History and Evolution of Digital Imaging Technology in Health Care Essays

History and Evolution of Digital Imaging Technology in Health Care Essays History and Evolution of Digital Imaging Technology in Health Care Paper History and Evolution of Digital Imaging Technology in Health Care Paper Digital imaging technology plays a major role in contemporary health care, both as a tool in primary diagnosis and as a guide for surgical and therapeutic procedures. Besides gains over analog techniques concerning the image acquisition phase, such as possibility of dose reduction with no over- or under-exposure problems, the main motivation behind digital imaging is to exploit the advantages of digital storage and communication technology. Digital data can be easily archived, stored and retrieved quickly and reliably, used in more than one location at a time, do not suffer from aging and moreover are suited to image post-processing operations. One of the most important innovations not only in digital imaging technology, but in the medicine field as well, is the X-ray technology. X-ray imaging was the first diagnostic imaging technology, and scholars claim that X-ray technology was invented accidentally in 1895. Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen was a professor of physics at the University of Wurzberg in Germany. He was doing experiments with a cathode ray tube when he noticed that a fluorescent screen on the other side of the room was glowing (Green and Bowie, 2004). Because Roentgen knew that the cathode rays could travel only a short distance outside the cathode tube in the air, he knew he was observing a new phenomenon, an unknown ray, which he identified as an â€Å"x† ray, noting the unknown in mathematics. This accidental discovery by Roentgen has impacted most human beings in the course of their lives. For the health care sector, this discovery has led to more effective diagnostics, X-ray technology gave physicians a powerful too, that for the first time, permitted accurate diagnosis of a wide variety of diseases and injuries. X-ray is a form of electromagnetic radiation capable of penetrating solids. The penetration capability is higher in soft tissue than in hard and this difference can be registered on photographic film. This basic method of X-ray was quite sufficient for the examination of broken bones or punctured lungs, but the use of X-ray as a diagnostic instrument was increased by replacing the photographic film with a light sensitive electronic device combined with a capability for amplifying the signals. Initially, x-rays were used to diagnose bone fractures and dislocations, and in the process, x-ray machines became commonplace in most urban hospitals. Separate departments of radiology were established, and their influence spread to other departments throughout the hospital. By the 1930s, x-ray visualization of practically all organ systems of the body had been made possible through the use of barium salts and a wide variety of radiopaque materials (Green and Bowie, 2004). Through this development, it became possible to convert the X-ray beam to analog electronic signals, which could be presented on a television screen. In many respects the technology of image amplifying resembled television technology. By employing electronics it became possible to decrease the energy in the X-ray beam and thus to reduce the exposure to radiation. The shift to electronic technology increased the possibilities for discriminating between different levels of penetration and it also made possible to examine moving parts. The energy required by the electromagnetic radiation was also reduced by the development of new, more light-sensitive photographic film. Issues in Information Technology for Health Care In the pre-information technology, the management of patient records in health care organizations was based largely on manual file processing systems. Over time, these practices became standardized in the form of patient registers, medical service claims, work orders, patient billing files, and books of accounts. The manual system required health record technicians and specialists who were well trained in maintaining paper-based records, while others (e.g., physicians and nurses) delivered the services. The health manager’s role was simply to enforce documentation to conform to evolving standards, such as acceptable data coding, accounting principles, and book practices. In effect, the manual system of documentation dictated the traditional structure of the health care organization. Patient records are maintained by the records department of a health care institution, and the quality of a patient record depends largely on the individuals making record entries. All healthcare practitioners and others who enter information into patient records must understand the importance of creating complete and accurate records, as well as the legal and medical implications of failing to do so. The increased emphasis on fraud and abuse prevention in the healthcare industry has further highlighted the importance of proper medical records. Today, concern about privacy and confidentiality is increasing. To some degree, this concern is fueled by the growth of electronic medical records and databases that allow the exchange of information to more people, at great distances, with little effort.

afghanistan karzai essays

afghanistan karzai essays Dear brothers and sisters, the representatives of the bereaved nation of Afghanistan; Dear guests, members of the diplomatic corps Assalamu alaikum, may peace be upon you. I have some wonderful news and some concerning regarding the status of your country through my leadership as your president. As you may have known in my past, I have loyally served my country through the Soviet attempt of occupation and have succeeding and assisting my compatriots in freeing our country. I left Kabul in 1994 for Qandahar, due to the internal strife among the various factions. While in Qandahar, I was approached by my former colleagues from the Afghan resistance against the Soviets, to free Qandahar from the menace of warlordism, factionalism, and oppression. Thus, with the assistance of the local inhabitants and the Taliban this objective was achieved. However, in mid 1995 I parted with the Taliban movement, since they were gravitating towards extremism and negative foreign influence. In 1996, with the Taliban in control of Kabul, I was offered the post of their representative to the United Nations. Hamid Karzai rejected the Talibans offer, and instead devoted all my efforts towards the convening of an Emergency Loya Jirga, under the auspices of His Majesty, Mohammed Zaher, the Former King of Afghanistan. With me as one of the principal organizers, the Loya Jirga movement received an important impetus and in October 1997, an Intra-Afghan Dialogue Process was launched in Istanbul, Turkey. The movement sought to provide the Afghan people the opportunity to determine their right to self-determination in accordance to their free will. Following meetings of the Intra-Afghan Dialogue Process in Frankfurt and Bonn, Germany in July 1998, the focus of activity was shifted to Rome, Italy in 1999. (embassyofafghanistan.org/main/bios/karzai_bio.cfm) During the next several years, I worked to introduce the Loya Jirga process as the on...

