Learn How to Write an Analytical Essay in 15 Minutes

Working on an analytical essay? Thinking about what to add into it? This blog will help you understand the core basics of an analytical essay. Once you are done reading it, you will be ready to write your essay easily. Quick Links 1. What is an Analytical Essay? 2. How to Write an Analytical Essay 2.1 How to Start an Analytical Essay 2.1.1 Find the Focus 2.1.2 Choose your Topic 2.1.3 Form a Thesis Statement 2.1.4 Find Supporting Evidence 2.1.5 Add Contextual Evidence 3. Analytical Essay Outline Worksheet 3.1 How to Write an Impressive Analytical Essay 3.2 How to Write a Concise Thesis Statement for Analytical Essay 3.3 How to Write Anal ytical Essay Body Paragraphs 3.4 How to Write Analytical Essay Conclusion 4. How to Perfect your Analytical Essay 4.1 Make it Error-free 4.2 Read the Essay Out Loud 4.3 Make Sure that You Have Added all the Necessary Details 4.4 Ask a Friend or Sibling to Read It For You 5. Analytical Essay Topics 6. Analytical Essay Examples 1. What is An Analytical Essay? According to an analytical essay definition, ‘it is a piece of writing in which the writer analyzes, interprets and critiques a work of art, situation, or a particular event.’ The purpose of such essays is to break down a topic into several subparts and to dissect and analyze them in detail and find out the main points. An analytical essay significantly differs from other types of essays. High school students often confuse this type of essay with argumentative essays. However, there is a sharp contrast between them, which you will learn in the later parts of this blog. The main goal of these types of essays is to analyze the main topic and convince the reader about your viewpoint. 2. How to Write an Analytical Essay Analytical writing can prove to be a difficult task for students but certainly not impossible. To learn how to write an analytical essay step-by-step, give this article a thorough read. The goal of analytical essay topics and the essays is to explain a topic in detail and with the aim that it increases the reader’s understanding. 2.1 How to Start an Analytical Essay In order to write a good analytical essay, or other academic assignments, you must first spend your time planning for it. Lets take a look at what the prewriting stage should look like. 2.1.1 Find the Focus Students can write an analysis essay on a literary work, a film or a play, or even an issue or problem faced by the society. So the first step is figuring out the core focus of your essay and presenting relevant facts from a novel, film, or the findings of your research, to back up your point of view. 2.1.2 Choose your Topic You can only start writing your essay once you have a topic in mind. Now, most professors like to assign a topic themselves; however, if you are given the opportunity to pick the topic yourself, then you have an edge. You can go with an idea that you are passionate about and find interesting, this will make research and writing the essay itself, a fun and simple process for you. 2.1.3 Form a Thesis Statement Once you have made your list of essay topics and have chosen the one for your essay, the next step is crafting the thesis statement. A thesis statement is the basis of your overall essay. The purpose of a thesis statement is to inform the readers about the purpose of your essay and the rhetorical question discussed throughout the paper. 2.1.4 Find Supporting Evidence The next step is finding evidence that supports your argument. You can opt for primary or secondary sources, depending on the requirements of your assignment. Look for the evidence that is authentic yet persuasive and directly related to the thesis. Use transition words to create proper linkage in the provided information. You can also develop an analytical essay outline to plan your writing process. 2.1.5 Add Contextual Evidence Other adding sources and evidence from credible and relevant sources, you should add quotes and paraphrased passages from the text. In an analytical essay example on a book, it is necessary to add phrases and quotes from the text as the main evidence. Adding textual examples build credibility as the reader would know that you know your work inside out. You can also develop an analytical essay outline to plan your writing process. 3. Analytical Essay Outline Worksheet Once you have gone through the prewriting stage, you are prepared for writing this type of essay. However, before beginning with the writing process, prepare a detailed outline worksheet for your essay. Preparing a good and detailed outline will help you in focusing on the main topic. Introduction Thesis Statement Main Body Conclusion 3.1 How to Write an Impressive Analytical Essay Introduction Start writing your essay with the introductory paragraph. The essay introduction aims to provide the reader with the basic background information of the issue. An introduction section starts with a hook, an interesting and engaging fact or statement. Consider it first and probably the last chance to impress your readers. The introduction should be exciting and leave the reader wanting to know more. However, be specific and keep everything brief. Do not overwhelm your readers with tons of information and keep the details for the latter part of the essay. 