ORGANISATIONS AND BEHAVIOUR Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

ORGANISATIONS AND BEHAVIOUR - Essay Example It explains why human needs change with time but not how. These theories help the managers to understand the specific factors that would motivate the employee to perform better. Content Theories includes: This theory indicates a hierarchy of human needs where satisfaction of lower level need motivates individual to achieve higher-level need (Thompson, 1996, pp.10). The hierarchy includes following needs: This theory state that managers believe in either â€Å"Theory X† that employees dislike work and tend to avoid it or in â€Å"Theory Y† that employees appreciate work and are self motivated (Goldsmith School of Business, n.d). Herzberg, in his two-factor theory described hygiene factors as the factors which do not motivate employees for better performance at work; however, their absence can lead to dissatisfaction from the work. In the hygiene factor, he placed factors like pay, job satisfaction, work environment and company policies (Thompson, 1996, p.13-14). It would be correct to consider pay as the most important of hygiene factor. An individual works to earn a living and finance his needs so money is the main aim behind an individual job. Among the entire hygiene factors, all are negotiable for an individual besides his pay. Usually, an individual in need of money would not mind working in an unstable work environment without any job satisfaction if the money is right for him. However, it varies with the individual, as an individual who works with the perspective to learn like an internee would place more importance to job satisfaction then pay. Therefore, importance of factors is variable with the individual concerned but generally, pay is the most important hygiene factor. Pay is definitely an important tool for managers to increase motivation however; it is a very short-term tool and does not guarantee long-term motivation. This is because with

Technical trading analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Technical trading analysis - Essay Example s assumed that the fund would definitely be interested in riding a wave but not to the peak but obtain gains much before the peak and go short somewhere between the bottom and the peak. Similarly the fund would not wait for the market to bottom out before taking a decision on going long and that it would go long once market moves down somewhere between the peak and the bottom. Either strategies would imply that the fund is not looking for excessive and speculative gains; nevertheless it does maintain inherent profit booking targets. The trading system explained below is based on trading rules that were tested for profits results based on this risk philosophy. Financial theory, taught in finance textbooks the globe over, normally exposes a student of finance to the concepts like the efficient market hypothesis and the economically rational individual. Bubbles and crashes seem to defy these two seminal concepts with an awkwardness equivalent to the awkwardness one would attach to those things on earth that defy gravity. Nevertheless such extreme stock market movements are a reality. Bubbles make investing decisions arduous as stock prices tend to deviate by substantial margins from their fundamental valuations. Investors relying on past company results and technical analysis are equally defeated in such situations as is the EMH.In fact, investors always act on the basis that they have an applicable construct to explain stock price movements and tend to input all available information collected under such constructs in their investment decisions (Poole 2000). Finance research has also held varying opinions on this issue. For instance, Bierm ann (1995) supports the idea that market prices are determined from backward looking investors than by those that indulge in predictions of all sorts. Others have, for example elaborated on the use of price to earnings ratios to determine excess market valuations. Some technical work has set to rest in a convincing manner the

