Mkt360 Exam 2 Review Essay Example

Mkt360 Exam 2 Review Essay Review Fall 2011 IMPORTANT CONCEPTS Chapter 5 1. Does cultural adaptation require that businesspeople give up their customs when working overseas? Depends 2. What are Cultural Imperatives? Cultural Electives? Cultural Exclusives? Imperatives: social relations, etc. Electives: optional customs Exclusives: customs only for locals, you do not participate. 3. What is Edward T. Hall’s theory of cultural context and linguistic communication? There are non verbal accents of communication that need to be paid attention to. 4. How does communication differ in high context from low context cultures? Low context information is explicit, with words carrying the entirety of the message and written formal specifications. Awards are competency based. IN a high context information is implicit, including non verbal cues. Awards are trust/recommendation based. 5. What are Edward T. Hall’s silent languages? What is m-time? What is p-time? The silent languages are of time, space, things, friendship and agreements. M-time (Monochronic) – divide time into small units and are concerned with promptness. Concentrate on singular tasks at a time. Low context P-Time (Polychronic) – simultaneous occurrence of many things. High context 6. What is the difference between bribery and extortion? Bribery is when the payment is offered voluntarily to an official to gain unlawful advantage, while extortion is when an official extracts payment from a person under duress for something which they are lawfully entitled to. 7. What is the difference between lubrication and subornation? Lubrication deals with small sums of money, given to low-ranking officials (which is not prohibited in some countries) while subornation deals with large sums of money given to officials (higher rank) in order to commit illegal acts. . What does the U. S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) forbid and what does it allow? Forbids US companies from engaging in bribery of any kind in foreign countries, however it does allow lubrication. 9. What is the position of the FCPA on the use of agent’s fees to facilitate bribery? The use of agent’s fees as intermediaries to pay bribes is prohibited. Chapter 6 – The Politic al Environment 1. What is sovereignty? Under what conditions do nations give up part of their sovereignty? The power that a nation has to govern its people and territory without interference from the outside. . What is extraterritoriality? Name 2 U. S. laws that are extraterritorial. When a nation makes its laws to apply outside of a territory. Ex. Sherman Antitrust Act, IRS Tax Laws, Helms-Burton Act, Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. 3. What is the main political condition Multi-National Corporations (MNC’s) want when working overseas? Predictability and stability of government policies. 4. What is Confiscation? Expropriation? Domestication? Confiscation: Taking away; no payment. Expropriation: Take over the property but some reimbursement. We will write a custom essay sample on Mkt360 Exam 2 Review specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Mkt360 Exam 2 Review specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Mkt360 Exam 2 Review specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Domestication: transfer to national control. 5. When do countries use exchange controls and how are they applied? When a nation faces shortages of foreign exchange and/or substantial amount of capital is leaving the country. Multiple rates levied over all movements of capital to regulate trade in specific commodities and block repatriation of profits. 6. What is a local-content law? A certain percentage of the imported product must contain locally made parts. 7. What is an import license and when do countries require them? Permission to import a product. Required when trying to force foreign industry to purchase more supplies within the host country and thereby create markets for local industry. 8. When do countries use price controls and how are they applied? Done to control inflation. Applied as a limitation on the maximum price you can charge on a product. 9. What types of products are more at risk politically in a foreign country? Those which are â€Å"politically sensitive† or perceived to effect environment, exchange rates, security, welfare and health are subject to more debate. 10. What are some of the strategies that you can follow to lessen political risk overseas? -Joint VenturesInvestment Base Expansion Control of Marketing and DistributionLicensing Planned Domestication*Political Payoffs 11. What agencies provide political-risk insurance to U. S. companies working overseas? 1- Foreign Credit Insurance Association: insures against nonpayment risk caused by financial, economic or political uncertainties. 2-Agency fo r International Development: limited protection on certain projects and products. 3-Overseas Private Investment Corporation: provides risk insurance for companies investing in less developed countries. Chapter 7 – The International Legal Environment 1. What are the differences between the patent laws of the US and Japan? In the US patent protection is to protect the inventor, filing is secret, quick and provides long period of protection; Japan patents benefit society, public filing, long process with short time of protection. 2. What kind of product pricing strategy was Wal-Mart not allowed to use in Germany? They could not use their Loss-leader pricing because pricing certain products below cost was determined as dumping. 3. What is the law on many European countries on the use of comparative advertising? When a business says a product is better than their competitors. It is not allowed. 