3.2 How to Write a Concise Thesis Statement for Analytical Essay Thesis statement comes after the introduction and it is usually a one or two liner. It is the core essence of the entire essay and this is why it should be brief and to the point. It is usually written at the end of the introduction and is a small section. To make it impressive, mention the main theme of the essay briefly. 3.3 How to Write Analytical Essay Body Paragraphs The body of any essay is the main part that consists of the flesh of the essay. Writing an analytical essay, the number of body paragraphs vary, depending upon the complexity of the topic. Generally, each paragraph is made up of a topic sentence, analysis of the original text and evidence from the text that proves your opinion and thesis statement. Please remember that each paragraph must present a single idea or topic. Do not try to add multiple ideas into a single paragraph. 3.4 How to Write Analytical Essay Conclusion Want to know how to conclude an analytical essay strong? Writing a conclusion has the same importance as the introductory paragraph. Use the conclusion to prove how and why your point of view was correct. Also, restate the thesis in a global context. However, don’t introduce new ideas at this stage. It will only confuse your reader further. Explain the importance of the issue and your stance on it to the reader. If you want to learn details about the different types of analytical essays, along with their examples, feel free to explore the analytical essay example and sharpen your writing skills. 4. How to Perfect your Analytical Essay The final step after you have finished the writing process is to perfect your draft. To do so, you must practice the following techniques. 4.1 Make it Error-Free If your essay tackles an important issue and presents a solid argument, but at the same time, if it has grammatical or spelling errors, then it won’t come across as a well-written piece of writing. Before the final submission, make sure that your essay is completely error free. Check for spelling and grammar and make sure that everything is in line with your analytical essay structure. Make it your habit to get rid of any mistakes before handing in your paper. You can do this easily by using spelling and grammar check software. 4.2 Read the Essay Out Loud It may sound weird but reading the paper out loud will actually help you in identifying your paper’s shortcomings. When writing, you may not be able to identify any complex or vague words and phrases. Reading it out loud will help you in picking such words and rectifying it before submission. Reading it this way will also help you notice the readability of your text. In case something is not falling in place, you can change it at this stage. 4.3 Make Sure that You Have Added All the Necessary Details And correctly also. Every assignment has specific guidelines and requirements and as a student, it is important for you to follow all of them. Some details include the analytical essay format, the required number of references, the required number of pages and words etc. Other details include the correct mentioning of the names of the characters and location, as mentioned in the novel, or your chosen subject. 4.4 Ask a Friend or Sibling to Read it For You Sometimes we miss minor mistakes and errors and it is natural. This is why, having someone else read it for you will help you in rectifying those mistakes. Ask your friend or a sibling to read it for you and point out structural or any other types of errors. 5. Analytical Essay Topics The range of analytical essay topics is almost limitless. You can write an analytical essay and support your points with evidence and logical arguments on topics as wide ranging as the arts, political movements, social phenomena, scientific discoveries, and current events. To help you choose a topic for your essay, we have presented some topic ideas below: How does fashion influence the lives of teenagers? Do you think that footballers are overrated in terms of pay? If yes then why? Can you imagine a world without technology? Prove your arguments.with strong evidence. Express your views on having mandatory school uniform. Provide strong arguments and proof. Voting age in the US should be revised. Agreed? Analyze Romeo and Juliet and the theme of fate. Explain and analyze different literary terms. Discuss and analyze the theme of Ambition in the play Macbeth. Analyze the role of different female characters in Hamlet. Analyze Twains Huckleberry Finn and discuss the themes of while supremacy and black slavery in the book. Analyze the concept of Power Corrupts in Marlowes Doctor Faustus. Identify and analyze different symbols in Samuel Becketts Waiting for Godot. How do the novel Of Mice and Men discusses the era of the Great Depression? Discuss the elements of fantasy and reality in the play A Streetcar Named Desire. Analyze the various symbols in the play The Glass Menagerie 6. Analytical Essay Examples To help you further, we have added downloadable analytical essay template and essay versions here. You can download them and use them as a guide for your essay writing process. Essay Writing Help If you dont consider yourself a good writer or you simply dont have time to complete your assignments then we have the solution for that too. 5staressays is the hub of seasoned essay writers who put their expert skills into providing excellent writing service. Simple, place your and enjoy a well-written piece in amazing prices.