Any engineering ethical issue happend in the LAST TWO MONTHS Essay

Any engineering ethical issue happend in the LAST TWO MONTHS - Essay Example At a distance of about 1500 miles towards the west of Cape Town in South Africa, oil spill occurred in the south Atlantic that put millions of Northern Rockhopper penguins’ life in danger (â€Å"Fragile Earth† 1). In the present time, the most rare and endangered Penguin specie is the Rockhopper Penguin. The very specie ha been affected the most by this incident. It is quite likely that this incident becomes sufficient to make this specie completely extinct. Tons of diesel fuel and crude oil have soaked their furs and blocked their nostrils. A lot of penguins have died since the spill occurred. This is the most severe oil spill that has occurred in 2011 and is a potential issue of engineering ethics. The oil discharging company remained highly unethical in its practice. In this course, we have been taught that engineers should discharge the waste in ways that are environment friendly. The oil spill in the south Atlantic was totally unfriendly towards the environment. Wo rks Cited: â€Å"Fragile Earth: Oil Spill, March 16 2011, Threatens world's most endangered species of Penguin.† 2011. Web. 3 May. 2011. . Harris, Charles E., Davis, Michael, Pritchard, Michael S., and Rabins, Michael J. â€Å"Engineering Ethics: What? Why? How? And When.† Journal of Engineering Education. (1996): 93-96. Web. 3 May. 2011.

The wall between Palastain and isreal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The wall between Palastain and isreal - Essay Example It is a source of malevolence, violence and untold misery to many. The Israelis call it the â€Å"Security Fence† while the Palestinians call it the â€Å"Apartheid Wall†. This paper discusses why the Wall brought about damaging effects to the Palestinians living in and around Jerusalem. To begin with, the Wall discussed here refers to the barrier that was constructed by the Israeli Government in June, 2002. Christison (Para 3) states that the Wall was constructed in order to serve as a protection barrier for the Israelis, with the chief objective of preventing the uncontrolled entry of the Palestinians into Israel. One reason for this was the rampant activities of suicide bombers, in what the Israelis termed as terrorism. It separated Israel from the West Bank region, and would me built along the Green Line – an internationally recognized boundary that was set up after the war in 1948 to 1949. While the Israelis were justified to build a barrier of protection, they hardly considered the vast harmful effects that such a Wall would bring about, especially to the Palestinians. Exploring the reasons as to why the Wall resulted in misery for the Palestinians, the first would be the political philosophy of the Israeli Government, commonly known as Zionism. Zionism advocates for the separation of the Israelis from the Palestinians, including those who live in Jerusalem. It is firmly believed that this would eventually cleanse the population. One of the key features of Zionism is the confiscation of land. This implies that the Wall would be constructed in such a manner as to curve out more land for the Israelis, a factor that would eventually help them take over control of majority of the land in question. The effect of such an action is that it has left many Palestinians without land that originally belonged to them. Secondly, the Wall covers a route that partly runs through the West

