pillbugs and their preferred habitat conditions

pillbugs and their preferred habitat conditions Introduction To sufficiently grasp and understand the experiment on animal behavior, it is crucial to be knowledgeable of the organisms being observed, as well as the various types of animal behaviors present in nature. In this experiment the observed organism was the pillbug. Pillbugs, are also known as sowbugs or woodlice. They are classified as terrestrial isopods as they belong to the phylum Arthropoda, subphylum Crustacea, class Malacostraca, and order Isopoda. Morphologically they consist of three body parts which include the head, thorax, and abdomen. They have one prominent pair of antennae and one inconspicuous pair, simple eyes and seven pairs of legs. The thorax consists of seven separate segments and there are paired appendages, called uropods, that are located at the end of the pillbugs abdomen. The color of the pillbugs can vary from dark gray to white and they could have a pattern or not have one. With female pillbugs, leaf-like growths appear on the underside of the bugs at the ba se of some of the legs. These pouches are where the developing eggs and embryos are held. On the male pillbug, the copulatory organs are the result of modification in the form of elongation of the first two appendages on the abdomen. An immature isopod will molt four to five times. These young isopods resemble the mature form of the isopod, with the exception of their small size in comparison to that of the adults. The juveniles molt in two stages. The back half molts first and then two or three days later the front half molts. This different molting can cause the coloration between the two halves of the isopod to differ. Nutritionally isopods are omnivores or scavengers who feed on decaying or dead plants and animals. Because Isopods breathe with gills, they can only live in areas that have high humidity, such as under rocks and logs, in leaf litter or in crevices. Some species are nocturnal. Their predators consist of both vertebrates and invertebrates. Like other animals, isopods such as pillbugs exhibit their own interesting behaviors. When disturbed, some species will roll up into a ball. They walk fairly quickly, even walking over one another. Environmentally, isopods have both positive and negative effects. The positive impacts of isopods include, within their immediate surroundings, a minimal amount of soil improvements. Unfortunately, large populations of these isopods can eat and damage the plants in greenhouses and southern states. Some of these interactions and descriptions of these isopods is clear from just observing them. These isopods, as well as other animals, exhibit many types of response to sensory input, a response that is known as behavior. The study of an animals behavior is called ethology. Two simple categories for behaviors are learned and innate (inherited). The behaviors that an animal uses to place itself in its most favorable environment are known as orientation behaviors. When the animal is stimulated by such things as light, heat, moisture, sound, or chemicals, they often exhibit taxis, with is the animals movement toward or away from a stimulus. In contrast to this is kinesis, which is a random movement that does not lead to orientation with respect to a certain stimulus. Another type of animal behavior is called agnostic behavior. This type of behavior is exhibited when animals respond to one another with aggressive or submissive response. It is often the case that these agnostic behavioral displays are a method of asserting dominance. Animals also have specific rituals and sets of activities that are involved in finding, courting and mating with another member of its species. Such activities are known as mating behaviors. Pillbugs exhibit, even just when being observed, many of these behaviors. One, the agnostic behaviors, involves the larger isopods appearing to fight. Soil conditions have various pHs. Some plants grow best in acidic conditions, whereas some grow best in basic conditions. Most, however, grow best in areas where the pH ranges from 6.5 to 7.2, 7 being neutral. Hydrochloric acid, HCl, (0.1 M) has a pH of about 1.1 and Potassium Hydroxide, KOH, (0.1 M) has a pH of about 13.5. These two chemicals exhibit pHs at the extremes of the pH scale. Detritus, on which isopods feed, has a more acidic pH. When organic matter decays, H+ ions are produced, thus adding acid to the soil. The acidity limit for plants tends to be no lower than about 4.5 to 5.6 on the pH scale. The vapor pressure of a liquid refers to the concept that the process of evaporation, in a closed container, will proceed until the number of molecules returning to the liquid is equal to the number of molecules that are escaping. When this equilibrium, the vapor is called saturated and the pressure of that vapor, which is normally expressed in mmHg, is referred to as the saturate d vapor pressure. The vapor pressure of HCl is the about the same as water, which is approximately 20 mmHg at room temperature, 22 C. The vapor pressure of KOH is about 2 mmHg for a 45% KOH solution.5 The purpose of this experiment was to use pillbugs to examine animal behaviors, such as taxis, to examine habitat preferences, and determine whether these isopods prefer moist or dry habitats, dark or light habitats, and acidic or caustic environments. It is hypothesized that, given that pillbugs posses gills, for which moisture is needed to help function properly, the pillbugs would prefer moist over dry environments. In addition, it can be hypothesized that, given that the pillbugs live under rocks and feed on decaying organic material, which releases acid into the soil, they would prefer the dark rather than light conditions and the acidic over the caustic environment. Materials and Methods Water Pipet Filter Paper (2 pieces) Choice Chamber Scissors Soft Brush 10 Pillbugs Stopwatch To observe pill bugs and their preference for moist versus dry conditions, a choice chamber, consisting of two petri dishes connected to one another, was obtained and lined with filter paper. Two pieces of filter paper were cut to fit the chambers. One was then moistened, using a pipette, with a few drops of water. The second piece of circular filter paper was left dry. The