Marriott International Business Analysis Essay

Marriott International Business Analysis Essay Marriott International Inc. Business Analysis Essay Marriott International Inc. Business Analysis Essay Marriott International, Inc. is a leading global lodging company headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, USA. Marriott International, Inc. has over 4,200 properties spread across 79 countries (â€Å"About Marriott International†). Besides, the company owns 19 brands that are grouped in five business segments, which include the North American Full-Service Lodging, North American Limited-Service Lodging, International Lodging, and Luxury Lodging and Timeshare (Marriott Jr. 15). Besides franchising and operating the hotels, Marriott International offers services to home and condominium owner associations for projects related to one of its brands (Marriott Jr. 28). Marriott International uses unique strategies aimed at achieving effective market share and good profitability. MARRIOT INTERNAL ENVIRONMENT The company is guided by Marriott family for almost 90 years (â€Å"About Marriott International†). The initial idea of the founders of Marriott International, Inc. was to open a root beer stand in Washington (Marriott Jr. 12). The company’s first hotel, founded in 1927, was a major achievement for Marriott family. Marriott International has become a world leading business due to its main focus is on customer relationship, growth efficiency, service offering as well as its capability to provide effective customer promotions for the hotels. The paper aims at analyzing the Marriott International Inc. and its environment. Employees Marriott International understands the importance of employees for the success of the business. Thus, the company provides a supportive environment to help its employees grow in the current job positions and build a sustainable career (Gallagher par. 1). The company follows the principle of putting people first. The company is known to be offering competitive compensation and benefits to its employees. In Marriott International, there are over 200,000 hotel employees. Together with those in the franchised properties, there are 361,000 (Gallagher par. 6). The company’s employees are not concentrated on a cool campus, but rather scattered all over the world. Owners The founder of Marriott International was J. Willard Marriott. Today, the company is led by his son, Bill Marriott, the Executive Chairman, in conjunction with Arne Sorenson, the Chief Executive Officer (Marriott Jr. 12). The Marriott family owns 30 percent of the company. The company hosts an Ownership Educational Summit twice per year to encourage hotel ownership and educate potential owners on the hospitality and tourism industry as well as the ways of attaining Marriot’s ownership and the significance of contracting strong brands for the company. Board of Directors. The board of directors of Marriott International consists of qualified personnel as discussed below (Aspen Publishers 56-77). Marriott International’s Executive Chairman and Chairman of the Board is W. Marriott Jr., the son of the founder, Willard Marriott. Customers Marriott International has a broad target market (Marriott Jr. 44). However, the company’s most important target group are the business travelers or people in the business world. The company understands that people in the business industry have to travel around the world for business reasons. Thus, Marriott International offers such brands as Fairfield Inn Suites, Residence Inn, Courtyard, TownePlace Suites, and SpringHill Suites for its business clientele (Marriott Jr. 47). Competitors Marriott International faces strong competition both as a franchisor and as a lodging operator. There are approximately 872 lodging management companies in the US, with 9 of them operating over 100 properties (Marriott Jr. 56). The operators are mainly private management companies, but also include some large national chains that operate own hotels and franchise own brands. Marriott International ranks second in the market share (5.6 %) after Hilton Hotels Corporation (7.2%) (Marriott Jr. 57). Other major rivals of Marriott International in the industry include Starwood Hotels, Resorts Worldwide, Inc., and Wyndham Worldwide Corporation, which have the same market share (3.4%) (Marriott Jr. 57). Other competitors include Accor at 1.7% and the Intercontinental Hotels Group PLC, whose market share is 0.8% (Marriott Jr. 57-58). Though all the hotel properties offer similar facilities, the Hilton Hotels Corporation, the largest competitor in the industry, incorporates more leisure facilities. Secondly, Hilton Company operates its own loyalty program. Besides, unlike Marriott, Hilton has taken environmentally friendly efforts to maintain its market position (Marriott Jr. 60). Suppliers. Marriott International maintains strong relations with businesses owned by minority groups in the areas of its operation across the world, and these relations continue to grow and strengthen ( «Marriott Enlists more Diverse Suppliers† par. 1). In the past decade, the company spent 4 billion dollars with diverse suppliers ( «Marriott Enlists more Diverse Suppliers† par. The company’s suppliers from different industries include: Berman Purchasing Inc., Jupiter, Fla. (furniture, fixtures, and equipment seller); Carter Brothers, Atlanta, Ga. (security and fire alarms distributor); Eagles Koinonia Corporation, Brandon, Fla. (janitorial/cleaning services); Fairmont Designs Hospitality Group, Buena Park, Calif. (furniture designs); Garys Seafood, Orlando, Fla. (seafood distribution); Hospitality Staffing Solutions, Marietta, Ga. (temporary staffing); Land-Ron Inc., Orlando, Fla. (constructions for the company); Tronex, Parsippany, NJ. ( disposable gloves and products); Ty, Ty, Ty Inc., Miami, Fla. (takes care of the rooms/linen); TG Constructors Inc., Orlando, Fla. (constructions for the company) ( «Marriott Enlists more Diverse Suppliers† par. 3). Distributors Marriott International has one of the strongest distribution systems in the industry. The system is integrated with the revenue management, customer loyalty, ecommerce, global distribution systems, and property management systems of the company (Marriott Jr. 66). The company’s foodservice distributors include the Red Lobster restaurants, Darden Restaurants Olive Garden, and Garys Seafood, Orlando, Florida (Marriott Jr. 66). Strategic Allies Marriott International has entered a number of strategic alliances with strong world consumer brands to increase customer awareness as well as revenue and share value (Marriott Jr. 67). The company’s strategic allies include Visa USA, which entered an agreement with the company to develop novel products for leisure and business travels, joint sponsorships, and