. The most common reference of unbundling is seen in the marketing area of businesses and industries where the br eaking apart of large sized products or services takes place in order to avoid facing a loss or reduction in sales.Unbundling is basically a phenomenon which takes place when a business that is providing a complete solution with a composition of small services and products but does not benefit from it and realizes that selling services or products individually will be much better. When businesses or entities realize that the solution that they are offering is too big for consumers, then they may choose to fragmentize the solution into individual services or products, and this is referred to as unbundling.As an effective example, in the airline industry, certain ticket providers or companies offer packaged deals and solutions to passengers that include not just the ticket but also luggage check-in, etc. But in some situations, consumers may not need to check in their luggage, and thus the deal proves ineffective. Such a deal offers more services than the majority of passengers may ne ed and hence goes obsolete. In such a scenario, the airline company may unbundle the package and offer services individually. Unbundling here proves useful not just for the company but also for the consumers who enjoy the benefit of choosing whichever service is convenient and useful to them.Variables to take into consideration for unbundlingAdditional features When a business is considering product unbundling, then one of the most important factors that it must take into consideration is that of the add-on features. Customers must always be able to purchase the basic or leader product or service and should get the option of buying the additional features as per their requirement by paying extra for them. This way, the product is optimized for personalization or customization and may appeal to all. Many computer manufacturers like Dell use this technique effectively. Rather than offering computers with specific RAM and graphic cards, the company makes it possible for consumers to g et their systems customized.Product dimension It is a great idea to reduce the product dimension when considering unbundling. By doing so, a business makes it possible for customers to buy only the features or components they need without having to pay for what they won’t need. The smaller components can be optimized for the price, and this ensures a great deal of customer satisfaction. Apple’s iTunes store is an amazing example of an entity that used unbundling to its benefit and set an example for everyone else. Unlike earlier, iTunes made it possible for consumers to buy individual songs rather than purchasing the entire music album. Thus, customers were able to save a lot on songs they didn’t like or want to buy.Usage of time If a business company or an organization uses a subscription type business model, then it can come up with a pricing structure on the basis of product and time usage. This means that customers can pay for features based on the time extent of usage a s well as the requirement for services or products. This means that those customers who need to use a service the most will be charged the most and others will be charged less, depending upon their usage.Benefits of UnbundlingLike bundling, unbundling too offers a wide range of benefits for several industries or business owners. Below are some of the main benefits or advantages of product or service unbundling:Customer satisfaction One of the greatest benefits of product unbundling is related to customer satisfaction and convenience. In certain scenarios and some industries, product unbundling proves to be excellent since it ensures that customers can buy what they want and not pay extra for what they don’t need. This gives customers the flexibility to spend on only what is useful to them. For example in the computer manufacturing business, consumers are able to get customized systems based on their requirement by paying for what they need and not wasting on what they do not like but have to buy because of lack of an option.Increase in profits Besides the satisfaction of consumers, another important benefit of product unbundling is an increase in sales and thereby profit for certain businesses. In many scenarios, a consumer may be discouraged to buy a certain product because it offers too many components or parts that are useless for him/her. In such a case, the business may experience a decrease in sales. But when unbundling takes place, consumers may begin to purchase the leader or main items, thereby shooting up the sales and thus the profits.Ease and convenience Another benefit of unbundling products or services is the ease and convenience of delivery, packaging, and sales. Unbundling products and dividing them into single components makes it very easy for businesses to deliver them, charge them and sell them. In fact, it is easier for consumers as well to pick out individual services or products rather than taking the tough decision of buying the ent ire lot.CONCLUSION: BUNDLE OR UNBUNDLE?As explained above, bundling and unbundling are effective, beneficial and useful in their respective ways. Where on one hand, product bundling is a useful marketing and sales technique for mobile connection providers, financial service providers like banks and insurance companies, and health service providers; product unbundling is a beneficial strategy for computer manufacturers, electronic retailers and airline companies etc. If you are wondering whether you should go for product bundling or product unbundling, then the answer lies only in the type of industry you belong to and the kind of products/services you are engaged in selling.Besides the product/service type and industry, some other factors that you may need to consider while choosing between bundling and unbundling include the following:Market projections It is important to take into consideration the future projections and predictions of the market and the industry.Personal sales r ecords Depending upon your sales records and figures, you may be able to figure out if the method chosen by you is working or not.Industry sales records Besides your sales records, you can also learn from the mistakes of your competitors, the success of other business in the industry and overall industry sales records as far as bundling and unbundling is concerned.Current economic climate The current economic climate and behavior also influence the choice between bundling and unbundling.Bundle components The type of components, products or services included in the bundle also matter to the end result. For example, if you combine one good product with other below average product, then the combination may not turn out to be attractive enough. Hence, it is important to be smart when combining parts.The volume of the bundle The number of components present in the bundle or service may also be important to the result.The combination of products and services in the bundle The kind o f mix that you offer to the consumers should also be smartly put together and should complement one another, resulting in a good overall package.The price of the bundle The price of the bundle is also one of the main factors that may influence the decision of the consumers.Both product bundling and unbundling depend on these factors, but the results could still be unpredictable due to several other variables governing the market and industry.