moistened filter paper was placed at the bottom of one chamber, chamber 1, and the dry filter paper was placed at the bottom of the other, chamber 2. Then, using a soft brush, ten pillbugs were obtained from the stock of pillbugs, and then placed into the chambers. Also using a soft brush, five pill bugs were placed in the dry chamber while the remaining five were placed in the moist chamber and the chambers were closed. This pillbug count for each chamber was then recorded for time zero minutes. Using the stopwatch to track time, the count of pill bugs on each side of the choice chamber was then recorded every 30 seconds for ten minutes, and continued even when some may no longer have been moving or were all on one side. Notes were taken on the actions and interactions of the pill bugs throughout the ten minute period. Once ten minutes had elapsed, the pillbugs were returned to the stock culture. Black Paper White Filter Paper Choice Chamber 10 Pillbugs Soft Brush Scissors Stopwatch To determine the preference of pillbugs between light and dark habitats and conditions, a choice chamber with two connecting petri dishes was lined with two different types of paper. One piece of normal filter paper and one piece of black paper were both cut to fit the chambers. Next, the bottom of the inside of one dish, chamber 1, was covered with the unaltered, white filter paper and the other dish, chamber 2, was lined with the black paper. Then, using a soft brush, ten pillbugs were obtained from the pill bug stock culture, five of which were placed in the black-paper lined chamber and the remaining five were placed in the white paper lined chamber. The choice chamber was then closed. The initial pill bug count, 5 in each chamber was then recorded in the table. For a period of ten minutes, using a stopwatch to track time, the count of the pillbugs on each side of the choice chamber was recorded every thirty seconds. In addition, notes about the interactions of the pill bugs were taken throughout the ten minute period. The count continued to be taken, regardless of the lack of movement from the pillbugs or the concentration of all ten in one chamber. After the ten minutes had elapsed, the pillbugs were returned to the stock culture. White Filter Paper (2 pieces) 0.1 M HCl (Hydrochloric Acid) 0.1 M KOH (Potassium Hydroxide) Pipettes (1 or 2) Filter Paper (3 Pieces) 3 Choice Chamber 10 Pillbugs Scissors Stopwatch To determine the preference of pillbugs in terms of basic versus acidic conditions, a 3-choice chamber was set up. Three pieces of filter paper were cut to fit the chambers. Using a pipette, about four drops of 0.1 M HCl were placed in a circular pattern about the paper. Another piece of filter paper was sprinkled with 0.1 M KOH in the same manner as was done with the hydrochloric acid. The HCl and KOH were applied to the filter paper in such a way that the paper was not drenched in the chemical. One chamber, the one connected to two other chambers was lined with an unaltered piece of filter paper. One of the two remaining chambers, chamber 1, was lined at the bottom (inside bottom) with the acidic filter paper and the remaining chamber, chamber 3, was lined at the bottom with the basic filter paper. Using a soft brush, the ten pill bugs were all removed from the stock culture and placed in chamber 2, the middle chamber consisting of the unaltered paper. The chambers were then covere d and the pillbug count was recorded in the table for the initial time of 0 minutes. For the next ten minutes, the count of pillbugs in each of the three chambers was recorded every thirty minutes. The data continued to be collected even when they were no longer moving between sides or were all on one side. After the ten minutes had elapsed, the ten pillbugs were returned to the stock culture. Results Table 1: Number of Pillbugs in Wet vs. Dry Chambers at Various Times Time (min.) Number in Wet Chamber Number in Dry Chamber Other Notes 0 5 5 Begin moving instantly 0.5 2 8 Large number shifts together to one side 1 1 9 One more baby follows 1.5 3 7 Fighting between two larger isopods 2 5 5 Even out again 2.5 5 5 Move about but come back to even; one not moving 3 6 4 More to wet chamber 3.5 4 6 Back to Dry Chamber 4 5 5 Crawling on underside of paper 4.5 4 6 Fighting to get from one side to another 5 3 7 Large pillbug still not moving 5.5 6 4 Other pillbugs begin gathering around non-moving pillbug 6 7 3 Pillbugs piled on top of one another 6.5 5 5 Pillbug begins to move again 7 4 6 More to Dry Chamber 7.5 5 5 Back at even 8 6 4 Continual switch from chamber to chamber 8.5 7 3 Begin gathering at wet chamber 9 9 1 More join wet chamber 9.5 7 3 Crowded, a few go to dry chamber 10 9 1 Return to wet chamber Table 2: Number of Pillbugs in Lighter vs. Darker Colored Chambers at Various Times Time (min.) Number in Light Chamber Number in Dark Chamber Other Notes 0 5 5 Begin moving instantly 0.5 3 7 Move to dark side 1 2 8 More to dark side 1.5 2 8 Remain, no overall movement 2 2 8 No overall movement 2.5 3 7 Begin going to white side 3 3 7 No overall movement 3.5 4 6 Moving to lighter side 4 2 8 Move to dark side 4.5 5 5 Equalize again 5 3 7 Fighting to get to dark side 5.5 5 5 Equalize again 6 4 6 More to Dark side 6.5 7 3 Piling up to get to lighter side 7 7 3 No overall movement 7.5 8 2 More in lighter side 8 9 1 More in lighter side 8.5 7 3 Move to dark side 9 5 5 Equalize again 9.5 3 7 Move to darker side 10 4 6 Young follows adult to other side Table 3: Number of Pillbugs in Neutral, Acidic and Basic Chambers at Various Times Time (min.) Number in Neutral Chamber (Control) Number in Acidic Chamber Number in Basic Chamber Other Notes 0 10 0 0 Immediate Movement 0.5 2 5 3 Move to acidic 1 3 5 2 Stay around outside of chamber 1.5 6 2 2 Quickly out of acidic and into neutral area 2 4 3 3 More to basic area 2.5 5 2 3 Away from acidic area 3 2 3 5 More slowly moving to basic area 3.5 2 1 7 Movement to basic chamber 4 4 0 6 Pillbugs all out of Acidic area 4.5 1 1 8 Most in Basic area 5 1 4 5 Some return to acidic chamber 5.5 3 1 6 Slowly moving out of Acidic chamber and into neutral and basic chambers 6 4 1 5 Out of basic and into neutral 6.5 3 1 6 Back into basic area, around outside of filter paper 7 3 1 6 No overall movement 7.5 4 0 6 All gone from acidic