consumer and trade promotions. Next is the Rugby Football Union. The alliance with Marriott International was meant to enhance the existing relationship between the two firms (Marriott Jr. 77). Unions and Employee Associations. Of the total number of employees working for Marriott International, 11,000 of them are protected by unions (Gallagher par. 6). These organizations ensure that workers receive the right treatment at their workplaces and are equally compensated. Some examples of the unions is the International Labor Organization and Hotels, Restaurants Cafà ©s in Europe (Marriott Jr. 70). Local Communities As a recognized company that operates managed and franchised lodgings, Marriott International has various stakeholder groups that include hotel owners, shareholders, customers, suppliers, associates, industry associations, community organizations as well as governmental and non-governemntal agencies (Marriot 92). The company’s stakeholders are diverse and operate globally. Marriott has an understanding that the stakeholders are important and that their opinions, desires and needs drive the company’s stategy. Therefore, the company’s stakeholders are highly valued and are accorded utmost respect because they shape the sustainability strategy (Marriot 92). Lenders Marriott International is financed by the local commercial banks in the US (Marriott Jr. 102). However, in case of a financial crisis in the home country, the company can borrow money from a bank in the country it wishes to operate. Government Regulators The regulations encountered by Marriott International are with regards to the environment, tax, and employees (Marriott Jr. 108). In every country where Marriott International is executing its operations, there are particular rules that guide its interactions with governmental agencies and officials. The rules mainly focus on lobbying, political contributions, trade restrictions etc. Special Interest Groups Special interest groups are formed to enable members to share information related to hospitality and tourism. Marriot International is a member of special interest groups (Marriott Jr. 103). What is more, one of the chairmen of the special interest groups, Allan Tuttle, is the member of the company. Marriott International is a member of the Hospitality and Sales (SIG) group (Marriott Jr. 103). Mass Media Marriot International uses mass media to reach out to its clientele (Marriot 36). The company uses the social media such as Twitter and Facebook to create awareness of any changes in the company. Besides, it uses flyers to communicate its programmes to its customers. Lastly, the company uses utility bills such as eGifts to enhance its customers’ experiences (Marriot 36). GENERAL ENVIRONMENT Economic Forces Marriot International is affected by economic factors such as recession and ecomomic turmoil in Europe (Marriott Jr. 75). Events such as debt crisis have reduced the buying power of customers and their ability to travel. This affects Marriott International heavily, as its operations depend on travelling trends. Another economic problem facing Marriott International is that the US dollar faces high exchange rate overseas (Marriott Jr. 75). This discourages foreign visitors from travelling to the US. The high exchange rates discourage business travels as well. Sociological Forces. The demand for the products in the tourism and hospitality industry is influenced by sociological factors. In the modern world, people enjoy travelling and exploring new places. Due to technological advancements and improvements in the transportation system, travelling has been made easy. The desire to attain a distinctive atmosphere has become an important concern for managers in the hospitality industry. Employees in the industry offer personal services to customers so as to retain them (Sung Chon and Yu 77). Marriott International is characterized by its strategy of ensuring customer satisfaction to guarantee a return visit (Renner 7). It is also is expanding its travel network across the world (Marriott Jr. 72). Demographic Forces The demographic forces entail characteristics such as age, gender, religion, education, income, among others. The hotel industry targets people of all ages (Marriott Jr. 55-56). The company targets the highly paid in the society; however, it also takes into consideration the lowly paid who have a passion for travelling (Marriott Jr. 54). Marriott International has to ensure that it has a tier to every income group so as to remain competitive in the industry. The company has ranks of hotels in specific areas that rely on the wants and needs of the customers of all groups. For example, the company’s brands such as Fairfield Inn Suites have free Wi-Fi and business centers with PC and printing services to help its customers to remain entertained and productive. Besides, the rooms are fitted with accessible high-speed Internet, guest rooms with a conducive work area, and separate living and sleeping areas. The brand SpringHill Suites is spacious, has style, and is affordably price d to attract both the high and low income earners (Marriott Jr. 57). Political/ Legal Forces Marriott International operates in a country that remains politically stable. Further, the growing prosperity of its populace continues to provide a concrete foundation for sustained growth that will prompt the confidence of investors in the hotel industry that results in investments for the company (Marriott Jr. 87). Research indicates that developments in the hotel industry result in stable taxes for the government. In turn, it becomes easy for foreign investors to get licensed to operate in the country. The unpredictable and volatile situations in the political environment of a host market increases risk and uncertainty, thus pushing potential investors away. There are laws and regulations that control business operations in every country. Marriott International understands the role of such rules, and it has acted accordingly both in the past and currently. The company understands that every political system is different and it needs to be addressed. Marriott International is reported to have always followed the set of rules specific for certain countries such as policies concerning low-fat food, smoking policies etc. (Marriott Jr. 87). International Forces Today, the world of business is more interconnected and interdependent than ever before. Evidently, all decisions facing international managers regarding whom to hire, which technologies to adopt, how to market their products locally and internationally among others are influenced by the business environment of the country in which a company operates. Marriott International has had to confront the legal, cultural and political issues specific for the countries of