4. What is the basis for Common Law? In what countries is it presently used? Basis is tradition, past practices, legal precedents set by courts. Through interpretation of statutes, legal legislation and past rulings. US, England, Canada, English influenced countries. 5. How is ownership of intellectual property determined in Common Law? Ownership is determined by first to use. 6. What is the basis for Code Law? In what countries is it presently used? Comprehensive system of written rules or codes. Divide into 3 separate codes for various situations: Comercial/Code/Criminal. Found in majority of countries (70) 7. How is ownership of intellectual property determined in Code Law? Ownership is determined by first to register. 8. What is the basis of Islamic Law? In what countries is it presently used? Based on interpretation of the Quran and the teaching of Muhammad. Religious duties, obligations, secular aspect, social behavior, economic behavior. Found in 27 Islamic countries. 9. What is the basis for Socialist Law? Law is subordinate to economic conditions. 10. What is International Law? There is no â€Å"international† law; The rules and principles that states and nations consider binding unto themselves. 11. How is International Law created? Collection of treaties, conventions, and agreements between nations that have, more or less, the force of law. 12. What is the ISO and why do its standards have the effect of International Law? International Organization for Standardization. ISO9000 quality management. ISO14000 concerned with environment management. 13. What kind of standard is the ISO developing for the WTO and why is it needed? 14. What is the difference between a Patent, a Trademark, and a Copyright? Patent: a government grant of certain rights given to an inventor for a limited time in exchange for the disclosure of the invention. Trademark: that portion of a brand that is given legal protection-cannot be copied. Copyright: protects the writings of an author against copying. 15. What is the international Patent Protection System that covers the most countries? Protects inventions and prevents sale by others; simplify application procedures. 16. What Patent protection does the Paris Union give? 1 year protection to register in other member countries (US + 100 countries) 17. What Trademark protection does the Paris Union give? 6 months protection to register in other member countries. 18. What does the Berne Convention of 1886 protect? Protects literary and artistic works of authors. What is the minimum copyright protection it provides? Life +50 years however members may choose to provide longer. What is the length of copyright protection in the EU? In the USA? In the EU life +70 years. In the US Life+70 years for individual works. Life +75-95 years for corporate authorship. 19. What is the WTO agreement on TRIPs? What 2 intellectual property protection systems does it combine? Trade Regulated Intellectual Property Rights. Covers copyrights, patents, trademarks, trade secrets, industrial designs, geographical indicia, and integrated circuit layouts. Includes intellectual property pertection of Berne Convention Paris Union. 20. What is a â€Å"geographical indicia† and why is it important to marketers? The indication of a geographical origin of a product i. e. Champagne. Important because it is a part of the brand. 21. What does the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act prohibit? Prohibits bribery of any foreign official or person who will influence an official or party. 22. How does the Omnibus Trade Reconciliation Act modify the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act? What 2 affirmative defenses does it allow? Modifies to allow payment to expedite â€Å"routine governmental action† 2 defenses are the payment was lawful under the law of the foreign officials country and the payment was a reasonable expenditure directly related to the promotion of products or services. 23. How does the Sherman Act affect mergers or acquisitions in foreign countries? Prohibits monopolies or attempts to monopolize the activities of US companies overseas through mergers or acquisitions that would lessen competition back in the USA. 4. What law is an exception to the Sherman Act by allowing competing firms to collaborate in export activities? Webb Pomerane law. 25. What is jurisdiction in a legal dispute? What court will hear the case and have power over the parties in its decision. 26. How much power does a mediator have over the parties in a dispute being resolved by concili ation? Has the power of suggestion and nothing more. 27. How much power does an arbitrator have over the parties in a dispute being resolved by arbitration? parties agree to abide by the ruling of an arbitrator. Chapter 8 Marketing Research 1. What is the difference between a MIS and formal market research? MIS provides a continuous flow of information about company operations and environment while MR is project specific, systematic gathering of data in the search scanning mode. 2. What is the most difficult and yet the most important step in market research? 3. What is the difference between an independent and a dependent variable in a market research hypothesis? Independent variables affect the dependent while the dependent variable is what we want to measure. 4. What is a focus group? What is its main function in market research? A group of eight to twelve participants who are led by a moderator in an in-depth discussion on one particular or concept. Purpose is to identify potential areas of future inquiry. 5. What kind of a sample is a focus group? What statistical conclusions can you infer from the opinions of a focus group? A focus group is a non statistical sample. Cannot make statistical conclusions. 