area 8 3 0 7 More to basic area 8.5 4 0 6 Small shift 9 3 0 7 Reverse of shift 9.5 2 0 8 More to basic area more slowly than before test 10 1 0 9 More to basic area Figure 1: Fluctuation in Number of Pillbugs in Wet and Dry Chambers Figure 2: Fluctuation in Number of Pillbugs in Lighter and Darker Colored Chambers Figure 3: Fluctuation in Number of Pillbugs in Acidic, Neutral and Basic Chambers Discussion Table 4: Average Number of Pillbugs in Wet vs. in Dry Chambers Time (min.) Number in Wet Chamber Number in Dry Chamber Average # of Pillbugs in Wet Average # of Pillbugs in Dry 0 5 5 0.5 2 8 1 1 9 1.5 3 7 2 5 5 2.5 5 5 3 6 4 3.5 4 6 4 5 5 4.5 4 6 5 3 7 5.5 6 4 6 7 3 6.5 5 5 7 4 6 7.5 5 5 8 6 4 8.5 7 3 9 9 1 9.5 7 3 10 9 1 Total # of Pillbugs 108 102 5.143 4.857 Table 5: Average Number of Pillbugs in Lighter vs. Darker-Colored Chambers Time (min.) Number in Light Chamber Number in Dark Chamber Average # of Pillbugs in White (Light) Average # of Pillbugs in Dark 0 5 5 0.5 3 7 1 2 8 1.5 2 8 2 2 8 2.5 3 7 3 3 7 3.5 4 6 4 2 8 4.5 5 5 5 3 7 5.5 5 5 6 4 6 6.5 7 3 7 7 3 7.5 8 2 8 9 1 8.5 7 3 9 5 5 9.5 3 7 10 4 6 Total # of Pillbugs 93 117 4.429 5.571 Table 6: Average Number of Pillbugs in Neutral, Acidic and Basic Chambers Time (min.) Number in Neutral Chamber Number in Acidic Chamber Number in Basic Chamber Average # of Pillbugs in Neutral Chamber Average # of Pillbugs in Acidic Chamber Average # of Pillbugs in Basic Chamber 0 10 0 0 0.5 2 5 3 1 3 5 2 1.5 6 2 2 2 4 3 3 2.5 5 2 3 3 2 3 5 3.5 2 1 7 4 4 0 6 4.5 1 1 8 5 1 4 5 5.5 3 1 6 6 4 1 5 6.5 3 1 6 7 3 1 6 7.5 4 0 6 8 3 0 7 8.5 4 0 6 9 3 0 7 9.5 2 0 8 10 1 0 9 Total # of Pillbugs 70 30 110 3.33 1.429 5.238 Figure 4: Comparison of Average Number of Pillbugs in Wet Chamber vs. in Dry Chamber Figure 5: Comparison of Average Number of Pillbugs in Lighter-colored and Dark-colored Paper Figure 6: Comparison of Average Number of Pillbugs in Acidic, Neutral and Basic Chambers It was hypothesized that the isopods (pillbugs), given their possession of gills for respiration and that they live underneath rocks and logs, places where light is not in abundance, would prefer the wet chamber over the dry chamber and the dark chamber over the light chamber. It was also hypothesized that, considering that the pillbugs feed off of decaying organic material, which in the process of decaying increases the acidity of the soil, these isopods would prefer the acidic chamber (the one with HCl), over the caustic (with KOH) and neutral chambers. The data collected from preforming the experiment partially supports the hypothesis. The average number of pill bugs in each chamber, was calculated by summing the pillbug count for all twenty-one times in one chamber and then doing so for the next and then dividing these totals by the total number of pillbugs counted. In each case this number was 210. The results show, as seen in Table 4 and Figure 4, that the average number of pil lbugs in the moist chamber over ten minutes was about 5.143 while the average number in the dry chamber was about 4.857. This higher average for the moist chamber illustrates taxis with a movement toward the stimulus of moisture. The second portion of the hypothesis was also supported by the data collected. Table 5 and Figure 5 both show that the average number of pillbugs in the chamber with white filter paper was about 4.429, in comparison to the average number in the chamber with dark paper, which was about 5.571. These results are consistent with the known habitat of isopods such as pillbugs. The hypothesis for third portion the experiment, however, was not supported by the data collected. Table 6 and Figure 6 both show that the pillbugs actually prefer a basic environment, one with drops of KOH, over an environment with no chemical additives and the environment with the addition of drops of the strong acid HCl. The average for the number of pillbugs in the neutral environment w as about 3.33, for the acidic environment the average was 1.429 and for the caustic environment the average was about 5.238. These results could possibly be explained by the higher vapor pressure of HCl in comparison to that of the KOH. With a higher vapor pressure, the HCl would have vaporized more easily and quickly, thus getting into the gills of the pillbugs and causing them irritation. This irritation would explain their clear lack of fondness for the HCl permeated filter paper. The lack of pillbugs accumulating on the plain filter paper can possibly be explained by its complete lack of moisture, and that the antennae on the pillbugs would not sense any chemical or something of that nature, that would attract the pillbugs to that chamber. The interaction of the pillbugs inside the choice chambers is indicative of agnostic behavior, as seen in the fighting of the pillbugs. Human error, such as counting, would not play any, or any significant role, in the results of the experimen t. This experiment and the results obtained from it support most of the hypothesis, but conflict with and not support another portion. The results support the preference that pillbugs have for moist and dark environments, but suggests that pillbugs prefer more caustic environments to neutral and acidic environments. Citations

Exploring Strategy

Abstract This essay examines the state of the Hi-Fi sector utilizing the PESTEL and Porter’s Five Forces. This assessment illustrated that with factors depending heavily on technology there is a real opportunity in the Hi-Fi sector. Any researcher exploring this question will find value in this report. 1 Introduction This essay examines the Hi-Fi sector utilizing the PESTEL and Porters’ Five Forces models in order to assess the current market environment. Identifying the primary opportunities and threats that are present in the field will create a capacity for anticipation and adaptation that can add significant value to any business strategy. Beginning with a PESTEL analysis followed by distinct opportunities, threats and key drivers for change, this essay illustrates the state of the Hi-Fi industry. Following this segment with a relevant Porter’s Five Forces evaluation including overall industry attractiveness will further enhance the illustration of economic viability in the industry. 