operation in developing strategies to enter the local market (Marriott Jr. 115). The issues include encouraging government’s fiscal policy, a conducive environment for business that offers investment incentives, effective and sustainable marketing and promotions, as well as policies that are in agreement with the local communities and cultures. Marriott International has been able to succeed in business because it not only complies with the rules of its home country, but also with the laws and regulations of the host countries in which it operates. The international laws have influenced the markets that the company can serve, the prices it should charge for the products, as well as the costs of inputs such as labor, technologies, and raw materials (Marriott Jr. 115). Besides, the political environment and the legal system in the international market have affected the location of hotel suites for Marriott International. SWOT ANALYSIS SWOT analysis is defined as a structured planning technique used for evaluating the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats involved in a business venture. For Marriott International, SWOT Analysis presents the actual picture of its business operations. Strengths Marriott International is a universally recognized leader in the hospitality industry. The company has strong brand equity with an Internet presence and sufficient IT solutions. The company has been attentive to specialized market segments and brand differentiation. Marriott International has a strong market position because of its expanded and diversified business across the globe. Marriott International has a large market share in the industry as it provides a wide range of high-quality products and services to its customers. Marriott International boasts a strong customer relationship. Its ability to offer satisfying products and services to its clientele has helped the company earn customer loyalty. Weaknesses The Marriot International Company is over-dependent upon luxury brands in the United States’ market. The company lacks low-cost lifestyle brands that are now gaining popularity in the developing nations. As a result of its huge expansions in business, Marriott International is becoming weak in its management system. Marriott International is facing backwardness in infrastructure, especially in management of information technology. Due to its huge debts, the market share of Marriott International is declining. Marriott International operates in a highly concentrated industry. As such, there is a high rate of competition, and customers have a variety of substitute products. Opportunities Marriot International can try to merge its firms and businesses across the world, particularly those in the European countries. Joining the businesses together will help the company regain its power in the market. Studies reveal a considerable growth in the tourism industry and Asian travel. The low-cost market segment is trending, and Marriot International can benefit from capturing the segment through investment. Environmentally friendly operations and eco-tourism can have significant success in helping Marriott International gain its position in the marketplace. Marriott International has the opportunity to enhance its business and grow its services in the market to achieve more customers’ loyalty. Marriott International should take the necessary steps to grow in the market. For example, the company can improve its direct marketing plans such as in the advertisement to ensure its content for the ads is relevant to capture more customers. Threats In the contemporary world, the element of timeshare is losing its charm. Economic problems in Europe are affecting consumer spending. This is because the crisis have affected the travelling ability and purchasing power of the customers. The risk posed by political instabilities in some countries and government involvement are creating tensions for the company because of its hotels operating in the countries. The economic recessions in some countries may pose a threat to the company, since this will influence the prices that the company should charge for its products as well as the cost of labor, technologies, and raw materials. MISSION STATEMENT â€Å"To enhance the lives of our customers by creating and enabling unsurpassed vacation and leisure experiences.† (Marriott Jr. 6). VISION STATEMENT â€Å"To become the premiere provider and facilitator of leisure and vacation experiences in the world.† (Marriott Jr. 6-7). COMPETITIVE STRATEGIES In its primary line of operation, Marriott International employs strong competitive strategies that have enabled it to maintain its competitive advantage over its rivals in the mature hotel industry (Renner 5). Since it has been established, Marriott International has believed in a continued long-term success achieved by over 80 years of experience, customer preference, strong brands, as well as an effective business model. As mentioned earlier, the portfolio of the company consists of over 4,200 properties in more than 80 countries across the world (†About Marriott International†). By 2009, about 137,000 employees had been part of the company’s workforce that helped generate sales of 11 billion dollars, a figure that was projected to continue increasing in subsequent years (Renner 9). Irrespective of the many challenges faced by Marriott International such as the global recession, inflation and international forces that have cut back on travel, the company has been able to remain on top through the use of extraordinary customer service. Marriott International focuses on the use innovative technical programs and technology to enhance the customers’ experience (Marriott Jr. 98). By so doing, Marriott International has been able to differentiate itself from its rivals and attain a strong competitive position. Besides, the company owns a center piece programme, Marriotts Automated Reservation Systems for Hotel Accommodations (MARSH), which ensures customers receive personalized attention (Marriott Jr. 98). In a nutshell, Marriott International’s competitive strategy is a hard mode of operation that rivals in the industry strive to match. Marriott international is a globally recognized brand that manages and franchises lodgings and hotels. The paper has performed an analysis of the company and its environments. From the analysis, Marriott International operates in a highly concentrated industry where completion is quite high. The main competitor for the company is Hilton Hotels Corporation. Despite the competition in the industry, Marriott has been able to maintain its position and become a world leading business through the use of its unique competitive strategies. The company’s main focus has been excellent customer service and growth efficiency.