The Importance of Sex Education in Todays Schools Essay Example for Free

The Importance of Sex Education in Todays Schools Essay What did you learn about in school today honey? Oh, we did some proofs in Geometry, practiced past tense verbs in Spanish, and learned about sexually transmitted diseases in Health class. Suddenly, all goes silent, and the subject is quickly changed to something else. One of the most controversial issues facing todays schools is whether or not sexual education, or sex ed, should continue to be taught to children. On one hand, some argue that it should, because children need to be properly educated on this topic and the potential consequences that can result from it. However, many others oppose this viewpoint, arguing that sex ed is a personal subject for parents to discuss with their children, and therefore does not belong in an academic setting. While both of these viewpoints have their strengths as well as their limitations, it is extremely important for sex ed to continue to be taught in todays schools. Not only will students be properly educated on how to prevent negative sexual outcomes, such as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and unintended pregnancies, but also on the wide range of topics related to sexual health, such as communication, relationships, and decision-making. Overall, sex education has both physical as well as emotional benefits for school-aged children. Of course, there are several reasonable objections to sexuality education curriculum being taught in todays schools. First, it is argued that  sexuality is an inappropriate topic to be taught in schools, for schools are a place to learn typical academic subjects such as Math, Science, or English. In addition, those who are against sex ed assert that sex is a personal matter and should only be taught to children by their parents. In other words, it is the parents responsibility to provide sexuality education for their own children (Goldman 5). This would be a reasonable point to make. After all, parents are the first and most readily accessible of all the teachers from whom children learn (Goldman 6). Further, children consistently report that they want to receive information from their parents regarding sex (Goldman 6), suggesting that they would rather learn about sexual activity from their parents than from teachers. Finally, opponents of sexuality education curriculum argue that teaching this topic in schools essentially condones teenage sex, and thus will result in more teens engaging in sexual activity. However, these opposing positions have their limitations. Researchers point out that sex ed is after all, an academic subject, so it is appropriate that it is included in schools curriculum (Hamilton, Sanders, and Anderman 3). Sex ed is not a class taught on its own, but rather a component of schools health classes. The problem is, people mistakenly believe that sex ed only refers to sexual behavior, such as sexual intercourse, and not the full array of topics that comprise sexuality (Implementing, par. 4). These topics include information on:  abstinence, body image, contraception, gender, human growth and development, human reproduction, pregnancy, relationships, safer sex (prevention of sexually transmitted infections), sexual attitudes and values, sexual anatomy and physiology, sexual behavior, sexual health, sexual orientation, and sexual pleasure. (Implementing, par. 4) From this information, it can be concluded that sex ed does not just discuss sexual activity as critics claim. Rather, it teaches students about several important life topics regarding sexual health and human relationships. The argument that parents should be the sole educators on sexuality has its  limitations as well. The fact is, not all parents are talking to their children about sex. A nationally representative survey commissioned by the Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) and the Center for Latino Adolescent and Family Health (CLAFH) revealed that 57% of parents either feel only slightly comfortable or uncomfortable talking to their children about sex and sexual health (Parents, par. 6). Also, additional research has shown that many parents do not provide relevant, timely, developmentally appropriate or even enough sexuality education for their own children, and the education they do provide is perceived by their children as infrequent and of poor quality (Goldman 6). So even if parents are talking to their children about sex, they may not be giving their children a proper or complete education. A study conducted on the salience and utility of school sexuality education for young men found that for most young men, school sex education appeared to be the only substantive source of information they had received on sexual matters (Goldman 8). Finally, if parents really feel that they are the best educators regarding sexuality and do not want schools teaching their children this topic, they have the right to pull their children out of the program. According to the California Department of Education, the law recognizes that parents have the ultimate responsibility for teaching their children about human sexuality and may choose to withdraw their children from this instruction (California Department of Education #15). Schools are required to notify parents at the beginning of the school year about planned comprehensive sexual health education and HIV/AIDS prevention education and give parents the opportunity to review materials as well as the opportunity to request in writing that their child not participate in the instruction (California Department of Education #15). In closing, sexual education is a vital component in todays academic curriculum, for it may be the only source from which some children receive accurate information regarding sexual health. Finally, there is the false belief that providing comprehensive sexual education in schools endorses sexual activity and will lead to more teenagers having sex. However, research shows just the opposite: knowledge of sexuality is much more likely to lead to informed decision making, delayed sexual intercourse, responsible interpersonal behavior, and  self-protection strategies (Goldman 7). In addition, a study that examined sex education in California public schools revealed that curriculum-based, comprehensive sexuality education, which involves instruction that includes a focus on abstinence, as well as inclusive information about contraception and sexually transmitted diseases, has been shown to delay sexual activity (Combellick and Brindis 3). The belief that teaching children about sexual education endorses premarital sex is erroneous because school-based sex education has been shown to delay, rather than hasten, the onset of sexual activity (Goldman 7). It can now be seen tha t these three common objections to sexual education curriculum being included in todays schools have their limitations. Comprehensive sexual education programs can greatly benefit school-aged children. With this curriculum in place, children will receive a complete education on the risks associated with sex, such as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and unintentional pregnancies, and how to avoid these outcomes. This knowledge has been shown to decrease the number of unintentional teenage pregnancies as well as STDs. One study revealed that teenagers who received a comprehensive sex education were significantly less likely to report a teen pregnancy compared to those who received no sex education (Kohler, Manhart, and Lafferty). According to the Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States (SIECUS), this likelihood is about 50 percent lower, a tremendous finding. In addition, school-based sex education efficiently reduces the incidence of negative sexual outcomes as well as increases teenagers intentions to adopt safer sex behaviors (Kumar, Lim, Langford, Seabrook, Speechley, and Linch; Goldman 7). Thus, sexual education programs can play a