2 PESTEL Analysis This section utilizes the PESTEL model to evaluate market conditions.2.1 PESTELYuksel (2012) defines the PESTEL as an integrated analysis including the elements of political, economic, socio-cultural, technological, environment and legal in order to determine a sectors capacity.2.1.1 PoliticalPolitically, the Hi-Fi sector is supported in their effort to produce a superior product for a diverse international market (Jansson and Waxel, 2011). Politics influence the modern Hi Fi market to continually innovate and build, reflecting the Hi-Fi industry need for continuous technological input. Regulations and taxation play a direct role in how well the Hi Fi industry international trade statutes have the potential to promote positive development (Jansson et al, 2011). Companies including the advanced manufacturing firm Linn contribute a substantial amount in taxes and international revenue to their nations coffers, enhancing the political need to protect them (The Economist, 2014). Companys including Richer Sounds maintain 100 per cent UK operations, using this support as a means of positive branding (Sounds, 2014). The Telegraph (2010) article lays out the attractive tax cuts that the Chinese government utilizes to entice the emerging Hi Fi companies to set up operation there. With each tax rate adjustment companies including Acramm Quad and NAD among others will seek out tax havens that allow them to retain revenue (Telegraph, 2010). Decisions by the UK regulatory body, including the decision to take the nation digital has a great deal of influence on the continued development of the UK Hi Fi industry (Kessler, 2014). With figures illustrating that only one in 20 have receivers capable of this new transmission as well as only 40 per cent of new vehicles are equipped with the technology, there is a considerable gap to be addressed before implementation (Kessler, 2014).2.1.2. EconomicEconomic factors in for Hi-Fi firms have the potential to substantially assist nation s in their economic recovery efforts (The Economist, 2014). This factor impacts the Hi Fi industry with through direct acknowledgement and support of technological advances (Macintosh, 2010). Lacking this opportunity for growth stagnates the market directly influencing production and development.. International statistics demonstrate a slow 1% growth rate in the industry over the past year (Euromonitor.com. 2014). Yet, long term country reports indicate a steady pattern of growth (Euromonitor.com, 2014). The Hi Fi industry has begun to focus on the high end products including Acram’s newest cinema receiver citing the argument that features are more important than fidelity (End, 2014). The economy can create issues for the industry by failing to provide consumers with the funding to buy products. Linn, another UK Hi Fi brand has used this same philosophy to become a leader in the audiophile streaming music hardware area, a very rapidly developing area (End, 2014). Yet, there i s a real potential for a lack of innovation that fails to produce useful products. Further establishing this trend is Naim’s offering of hi resolution music products that appeal to the very high end market including the Nait 5si and the SuperNait 2 (End, 2014). However, the economic conditions can hinder the opportunity for these offerings to take hold.2.1.3. Socio-cultureThe very nature of the spread of technology is a benefit for the Hi-Fi industry (Andy, 1997; Macintosh, 2010; The Economist, 2014). Yet, if there is a perception of negativity surrounding any company or product, there is the opportunity for a diminished reach. With each new auditory advance, the Hi-Fi sector has an opportunity to utilize their technology to enhance that offering (May, Mason and Pinch, 2001). Yet, conversely, any misstep in the innovation process can set the entire effort back. The continuous advance in technology aids in producing new employment opportunities which enhances the entire system (Pratt, 1997). There is a strong desire on the part of the consumer and manufacturers to create the very best auditory offering (The Economist, 2014). This element of complementary competition enhances the potential in the Hi-Fi industry, yet increases the price consumers feel at the retailer. As company’s including Acram, Linn and Naim compete to produce high end offerings, the entire range of development opportunities benefits (End, 2014). This adoption of hi tech equipment has an associated ripple impact on stores that sell these products, increasing their technology capacity (End, 2014). As new products emerge, the stores upgrade in order to implement the product, thereby changing the entire culture surrounding the offering.2.1.4 TechnologicalThere has been a historical shift from a Hi Fi industry based on individual components to a modern real market based on emerging technology (Sounds, 2014). This factor directly impacts the Hi Fi industries capacity to produce useable products. With the advances technology has created including the inclusion of LCD television, audiophile and multi room Hi Fi progress there is a perception of increasing value in the industry. The increase in complexity alongside reduction in size and integrateable capacity make Hi-Fi products critical components for many new technologies (The Economist, 2014; Macintosh, 2010). This is a clear indication of the support that each of these areas offers the Hi-Fi sector. Online advances including internet offerings have the potential to increase the utilization of the Hi-Fi product, thereby increasing the markets intrinsic value (Macintosh, 2010). Today’s leaders in the industry including Rob Follis cite the fact that modern Hi Fi offerings are better than ever before (End, 2014). This fact includes the recognition that as technology continues to turn from individual components to integrated technology, the Hi Fi sector will continue innovate in order to remain relevant.2.1.5 EnvironmentalMod ern production concerns can have an impact on the manufacturing of any Hi-Fi product (The Economist, 2014). These concerns can significantly slow development and production of any product line. With aspects including pollution during production there is the potential for this aspect to create detrimental operating conditions. This contention supports the argument that a strategy that