Financial Analysis Project Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Financial Analysis Project - Assignment Example Basically, the business is divided into three major business units. The PepsiCo Americas Food which includes brands such as Frito-Lay North America, Quackers Food North America and all of their Latin American food and snack businesses. The second business unit is that of PepsiCo Americas Beverage; this includes the PepsiCo beverage North America and Latin America beverage businesses. The third business unit is the PepsiCo International, which deals with all the international businesses of the United Kingdom, Europe, Asia, Middle East- practically the whole world. The organization’s core value is to provide sustainable growth through the empowerment of people who act responsibly and build trust. Sustained growth, Empowered people, Responsibility and Trust form the core value foundations of the organization (PepsiCo, 2010). For the analysis purposes, the financial statements of 2007, 2008 and 2009 were used. The website provides the financial statements of all three years. For industry analysis and information purposes, the Bloomberg PepsiCo and Bloomberg Coke were also utilized. The initial review of the organization is divided into two areas; Analysis of the auditor’s messages as well highlighting the management’s discussion and analysis of the business that took place throughout the year, paying special emphasis on the important aspects of the business. According to the auditor’s report, the audit has been conducted keeping in mind the guidelines of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, in USA. According to the standards set by PCAOB, the auditors had to make sure there was enough internal audit control to not allow miss-statement of financial statements. A company is required to exercise sound internal control over the financial reporting processes and procedures in order to provide the auditors and the stakeholders with reasonable surety

School Procurement Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

School Procurement - Essay Example It should be completed after a period of seventy two weeks. The report will also look at other alternative procurement routes and give their disadvantages. It will also examine the steps to be followed for effective project implementation (ETWB, 2004) From these differences, arises a number of procurement processes. The first alternative is 'competitive tendering/ develop and construct' under this scheme, the school can be designed by Southumberland County together with the community and then tendered to a principle contractor. The other route maybe 'design and build' which allows for design and construction by a principle contractor. There is also the 'construction management' procurement system which allows the client (in this case Southumberland County) to work hand in hand with a principle contractor who constructs the building while the client manages the construction process. Under the PFI procurement route, operations are done within a fixed price range. This amount is arrived at by considering inflation rate for the past twenty five and thirty years. If the contractor fails to meet his/her deadline then a penalty will have to be paid. This means that the PFI scheme is subject to inflation rate changes because costs of implementing the project will be subject to inflation changes yet the unitary payment will be changed at a different rate. An alternative like the design and build route arrives at its charges without consideration of inflation rates. 2.12 Unforeseen expenses If the project happens to the superseded its time limits, then extra costs will be incurred. These costs are met by the contractor and he will be the one on the loosing because it will minimize his profits. In contrast, however, another scheme like the design and build route leaves the maintenance of extra costs to the project initiator. This would not be economical for the County. 2.13 Defects on building In the PFI scheme, the risk of any defects found in the completed building will rest solely on the contractor. This implies that the contractor will do his best to ensure that he produces a quality product to avoid deductions that will have to be made on the unitary payment which the Southumberland County is going to pay. However, the design and build route has a time frame within which the employer can charge for defects. After that time frame, any defects will have to be settled by the employer. (Henderson Global Investors, 2003) 2.14 Value for money This scheme provides value for money because costs and risks are moved from the project initiator to the private contractor. Normally the unitary amount that is calculated prior to project work is slightly on the high side. Because there are a number of expenses that will be incurred along the way, this increase is fair. Develop and build under the PFI scheme allows the project initiator to get value for his money since he is free from any of the following risks: general maintenance, latent defects, construction overruns, management time and

Financial Statement Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

Financial Statement Analysis - Essay Example 10 2.5 Comparison with competitor 10 Conclusion 11 Appendix I 12 Appendix II 13 Appendix III 14 References 17 Executive Summary This report discusses the finance performance and position of Tesco Plc for the recent 5 years (2006-2010), analyzes the short term and long term prospects of Tesco Plc and the investment attractiveness in its equity shares. Based on the analysis, Tesco Plc showed a strong past track record with continuous expansion through acquisitions and new selling space. Growth was slow in 2008-2009 due to the economic storm experienced but has resumed quickly. The balance sheet is strong with healthy solvency position and shareholder returns are encouraging with 5 consecutive years of enhanced dividend and increased Group Earnings per Share. Comparison with its UK retail peer, Morrisons is conducted and the result revealed that Tesco Plc is still ahead of its competitor. It is discovered that Tesco Plc is currently facing challenge from the intense competition in the U K due to the great promotional offers and price cut from the discount retailers such as Asda and Aldi. However, strong growth is expected from its international retail and the future outlook of the Company remains positive. A strong buy recommendation is proposed after reviewing broker’s recommendations and the performance of the Company. 