Thursday, May 21, 2020

Essay on Ernst Mayrs What Evolution Is Creationism vs...

Ernst Mayrs What Evolution Is: Creationism vs Evolution The Bible contends that God created the extant world, imposing order on the preexisting chaos. Darwins theory of evolution introduced another notion of the world, posing a great challenge to the Christian tenets. According to it, all organisms are not the creations of a supreme being, but have descended from a simple unicellular organism that somehow developed a lipid membrane, could store its genetic information and transcribe it when necessary. Darwin dared suggest that the extant world is by far not perfect or stable as depicted in the Bible, but is constantly changing. Summarizing the major points of Darwins story, Mayr does not tell a new one. So, what is the aim of What†¦show more content†¦Because niches were freed, new animal species began propagating trying to utilize the available space. In the due course of time, the species gave rise to other species and reshaped the planet, imposing an entirely new order. So, chance eventually creates order characterized by cert ain patterns of life. Like changes in the environment, the emergence of the specific patterns cannot be predicted. Examining various factors that influence populations, Mayr deduces that evolution itself depends on chance. His implications of the role of chance in the shaping of life make us reconsider our notions of knowledge of the surrounding world. If it is constantly transforming itself due to random events, can we get to know reality? Our inability to predict and forestall events undermines our confidence and feeling of safety. A fear of the unknown then emerges. Will we be able to adapt in response to the change in the environment? Will we muster enough courage to part with the past? Should we happen to fail, natural selection may act against us. The role of randomness challenges our moral beliefs as well. According to Mayrs account of Darwins theory, no species are superb to others. Because the ultimate goal of organisms is to survive and successfully reproduce, spreading their genetic material, they try to utilize more space to increase their chances. Whether species will become

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

The Mexican American War, Spanish Guerra De 1847 - 770 Words

The Mexican-American War The Mexican War, Spanish Guerra de 1847, or Guerra do Estados Unidos a Mexico, are different names for the Mexican-American War. Many incidents happened even before the war officially began. Eisenhower simply and bluntly stated: â€Å"The fact is that Mexico stood in the way of the American dream of Manifest Destiny.† Manifest Destiny was just one of the causes that pushed us to war with Mexico. The first battle was at Palo Alto, a fort that was in the disputed zone. There were many battles in 2 years. The war finally grasped an end when Mexico signed a treaty in Mexico City. With the treaty, U.S and Mexico were able to reach terms. Each proceedings that happened, brought on the war that lasted from 1846-1848 and then ended with the U.S as victors. Prior to the Mexican-American War, there were many events that lead to the cause of the war. For many years, Americans and Mexicans had very little direct contact, because they were separated by huge tracts of undeveloped territory. However, in the 19th century, the U.S began to rapidly expand westward. By 1819, U.S had gained the Louisiana Territory and also the Arkansas and Missouri Territories, which bordered Mexican lands. American settlers began to pour into these territories. Then they began to illegally enter the sparsely inhabited Mexican territories of California, New Mexico and Texas. Mexico saw U.S expansion as a threat. A man by the name of Stephen Austin made a deal with Mexico

Conditioning Performance Analysis and Development of the Golf Swing Free Essays

string(186) " pre stretch principle usually involves a rapid change from deceleration to acceleration in the positive direction and can be best replicated by using polymeric exercises \(Chu, 1998\)\." Introduction Golf is one of the most popular sports played throughout the world and is played at all levels, form beginner to advanced pro levels. One of the great things about golf is that you can compete against anybody of any levels as long as you have a handicap. Over recent years, since Tiger Woods came on to the scene, golf has seen more of a scientific approach with most pros and even elite amateurs implementing fitness programmes into their daily routine in order to improve their performance on the course. We will write a custom essay sample on Conditioning Performance Analysis and Development of the Golf Swing or any similar topic only for you Order Now Burden et al. (1998) states that in order to optimise powerful rotational force that translates into the back of the ball via the club head, the athlete requires to produce a series of muscular contractions and joint movements that have to be precise in order to develop an efficient swing. The advantages of having an efficient and powerful golf swing will result in high ball velocity, which in turn will have a positive impact on performance. In addition, an efficient golf swing will require less effort to hit the ball the same distance when compared with someone that has less efficiency (Burden et al, 1998). It is evident from biomechanical literature that using the longest lever available will result in the greatest force being produced (Cooper et al, 1974). This can be highlighted in the game of golf, where an individual seeks to hit their longest club in the bag when they want to achieve optimal distance. At the elite level in golf, the difference between hitting the ball that extra 5 or 10 yards in the air can be huge. This could be the difference between carrying bunkers off the tee, to going for the green in 2 at a par 5. These finite differences can separate a golfer from his competitors and can be the difference between success and failure. As previously mentioned, golfers use the driver off the tee when they