tremendous role in reducing the number of teenage pregnancies and STD cases. In addition, sex education programs are necessary in todays schools because children are undergoing sexual development at much younger ages than in previous generations. Over the past decade or so, the age at which children start puberty has gone down considerably. According to WebMD.com, American boys are starting puberty at an average age of ten; two years earlier than the average age from twenty years ago (DeNoon par. 1). Similarly, girls tend  to start puberty around age eleven, but some can start as young as eight or nine years old (Watson). With the onset of puberty, children undergo many hormonal and physical changes that they may not fully understand without proper instruction. Furthermore, adolescence, defined as the ages between 10 and 19 years (Goldman 4), is a crucial stage in sexual development as well as for learning about healthy sexuality (Kumar; Goldman 20). In Goldmans study, surveyed children viewed puberty and its implications for the maturation of human development as a major part of their body, self-identity, and social and interpersonal norms (20). In other words, children are aware of the important role puberty plays in their physical, emotional, and social development. Thus, sexual education should remain a part of todays schools curriculum, so children will continue to be fully educated on the rapid physical and emotional changes they are undergoing. However, as is the case with all arguments, this position has its limitations. Students being educated about sexuality at school may feel like they do not need to discuss this topic with their parents. As a result, sexual education programs could indirectly discourage students from talking to their parents about sex. Additionally, even if schools are teaching comprehensive sexual education programs, some students may not retain all of the information they receive. One study found that a majority of the surveyed adolescents demonstrated significant gaps in sexual knowledge even though they had successfully completed their high school sex ed requirements (Kumar et al.). Finally, despite the fact that 22 states require public schools to teach sex ed, the United States still has the highest teen birth rate in the industrialized world: three out of ten girls in the U.S. will become pregnant at least once before their 20th birthday (State). In addition, about nine million cases of STDs occur among teenagers and young adults in the United States every year (Weinstock) even though 33 states require HIV/AIDS instruction in schools (State). However, these limitations do not take into account that 28 U.S. states do not require sexual education to be taught in public schools. As a result, not all students are receiving a complete education on sexuality, which includes instruction on how to prevent pregnancies and STDs. After all, only  about five percent of young people in the United States get a complete and comprehensive sexuality education (Goldman 19). In addition, only 14% of school districts in the U.S. permit comprehensive sexuality education to be offered to students (Goldman 15). Therefore, the high number of teen pregnancies and STD cases in the U.S. could be attributed to a lack of comprehensive sex education programs, not an overabundance of them. Overall, sexual education programs are an integral component of school-aged childrens academic curriculum, as much as the public has come to realize. More than 90% of parents of junior high and high school students believe that it is important for sex ed to be taught in the classroom (Facts #10). Moreover, teachers, parents, and students all agree that schools should provide quality sex ed, including knowledge, skills, and values, that will enable school-aged children to make timely choices and thought-out decisions for themselves (Goldman 20). Thus, it can be seen that sex education is already a widely supported component of elementary and secondary academic curriculum. Finally, sex education should continue to be taught in schools because it educates children on many important life skills. Sexuality has several different topics associated with it, such as human development, relationships, communication and decision making (Siecus par. 5.). When people think of sex ed, they generally do not think of these life skills. However, sex involves numerous life decisions, from choosing to abstain to choosing a birth control method. In addition, communication and relationships are an integral part of sexuality, because it is a union that involves two separate people. Plus, students who received a comprehensive sex education were more likely to report having better communication with their parents (Hamilton 5). Due to this wide array of topics covered, it is no wonder that high school sexual education classes received the highest average rating of usefulness among all listed sources (Kumar et al.). Sex education programs truly benefit todays school-age children in countless ways. There is no doubt that sex education in todays schools is a controversial  issue, however, it must continue to be taught. Children who do not receive proper instruction on this topic at home need a place where they can receive accurate information regarding sexuality. Furthermore, this academic subject will help students learn the skills necessary to make informed decisions regarding their sexual health and avoid negative sexual outcomes. Finally, it is so important for sex education to be taught in schools so that developing children can learn about their changing bodies as well as numerous important life skills. Sex education should no longer be viewed as an inappropriate topic to be taught in schools, but rather as an essential component of school-aged childrens education. Works Cited California Department of Education. Frequently Asked Questions. _CDE.CA.GOV._ California Department of Education, 19 Sep. 2013. Web. 3 Nov. 2013. Combellick, Sarah, MPH and Claire Brindis, DrPh. Uneven Progress: Sex Education in California Public Schools. _Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health,_ Nov. 2011. Web. 3 Nov. 2013. DeNoon, Daniel J. Earlier Puberty: Age 9 or 10 for Average U.S. Boy. _Children.WebMD.com._ WebMD LLC., 12 Oct. 2012. Web. 5 Nov. 2013. Goldman, Juliette D. G. Responding To Parental Objections To School Sexuality Education: A Selection Of 12 Objections. _Sex Education_ 8.4 (2008): 415-438. _Education Research Complete_. Web. 2 Nov. 2013 Hamilton, Rashea, Megan Sanders, and Eric M. Anderman. The Multiple Choices Of Sex Education. _Phi Delta Kappan_ 94.5 (2013): 34-39. _ERIC_. Web. 1 Nov. 2013. Kohler, Pamela, et al., Abstinence-Only and Comprehensive Sex Education and the Initiation of Sexual Activity and Teen Pregnancy, _Journal of Adolescent Health_ 42.4 (March 2008); 344-351. Web. 4 Nov. 2013. Kumar, Maya M., et al. Sexual Knowledge Of Canadian Adolescents After Completion Of High School Sexual Education Requirements. _Paediatrics Child Health (1205-7088)_ 18.2 (2013): 74-80. _Academic Search Complete._ Web. 1 Nov. 2013. National Conference of State Legislatures. State Policies on Sex Education in Schools. National Conference of State Legislatures, 1 July 2013. Web. 6 Nov. 2013. Planned Parenthood. _Implementing Sex Education._ Planned Parenthood Federation of America Inc, 2013. Web. 3 Nov. 2013. Planned Parenthood. _New Poll: Parents are Talking With Their Kids About Sex but Often Not Tackling Harder Issues._ Planned Parenthood Federation of America Inc, 3 Oct. 2011. Web. 3 Nov 2013. _Support the Real Education for Healthy Youth Act._ Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States, n.d. Web. 4 Nov. 2013. Watson, Stephanie. Dealing with Early Puberty. _Teens.WebMD.com._ WebMD LLC., 17 Nov. 2011. Web. 5 Nov. 2013. Weinstock, H., et al., Sexually Transmitted Diseases Among American Youth: Incidence and Prevalence Estimates, 2000, _Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health_, 2004, 36(1):6-10. Web. 7 Nov. 2013