1. Introduction 1.1 Aims and Objectives of the report The aims and objectives of this report include: To obtain an overview of the financial performance and position of Tesco Plc for the recent 5 years (2006-2010). To analyze the short term and long term prospects of Tesco Plc and the investment attractiveness in its equity shares. This report would begin with the historical evolution of Tesco Plc followed by an in depth analysis on its financial performance for the recent 5 years (2006-2010) together with a comparison against its competitor and calculation on beta discussing on how the returns of the share is correlated to the returns of th e stock market. Recommendation on whether to invest in its equity shares is suggested at the end of the report based on the comprehensive analysis done in terms on its short and long term prospects. 1.2 Historical evolution of Tesco Plc Tesco Plc is one of the world’s leading retailers founded by Jack Cohen when he started selling surplus groceries from a stall in the East End of London in 1919 and opened his first stall in 1929 in Burnt Oak, Edgware, North London. It was listed in the Stock Exchange with a share price of 25p in 1947 and continued to grow through acquisitions and opening of new stores in the 1960s with a chain of over 212 stores in the North of England. Tesco started to diversify its business by opening petrol stations in 1974. The first international retail unit was launched in Hungary in 1995 and today, its international operations cover China, Czech Republic, Hungary, India, Japan, Malaysia, Poland, Republic of Ireland, Slovakia, South Korea, Thailand, Tur key and United States. (Tesco Plc, 2011) The core purpose of Tesco Plc is to create value for customers to earn their lifetime loyalty and its success depends on people, both customers and employees and emphasize on a sustainable long term growth

Tiziano Vecellios Art Style and the Italian Renaissance

Tiziano Vecellios Art Style and the Italian Renaissance In history, art has changed frequently. With new concepts and experimental ways, the new art forms slowly become accepted by society, while the previous techniques fade into the background; however, the old techniques are not forgotten. Within every era, the new techniques that come from the creative minds and their ideas, have established more from the inspiration of old skills, like the change from Renaissance to Mannerism; this lead to the furthering of different art styles in the future generations. Background info on genre, time period and country of origin The Italian Renaissance was the arising point of modern age. The period stretched from 1400 to 1550, originating from Florence, Italy. It was the revival of scientific and artistic innovations. It was also the revitalization of Greek and Roman learning. This essential time period linked the relation of the middle ages to the modern age. The Italian Renaissance was split into two phases, the Early Renaissance and the High Renaissance. The High Renaissance, at the climax of Renaissance art from 1500 to 1525, was the result of the culmination of the different artistic progression of the Early Renaissance. During the 1520s of the Italian Renaissance, High Renaissance was exaggerated to Mannerism. The High Renaissance was an era that brought total creative genius to the world in history. Characterisitcs of art being done during that time and mediums used The changes in art during the Italian Renaissance were clearly seen in paintings and sculptures. While the artists continued to use religious subject matter, they combined the idea with the principles of the human figure and the appeal in depicting nature. Artists began experimenting with their paintings by using oil-based paints, which were workable for several months due to the slow drying pace of the paints. The fresco technique, developed during the Italian Renaissance and used by artists like Michelangelo, involved painting on plasters walls. Light and perspective was familiarized to give a sense of reality through three-dimensional imagery. Artists gained new insight and techniques to their concept of space and form in the Italian Renaissance, which has thus changed art forever. Background info on artist Tiziano Vecellio, also more famously known as Titian, was one of the greatest artists of the High Rennaissance. He was born in Pieve di Cadore, Italy. The year of his birth is highly disputed between scholars, but it is believed to be between 1477 and 1488. As a young boy, he was an apprentice to Giovanni Bellinni, another outstanding painter in Italy at the time. In 1508, the now young independent painter, Titian, joined the Venetian painter, Giorgione to beautify the facade of the Fondaco dei Tedeschi in Venice. Titians work was mistaken as a new and improved style of Giorgione. The teamwork between the two artists led to more art collaboration; together, they explored oil painting techniques, by ways like directly applying an undiluted medium on the canvas. At the death of Giovanni Bellini in 1516, it left Titian with no adversary in Venice, which let him receive his old masters job as the official painter to the Republic. His first major public commission was the Assumption of the Virgin which was painted for the Basilica of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari in Venice. In 1533, he was appointed as the court painter of Charles V, the most powerful man of the century, being Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire and the King of Spain. In 1548, he spent nine months in Augsburg with the Imperial Court. After half a decade, he commences a series of poesie for Phillip II in 1554. Although Titian was not a man of much education, he was one of great talent. Titian was an elegant and charming man who was also attractive and interesting in conversation, which made it easy for him to build relationships and connections with powerful people. Over the span of twenty years, Titian created relationships and connections with princely patronage, while continuing work for other Venetian churches. As he grew older, his eyesight worsened and his hand control was weakening. Unfortunately, during a plague outbreak, Titian died, on August 27, 1576, as a rich and famous man. He was interred into the Church of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari. His universal reputation continues to be known to this modern day. Styles and techniques used by artist Titian was an infamous Venetian painter during the High Renaissance. He was known for his bright rich colours and his bold brush work. The bold use of colour and the lush sumptuous layers were the result of much preparation, the medium used and the surface chosen. Mythological paintings, religious paintings, portraits, and churches were just some of the works he accomplished. His artwork should be viewed from a distance to get the as it was desired to be seen. Much of his skills were influenced by Giorgione, where he improved his style with new elements and perfection. From 1530 to 1550, his approach and style became more and more dramatic. The unique practices Titian painted with combined with his great talent were what made him an amazing painter. As Titian matured as an artist, he had as specific methods to his paintings. First, he sketched his pictures