want to maximise distance. In contrast to this, Iron shots, chipping and putting are more about the feel that the golfer possesses, as the goal is to send the ball to a certain location with a required distance. In order to seek perfection in these categories, hand eye co-ordination is the skill required as opposed to strength and power. The purpose of this study was to identify the components of fitness that an elite amateur golfer possesses, which would provide the fundamentals for an efficient swing. A battery of tests was constructed that replicated movements in the golf drive. These tests were performed by an elite amateur and recreational club golfer, which would highlight differences between results. A training programme was then constructed for the recreational subject, which would focus on the weaknesses and try to bridge the gap between the novice and elite athlete. Athlete Name: Keith Young Gender: Male Age: 36 Height: 5’10 Weight: 85kg Handicap: +2 Club: Gullane Keith Young is regarded as one of the best amateurs in Scotland and has been for many years. Keith has played at all levels of the game, representing his county and country along the way, together with turning pro for a spell earlier in his career. Keith was chosen for this project due to his past experience of competing at the top level, which will enable a true comparison to be drawn between an elite and novice golfer. Novice/Control Name: Stuart Brown Gender: Male Age: 39 Height: 5’9 Weight: 80kg Handicap: 15 Club: Glencorse Stuart has been playing golf for less than a year and in comparison to Keith he has a high handicap, which will enable the differences in physiological components of fitness to be highlighted in the golf swing. Needs analysis Barrentine et al. (2004) states that an efficient golf swing is a result of a sequence of muscular contractions that enables powerful rotation. Plowman and Smith (2003) define power as work divided by time. The power created in the golf swing is largely down to the strength of the muscles involved and the speed at which they contract. Large amounts of strength together with fast muscular contractions result in peak power output(McArdle et al, 2001), which essentially results in high ball velocities. In addition to the golfer requiring to produce large amounts of force into the back of the ball, it is essential that they maintain core stability throughout the swing in order to maintain efficiency and reduce the amount of energy being wasted (Hosea et al, 1990). Gatt, (1996) and Lehman, (2006) also imply that sufficient core stability will reduce the likelihood of injury and will maximise the total energy that is transmittedthrough the ball. A study by Baechle and Earle (2008) conveyed that core stability was the ability of the central muscles to control the movement of the body in the anterior and posterior directions. According to Hosea and Gatt, (1996), large levels of core stability around the abdominal and oblique area allow for an efficient transfer of power between the lower body and upper body. In contrast, low levels of core stability would result in the weaker muscle breaking down during the swing, which would result is the loss of energy and low power output. Due to the large amounts of force and torques being created during the golf swing, injury to the spine is likely if the athlete is not in the right condition. This is highlighted by Lehman, (2006) who noted that weak core stability will result in the golfer not being able to resist the large torques generated and may predispose the golfer to lower back pain. The golf swing is a complex movement and involves a sequence of coiling of the legs, hips, back, arms and the club. The power output of the golf swing is a byproduct of the power generated by the agonist and antagonist contractions, which is known as the pre stretch principle (Baechle and Earle, 2008). The pre stretch principle usually involves a rapid change from deceleration to acceleration in the positive direction and can be best replicated by using polymeric exercises (Chu, 1998). You read "Conditioning Performance Analysis and Development of the Golf Swing" in category "Essay examples" The driving distance of a golfer is well documented in studies by Doan et al, (2006) and Fletcher and Hartwell, (2004) who conveyed that you can significantly increase your driving distance, with the implementation of polymeric training. Muscle groups In the golf swing it is imperative that the golfer has a solid base, as this will provide balance for the rotation of the upper body, which will result in large amounts of torque being generated. Barrentine et al, (1994) suggests that the hamstrings, quadriceps and gluts provide the base and in turn have a large role to play in the golf swing. A solid base in the golf swing will involve a stance of shoulder width apart and a flexion at the knee of 40 degrees. To enable this knee flexion and a solid base, there will be an eccentric contraction around the quadriceps with an opposing concentric contraction in the hamstrings. Furthermore the hip rotation that goes towards the target is controlled by the quadriceps adductors and abductors. Barrentine et al. (1994), also state that it is imperative to contract the hip flexors, rotators and extensors if you want to achieve maximal club head speed, as in order to create this powerful transition between the lower and upper body, hip rotation is the vital ingredient to the cores rapid uncoiling. In the same study by Barrentine et al. (1994) they also convey that a golfer must have strong forearms if they want to achieve optimal distance off the tee. This is largely due to strong forearms being able to resist the force of the club on the way down, allowing for a delay in the rotation of the forearms, which in turn increase the torque generated and essentially results in greater performance. Methods A battery of tests was constructed for both the athlete and the novice that would replicate the movements of the muscles in the golf drive. The tests were constructed in orderto cover all components of fitness