incorporates these elements benefits the entire effort (Jansson et al, 2011).2.1.6 LegalMultinational and international legalities have an opportunity to impact the Hi-Fi development and production capacity (Jannsson et al, 2011). As laws change as nations jockey for position and revenue causing a collateral impact for the companies involved. Competition between industry rivals can be fierce, requiring a strong a consistent legal awareness (The Economist, 2014).2.2 Opportunities and ThreatsThere is a real opportunity to capitalize on emerging technologies in order to expand the Hi-Fi industry capacity ( The Economist, 2014). Yet, there is a threat of poorly designed products that diminish trade. Real time examples including continued development of the IPod and Ipad based technology, tablets and personal computers integration lead the way for considerable opportunities in the industry (Macintosh, 2010). The economic factors support the argument of growing opportunities in the field of home audio and visual serve to drive the consideration of potential revenue gain in the market (The Economist, 2014). Companies such as Linn and Acram have a unique opportunity to harness emerging technology in order to reach the high end clientele (End, 2014). Conversely, the PESTLE confirms the threat that any overextension in an effort to remain competitive can diminish production and development potential (Jannsson et al, 2011). Advances in the field of medicine provide ample opportunity for the Hi Fi industry to benefit from auditory related sales as well as building real brand awareness (The Economist, 2014). Elements of the Hi-Fi industry touch on the developing technology surrounding Wi-Fi and the internet, providing further opportunity for the industry to gain market share (Jannsson et al, 2011). Yet, the need for technology can slow a development process, diminishing a company’s revenue potential. An opportunity in the Hi-Fi industry rests in the field of cell phone and portable communication (The Economist, 2014). The PESTLE demonstrates that national and international variances in regulations can become a substantial detriment for the Hi Fi industry (Moodysson and Jonsson, 2007). There is a real threat for established companies including Acram, Quad and Warfeldale among others to move to China in order to take advantage of the lower tax brackets (Telegraph.co.uk, 2010). Yet, each emerging market and technological advance is an opportunity for the Hi-Fi industry to further integrate (Macintosh, 2010). A balanced consideration must take place in order to successfully implement strategy.2.3 Key drivers for changeLeading the key drivers for the Hi-Fi industry is the need for advances in production, marketing and development (Macintosh, 2010; The Economist, 2014; Jannsson et al, 2011). Every new change at each level will have a direct impact on the consumer and the industry. The second driver remains the political environment on where these companies choose to develop their products (Telegraph.co. uk, 2010). Lacking a positive environment, the capacity for the Hi Fi industry to operate will be further driven by the rate of revenue available in the market (End, 2014). These drivers will determine marketing efforts and production levels for every company in the market. 3 Porter’s Five Forces Analysis3.1 Porters Five ForcesHuggins and Izushi (2011) define the Porter’s Five Forces model as efficient manner of market assessment including the element s of new entrants, substitution, bargaining power and competitive rivalry.3.1.1 Threat of new entrantsThe growth potential of the Hi-Fi industry makes the threat of new entrants substantial (The Economist, 2014). There is a clear opportunity for increased brand awareness accompanied by the potential to add a substantial revenue stream to any company’s income. With companies including Linn and Acram focussing on the high end market, there is recognition of value that will be emulated by others (End, 2014). These elements are consistent with the needs of many competitors in other areas of the technology market such as computers, tablets and personal electronics (The Economist, 2014). The Hi-Fi industry is highly attractive to evolving and developing entities as well as established compan ies (Jannsson et al, 2011). Established companies can easily expand and advertise, while new entrants can progressively build and promote themselves. This area is of high concern due to the rate of new entrants.3.1.2 Threat of Substitute productsThe Hi-Fi sector is dependent on technology, the availability of copies, or similarities in products is high (Jannsson et al, 2011). With emerging nations, such as China, offering substantial potential for competition this is a significant concern for any Hi-Fi strategy. Expanding on this same threat of substitution is the fact that some nations allow for copies of a successful product based on their own design (Jannsson et al, 2011). Regulation s and their enforcement have the potential to play a key role in reducing or increasing the substitutions for any Hi-Fi product on the market. With companies recognizing that products including the Xbox and Playstation among others, can take on the role of other instruments, the threat rises (End, 2014). Developing and competing products make this a category of high impact.3.1.2 Bargaining power of customersThe consumer centred nature of the Hi-Fi industry makes it highly dependent on the perception and application of their products (Jannsson et al, 2011). Any faulty offering or substandard item will directly impact the company’s bottom line (The Economist, 2014). Modern consumers demand an integrateable produce that has the latest technology at the lowest prices, making their overall bargaining power substantial. There is a need to remain on the edge in the mind of the consumer in order to continually expand brand loyalty (Macintosh, 2010). Acram and Linn’s current move into the upper end market has been favourably received by the consumers, driving their position in the market higher helping to advance their market share considerably (End, 2014). Yet, any failure would provide amply incentive for these same consumers to seek another brand (The Economist, 2014). Restin g on the correct anticipation of needs this is an area of