with loads of colour that forms the groundwork of the work of art. For up to several months, without looking, he left his composition facing a wall. He then returned to them to build up figures, make changes, and correct any wrongs. When retouching his working, he dealt with highlights by harmonizing colours and tones by rubbing the composition with his fingers. An alternate way was by adding strokes and bright spots with his fingers to perfect his work. As he grew older, he began to paint with his fingers more. He believed that It is not bright colors but good drawing that makes figures beautiful. Detailed analysis of artwork Titians masterpiece, Bacchanal of the Andrians, shows that it is a complete success through design elements. The composition of the work of art is arranged with the human figures spread out evenly across the horizontal span of the canvas. The colours involved are rich and bold; they are not too bright to be overtaking the whole piece. The harmonic bond between the tones and colour that is used by Titian is infamous. The contrast in colour between the two sides balances each other out. The contrast in colour in the dress of the dancing couple compared to the rest of the drinking people, bring it out two a secondary focal point. With naked woman in the corner as the focal point, it brings the eyes throughout the painting, from the focal point to the dancing couple to the other people. Bachannal of the Adrians seems to be interpreting a message of celebration. This may be the possibility of a marriage due to the dancing couple in bolder colours and the amount of activities (drinking, partying, and sheet music) involved. However, these actions could also indicate a celebration due to the homecoming of an important person. The characters involved in the work of art have great meaning too. The woman in the white dress may represent innocence; the other ladies may represent vulnerability and jealousy as seen from their positioning and facial emotions. The nude men surrounding the other women may represent lust and want, as they are in some way in contact, physically or optically, to the women. Conclusion New art techniques were and still are developed through time. Titian, one of the greatest artists of the high Renaissance, was one who established new skills and techniques from others through his life that inspired others to create more throughout history. There are many steps involved in art to fuel to this advancement. According to Titian, Painting done under pressure by artists without the necessary talent can only give rise to formlessness, as painting is a profession that requires peace of mind. http://www.artinthepicture.com/artists/Titian/Quotes/

Stereotypes and Stereotyping - I Was a Teenage Trouble-Maker :: Example Personal Narratives

Stereotyping - I Was a Teenage Trouble-Maker The time was the fall of 2000. It was my senior year, and we were in our fourth hour home economics class. My best friend and I were about to finish up our two-day presentation on how to bake and ice a cake. Now, with the class and the teacher watching intently, we proceeded to ice the two layer chocolate cake with our bare hands. The entire class broke out with uncontrollable laughter; needless to say our teacher was fuming. Well, to make matters worse, we cut her the biggest piece of cake. Unfortunately for her, she didn't eat it, because it was really good. Now you might think we were a couple of troublemakers, but the fact is we were unjustly failed on the first day of our perfect presentation. The teacher said we left out key parts of our speech, but her observation was wrong. Everyone in the class heard us except her. We weren't trying to cause trouble. We figured we already failed the project, so we might as well have some fun. Experiences such as this one, and man y others have contributed to my history of being stereotyped. Stereotyping is so common in our society that when you meet someone for the first time you are often stereotyped before you even reach "hello." Stereotyping is most often someone's perception of an individual or group based on social status, educational level, race or even looks. Everybody is guilty of it, and everybody has been subjected to it sometime in their life. It is easier to put a label on someone and place them in a category we feel they fit in, rather than to get to know them as a person. I, myself, have been labeled and placed in the stereotypical category of a troublemaker at one point or another in my life. As a result of being labeled as a troublemaker, my views on the characteristics of this stereotype have changed. According to the dictionary, the definition of a troublemaker is "someone who habitually stirs up trouble." I feel a troublemaker is someone who will make waves even if it isn't the popular thing to do. Stereotypes and Stereotyping - I Was a Teenage Trouble-Maker :: Example Personal Narratives Stereotyping - I Was a Teenage Trouble-Maker The time was the fall of 2000. It was my senior year, and we were in our fourth hour home economics class. My best friend and I were about to finish up our two-day presentation on how to bake and ice a cake. Now, with the class and the teacher watching intently, we proceeded to ice the two layer chocolate cake with our bare hands. The entire class broke out with uncontrollable laughter; needless to say our teacher was fuming. Well, to make matters worse, we cut her the biggest piece of cake. Unfortunately for her, she didn't eat it, because it was really good. Now you might think we were a couple of troublemakers, but the fact is we were unjustly failed on the first day of our perfect presentation. The teacher said we left out key parts of our speech, but her observation was wrong. Everyone in the class heard us except her. We weren't trying to cause trouble. We figured we already failed the project, so we might as well have some fun. Experiences such as this one, and man y others have contributed to my history of being stereotyped. Stereotyping is so common in our society that when you meet someone for the first time you are often stereotyped before you even reach "hello." Stereotyping is most often someone's perception of an individual or group based on social status, educational level, race or even looks. Everybody is guilty of it, and everybody has been subjected to it sometime in their life. It is easier to put a label on someone and place them in a category we feel they fit in, rather than to get to know them as a person. I, myself, have been labeled and placed in the stereotypical category of a troublemaker at one point or another in my life. As a result of being labeled as a troublemaker, my views on the characteristics of this stereotype have changed. According to the dictionary, the definition of a troublemaker is "someone who habitually stirs up trouble." I feel a troublemaker is someone who will make waves even if it isn't the popular thing to do.