Realism Relations Political

Realism Relations Political How is classical realism different to neo-realism? Neo-realism is a school of thought in international relations, which has its origins in classical realism which was advanced by writers such as Hans Morgenthau. He believed that states acted only in the pursuit of their self-interests to promote survival. Kenneth Waltz introduced a new approach, through his book, ‘Theory of International Politics, claiming that neo-realism can strengthen the previous paradigm of realism by looking at international relations in a more structural and methodological perspective and as a result, enhanced conclusions can be obtained. Therefore, in order to assess the differences between realism and neo-realism and whether Waltzs neo-realism is an improvement on classical realism, it is firstly important to define both neo-realism and classical realism. It is also important to consider Waltzs perspective in detail and analyse the elements which could be deemed as improvements. Thus, it will be argued that neo-realism is an improvement on classical realism due to its more rigorous scientific approach to international relations. Morgenthau was an international theorist who advocated the paradigm of realism. His theory consists of many principles which he believed gave a more pragmatic approach to international relations compared to the earlier paradigm of idealism. He considers states to be aggressive and power-seeking and that these specific characteristics stem from the imperfect humans from which they are constructed. Additionally, he deems that states are the key actors in international relations and stresses that national interests dominate state behaviour. This poses the question whether states can have interests, but realists like Morgenthau argue that states not only have interests but also behave in accordance with these interests. He further personifies states adding they will continually pursue their self-interests even though it may be detrimental to others. Central to Morgenthaus theory was the concept of power as the dominant goal in international politics and the definition of national interes t in terms of power. He called for recognition of the nature and limits of power and for the use of traditional methods of diplomacy, including compromise. In, ‘Politics Among Nations, Morgenthau outlines his six principles in international relations, with the first of these being that, ‘politics is governed by objective laws which have their root in human nature. These objective laws cannot be changed nor affected over time and human preferences. Therefore, the laws of human nature, tied with an assumption that actors are rational, provide a good framework for the explanation of international relations. His second principle regards the understanding of international politics through the, ‘concept of interest defined as power, and so sets the realm of international politics as autonomous to other spheres of action such as ethics and religion. The third principle in his doctrine focuses on the premise that state power can change but the concept of interest remains constant. The political and cultural situation determines that state power and this objectivity of interest can provide a general starting point in the analysis of international politics. His fourth and fifth principles centre on the need to differentiate between the morality of the state and the individual. He believes that universal moral principles do not guide state behaviour even though that behaviour may have moral and ethical consequences. States are not moral agents, and their actions should be judged solely on the principle of national interest and survival. His final principle concerns the autonomy of the political sphere and its separation from the other spheres of human concern. Morganthau sees man as being pluralistic in nature and the political nature of man must be abstracted from all other aspects of human nature. He says, ‘A man who has nothing but ‘political man would be a beast, and as he considers the concept of interest defined in terms of power this ‘political man, ‘would be completely lacking moral constraints. The realist interpretation of the political man gives primacy to political considerations by defining interest in terms of power in contrast to the ‘economic man who thinks of interest defined as wealth. In the international structure, Morgenthau characterises states acting in a rational fashion because they carry out a cost-benefit analysis before proceeding with any action. In hypothetical terms country ‘A would only invade country ‘B if the benefits were far superior to the costs. He says ‘†¦a rational foreign policy to be good foreign policy; for only rational foreign policy minimizes risks and maximises benefits. Therefore this emphasises states as being unified and rational actors, with respect to the implementation of foreign policy. Furthermore, an additional concept of the classical realist paradigm is the balance of power between states in the international system. States align themselves with other states to form alliances and to feel more secure against the threat of a superpower. This reiterates the need for states to promote, their pre-eminent goal of survival and forming alliances and thus balancing of power ensures this. Alliances are seen by re alists as the paramount method of gaining power as the likelihood of invasion is reduced. Thus, the potential aggressor will have to attack more than one state, thereby in undertaking a cost-benefit analysis; the cost of an attack would outweigh the benefits. Morgenthau argues that states are the real actors in international politics and there is no supreme power or sovereign authority above them. The lack of governance consequently leads to an anarchic structure to the international system, thus creating the rise of insecurity. Initially, states begin with a defensive motive, but are forced to think and somewhat act inherently offensive because of the anarchic structure of the international system. As states are motivated by power and the pursuit of national interest, normally defined in security or military terms, to ensure their own survival the principle of self-help becomes more significant. It emphasises the need to differentiate between the international and domestic political structure. It surmises the domestic political system to be hierarchical, with the central government superior to local and district governments. In contrast, this clearly defined structure is absent in international politics, and therefore anarchy is dominant . In 1979, Kenneth Waltz published, ‘Theory of International Politics, and from this the neo-realist approach to international relations emerged. He sought to develop a more rigorous theory of international politics than earlier realists, like Morgenthau. Waltzs paradigm argues that, ‘classical realism understood the constraints inherent in anarchy but failed to develop a serious account of its structure. He believes the theory had to be defined precisely and in terms drawn from the thinking of the scientific method. Furthermore, he demonstrated how one can distinguish between the unit level and structural elements and then make connections between them. Waltz not only restricted the kind of theory he was producing but also its scope. He argued that there were patterns in the international system which recurs over time and these were products of the system itself, and not of its subsystems. He used this approach to show that the interdependence theory overstated the relianc e of great powers on other states, military power was extremely useful in preserving stability and that great hegemonic powers had a role in overseeing world affairs. Waltz judged there to be two types of system which were possible, hierarchical and anarchical. In the hierarchical system, different kinds of units are organised under a clear line of authority, whereas, ‘International systems are decentralized and anarchic, leading to units being similar in nature even though they may have different capabilities. The scientific approach by neo-realists is a specific aspect of the theory which distinguishes itself from classical realism. Waltz believes in a more methodological approach to the international system as the path to knowledge must originate from observable data from which an effective hypothesis can be made. Also by producing large data, regularities can be found and therefore hypotheses can be tested against further data. Furthermore no prior assumptions can be made, especially in regards to human nature, which opposes Morgenthaus realist paradigm. The data must also be open and explicit, about how it was gathered allowing modern theories to be rejected. Indeed, Waltz was able to produce three criteria to distinguish between the domestic political system and international system, and the first of these is the ordering principle. In agreement with the classical realist paradigm, the anarchic system has lead to a lack of authority and a self-help system. He says, ‘each unit se eks its own good: the result of a