moderate to high priority.3.1.3 Bargaining power of suppliersThe high number of competitors alongside the proliferation of technology diminishes the bargaining power of suppliers (The Economist, 2014). If one company is not willing or able to make a product, there are several others that will (Moodysson et al, 2007). However, the more advanced technology that the company possesses, the more likely that that effort will be successful in the market (Jannsson et al, 2011). Yet, in the case of specific technology there is the real opportunity to have a strong bargaining strategy based on the knowledge the company has (Jannsson et al, 2011). If one company does not possess a certain technology, their associated bargaining position will suffer. Linn, noting the potential available in the market, spent liberally to develop the audiophile music download label that propels their current sales strategy (End, 2014). This example has bee n emulated by companies such as Naim, which hope to become a prominent member of the market (End, 2014). With many suppliers available, there is a low to moderate priority in this segment.3.1.4 Intensity of competitive rivalryThe potential for revenue and sustainability make the Hi-Fi sector highly competitive (Jannsson et al, 2011; The Economist, 2014). This rivalry consists of companies including Linn, Acram and Niam, often accounting for the majority of the market share, provides a dynamic illustration of the desire of each company to provide the very best Hi Fi product (End, 2014). There is competition at every level of production, development and marketing in order to make the most of the emerging product (Macintosh, 2010). However, this intensity of competition allows for a consistent series of technological advances which is a clear benefit to consumers and manufacturers (The Economist, 2014). With each advance the opportunity to become a market leader will lead to an intense effort to be the first producer. The competitive environment makes this element very high concern for the Hi Fi industry.3.2 Industry AttractivenessThere is a real opportunity to gain both brand awareness and consumer loyalty with a quality Hi-Fi offering, making the market attractive (The Economist, 2014). The long term consumer trend of sustainable spending is a further indication of positive long term market potential (Euromonitor, 2014). Yet, the fact that this is a well-known fact encourages other manufacturers to maintain a position in the market, making competition fierce (Moodysson et al, 2007)). Each of these factors supports an illustration of a growing market that offers both a ripe opportunity for success and an equally dismal chance for failure. Naim and Linn both demonstrate a high degree of value in the area of Hi Fi industry innovation which in turn increases the overall attractiveness of the market (End, 2014). This is a moderate factor in overall industry making the circumstances acceptable for continued expansion. 4 Conclusion Both the PESTEL and the Porter’s Five Forces evaluations have illustrated the potential for both sustained revenue gain as well as increased brand awareness. This is a supporting argument for a strategy including the Hi-Fi sector. However, the very competitive nature alongside the nuances of technological innovation provides ample potential for loss. With factors depending heavily on technology there is a genuine opportunity for gain to be considered in the Hi-Fi sector. 5 References David, F. R. 1999. Strategic management: Concepts and cases. Prentice Hall. Euromonitor.com. 2014. Home audio and cinema market research, industry trends. [online] Available at: http://www.euromonitor.com/home-audio-and-cinema [Accessed: 2 Mar 2014]. End, B. 2014. British hi-fi companies seek sanctuary at audio’s new high end. [online] Available at: http://www.techradar.com/us/news/audio/hi-fi-radio/british-hi-fi-companies-seek-sanctuary-at-audio-s-new-high-end-1166158 [Accessed: 6 Mar 2014]. Huggins, R. and Izushi, H. 2011. Competition, competitive advantage, and clusters. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Jansson, J. and Waxell, A. 2011. Quality and regional competitiveness. Environment and Planning-Part A, 43 (9), p. 2237. Kessler, K. 2014. SoundStage! Hi-Fi | SoundStageHiFi.com | The British Tree Huggers Get it Right For Once. [online] Available at: http://www.soundstagehifi.com/index.php/international/soundstage-uk/674-the-british-tree-huggers-get-it-right-for-once [Accessed: 6 Mar 2014]. Macintosh, R. 2010. Evolution and Revolution in the Hi-fi sector. University of Glasgow, 1 (1), pp. 1-5. May, W., Mason, C. and Pinch, S. 2001. Explaining industrial agglomeration: the case of the British high-fidelity industry. Geoforum, 32 (3), pp. 363–376. Moodysson, J. and Jonsson, O. 2007. Knowledge collaboration and proximity the spatial organization of biotech innovation projects. European urban and regional studies, 14 (2), pp. 115–131. Pratt, A. C. 1997. The cultural industries production system: a case study of employment change in Britain, 1984-91. Environment and Planning A, 29 (11), pp. 1953–1974. Sounds, R. 2014. Richer Sounds – The UK’s Hi-Fi, Home Cinema & Flat Panel TV Specialists!. [online] Available at: https://www.richersounds.com/information/aboutus_culture [Accessed: 6 Mar 2014]. Telegraph.co.uk. 2010. UK hi-fi specialist Audio Partnership piggybacks China tech revolution – Telegraph. [online] Available at: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/china-business/7956963/UK-hi-fi-specialist-Audio-Partnership-piggybacks-China-tech-revolution.html [Accessed: 6 Mar 2014]. The Economist. 2014. Streaming toddler. [online] Available at: http://www.economist.com/news/britain/21568425-prospects-upscale-hi-fi-maker-depend-music-industry-streaming-toddler [Accessed: 28 Feb 2014]. Waxell, A. and Jansson, J. 2013. Sound Affects: Competing with Quality in the Swedish hi-fi Industry. Industry and Innovation, 20 (4), pp. 316–335. Wu, K., Tseng, M. and Chiu, A. S. 2012. Using the Analytical Network Process in Porter’s Five Forces Analysis–Case Study in Philippines. Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences, 57 pp. 1–9. Uksel, I. 2012. Developing a Multi-Criteria Decision Making Model for PESTEL Analysis.International Journal of Business & Management, 7 (24).