that are vital in the golf swing and can be identified as; balance, power, strength and core stability. These tests were chosen as the golf swing is a whole body movement that involves open kinetic chain movements together with contractions of the muscles (Bruder et al, 1998). The following tests were carried out at Craiglockhart Sports Centre, Edinburgh, UK. In order to ensure that there were no external factors present that could affect the validity of the results, all tests were carried out in the fitness suite and sports hall. In order to minimize the risk of injury, prior to testing, both subjects performed a 10 minute warm up to ensure heart rate was elevated and the muscles were warm (Olsen et al, 2004). In addition to this, they also replicated their own warm up that they would undergo prior to playing golf. An overhead medicine ball throw (2kg; NIKE SPARQ) was prescribed to provide replication of the hip flexors on the back swing and downswing, as this ensures that the core and torso coil before rapidly uncoiling towards the target. This plyometric exercise was chosen to ensure that a pre stretch occurred around the hip joint. Fletcher and Hartwell. (2004) implied that in order for the projection of the ball to be successful, the subject would have to start the movement form the legs and in sequence transfer this energy through the hips and arms, which would ultimately lead to the projection of the ball. Poor co-ordination and an inability to link these sequential moves efficiently would result in loss of energy, which would present a poor throw. The subject required to stand in an upright position whilst holding the ball anterior to the hip flexors. The subjects then required to keep their arms extended, whilst flexing their knees, and then extend their knees to propel the ball vertica lly with the arms in the vertical direction. The ball was thrown overhead and distance was then recorded. Each subject was given 3 familiarisation trials post warm up, where upon they would have 3 trials and the best trial would be recorded. A 45 degree incline medicine ball throw was the second plyometric test performed by both subjects. Subjects required to flex both their knees whilst holding the ball just outside of the right knee and keep their arms extended. The subjects were then instructed to rotate in the opposite horizontal direction and extend vertically, where they would propel the ball at 45 degrees in the upward direction, where upon distance would be recorded. The subjects were then required to carry out the same movement in the opposite direction, to ensure that they were both using concentric and eccentric contractions that are replicable in the golf swing (Beachle and Earle, 2008). This would also help to highlight potential weaknesses or imbalances between the dominant and non dominant sides. One of the test measure used to measure core stability was the plank. This test involves the subjects to support their own body weight with the aid of their forearms and toes in the face down position. The plank requires the back to be flat at all times, together with a gap between the ground and core muscles at all times. Subjects were required to perform these tests to failure, which could be identified as a reduction in the gap present, increased curvature of the spine or failure to maintain the tension of the core muscle which would result in falling. In addition to the front plank there is an alternative method that can be used, and is known as the side plank. This method is used to assess the strength of the oblique’s, which are present in the in both the loading of the back swing and rapid uncoiling of the downswing. Subjects were required lie on their side and support their body weight with the foot and forearm of the same side. Proper technique was deemed when the hip was raised off the ground and a straight line between the feet and head was present. This test was performed on both the left and right sides to failure, which would highlight imbalances between sides and potential areas of gain. The back plank was the last testing plank protocol used to measure core stability. This test is similar to the previous planks, however it required subjects to face upwards and hold their body weight with both their heel and forearms. Again proper technique was only deemed if there was a straight line between the legs and upper body. However this exercise not only assesses the strength of the core muscles, it tests the strength of the lower back, which is one of the main injury risks in golfers (Vad et al, 2004). A medicine ball twist to failure was the last method used to measure strength in the core muscles. This method required subjects to sit on the ground with their knees flexed at 90 degrees, whilst keeping their back straight. They would then proceed to rotate laterally on both sides, ensuring that the ball touched the ground, as this would replicate the rotation of the golf swing and would imply a plyometric effect. In order for the subject to return the ball to the ground of each side, they would require to maintain balance throughout the core muscles and erector spine. This test was performed to failure, which could be deemed when the subjects back or legs touched the ground, or the inability to enable the ball to touch the ground on consecutive occasions. Strength in the forearm is a key element in the golf swing as mentioned previously. In order to measure this, a one rep max (1RM) was calculated for the flexion/extension of the wrist. The methods of Kraemer et al, (2002) were applied to this protocol to ensure that there was a low risk of injury. These methods required subjects to perform a 5RM in a seated position with the forearm resting on the knees, being flexed at 90 degrees, whereupon the dumbbell would be moved by the flexion of the wrist. As mentioned previously, the legs are the base of the golf swing and invole a serious of concentric and eccentric contractions in the quadriceps and gluts. The strength of the lower body was measured by having the subject perform a 1RM seated leg press, where