Artificial Intelligence: Where does it fit? Essay -- Technology Artifi

Artificial Intelligence: Where does it fit? Machines in the future will not be able to differentiate between man and machine, and neither will humans; except that machines will be active: working, learning, developing new technology. Humans on the other hand, have no choice but to watch from our glass boxes because machines have become so advanced and we would only interfere. Maybe the future won’t look exactly like that, but truthfully, computers will reach human intelligence someday. They have already surpassed our calculation abilities and our speed of processing information. But we can still hold on to our intelligence for now. Artificial intelligence, the science and engineering of making intelligent machines through intelligent programs, is not just about modeling human behavior. It’s more about making life easier and better by developing new tools with advanced capabilities. Artificial intelligence, like technology, advances rapidly as time moves on. It needs to be worked on before considered satisfactory, let alone perfect. Computers have many similarities to humans like neural impulses to digital technology or being programmed to function in a certain manner. A computer is given commands and specific outputs for corresponding commands. Humans are taught to act or not act in specific ways. We have automatic responses such as fear, hunger, and happiness. We’ve been programmed to react differently to various stimulants. Great progress has been made by developers of artificial intelligence, but there remain large gaps between humans and machines. Physically, humans have bodies with senses. Machines could have bodies— like robots—but they are still unable to sense the physical world and react to it. H... ... If computers overtake the workplace, professionals sacrifice their dignity: there will no longer be an emphasis on skill level because the computer makes the decisions. Mistakes would be inexcusable, although humans are not flawless. Humans would not be credited for achievements because computers will have done all the computation, planning and presentation. The value of a human life will decrease as the computer climbs the corporate ladder. If humans continue to do what we do best, look out for ourselves. We’ll realize that artificial intelligence should be made to supplement humans, not to replace them. We should not rely on computers as much as we rely on our instincts and judgments. If we allow machines without bodies and without minds to take over our world, what would our purpose be? Would we have existed just to bring artificial intelligence about?

Articles and Essays Essay

Today’s teenagers seem to have more time and less responsibility and supervision than the last generation’s. It’s quite common to see teens â€Å"hanging out† at shopping centers, fast food restaurants or where ever they can get together to socialize. Usually, they just have fun and enjoy themselves, but sometimes problems occur. Teenagers who are bored and looking for something to do are likely to get into trouble and become involved in unhealthy, inappropriate or illegal activities. The increased number of unoccupied and unsupervised teens in may be related to the loss of many family farms and business and to the increase in single parent families. Many teens in the last generation were expected to share the responsibility and work of a family farm or business. They were supervised, learned important skills and didn’t have time to get into mischief. Today, most parents work away from the family, and teens are left to occupy themselves . Also, single parents and parents who are both working are often unable to adequately supervise their teenager’s activities. Teens need free time to spend with friends, relax and have fun. They need to learn how to find appropriate, healthy activities and entertainment. Free time can teach them important skills they will need as adults. Unfortunately, too much free time can cause problems. Not all teenagers are able to find appropriate, healthy activities and entertainment for themselves when they are not occupied and supervised. Following are some things parents can do to help teens learn to be responsible, have fun and stay out of trouble. †¢Set specific rules about family expectations, such as time to be home, chores and responsibilities, etc. Allow teens to help make decisions about rules and consequences. †¢Give younger teens specific responsibilities and chores. offer opportunities to earn extra privileges or money for doing extra chores. Allow teens to spend money they earn on things they want. †¢Encourage older teens to get a part time job. Jobs provide and opportunity to meet people, learn new skills and earn extra money. †¢Talk with older teens and encourage them to think about their goals and what they would like to be doing when they are adults. Help them plan activities working toward their goals. †¢Know where teens will be. Call and check occasionally, or ask them to check in periodically. If they are at home, ask a family member, neighbor or friend to stop by if possible. †¢Encourage teens to become involved in community programs, recreational activities and special events that they are interested in. Check into activities available in the community, such as scouting, softball, YMCA, camps, church activities, clubs, etc.