International Contracts Essay

The present research endeavours to situate international contracts within the context of international dealings transnational construction parties. It is hoped that the results will show the prevalence of international contracts in the business as well as the role which they play in concluding deals. Previous research (See Appendix 1) conducted in this field has shown that construction contracts are indeed accomplished between international companies. However, the precise role that international contracts as legal documents have on the relations between a construction company and a foreign client have not been studied before. That is the difference that this present research will make given the nuances which set apart construction contracts from international contracts per se. Research Methodology In this research, some of the research questions to be addressed and answered are: 1.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   What is the role of international constructs in the finalization of international business deals? 2.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   What is the role of international contracts in a globalized industry? 3.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   What is the relationship of international laws with the accomplishment of international contracts? 4.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   What effect if any do cultural differences introduce to the finalization of international contracts? 5.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   How effective are joint ventures in the world market? These questions will be answered through the collection of data from international contractors through the means of distributing questionnaires (See Appendix 2). The questionnaire answers provide a sufficient view of the business dealings of the research participants. Because of the specificity of the questionnaire items, the researcher will be able to derive many of the answers to the above-mentioned research questions. Moreover, given the hectic schedules of the research participants, the brief questionnaire will ensure the participation of more companies. This will enlarge the scope of the data gathered. Since the participants are assured of anonymity when answering, there is an increased likelihood of obtaining reliable answers. Furthermore, the open-ended nature of the questions and the fact that the personal corporate details of the participant companies are not inquired into also support the validity of the responses to be collated. The process is designed to be non-threatening and non-cumbersome to the participant to increase the likelihood of participation. A qualitative textual analysis of the questionnaire will then be conducted by the researcher. The rating and fixed-choice questions will be tallied while the open-ended questions will be analysed through the codification and categorization of answers given. The manner of coding determines greatly the internal validity and reliability of the findings. The representation of the participants on the other hand determines the external validity. The former concern stresses the importance of academic discipline on the part of the researcher while the latter concern is assured by the number of participants that may be encouraged to join due to the simplicity of the process. This research is a stand-alone project. Although it may be extended to further understand international contracts, the research questions focused on in this study are already answered by the questionnaire items. Further, the entire goal and purpose of the research has already been addressed by the particular research questions. Research Participants In this study construction companies will be approached and contacted for participation in the study. Only construction companies who have dealt with international clients during the last year will be asked to participate. The construction companies to be included are not limited to those found in the researcher’s city of residence to ensure increased generalizability of data. No less than fifteen participant companies will be deemed sufficient for the accomplishment of the survey. The researcher will contact companies by reaching their representatives by phone, by electronic mail, or other web-based interaction mechanisms that the company might provide. The researcher will utilize company advertisements and websites to draw up a list of potential participants. The personal communication with the companies will provide the researcher with a greater opportunity to inform the companies of the nature of the study. Initial consent by the companies will be followed by the researcher’s sending of the questionnaire with the attached consent form (See Appendix 4). The questionnaire will also be accompanied with instructions for the answered questionnaire and the accomplished consent form to be sent back to the researcher not later than one week after receipt. Accomplished questionnaires returned without the consent form will not be invalidated as the mere return and completion are badges of consent. In order to ensure that there is no researcher bias when codifying the responses, the name, position and organization of the respondents will be listed down on a separate sheet along with an assigned questionnaire number to be designated to that particular questionnaire. The name, position and organization of the respondent will then be blotted out so that the researcher is able to codify the responses without being biased by the identity of the respondent or the organization. The master list of names and questionnaire numbers will remain sealed until the final analysis of the results. To further ensure confidentiality, the questionnaire responses will be made available only to the researcher and to the supervising instructor. Both persons shall use the responses only for the purpose of this present study. Any application of the present results to future studies requires the consent of the participants in the present study. Research Data and Results The research results will be recorded through the printing out of any questionnaires submitted via webmail. Those questionnaires that were manually accomplished will serve as records of the answers indicated therein. As has been previously indicated, the name, position and organization of the respondents will be blacked out of the actual forms. The master list containing the names of the respondents will also be altered after the researcher has made a final report of the conclusions of the research. Upon the conclusion of the research, a new master list will be made and the names of the respondents stricken out from the new list. This master list along with the questionnaires and consent forms duly assigned questionnaire numbers, will be stored in a locker found in the researcher’s private residence. The storage will be secured for a period not less than five years. Only the researcher and the research supervising instructor will be allowed access to the data. But this access will only be for the purpose of assessing the findings of the present study. Any electronic submissions will be deleted. Finally, ownership of the data and findings will redound to the researcher alone. Any report, reproduction or publication of the findings or any utilization and accessing of the data must therefore be with the consent of the researcher.