the knees were flexed at 90 degrees and extension of the knee provided the subjects maximum strength in the gluts, quads and knee joint. In addition to this, a 1RM of the back squat to parallel was calculated for the subjects using the established 5RM protocol provided by Kraemer et al. (2002). The back squat required the subject to hold an Olympic bar (20kg; Eleiko, Sweeden) just below the back of the neck in the upper trapezius region. Whilst keeping the back straight, the subject was instructed to squat down until there was a flexion of 90 degrees at the knee. This position was addressed in advance to the test with familiarisation trial and a safety bar being placed at the 90 degree position. The parallel squat was used as Be achle and Earle. (2008) imply that this test is a true measure of whole body strength and is also deemed to be safer than testing for strength during the midpoint of the squat. This test was found to be relevant as it replicates the golf swing as a whole body movement, with the muscle and joints having to work in sequence to provide efficiency. Results Table 1: Battery of test results Exercise Athlete Novice Leg Press260kg195kg Back Squat135kg110kg Overhead Med. Ball Throw45 ft.46 ft. 45 Â °Med. Ball Throw Left51ft. 40ft. 45 Â °Med. Ball Throw Right45.9 ft. 37 ft. Med. Ball Twist45 reps. 42 reps. Wrist Flexion27 kg. 26 kg. Wrist Extension11 kg. 9 kg. Plank3 minutes 4 seconds. 2 minutes 42 seconds. Side Plank Left3 minutes 15 seconds. 1 minute 45 seconds. Side Plank Right2 minutes 30 seconds. 1 minute 52 seconds. Reverse Plank2minutes 42 seconds. 1 minutes 43 seconds. Figure 1: Measures of core stability. Time to failure measured in seconds. Figure 2: Measure of rotational power, distance measure in feet. Discussion The results illustrated above highlight that generally the elite golfer outperformed the novice golfer. In order to establish the differences between the two performers, components of fitness were put into different categories, of which were, power, core stability and strength. Due to the demands that strength training places on the body, it was agreed that flexibility work would be incorporated on a daily basis to ensure there was no restriction in range of motion. Strength As mentioned previously, power and strength are 2 key components in achieving a successful golf drive. Beachle and Earle. (2008) define strength as the ability to exert maximal force at a given velocity and in turn Kraemer et al. (2002) Portray they theory that in order to develop power, it is essential to have a strength base. Kraemer et al. (2002) also noted that individuals must train at intensities higher than 80% of their 1RM in order to seek optimal rewards. Strength training would therefore be incorporated into the programme prior to the commencement of the power phase. The use of closed kinetic chain exercises would be employed as Kraemer and Ratamess, (2004) implies these compound movements enhance the production of muscular force. Power Plowman and Smith (2003)defined power as the product of force and velocity. Therefore, it is imperative when constructing a training programme to take into consideration both elements (Kraemer and Ratamess, 2004). During the power phase the athlete should attempt to lift the same loads they were lifting in the strength phase (80% 1RM) but should attempt to do this at high speeds. Furthermore, the power production phase should involve the athlete lifting lighter loads (60% 1RM) at maximal velocity (Power and Howley, 2009). Research within the literature (Beachle and Earle, 2008; Kraemer et al, 2002; Kraemer and Ratamess, 2004) suggests that maximal power production be addressed with the use of both heavy and light loads at maximal velocity. Core stability As illustrated in the results section, the elite athlete possessed higher levels of core stability when compared to the novice. In order to minimise the risk of injury and achieve optimal performance, core strength training has to be prescribed in the exercise training programme (Baechle and Earle, 2008). The goal is to increase the neuromuscular strength or the core and enhance endurance, rather than focussing on shear muscle fore, as inexperience in this area can lead to injury (Kraemer and Ratamess, 2004). Exercise prescription The control subject did not employ a training programme prior to testing or at any stage in the last couple of years, therefore this training programme would not disrupt any progression with any other physical components. Following the guideline of Kraemer et al. (2006) it was decided that the control subject would exercise 3 days per week. This would enable the subject to have sufficient rest periods between sessions and allow for adaptation to occur (Power and Howley, 2009). The programme was prescribed in order to initiate the development of strength prior to the inclusion of the power phase, with development of core stability and maintenance of flexibility being incorporated throughout. All exercises with the exception of core stability were to be performed to 3 sets of 8; with a 2 minute rest period in between sets. The series of core exercises were prescribed to be performed for 4 sets of 25 reps and a 1 minute rest was deemed to be sufficient for recovery. In order for physiological adaptation to occur, each training phase was prescribed for a period of 4 weeks, as Kraemer and Ratamess (2004) state this period of time is sufficient enough to allow for adaptation to the training stimulus. Table 2: Strength development – Phase 1. Day One Day Two Day Three Deadlift Unilateral dumbbell bench press Squat Bent over row Shoulder lateral dumbbell raises Triceps kickbacks Core stability series Shoulder rear dumbbell raises Forearm curls/extensions Flexibility series Core stability series Core stability series – Flexibility series Flexibility series The commencement of exercises prescribed in phase 2 could only be employed post phase 1, with the subject having adapted and now having a strength base. The goal in the power phase as noted by Kraemer and Ratamess. (2004) would be to