IMAX’s business level strategy Essay

1. Discuss IMAX’s business level strategy to date and proposed changes. (10 points) Products differentiation The large format movie system gives customers unique visual and audio movie watching experience that cannot be found in conventional movie theaters. IMAX is also differentiated by its library of films and locations. IMAX located itself in institutional environment and commercial multiplexes to target wider audiences include family, students, and tourists at different time during the day by screening its own movies and other studios’ movies. Speaking of the technologies, IMAX films printed on larger films, which require special designed camera, projector, and screen to display the IMAX features. Cost leadership. The company heavily invests financial and human resources in their R&D, because the technologies developed would lower the costs of producing and distributing films significantly. The newer service agreements and partnership with theater owners allow IMAX lower its capital requirements when new IMAX screens were opened in the traditional multiplexes. IMAX not only saves money on films making because they don’t have to pay a lots of money to the major stars as the Hollywood does, but also save money on the marketing. IMAX increased the number of Hollywood movies in order to ride on the coat- tails of marketing campaigns launched by the studios. The proposed expanding strategies will bring more audience to IMAX, and save more production and distribution costs. By opening new IMAX screen in commercial multiplexes will give customers easy access to IMAX movie, and allow IMAX gain more market share, and increase box ticket revenue. Although the initial system installation and movie converting costs are big, over long term IMAX can achieve economies of scale by utilizing the IMAX system installed in traditional theaters. 2. Conduct an external analysis. (25 points) a). PESTEL framework Political factors Concerns about violence, sex, and vulgar language in movies had generated considerable efforts to organize and lobby political action to regulate the industry. There are some limit in terms on selection of movies. Legal factors Copyright law protects this industry suffering from piracy. Violations of copyright act were considered felonies and were subject to federal criminal charges and civil lawsuits. Patent law also protects the technologies heavily used in this industry. Economic factors The economy is fairly stable except the crisis that hit the industry in the late 1990s because of the overbuilding during that decade, the 911 crisis in the early 2000s and the economic recession in 2008. The economic crisis in 2001 and 2008 would reduce people’s disposable income therefore reduce the revenue of the industry. Socio-cultural IMAX is trendy. It does not matter that if people have seen movies in the traditional theater before, some of them would like to watch on IMAX screen again. Parents looking for activities combine education and entertainment would go to IMAX. More highly educated parents and overscheduled kids would like to go to places equipped with IMAX system. The college and university education are popularized which increases the majority of IMAX audiences. Technology factor New filming technology development are encouraged and supported by funds, associations and Oscar Award. But the development of high-definition DVD recording, big screen TVs and cheaper projection and sound system technology offers potential IMAX viewers’ alternative sources of entertainment. The internet, live play, TV programs and cables are also substituting technologies. b). Porter’s Five Forces IMAX operating in three industries: photographic equipment and supplies industry, motion and picture and video production and distribution industry. Barriers to entry  This industry requires upfront investments to develop technologies, relationship with producer and access to the distribution channels. IMAX held 46 patents and has seven patents pending in the United States, in order to enter this industry, potential competitors must develop their substitute technologies, or take the risks of copying IMAX’s patented technologies, and  both are very costly. IMAX is achieving economies of scale, the more movies released in IMAX format, the more the IMAX system installed are utilized. IMAX is also updating their technologies and making improvement to lower the costs of operations, therefore the learning curve cost advantages act as a barrier to entry. The barrier to enter this industry is high. Threats of substitutes Live plays, sport events, TV programs (big screen TV, cable, and satellite), the internet, DVD, home theater projection and sound system are all alternatives of IMAX movie for consumers to entertain themselves in a different way. These substitutes also prevent IMAX from raising the ticket price. The threats of substitutes are high. Suppliers The suppliers are vendors who provide the critical elements involved in IMAX’s projectors and camera systems, film making talents (actors, post-production workers), other studios (Hollywood, Disney, SKG DreamWorks etc.), and movie distributers (theater chain). The suppliers’ power is low because by releasing movies in IMAX format and opening more IMAX screens will increase the box office revenue for all the parties involved. IMAX does not pay top stars to make movies. They pay the actors whose median salary is $17 per hour. IMAX has most its post-production work done by its wholly-owned subsidiary. IMAX purchases its equipment components from vendors with whom it maintained long-term relationships. Buyers Buyers are people who are willing to pay for the IMAX movie tickets, and theater chain has IMAX systems installed in their theaters. IMAX doesn’t rely on certain type of buyers. The buyer range is very wide, and from different demographic. They are not likely to be price sensitive because the majority IMAX audience with average household income of more than $70000. The product offered by IMAX is much differentiated, and buyers cannot get the same watching experience anywhere else. Overall, the buyers’ power is low. Rivalry The rivalry is low because IMAX was founded as the only company in the world that was involved in all aspects of large format films. IMAX doesn’t have  direct competitor in this industry. Even though some of the moviegoer may choose the traditional theater instead of watching IMAX, most the IMAX audience are willing to pay extra $3 to $5 to experience the unique IMAX features and some of them already watched the same movie in the traditional theater before. Additionally, only IMAX movies have long lifespans in the theater circuit. In conclusion, I think this industry is attractive. c). Key opportunities and threats Opportunities: Large format film industry is emerging industry, and this industry is driven by technological innovations, changes in demand, and customer needs. IMAX can utilize the first-movers advantages. IMAX has the technological leadership, and also obtains the patent protections that enhance their performance. IMAX has the opportunities to tie up the strategically valuable resources, which are the relationships with independent filmmakers, and distribution channel such as theater chains, so that it can success in this industry Threats: IMAX is a relatively small firm compared to a rival studio, so they might be bought, and becomes a part of another company. IMAX is not able to maintain their brand image if so many Hollywood movies released in IMAX format. 3. VRIO (25 points) Valuable Rare Inimitable Organized Competitive implications Technological leadership Yes Yes Yes Yes Sustainable competitive advantage Locations Yes Yes No Yes Temporary competitive advantage Relationships with other studios and theaters Yes No No Yes Competitive parity Brand image Yes Yes Yes Yes Sustainable competitive advantage Cash flow No No No Yes Competitive disadvantage The technologies allow IMAX display the large format film features on giant screen to attract customers. Because of the patent protection, it is rare and hard to copy. IMAX invested in their R&D, and received grants and award from third parties, so it is organized. By locating itself in institutional environment, IMAX creates a unique brand and attract different group of audience, so it is valuable. It is rare because not so many entertaining facilities opened in this environment. This strategy is not hard to imitate. It is organized because some of the IMAX films were educational and entertaining, and involved documentaries of natural and scientific wonders, so it valid to have IMAX in these locations. Convert other studios’ movies into IMAX format increase the IMAX ticket revenue, so it is valuable. The alliance with other filmmakers also saving IMAX’s marketing expenditure. It is not rare because the Hollywood movies also released on DVD, pay-per-view  format. People can also watch movies on TV and internet. It is not costly to imitate. It is organized because not all the Hollywood movies are released in IMAX format, it must be carefully chosen. The brand image is valuable because the large films features and unique watching experience are only associated with this brand name. It is rare because this product can only be provided by IMAX. It is hard to copy because this brand image is developed over long time, and IMAX has the first mover advantage. The company R&D and new services are supporting this brand image in terms of innovation and cost saving, so it is organized. The cash flow is not valuable because this company has negative net income for 2006 and 2007. The fact that IMAX’s debt has been downgraded is an indication that the company’s liquidity is questionable. It is organized because IMAX is trying to solve this problem by signing new service agreement, which would lower its operational capital requirements and help it pay off its debt. More box office revenue is expected by converting more commercial movies into IMAX format. 4. Based on your analysis, would you recommend proceeding with and expanding the strategy to exhibit Hollywood movies? Should the firm retrench? (20 points) Pro: Hollywood movies are the most popular movies in the world, by releasing more Hollywood movies in IMAX format, more audience will be attracted by the combination of the movie and unique watching experience. This is the quickest way to make revenue in order to improve the company’s financial situation. This strategy also allows IMAX to take advantage of marketing campaigns launched by the studios therefore to save the marketing expenses. Because Hollywood movies has the most market shares, and this high demand will stimulate the theater owners to open more IMAX screens. It gives IMAX the opportunity to attract more viewers and expand the core audience. IMAX can make more revenue by signing more service agreements with traditional theaters, and make profits by maintaining the system and sharing ticket revenue. If IMAX is releasing more Hollywood movies, share price is likely to go up, and create more value for shareholders. The more confident the stakeholders are, the easier for IMAX to raise capital to focus on technology R&D and further differentiate its products. The digital re-mastering technology reduced converting costs. Converting other studio’s movie is now making more profits and cost less. Con: Screening re-formatted movie is not as profitable as screening IMAX own movies, and makes IMAX take  the risk of diluting its brand image. Releasing more Hollywood movies may let people question IMAX’s educational function. The violence and sex contents in Hollywood movie may drive parents and their children away. Screening more Hollywood movies will benefit IMAX. It increases the revenue and the number of audience; therefore I recommend proceeding with and expanding the strategy to exhibit Hollywood movies. In long term, because IMAX has all these great technologies, and more stable financial supports, they should focus on developing its own movies. IMAX also should launch more marketing campaigns to promote its movies in order to maintain the brand image, and place more emphasis on its educational and entertaining functions. IMAX may develop some sub brands for example like, Smart Imax Kids, or Learning with Imax which only located at institutional environments and integrate with the ride simulation packages to target specific demographics. This action will strengthen IMAX brand image and make the young generations and potential Hollywood moviegoers like these brands and become real IMAX fans when they grow up.