number of units simultaneously doing so transcends the motives and aims of the separate units. States are only able to survive if they increase their military capabilities and therefore enhancing the security of it. It is the ordering principle that Waltz believes, leads to states performing identical primary tasks. This very doctrine assumes that states have to defend themselves but in conjunction to this preparation, a ‘spiral of insecurity gives rise to a security dilemma, in the system. When states increase military spending and build up arms, other neighbouring states may feel undermined and threatened, even though the build up was entirely defensive. In believing that states perform the same primary functions, the neighbouring states start to build up their arms. This leads to an arms race as states continually act to restore the balance of power, a race which Waltz argues stops when equilibrium is reached. This corrective mechanism is seen as part of the nature of the system allowing the removal of human nature when describing the power struggle between states. In Waltzs second principle, he emphasises the anarchic structure of the international system which leads to states being independent, separate yet formally still being equal units in the system. Waltz writes, ‘states†¦are not formally differentiated by the functions they perform, therefore due to the anarchical structure of the system, states remain like units. Since each state performs the same tasks, ‘†¦the ends they aspire to are similar. Furthermore, the states recognise its interests must only count on its own resources as they, ‘all do more business at home than abroad. He stresses that it is their ability to accomplish these tasks, which distinguishes states not the actual functions they accomplish. Indeed, due to states performing the same important primary tasks it signifies the inability to differentiate them from on another, yet it is their actual distribution of capabilities which does distinguish them. Waltz states, ‘The structure of a system changes with changes in the distribution of capabilities across the systems units. The distribution, allows the prediction of the balance of power and the comparative power of the states in the system. Waltz argues that states in anarchy prefer the balance of power, as the power of other states is interpreted as aggressive. Neo-realists see the balance of power between great powers always occurring as it is a natural phenomenon in the anarchic system. The actual balance of power implementation of this balance is not done by diplomats, declare neo-realists, rather it is a spontaneous and corrective mechanism. All forms of realism therefore have a number of characteristics that are in common such as emphasis on the importance of the state and political groups, especially the military, and not the individual. They also advocate the continuity of human condition, for Morgenthaus realism this is embodied within human nature, whereas for neo-realism this is centred on anarchy as the ordering principle. In both approaches, anarchy is paramount in the international system and this creates powerful incentives for aggression. Therefore, due to the lack of constraints on states implies that conflict is the natural state of the system. The role of diplomats in both paradigms is to act competitively, but Morgenthau stresses the personification of states with respect to human nature and the pursuit of self-interest, while Waltzs theory is that policies arise in the need to compete for security to be maintained in the system. ‘Neo-realism stresses continuities but it does not deny the existence o f change, as Waltz concedes that militarily change has occurred in the international system yet the fundamental organising principle has not. Despite their differences over the question of co-operation in the international system, both neo-realists and realists both construct upon assumptions that the main units in the international system, explicitly states, are assumed to be self-interested and rational. Furthermore, both theorists have contrary views on stability of the international system. Morgenthau argues that the balance of power in a system is governed by policies of states. However, Waltz contends that, ‘these balances tend to form whether some or all states consciously aim to establish and maintain balance, or whether some or all states aim for universal domination, therefore, he is more interested in the impact of power on state behaviour rather than the opposite. Neo-realism advocates that whether states consciously pursue a balancing policy or not is irrelevant for explaining the probability of peace or war. Furthermore, another debate in system stability is concentrated up polarity, the number of power centres in the system, on the probability of war. Morgenthau advocated the system stability was achievable only through the effects of a multipolar balance of power. This is more stable international order because of, ‘the plenitude of interacting partners mean s that there is a greatly reduced danger of mutually reinforcing antagonism between both states. Individual states will have associations with a great variety of others; their cross-cutting loyalties will tend to reduce hostility expressed toward one particular state or against one particular cause. However, Waltz dismisses this supposition and develops a theory of bipolar stability in which he argues is more stable because, ‘competition in multipolar systems is more complicated than competition in bipolar ones, and as a result, ‘uncertainties about the comparative capabilities of states multiply as numbers grow. The inclusion of only two leading powers allows fewer grey areas in the system, as interests are clearly defined and produce less opportunity for misperceptions. Furthermore, Waltz deems the bipolar system easier to manage, as change can be monitored closely and therefore, the chance of conflict is significantly reduced. This is in contrast to a multipolar syste m where, ‘there is a highly probability in an increase in the number of international conflicts. A bipolar system can have but one antagonism; multipolarity, on the other hand, may have virtually numberless frictions. However, both theories have defects when applying them to the present international system. They both ignore other important actors which are not states, such as multinational companies. Liberal pluralists highlighted the understanding of non-state actors, undermining the state-centric world of realism. Keohane and Nye claimed that world politics was no longer the exclusive preserve of states and that, ‘the growth of transnational organizations has lead to the state-centric paradigm becoming progressively inadequate, therefore a new theory called complex interdependence was introduced to run as an alternative to realism. Additionally, with both theories overemphasising power being defined as having strength in the military, this therefore, dismisses other means of being powerful such as economic and territorial strengths. It is arguable therefore, that neo-realism as propagated by Waltz, is a doctrine that adds and improves on Morgenthaus realist theory. His ability to apply a more scientific and methodological approach allows the theory to be clearly defined and tested. In addition, it responds more accurately to the question of economic theory as Waltz argues that while the growth of wealth maybe infinite, states must stress security to promote its survival. However, Morgenthaus doctrine should not be completely dismissed as Waltz still agrees that states as pursuing self-interests to promote their own survival. Though, to a greater extent it is arguable that Waltzs obligation to include the concept of a corrective mechanism, when portraying the balance of power and the fact that no prior assumptions are made on human nature, underlines a more rigorous and precise approach to international relations. BIBLIOGRAPHY Burchill, Scott Theories of International Relations (Basingstoke: Palgrave, 2001) pp. 70-99 Keohane, Robert O. and Nye, Joseph S. Transnational relations and World Politics (Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1973) pp. ix-xxix Linklater, Andrew, ‘Neo-Realism in Theory and Practice, in Booth, Ken and Smith, Steve International Relations Theory Today (Cambridge: Polity, 1995) pp. 241-262 Mearsheimer, John ‘Back to the Future: Instability in Europe after the Cold War, International Security, Vol. 15, No. 1, (Summer, 1990) pp. 5-56 Mearsheimer, John ‘The False Promise of International Institutions, International Security, Vol. 19, No. 3, (Winter, 1994-1995) pp. 5-49 Morgenthau, Hans J. Politics among Nations: The Struggle for Power and Peace (Boston: McGraw-Hill, 1955) pp. 3-13, 320-340 Rosecrance, Richard ‘Bipolarity, Multipolarity, and the Future, The Journal of Conflict Resolution, Vol. 10, No. 3, (Autumn, 1996) pp. 314-327 Waltz, Kenneth Theory of International Politics (Boston: McGraw-Hill, 1979) pp. 48-57, 110-120 Waltz, Kenneth ‘Structural Realism after the Cold War, International Security, Vol. 25, No. 1, (Summer, 2000) pp. 5-41