apply maximal force at maximal velocity. In order to enhance power, it was deemed appropriate to reduce the weight to 60% of the athletes 1RM, as this would enable the load to be lifted at a higher velocity. All of the prescribed exercises were performed to 4 sets of 5 with 2 minutes rest, with the exception of the core, which was performed to 4 sets of 30. Table 3 – Power – phase 2 Day OneDay TwoDay Three Deadlift? Jump squatOne arm dumbbell snatch Bent over rowHang pullTricep kickbacks Unilateral dumbbell bench pressLateral medicine ball throw (off rebounder/wall)Forearm curls/extensions Core stability seriesCore stability seriesCore stability series Flexibility seriesFlexibility seriesFlexibility series The purpose of phase 3 was to divide the week into 2 different components, of which 2 sessions would be on each. The sessions would be based on strength/power and ballistic/speed exercises. On the force production days, it was deemed imperative to perform all exercises for 3 reps and 5 sets, as Kraemer and Ratamess (2004) implies that this will enable maximal force production. The introduction of fast force sessions was incorporated to enhance power by moving heavy loads at high velocities. These sessions were to be performed for 5 sets and 3 reps, with 2 minutes rest in between. The speed exercises were employed to be performed with light weights (30-60% 1RM) which is highlighted in the study by Kraemer and Ratamess (2004). These exercises were in accordance with the same set and reps of the fast force sessions. The core exercises increased from 4 sets to 5, whilst keeping the reps the same. Table 4: Maximal power – Phase 4. Day One/MaxForceDay Two/SpeedDay Three/Fast ForceDay Four/Speed Deadlift60m sprintHang pull60m sprint SquatHang clean? jump squatOne arm dumbbell snatch Forearm curls/extensionsCore stability seriesSeated Russian twist with weight plateLateral medicine ball throw (off rebounder/wall) Triceps kickbacksCore stability seriesFlexibility seriesCore stability series Flexibility seriesFlexibility series–Flexibility series Conclusion It is evident from all of the above, that in order to have efficiency in the golf drive, physiological components of fitness need to be addressed. With the comparison of the elite and novice golfer, noticeable difference can be highlighted and therefore shortfalls in the the novice are highlighted. A training programme can then be adopted following guidance within the literature and taking into account current fitness levels of the individual. This training programme aims to address the weaknesses in the novice golfer and provide a physiological basis for improvement taking into account the understanding of scientific literature. How to cite Conditioning Performance Analysis and Development of the Golf Swing, Essay examples

Friday, April 24, 2020

Introduction of Ikea free essay sample

Introduction of IKEA IKEA   is a  privately held, international home products  retailer  that sells  flat pack  furniture, accessories, and bathroom and kitchen items in their retail stores around the world. The company, which pioneered flat-pack design furniture at affordable prices, is now the worlds largest furniture retailer. [3] IKEA was founded in 1943. Currently, the company is owned by a  Dutch-registered foundation that is believed to be controlled by the Kamprad family. IKEA is an acronym comprising the initials of the founders name (IngvarKamprad), the farm where he grew up (Elmtaryd), and his home parish (Agunnaryd, in  Smaland, South Sweden). [4] INGKA Holding B. V. is the parent company for all IKEA Group companies, including the industrial group Swedwood, which commissions the manufacturing of IKEA furniture coming from any manufacturer worldwide (outsourcing), the sales companies that run IKEA stores, as well as purchasing and supply functions, and IKEA of Sweden, which is responsible for the design and development of products in the IKEA range. We will write a custom essay sample on Introduction of Ikea or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page INGKA Holding B. V. is wholly owned by  Stichting INGKA Foundation, which is a  non-profit  foundation  registered in  Leiden, Netherlands. The logistics centre europe is located in  Dortmund, Germany. Inter IKEA Systems B. V. in  Delft, also in the Netherlands, owns the IKEA concept and trademark, and there is a franchising agreement with every IKEA store in the world. The IKEA Group is the biggest franchisee of Inter IKEA Systems B. V. Inter IKEA Systems B. V. is not owned by INGKA Holding B. V. , but by Inter IKEA Holding S. A. egistered in  Luxembourg, which in turn is part of Inter IKEA Holding registered in the  Netherlands Antilles. The ownership of the holding companies has not been disclosed | | |[pic] | |In Hong Kong, the IKEA business started as early as in 1975. Then in 1988 Jardine Pacific acquired the franchise. The acquisition of IKEA (Hong Kong) and IKEA (Taiwan) by | |The Dairy Farm Company Ltd in 2002 brought new opportunities for business growth. With the rich retailing experience and expertise of The Dairy Farm Company Ltd, and on the| |strength of the companies histories, IKEA is ready to take off into an even brighter future. | |Today, we are one of the market leaders in home furnishing and lifestyle products. There are  3  IKEA stores in Hong Kong, giving a total retail area of 210,000 sq. ft. , where| |you can find a huge variety of functionally designed items at low, low prices. By buying in larger volumes, we can lower the prices, so our customers can save even more. |This web site gives you just a small glimpse of our exciting range there is much more at our stores! Come and be inspired and give your home a facelift! | | | Visual merchandising tips Retail visual merchandising shares many of the same principles as advertising, graphic design, and interior design — the purpose of visual merchandising is to create a logical and visually pleasing environment that will grab attention and trans late into increased sales. Visual merchandising basics are pretty easy to understand — a clean