6. After you determine the costs of doing the research, what should be your next decision? Will you collect primary or secondary data sources. 7. How does the methodology differ in international market research from domestic market research? It is the same as domestic however more complex due to greater scope. 8. How much secondary data is available overseas as compared to the U. S.? There is much less data available and for many countries there is only periodic info on essential data. 9. How reliable is overseas secondary data as compared to the U. S.? It is not always reliable and should be skeptic on. Example: official gov. est. often overstate/optimistic, tax avoidance results in false reports. 10. What are some of the issues you should take into consideration when comparing secondary data from one country with data from another country? Understand there is greater variation from one country to another in dates of studies, bases and methodology. 11. How do you use â€Å"back translation† when developing a questionnaire for foreign use? You translate the questionnaire from the foreign language back into the primary language to see if it matches your original questionnaire. 12. How do social organization and values in foreign countries affect collection of primary data? Reluctance to interviewing, gender roles, issues collecting info, need use of locals. 13. What is: Measurement error? Non-response error? Frame error? Random error? 1-People lie. 2- Refusal to cooperate or be reached. 3- Sample drawn differs from the target population. 4- Selected sample imperfect representation of overall pop. Chapter 9 – Economic Development and the Americas 1. What are the 5 stages of economic development according to Walt Rostow? The traditional society(The Pre-Conditions for Take-off(The Take-off(The Drive to Maturity(The Age of High Mass Consumption. 2. What are the characteristics of a More-Developed Country (MDC)? High per capita incomes. Of a Less-Developed Country (LDC)? Industrially developing countries just entering world trade with relatively low per capita incomes. Of a Least-Developed Country (LLDC)? Industrially underdeveloped, rural populated, extremely low per capita incomes. 3. What are some of the factors that have contributed to the growth of Newly Industrialized Countries (NICs)? Political stability, economic reforms, factors of production, privatization. 4. What is the role of State Owned Enterprises in the development of NICs? The place a drain on national budgets and should be privatized during economic growth. 5. What is the role of infrastructure in economic development? The quality of an infrastructure directly affects a countries economic growth potential and the ability of an enterprise to engage effectively in business. 6. How does marketing change as countries develop? The more developed an economy, the greater the variety of marketing functions demanded, and the more sophisticated and specialized the institutions become to perform marketing functions. 7. What is â€Å"economic dualism? † Having two economies in one, where there is a very wealthy class and remaining lower class. 8. What are some of the important traits of Big Emerging Markets (BEMs)? -Physically large in area and population. Have strong rates of growth -Political importance within their regions, â€Å"regional economic drivers† 9. What are some of the reasons why the world’s emerging economies did well in 2005? They were not involved in many of the high risk investments many other industrialized nations financial systems were trading in. 10. What is the pres ent economic situation of emerging markets in the Americas? High demand for commodities, low bond interest rates, and reduced spending and inflation. Social unrest, financial crises, not enough infrastructure development, high unemployment, Chinese competition.

Impromptu Speeches for ESL Learners

Impromptu Speeches for ESL Learners Impromptu speeches refer to those time when you get up in front of people and speak about a topic without preparation, or with very little preparation. Impromptu speech is a fancy phrase used to indicate speaking for an extended length of time about a topic. Practicing impromptu speeches can help you or your class prepare for at these common tasks: Weddings or other celebrationsIn class when a professor asks for your opinion about somethingJob interview questionsSmall talk at partiesExchanging opinions at business or other meetingsSpeaking in publicMaking new friends and exchanging ideas Practicing Impromptu Speeches In order to become comfortable giving impromptu speeches, practice giving impromptu speeches in front of the mirror, in class, with other students, and so on. Here are some techniques to help get used to speaking without preparation. Think in Terms of a Well Written Paragraph Although writing is not the same as speaking, there are some common characteristics relating impromptu speaking and well written paragraphs. A well written paragraph contains: An IntroductionA Main Idea or PointSupporting Evidence / ExamplesConclusion Speaking successfully about a topic should follow the same basic outline. Introduce your topic with an interesting antidote, quote, statistic or other information to catch the listeners attention. Next, state your opinion and give some examples. Finally, make a conclusion by stating why this information youve provided is relevant. Heres an example of someone stating her opinion at a party to a group of friends about a film. The language may be more idiomatic than in writing, but the structure is quite similar. Example Opinion or Impromptu Speech The new James Bond film is so exciting! Daniel Craig looks amazing and hes such a good actor. Ive heard that he does all of his own stunts. In fact, he was injured