Everyday Use By Alice Walker Essay - 2069 Words

Although Alice Walker’s short story â€Å"Everyday Use† is evidently different than Flannery O’Connor’s short stories, â€Å"A Good Man Is Hard To Find† and â€Å"Revelation,† there seems to be a striking similarity between the main characters O’Connor and Walker chose for their stories. Dee, one of the main characters from Walker’s â€Å"Everyday Use,† the Grandmother from O’Connor’s â€Å"A Good Man Is Hard To Find,† and Mrs. Turpin from O’Connor’s short story â€Å"Revelation,† all share one major flaw, that is, they feel a sense of superiority to those around them. Their self-glorification and prideful beliefs about themselves and the people surrounding them becomes the central conflict as each story unfolds. Dee’s insulting comments towards her Mama and younger sister Maggie about their lack of education, the Grandmother’s sense of moral superiority and her freq uent passing of judgment onto others, along with Mrs. Turpin’s categorization of people based on their socioeconomic status and outward appearance, all illustrate the ugly reality of pride that is ever present in the human heart. Dee, from Walker’s â€Å"Everyday Use,† is Mama’s older daughter who not only has a judgmental, insensitive attitude towards Mama and her younger sister Maggie, but also believes she appreciates her family heritage more than Mama does, when in fact, Dee is the one who is â€Å"uneducated† and lacks an understanding about what her heritage truly is. Obert 2 The beginning of â€Å"Everyday Use† starts off with Mama anxiouslyShow MoreRelatedEveryday Use By Alice Walker852 Words   |  4 Pagescomes or belongs to one by reason of birth. In â€Å"Everyday Use†, by Alice Walker, the theme of the story can be considered as the meaning of heritage or even the power of education. Alice Walker uses many symbols and motifs such as the following: quilts, education, knowledge, Asalamalakim, and the renaming of Dee. In the story, African heritage and knowledge takes a major role. The African heritage plays a major role in the story, â€Å"Everyday Use†. Alice Walker emphasizes the meaning of heritage by havingRead MoreEveryday Use By Alice Walker1372 Words   |  6 PagesEverday Use† research paper In â€Å"everyday Use,† Alice Walker tells a narrative of a mother’s frustrating relationship together with her two daughters. At this facet, â€Å",Everyday Use†, tells that how a mom little by little refuses the cursory values of her older, successful daughter at the aspect of the useful values of her younger, much less lucky daughter. On a deeper outlook, Alice Walker takes on the theme of heritage and its norms as it applies to African-Americans. Everday Use, is set insideRead MoreEveryday Use By Alice Walker1102 Words   |  5 Pagespoem â€Å"Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers† can be read similar to Alice Walker s short story Everyday Use† both are compared by the women’s ways of showing their strengths and how they identify their values, expressions and strength. Advertised in the general outlines of the plot, both literary themes talks of a quest for freedom, the characters identity and self-expression. Adrienne Rich â€Å"Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers† Alice Walker â€Å"Everyday Use† Comparison Paper Analyzing the two types of literatureRead MoreEveryday Use By Alice Walker1372 Words   |  6 Pagessociety as a whole, but more specifically in the African American Community. Alice Walker gives slight insight into   what being forced   to assimilate is like. She says in her short story Everyday Use: She will stand hopelessly in corners homely and ashamed of the burn scars down her arms and legs eyeing her sister with a mixture of envy and awe. Statements such as these are a regular occurrence in her works. Walker often speaks on the ever so disheartening topic of cultural assimilation and theRead MoreEveryday Use By Alice Walker996 Words   |  4 PagesIn the short story â€Å"Everyday Use† by Alice Walker, the author describes different ideas about one’s heritage. Culture and heritage is at the main point of the story â€Å"Everyday Use† by Alice Walker as symbolized by the quilt. The bond that Mother and Maggie share is brought by their common talent to make works of art like quilts. Dee does not have similar capacity because she does not appreciate manual labor nor believes in her heritage. The idea of pride in culture, heritage, and family is the mainRead MoreEveryday Use By Alice Walker1721 Words   |  7 PagesIn her short story â€Å"Everyday Use,† Alice Walker summarizes the representation of the beauty, the conflicts and struggles within African-American culture. â€Å"Everyday Use† focuses mainly between members of the Johnson family, consisting of a mother and her two daughters. One of the daughters Maggie, who was injured in a house fire and has living a shy life clinging to her mother for security. Her older sister is Dee, who grew up with a grace and natural beauty. â€Å"Dee is lighter than Maggie, with nicerRead MoreEveryday Use By Alice Walker1655 Words   |  7 PagesIn â€Å"everyday Use,† Alice Walker tells a narrative of a mother’s frustrating relationship together with her two dau ghters. At this facet, â€Å",Everyday Use†, tells that how a mom little by little refuses the cursory values of her older, successful daughter at the aspect of the useful values of her younger, much less lucky daughter. On a deeper outlook, Alice Walker takes on the theme of heritage and its norms as it applies to African-Americans. Everday Use, is set inside the late ,60s or mid ,70sRead MoreEveryday Use By Alice Walker1735 Words   |  7 Pages â€Å"Everyday Use† by Alice Walker and â€Å"Brownies† by ZZ Packer are two different short stories with different lessons but both talk about the topic of race. Both stories talks about the time in the 20th century when slavery just ended but racism are still active between African Americans and Caucasians. Walker described a story about a single African American mother who is waiting for her daughter to arrive from college. Packer described a story about these African American fourth graders who are inRead MoreEveryday Use By Alice Walker1111 Words   |  5 Pagestheir culture. Alice Walker highlights and distinguishes the dissimilarities and clichà © of country African American women with the actualities that make up their lives. Characterized by short, compound sentences, with long adjectives and use of literary elements, her style is eloquent co nversational and authentic. Alice Walker’s short story, Everyday Use is stylistic, ironic and narrates profound interpretation of unique views and approaches to African-American culture. Walker’s use of characterizationRead MoreEveryday Use By Alice Walker1725 Words   |  7 Pages17 April 2017 Everything is Not What it Seems Sometimes people forget that heritage has to do with truly understanding their past. Many often misrepresent it, especially the younger generations who just accept its presence. Alice Walker’s short story, â€Å"Everyday Use,† revolves around an African American family that consists of three women, who are very different from each other. The story begins with Maggie and Mama waiting in the yard for Dee, the main character, to visit from Augusta. Dee is