store, well lit, with merchandise displayed in neat groupings. But visual merchandising can delve deeper, focusing on the how your customers might think, feel and react to the environment that youve created. The following are a dozen tips for retail visual merchandising: 1. Take It Outside If the weathers good and youre allowed to do so, set up a display of merchandise outside your store. This can create a sense of excitement and buzz. 2. Identify Everything Customers are in a hurry. Use signage to identify not only departments but categories — this will help customers pinpoint what they need and inspire additional purchases. . Set The Mood With Your Windows Store windows are incredibly valuable merchandising territory: use them to set the mood of the event or sale youre having. This mood should match the mood your customers want to experience after buying from you: do they want excitement, romance, serenity? 4. Embrace All The Senses Great merchandising appeals to more than the eyes. Consider how your store sounds, smells, and even feels : are all of these messages youre sending with music, scents, and other environmental factors in keeping with the displays you create? You can evoke senses without addressing them directly. For example, putting a pair of red bowls and spoons with a display of a tomato soup can get mouths watering! 5. Show Them How It Will Look At Home Use your displays to show customers how the merchandise will look in their home. For example, if youre selling jewelry, present it in the gift box, perhaps with some curls of ribbon still clinging to the box a row of pans hanging neatly. Many customers cant envision merchandise in application — when they see a pan in a box, for example, they see a pan in a box. But put that same pan on a faux stovetop, with a cheerful checkered potholder and a pair of wineglasses nearby with a stack of cook books, and suddenly that pan is something more: its a potential romantic dinner for two, just waiting to be whipped up. 6. Group Like With Like Organize your store logically: customers should be able to find all of one type of merchandise easily. Create groupings within categories, so all the merchandise that is one color, type, price or size is positioned together. 7. Group By Lifestyle Display merchandise from several categories that all share the same theme — in the appropriate environment setting. For example, in an office supply store, a display could reflect the workplace of a high-tech wizard, pairing together the right steel and glass desk with cutting edge accessories centered around the computer, or a classic CEO suite, with old school green glass lamps on a heavy walnut desk, replete with blotter. 8. Use the Spotlight Lighting attracts customers, much like moths to the flame! Dramatic lighting doesnt have to be expensive: well placed spotlights can draw attention to key pieces of merchandise. Make sure to use spotlights within your store as well as in the windows! 9. Change Your Displays Often! A great display is a great display — the first time the customer sees it. But what if the customer sees that same display next week, and the week after that? Suddenly the display is not so great. Its boring; the same-old, same-old. Customers dont come back to boring stores! Plan on changing your displays with the seasons. Even better is to do so weekly. 10. Use color Strong color can have strong results: plan your displays around a central color that pops and captures the customers attention. Try to have a different color every season (or every week if you can). If youve used yellow as your central color this season, go with purple or blue next time — not red or orange. 11. Integrate Motion Merchandise that moves will catch the eye. If you have anything that moves — from clocks to toys to music boxes, take one out and set it up. Let customers see it working. If your merchandise is more static, bring motion into the store with a mobile, fan, etc. 12. Remember the Rule of Three Whenever you create a display, work in sets of three. If youre arranging merchandise by height, have a tall, taller, tallest. If something is squat and round, have a fat, fatter, fastest. You can even group by price: good, better, best displays works surprisingly well. Category Management  is a retailing concept in which the range of products sold by a  retailer  is broken down into discrete groups of similar or related products; these groups are known as product categories (examples of grocery categories might be: tinned fish, washing detergent, toothpastes). Each category is run as a mini business (Business Unit) in its own right, with its own set of turnover and/or  profitability  targets andstrategies. Introduction of Category Management in a business tends to alter the relationship between  retailer  and  supplier: instead of the traditional adversarial relationship, the relationship moves to one of  collaboration, exchange of information and data and joint business building. The focus of all supplier negotiations is the effect on turnover of the category as whole, not just the sales of individual products. Suppliers are expected, indeed in many cases, mandated to only suggest new product introductions, a new  planogram  or promotional activity if it is expected to have a beneficial effect on the turnover or profit of the total category and be beneficial to the shoppers of that category. [1] The concept originated in  Grocery  (Mass merchandising) retailing, but has expanded to other retail sectors such as  DIY,  Cash and Carry,Pharmacy/Drugstore and Book retailing. [2] Contents | |  [hide] | |1  Definition of Category Management | |2  Rationale for Category Management | |3  Definition of a Category | |4  The Category Management 8 Step Process | |5  Category Captains | |6  Governmental concerns about Category Management | |7  Category Management Association | |8  See also | |9  References | [edit]Definition of Category Management Category Management lacks a single definition thus leading to some ambiguity even among industry professionals as to its exact function. Three comparative