making the last film. Hes also so tough, but at the same time so suave. Have you seen the trailer in which he jumps onto a moving train and then adjusts his cufflinks! Classic Bond! Not all James Bond films are great, but its amazing how well theyve stood the test of time. Heres a breakdown of how this short opinion parallels basic paragraph structure: An Introduction s - Ive heard that he does all of his own stunts. In fact, he was injured making the last film. Hes also so tough, but at the same time so suave. Have you seen the trailer in which he jumps onto a moving train and then adjusts his cufflinks! Classic Bond!Conclusion - Not all James Bond films are great, but its amazing how well theyve stood the test of time. Clearly, this opinion would be much too informal for a written essay or business report. However, by providing structure we can speak with confidence, as well as get our points across. Give yourself 30 seconds to prepareTime yourself - try to first speak for one minute, then two minutesGet correctionsTry, try again Rules for Practice Here are some rules that I find helpful for practicing impromptu speeches on your own or in your class. If possible, get someone to help out with correction in class for both the overall structure and common grammar problems. If you dont have anyone, record yourself. Youll be surprised how quickly you improve keeping these simple tips in mind. Give yourself 30 seconds to prepareTime yourself - try to first speak for one minute, then two minutesGet correctionsTry, try again Finally, here are a number of topic suggestions to help get your started practicing impromptu speeches. Impromptu Speech Topic Suggestions Why are habits or routines helpful? / How can habits or routines lead to boredom?How does the weather affect your mood?Why did your favorite team win or lose the last game, match or competition?Why are you looking for a new job?What happened to make your break up / end your last relationship?Tell me something about a hobby or a subject in school?Why dont parents understand their children?What makes a good parent?What suggestions would you make to your boss to improve the company?If you could take a year off from work or school, what would you do?Why are governments in such trouble around the world?Why did you enjoy or not enjoy your last date?Who is your mentor, and why?What should the teachers do more / less often?Why did you do well / poorly on the last homework assignment or test?

Corporate Social Responsibility Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Corporate Social Responsibility - Assignment Example Social concerns basically focus on the issues in which the business affects the society. It is also referred to as ‘social justice’, under it the people, societies and culture are accounted for, they are protected through various social programs such as native lands, predatory lending and other forms of corporate hoarding (SRIplanner, 2011). Governance, or Corporate Governance, is not a widely known concept; however it is of major significance. It refers to the manners and ways in which a corporation is managed, incorporating issues such as transparency, executive compensation and general decision making. Hence, it reflects on how well the firm is including CSR in its policies and abiding by them (SRIplanner, 2011). 1.2. Discuss the links between an organizational Corporate Social Responsibility strategy and the organization’s internal stakeholders. The stakeholders of a business are a crucial determinant of the success of any CSR strategy. The stakeholders of a b usiness can be categorized into two broad categories of internal and external stakeholders. This section focuses on the internal stakeholders and their link with the organization CSR strategy. The internal stakeholders of any business include the shareholders, the visitors and the staff/employees of a business. Their participation in the entire strategy is a key factor for attaining success, for if the key departments or staffs do not understand the program, then they would not support it enthusiastically, therefore an error in communication with internal stakeholders or lack of their involvement can bring down the entire CSR strategy by making it weak from the inside. The offices from which the staff operates should show that the firm is...The stakeholders of a business are a crucial determinant of the success of any CSR strategy. The stakeholders of a business can be categorized into two broad categories of internal and external stakeholders. This section focuses on the internal s takeholders and their link with the organization CSR strategy. The internal stakeholders of any business include the shareholders, the visitors and the staff/employees of a business. Their participation in the entire strategy is a key factor for attaining success, for if the key departments or staffs do not understand the program, then they would not support it enthusiastically, therefore an error in communication with internal stakeholders or lack of their involvement can bring down the entire CSR strategy by making it weak from the inside. The offices from which the staff operates should show that the firm is environmentally friendly, the policies related to social endeavors should be hung around the workplace to depict importance, and the CSR efforts should be made public and transparent so that the employees and the people visiting the office can feel that they are connected to a firm that takes up responsibility and accounts for its actions. When the employees feel good about t he place they work in, there would be lesser employee turnover and increased job satisfaction, and since motivation leads to increased productivity and growth, it is a positive sign for the business.