Different historians views o essays

Different historians views o essays Different historians views on whether Henry VII was modern or medieval. The statement that Henry Tudor created a new monarchy is one that was even debated at the time. Throughout the years historians views have consistently contrasted and changed. The actual new monarchy theory is owed much to the historian J.R.Green and his reference to the events of 1471-1509 in his book Short History of the English People (published in 1876) as the emergence of a new monarchy. J.R. Green suggests this monarchy restored the power and authority to the crown after the events of the war of the roses. He also hinted at the start of tudor despotism an idea supported by several early 20th century historians. Albert Pollard was one of many historians to expand on J.R. Greens theory and move the beginning of the new monarchy to 1485. This is hardly surprising as the date coincides with the beginning of a new dynasty that lasted well over a century and is considered a period of great change and achievement. In particular Pollard emphasised the Tudors creation of the nation state. This way he could make parallels with modernising monarchies in France and Spain. Early 20th century historians historians look highly on the Tudor government as it was se en as creating the basis of the modern nation state. In the last 50 years the concept of Henry VII creating the new monarchy is greatly opposed. The majority of historians argue that no new monarchy existed or that 1485 marked only a dynastic change. J.D. Mackie was the first to challenge in The Earlier Tudors (1952): In England as elsewhere the new monarchy did not emerge fully developed in the year 1485 or in any other year. This factor was not always recognised. Geoffrey Elton preferred to shift the development of the new monarchy to the 1530s and the reforming of Henry VIIIs minister Thomas Cromwell. Elto ...