mainstream definitions are as follows: Category Management is a process that involves managing product categories as business units and customising them [on a store by store basis] to satisfy customer needs. (Nielsen)[3] The strategic management of product groups through trade partnerships which aims to maximise sales and profit by satisfying consumer and shopper needs  (Institute of Grocery Distribution)[4] [a] .. marketing strategy in which a full line of products (instead of the individual products or brands) is managed as a strategic business unit (SBU). (Business Dictionary)[5] The Nielsen definition, published in 1992, was a little ahead of its time in that customising product offerings on a store by store basis is logistically difficult and is now not considered a necessary part of Category Management; it is a concept now referred to as  micromarketing. Nevertheless, most grocery retailers will segment stores at least by size, and select product assortments accordingly. Wal*Marts Store of the Community, implemented in North America is one of the few examples of where product offerings are tailored right down to the specific store. [6] [edit]Rationale for Category Management One key reason for the introduction of Category Management was the retailers desire for suppliers to add value to their (i. e. the retailers) business rather than just the suppliers own. For example, in a category containing brands A and B, the situation could arise such that every time brand A promoted its products, the sales of brand B would go down by the amount that brand A would increase, resulting in no net gain for the retailer. The introduction of Category Management imposed the condition that all actions undertaken, such new  promotions, new products, re-vamped  planogram, introduction of  Point of Sale  advertising  etc. were beneficial to the retailer and the shopper in the store. A second reason was the realisation that only a finite amount of profit could be milked from price negotiations and that there was more profit to be made in increasing the total level of sales. A third reason was that the collaboration with the supplier meant that suppliers expertise about the market could be drawn upon, and also that a considerable amount of workload in developing the category could be delegated to the supplier. [7] [edit]Definition of a Category The Nielsen definition of a category, used as the basic definition across the industry is that the products should meet a similar consumer need, or that the products should be inter-related or substitutable. [8]  The Nielsen definition also includes a provision that products placed together in the same category should be logistically manageable in store (for example there may be issues in having room-temperature and chilled products together in the same category even though the initial two conditions are met). However, this definition does not explain how the process often works in practical retailing situationsm, where  demographic  or marketing considerations take precedence. [edit]The Category Management 8 Step Process [pic] [pic] The Category Management 8 Step Process The industry standard model for Category Management is the 8-step process, or 8-step cycle developed by the Partnering Group. [9]. The eight steps are shown in the diagram on the right; they are  : 1. Define the Category (i. e. what products are included/excluded). 2. Define the role of the category within the retailer. 3. Assess the current performance. 4. Set objectives and targets for the category. 5. Devise an overall Strategy. 6. Devise specific tactics. 7. Implementation. 8. The eighth step is one of review which takes us back to step 1. The 8-step process, whilst being very comprehensive and thorough has been criticized for being rather too unwieldy and time-consuming in todays fast-moving sales environment; in one survey only 9% of supplier companies stated they used the full 8-step process. [10]  The current industry trend is for supplier companies to use the standard process as a basis to develop their own more streamlined processes, tailored to their own particular products[11] Market Research company Nielsen has a similar process based on only 5 steps  : Reviewing the Category, Targeting consumers, Planning merchandising, Implementing strategy, Evaluating results. [edit]Category Captains It is commonplace for one particular supplier into a category to be nominated by the retailer as a Category Captain. The Category Captain will be expected to have the closest and most regular contact with the retailer and will also be expected to invest time, effort, and often financial investment into the strategic development of the category within the retailer. In return, the supplier will gain a more influential voice with the retailer. The Category Captain is often the supplier with the largest turnover in the category. Traditionally the job of Category Captain is given to a  brand  supplier, but in recent times the role has also gone to particularly switched-on  Private label  suppliers. [12] In order to do the job effectively, the supplier may be granted access to a greater wealth of data-sharing, e. g. more access to an internal sales database such as  Walmarts Retail Link. [edit]Governmental concerns about Category Management Many governments have viewed increased collaboration between suppliers and retailers as a potential source of  antitrust  breaches, such as  price fixing. For example the UK  Competition Commission[13]  has raised their issues on market distortion in principle. They have also acted on milk price-fixing in Britain. [14] [edit]Category Management Association The Category Management Association (CMA), is a professional Association with members that come from a broad range of strategic insights and planning functions. It connects members with category managment peers around the world, is a central resource for catman information and best practices, and is the only group certifying coursework and category management professionals according to recognized industry standards. It was formed in 2004.