(Macroeconomics) A company that did well during the recession. For Term Paper

(Macroeconomics) A company that did well during the recession. For example (Ferrari) - Term Paper Example According to the Company Website, â€Å"Ferrari S.p.A. designs and manufactures sports cars that are synonymous with speed and performance. Ferrari sports cars are among the most prestigious automobiles in the world, along with Porsche, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Jaguar, and Lamborghini. The name Ferrari is still venerated on the international racing circuit, and many automotive experts regard the Ferrari GTO as one of the most exotic sports cars ever made. Only 35 Ferrari GTOs were built, and some of them have been sold as collectors items for more than $10 million. About 3,800 Ferraris are sold each year, at prices starting at $120,000 apiece. Ferrari S.p.A., which has been affiliated with Fiat S.p.A. since 1969, also owns the Maserati brand. About 20 percent of Ferraris and Maseratis are sold in North America, with the second largest market being Germany, at around 18 percent†. The latest financial statements for Ferrari show that ,† On 2008 revenues of nearly 59 billion euros (12.9% higher than 2006), Fiat Group posted a trading profit of 3.2 billion euros, well ahead of previous guidance and nearly 66% higher than in 2006, with all major Sectors contributing to the improvement. Trading margin rose accordingly to 5.5% from 3.8% in 2006, with the Automobiles business more than Doubling trading profit to 1.1 billion euros, CNH at 1 billion euros (+34.3%; +46.7% in dollar terms) and Iveco at 0.8 billion euros (+48.9%)†. In the same report, it states that â€Å"Ferrari closed 2007 with a trading profit of 266 million euros, up 45.4% from 183 million euros in 2006. The improvement is mainly attributable to higher sales volumes and efficiency gains, offset in part by increased R&D expenses and unfavorable US dollar exchange rate. Trading margin was 15.9% in 2007 against 12.6% in 2006†. The domestic environmental factors that the company face may be divided into the production volumes that the company sets itself targets for and the domestic market that it caters

Fertile Crescent Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Fertile Crescent - Essay Example The physical location of Garden of Eden is traditionally associated with the Fertile Crescent. Due to its fertility people settled around the area and as people settle, they were forced to engage in different activities to make their life comfortable. The Fertile Crescent is considered as the birthplace of urbanization, trade, science, writing, agriculture and organized religion. It was first populated c.10,000BCE when the domestication of animal and agriculture began in the region. By 9,000 BCE, the cultivation of cereals and wild grains was widespread, and irrigation of crops was fully developed by 5,000BCE. The farming of wool-bearing sheep was practiced widely around 4,500BCE. Cities began to rise Eridu being the first according to Sumerians in 5,400 BCE, and then Uruk and the others followed. These cities started to increase around 4,500 BCE and cultivation of wheat and grain was practiced in addition to the further domestication of animals. Image of the variety of dog known as the Saluki regularly appeared on vases and other ceramics as well as wall paintings by the year 3,500 BCE. Due to the fertility of the soil, people were encouraged for further cultivation of barley.Some of the first beer in the world was brewed in the great cities of the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers. Ancient evidence of beer brewing comes from the Sumerian Godin Tepe settlement in modern-day Iran. From 3,400BC, the priests were in charge of the distribution of food and the careful monitoring of surplus for trade.