The effects of making employee salaries public

The effects of making employee salaries public We’re living in a rapidly evolving world where almost everything is done online and the very notion of privacy seems to be evaporating. Most of us are growing increasingly more comfortable having our lives made public through a variety of social networks. This new open and public approach to sharing information is affecting companies as well. How so? Many companies are embracing the notion of complete public transparency and disclosure in ways they never have before. Everything is potentially on the table for being made public, including employee salaries- something that up until recently has long been held in the strictest of confidence. Let’s dig deeper into this concept of employee pay transparency, and how it’s affecting the status quo.The idea behind making employee salaries public is an arguably noble one- more and more companies are seeking to embrace the philosophy that being open and honest with their employees about all things is an effective way to for ge more progressive, sincere, and honest employee/employer relationships. It can also help address some unfortunate inequities in compensation that women and minority groups sometimes face, an issue that gets inadequate attention, especially when salary information is kept hidden.The Wall Street Journal published an article on the good, the bad, and the downright awkward aspects of companies adopting an open salary policy. According to the article, â€Å"The idea of open pay is to get pay and performance problems out on the table for discussion, eliminate salary inequalities, and spark better performance†¦ But open pay also is sparking some awkward conversations between co-workers comparing their paychecks, and puncturing egos among those whose salaries don’t sync with their self-image.†The truth is, as employees we can make a direct correlation between our pay and how our employers perceive and value our contributions, so having this information helps take the gu esswork out of knowing where we stand- both as individuals and in comparison with our colleagues.So, despite its good intentions, when salaries are revealed employers can count on seeing a potentially disruptive effect- while those employees who are at the top of the pay scale will likely be grateful and appreciative (unless they feel that they’re still not being paid enough compared to their coworkers), those at the bottom of the salary food chain can count on being unhappy and confronting their bosses to help remedy the situation. Then, if balance regarding compensation is not reached, it will likely lead to some employees seeking better opportunities elsewhere. Making salary information public can also lead to potential awkwardness and strife among colleagues who sit at opposite ends of the compensation spectrum, which can adversely affect productivity and motivation.It seems clear that although there are some truly good potential reasons for publicly disclosing salary inf ormation, there are some significant potential pitfalls that employers should be on the lookout for when making the decision to do so. Progressive employers who react quickly and decisively to address issues regarding pay inequity will be in the best position to quell any potential disruptions, while those who are slow or late to respond may create some tension among their staff or lose some valuable talent to competitors who are willing to pay your employees what they feel they deserve.Perhaps the best approach for handling the issue of whether or not to publicly disclose salary information is to plan carefully- and proceed with caution.

The building of the interstate highway system Research Paper

The building of the interstate highway system - Research Paper Example These civil rights were granted during the Fourteenth and the Fifteenth amendments were done to the US Constitution. There were also continued struggles during the following century to effectively secure federal protection in regard to the granted rights (Green and Harold 3). These struggles used various ways to express what they actually wanted by use of nonviolent protests. It was during the periods of between the 1950s and the 1960s when the civil rights movements attained the abolishment of race discrimination in public facilities in the south that they were more motivated to continue with their struggles. This was a breakthrough since they had achieved the equal-rights legislation basically for the African Americans. This was a humongous achievement since the 1865-1877 periods that was referred to as the Reconstruction period. The passage of the fundamental civil rights legislation in 1964 and 1965 did not deter the civil movements even though the passages were victorious to the m. The militant black activists perceived their struggle as being a liberation or freedom movement that was meant not just to seek civil rights reforms but also they were to confront the enduring cultural, economic, and political consequences of the past racial oppression (Banting 4). The American Civil Rights Movement Historical Framework of Development Abolitionism to Jim Crow: It is evident that the American history is marked by determined and persistent efforts that have led to the expansion of the inclusiveness and the scope of civil rights. Recent research has show that despite equal rights being elaborately outlined in the United States founding documents, a lot of new inhabitant’s in the country were denied the essential rights. Indentured servants and African slaves were not accorded the inalienable right to pursuit of happiness, liberty and life that the British colonists utilized to validate their Declaration of the American Independence. They were also not include d among the people of the US who had established the US Constitution for the purposes of promoting general welfare and securing the noble Blessings of the people of America and their posterity. The US Constitution instead only protected slavery through the allowance of slaves’ importation until 1808 and it also provided for the return of slaves that had escaped to the other states (Adamson 11). Research also elaborately shows that as the US effectively expanded its boundaries, the Native American people resisted absorption and conquest. The individual states determined the majority of the American citizens’ rights by limiting generally the voting rights that only allowed the white property-owning males. The other rights that individual states determined were the right to serve on juries and the right to own land. The Native American people were denied all these rights on the basis of gender or racial distinctions. Only a small portion of the African Americans lived out side the system of slavery but those who were referred to as free blacks endured enforced segregation as well as racial discrimination. Although there were slaves who rebelled violently against enslavement, other subordinated groups and the African Americans usually used nonviolent means. These nonviolent means included pleas, protests, legal challenges and various petitions that were addressed to the government officials and they also used massive and sustained civil

Reflection on my Cofacilitation Group Skills Demonstration Essay

Reflection on my Cofacilitation Group Skills Demonstration - Essay Example etings were scheduled and attended by the members and that each member completed their parts on time so that we could merge all the sections before acclimatizing to them to foster further understanding on us. With regard to my facilitation partners, I have to commend them, despite residing in different areas I fond working with them quite cordial as no one missed even a single meeting. They all played their parts thoroughly without being pushed and took the initiative to update the rest of the group about their finding so that we could share a common grounding. I must say I enjoyed doing business with them, it was a flexible group, eager to learn, time conscious, and with unique contributions. Even though every event was successful in the group work, my most well done duty was the actual presentation-how I engaged and controlled the audience within the provided time. My presentation was more of interactive and I think this significantly contributed to the understanding of my facilitation. Though the presentation was good, I had the feeling that I have to improve on time management, it is important that after the facilitation, the audience get time to ask questions and this was not the question with my presentation. Time was well managed but I did not allocate time for questioning and clarifications from the audience. The feedback from peers and the instructor was positive, they all commended my contribution and confessed they did not expect such a well-organized and articulated presentation form me. The instructor went ahead and said that I must have had adequate preparation for the presentation, which was true. I also came to realize that with commitment, hard work, and dedication to duty, everybody could improve on their ability to deliver n anything. My contribution to the group was enormous, having been proposed the leader; I had to ensure that all the prerequisite preparations are done on time. I scheduled meetings, delegated duties to the group members,