Energy Efficiency: Directives and Legislation

Energy Efficiency: Directives and Legislation 2.1 Introduction The debate is ongoing, but there is now overwhelming scientific evidence that mans activities are causing significant climate change. Climate change has the potential to affect all aspects of life on earth and will have major detrimental social, economic and environmental impacts. The best response to these challenging issues is to change. Change the way we think. Change the way we act. (Get source) 2.2 Background to Directives for Climate Change The International climate change agenda containing the Directives and Legislation that drives for energy efficiency began in 1992 with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The objectives of the UNFCCC were to: stabilise the atmospheric greenhouse gases at a level that would prevent dangerous interference with the climatic system, to be achieved in a time frame to ensure food production is not threatened and to enable economic development proceeds in a sustainable manner. The UNFCCC is the parent treaty of the Kyoto Protocol (1997) which was developed to implement the UNFCCC effectively and properly. (www.euroace.org/reports) Irelands relation to the Kyoto Protocol is outlined in the subsequent sub-chapter. In December 2007, the latest climate change conference took place in Bali, Indonesia and it included representatives of over 180 countries. The two week period included the sessions of the Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC, as well as the meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol. The ‘Bali Roadmap was adopted from the conference which charts the course for a new negotiating process to be concluded by 2009 that will lead to a post 2012 international agreement on climate change. The next meeting of the parties to the climate change convention is scheduled to take place on December 2008 in Poland. After the Kyoto Protocol was established, Europe needed to take action to succeed in cutting its greenhouse gas emissions to 8% below 1990 levels by 2008-2012, as required by the Kyoto Protocol. This action was taken by launching the European Climate Change Programme (ECCP) in June 2000 which was then ratified in October 2005. The main goal of the ECCP was to develop all of the necessary elements of an EU strategy to implement the Kyoto Protocol. From this European Climate Change Programme, the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD 2003) was developed. This is explained in chapter 2.4 of this text. (www.euroace.org/reports) In order for Ireland to meet its Kyoto target of limiting the increase of greenhouse gas emissions to 13% above 1990 levels by 2008-2012, a National Climate Change Strategy was implemented. 2.3 Ireland and the Kyoto Protocol The Kyoto Protocol was adopted to tackle the threat of climate change. It contains legally binding greenhouse gas emission targets for developed countries for the post 2000 period. The Protocol promises to move the international community one step closer to achieving the Conventions (UNFCCC) ultimate objective of preventing man-made interference with the climate system. As a first step towards tackling the threat of climate change, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) required developed countries to put in place policies and measures with objectives of returning emissions of greenhouse gases to 1990 levels by the end of the decade. However, in recognition of the need to take more substantial and urgent action, industrialised or developed countries committed to reduce their combined emissions of greenhouse gases by at least 5% compared to 1990 levels by the first commitment period 2008-2012. The protocol came into force on 16 February 2005. As of November 2007, 174 parties have ratified the protocol. Of these, 36 developed countries are required to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to the levels specified for each of them in the treaty. The EU has an overall reduction target of 8% below 1990 levels and has agreed a burden sharing agreement that recognises the different economic circumstances of each member state.   Irelands target is to limit the increase in its greenhouse gas emissions under the Kyoto Protocol to 13% above 1990 levels by 2008-2012. To date Ireland has struggled to get on target and at this stage looks unlikely to meet the 13% figure. With the help of the National Climate Change Strategy and the Protocol flexible mechanisms, this target may yet be achieved. The National Climate Change Strategy 2007- 2012 provides the national policy framework for addressing greenhouse gas emission reductions and ensuring that Ireland meets its target for the purpose of the Kyoto Protocol. Ireland may achieve their individual targets through domestic actions and use of flexible mechanisms provided for in the Protocol. The Government has decided that it will use the Kyoto Protocol flexible mechanisms to purchase up to 3.607 million Kyoto Units in each year of the 2008-2012 period. (www.environ.ie) 2.3.1 Kyoto Protocol Flexible Mechanisms / Emissions Trading An important part of the Kyoto Protocol was the introduction of three flexible mechanisms to reduce the costs of achieving emission reductions for the member states with emission reduction or limitation targets. The mechanisms enable Parties to purchase Kyoto Units from other Parties or to invest in cost-effective opportunities to reduce emissions. While the cost of reducing emissions varies considerably between projects and between countries, the effect for the atmosphere of limiting emissions is the same no matter where the action occurs. The three mechanisms are outlined below: Joint Implementation (JI) This is provided for under Article 6 of the Protocol, and enables Parties with reduction commitments to implement projects that reduce emissions in other member states with reduction commitments, in return for credits. The tradable unit under the JI mechanism is an Emissions Reductions Unit (ERU). Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) This is provided for under Article 12 of the protocol and enables Parties with targets to participate in projects that reduce emissions in those Parties that do not have targets under the protocol. This mechanism is aimed at developing countries. Credits generated using the CDM mechanism can be used by the investing Party for compliance purposes. The tradable unit under the CDM mechanism is a Certified Emissions Reduction (CER). International Emissions Trading This is provided under Article 17 of the Kyoto Protocol and enables Parties or member states that have a greenhouse gas emissions limitation or reduction target under the Protocol to acquire Kyoto Units from those Parties that have reduced their emissions beyond their target under the Protocol. The tradable unit under emissions trading is an Assigned Amount Unit (AAU). The National Treasury Management Agency is the designated purchasing agent for Ireland and will administer and manage purchases of Kyoto Units on behalf of the Government. A dedicated Carbon Fund has been established for this purpose. All purchases will be made in accordance with the following objectives: That they contribute to the ultimate objective of the United National Framework Convention on Climate Change That risk is minimised, particularly in relation to the timely delivery of credits That they represent good value for money The National Treasury Management Agency will use the following mechanisms to purchase Kyoto Units: Direct purchase of Kyoto Units from other Kyoto Protocol member states Direct investment in joint implementation and clean development project activities Direct market purchases of Kyoto Units Any surplus Kyoto Units held by the State at the end of the 2008-2012 commitment period can be banked and used in a subsequent commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol or any successor treaty. (National Climate Change Strategy 2007-2012, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government) Below is a graph illustrating the total greenhouse gas emissions for all sectors of all the member states up to 2005. As we can see, Ireland is somewhat off reaching its Kyoto target. 2.4 The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) 2.4.1 Introduction â€Å"Energy performance demands in the building sector within the EU range from rather demanding energy regulations and already established energy certification schemes in countries like Denmark and Germany, to the situation in countries like France and Spain with low regulation demands and without certification processes established at national level† (Casal, 2006). EU legislation and policies, implemented through the Energy Performance of Building Directive (EPBD), aim to provide a more uniform approach to implementing building energy saving measures and reaching Co2 emission goals. Each member state is required to translate and implement the policies and guidelines within the context of its legal and economic framework. The EPBD was enacted by the European Union in line with the Kyoto Protocol to: reduce European building energy consumption by 10 per cent by 2010 and 20 per cent by 2020; complete energy ratings of 2 million existing buildings by 2010; and cut Co2 emissions by 45 million tonnes by 2010 (Casal, 2006). The directive is the first move to target buildings specifically to reduce emissions and overall energy consumption in the construction sector. 2.4.2 Overview of the EPBD The EPBD is a legislative act of the European Union which requires member states to achieve particular results with respect to the energy performance of buildings. The directive 2002/91/EC (EPBD, 2003) of the European Parliament and Council on energy efficiency of buildings was adopted by member states and the European Parliament on 16th December 2002 and came into force on 4th January 2003. This directive is a very important legislative component of energy efficiency activities of the European Union designed to meet the Kyoto commitment. The directive concerns a large number of participants on all levels with different impacts and different motivations: designers, housing associations, architects, providers of building appliances, installation companies, building experts, owners, and tenants effectively all energy consumers in the European Union. It will greatly affect awareness of energy use in buildings, and is intended to lead to substantial increases in investments in energy efficiency measures within these buildings. The EPBD has created a great challenge for the transformation of the European building sector towards energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy resources. The 4th of January 2006 was the official deadline by which the 25 member states had to transpose the directive. 2.4.3 Objectives and Requirements of EPBD The objective of the EPBD is to improve the energy performance of buildings within the community, taking into account outdoor climate conditions as well as indoor climate requirements and cost effectiveness. The directive lays down requirements regarding: The framework for a methodology of calculation of the integrated energy performance of buildings The application of minimum requirements on the energy performance of new buildings The application of minimum requirements on the energy performance of large existing buildings that are subject to major renovation The energy performance certification of buildings The regular inspection of boilers, an assessment of the heating installation in which the boilers are more than 15 years old and an inspection of air conditioning systems in buildings The requirements for experts and inspectors for the certification of buildings, the drafting of the accompanying recommendations and the inspection of boilers and air conditioning systems. The requirements of each member state are set out in the EPBD under different articles. (EPBD, 2002) 2.4.4 Summary of Articles 2.4.4.1 Adoption of a methodology Each member state is required to have a method of calculating the energy performance of buildings. This calculation method can be set at a national or a regional level. This is an extract of the directive on article 3: ‘Member States shall apply a methodology, at national or regional level, of calculation of the energy performance of buildings on the basis of the general framework set out in the Annex. Parts 1 and 2 of this framework shall be adapted to technical progress in accordance with the procedure referred to in Article 14(2), taking into account standards or norms applied in member state legislation. This methodology shall be set at national or regional level. The energy performance of a building shall be expressed in a transparent manner and may include a CO2 emission indicator (EPBD, 2002) 2.4.4.2 Setting of energy performance requirements These minimum requirements shall be reviewed every five years. Some categories of buildings may be exempted from the requirements. These include: Protected buildings and monuments Buildings used as places of worship Temporary buildings Residential buildings intended to be used for less than 4 months of the year Stand alone buildings with a total useful floor area of less than 50m ² 2.4.4.3 Setting of energy performance requirements for new buildings Each member state will set minimum energy performance requirements for new buildings. For large new buildings with a floor area of over 1000m ² member states should consider alternative energy systems before construction starts. These include: Decentralised energy supply systems based on renewable energy CHP (combined heat and power) District or block heating or cooling, if available Heat pumps, under certain conditions The consideration of the alternative energy systems should take technical, environmental and economic feasibility into account. 2.4.4.4 Setting of energy performance requirements for existing buildings Each member state will ensure that when buildings over 1000m ² undergo major renovation that their energy performance is upgraded to meet minimum requirements. The minimum standards may be applied to the whole building or limited to the renovated part. 2.4.4.5 Energy performance certificate Each member state must ensure that when a building is constructed that an energy performance certificate is made available to the owner. When a building is sold or rented out an energy performance certificate must be made available to the prospective buyer or tenant. The certificate is valid for 10 years. For buildings over 1000m ² occupied by public authorities, an energy certificate must be placed in a prominent place clearly visible to the public. 2.4.4.6 Independent experts Member States shall ensure that the certificate of buildings, the drafting of the accompanying recommendations and the inspection of boilers and air-conditioning systems are carried out in an independent manner by qualified or accredited experts, whether operating as sole traders or employed by public or private enterprise bodies. (EPBD, 2002) Implementing EPBD in Ireland 2.5.1 Building Control Act 2007 The Building Control Act provides for the legal transposition of the EUs Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) into Irish law. This will lead to energy efficiency becoming an important aspect of design concern for all buildings, both residential and non-residential. It is essential that the general public and companies involved in the industry understand the impact of the directive on residential and commercial property in Ireland. The Act requires that there will have to be mandatory building energy rating (BER) certificates for some buildings. This means that when a building is constructed, sold or rented out, the owner must provide a BER certificate to the prospective buyer or tenant. The BER will be accompanied by an advisory report setting out recommendations for cost-effective improvements to the energy performance of the building. This is further explained in chapter 3. ‘‘The successful implementation of the directive will require that systems are in place to guarantee the day-to-day delivery of assessment and inspection services by qualified people in a way that is consistent, practical and cost efficient, and with acceptable response times that maintain levels of service in the construction and property markets. (www.lkshields.ie/htmdocs/publications/newsletters) www.sei.ie www.epbd.ie http://www.euroace.org/reports/CIBSE_EUBD.pdf Casal, X.G. (2006), ‘‘Analysis of building energy regulation and certification in Europe: their role, limitations and differences, Energy and Buildings, Vol. 38 No.5, pp.381-92 Energy Performance of Buildings Directive 2002

Macintosh Vs. IBM :: essays research papers

Macintosh vs. IBM The IBM and Macintosh computers have been in competition with each other for years, and each of them have their strong points. They both had their own ideas about where they should go in the personal computer market. They also had many developments, which propelled themselves over the other. It all started when Thomas John Watson became president of Computing Tabulating Recording in 1914, and in 1924 he renamed it to International Business Machines Corporation. He eventually widened the company lines to include electronic computers, which was extremely new in those days. In 1975 IBM introduced their first personal computer (PC) which was called the Model 5100. It carried a price tag of about $9,000 which caused it to be out of the main stream of personal computers, even though their first computer did not get off to as big as a start they had hoped it did not stop them from continuing on. Later on IBM teamed up with Microsoft to create an operating system to run their new computers, because their software division was not able to meet a deadline. They also teamed up with Intel to supply its chips for the first IBM personal computer. When the personal computer hit the market it was a major hit and IBM became a strong power in electronic computers. Phoenix Technologies went through published documentation to figure out the internal operating system (BIOS) in the IBM. In turn, they designed a BIOS of their own which could be used with IBM computers. It stood up in courts and now with a non IBM BIOS, the clone was created. Many manufacturers jumped in and started making their own IBM Compatible computers, and IBM eventually lost a big share in the desktop computers. While IBM was just getting started in the personal computer market, Apple was also just getting on its feet. It was founded by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak in 1976. They were both college drop outs, Steve Jobs out of Reed College in Oregon and Steve Wozniak from the University of Colorado. They ended up in Silicon Valley, which is located in northern California near San Francisco. Wozniak was the person with the brains and Jobs was the one who put it all together. For about $700 someone could buy a computer that they put together, which was called the Apple I. They hired a multimillionaire, Armas Clifford Markkula, a 33 year old as the chief executive in 1977. In the mean time Wozniak was working at Hewlett Packard until Markkula encouraged him to quit his job with them, and to focus his attention on Apple.