Leonardo Da Vinci Essay -- Biography Biographies Bio

Leonardo Da Vinci (1452-1519), Florentine artist of the Renaissance (the period of Western European history stretching from the early 14th century to the mid to late 16th century), a painter, sculptor, architect, engineer, and scientist. His deep love for nature, knowledge, research and experience, was the central reason of both his artistic and scientific accomplishments. " Though I have no power to quote from authors as they do I shall rely on a bigger and more worthy thing-on experience."{The Notebooks of Leonardo Da Vinci pg.2} His originality in the field of painting influenced the course of Italian art for more than a century after his death, and his scientific studies--particularly in the fields of anatomy, optics, and hydraulics--anticipated many of the developments of modern science. His amazing powers of observation and skill as an illustrator enabled him to notice and recreate the effects he saw in nature, and added a special liveliness to his portraits. Curious as well as observant, he constantly tried to explain what he saw, and described many experiments to test his ideas. Because he wrote down and sketched so many of his observations in his Notebooks, it's known that he was among the very first to take a scientific approach towards understanding how our world works, and also reveal his sense of freedom, by disagreeing with the authorities (Bible, Aristotle, Plato) of his time. Leonardo Da Vinci is one of the greatest figures of Renaissance due to his contributions to the world artistically, scientifically and more importantly his freedom of thought, according to his Notebooks. Leonardo's close relationship with nature along with his curiosity led him to many discoveries that have become exceedingly useful to all h... ...ues of perspective. He opened the doors of human freedom for many thinkers that came after him. His sense of freedom and independence is seen throughout his work. What makes Leonardo exceptional is the notion that he acquired all his knowledge through experience. In Leonardo's period freedom of thought or speech did not exist, as it does today. All persons were forced to agree and go along with authorities, which at that time were the Bible, Plato and Aristotle. If people were critical of the authorities they would deal with deadly consequences. Leonardo did not hesitate; using his Notebooks he expressed his thoughts freely. Throughout his life he questioned and criticized the authorities. His freedom of thought and courageousness opened many doors for other scholars. Works Cited 1452, and 1519. The Notebooks of Leonardo Da Vinci Complete. Public Domain Books, 2004.

OpenBTS

OpenBTS: A Way of Providing Internet Access to Developing CountriesAbstract The mobile network infrastructure of the twenty-first century is monolithic. It de facto closed and complex systems have few suppliers. They are mostly pre-internet protocol run, and their architectural concept keeps evolving. However, this evolution has not resulted in them being economical or flexible. Thus OpenBTS brings the empowerment that is needed to build and operate cellular networks. Given that the technologies and capabilities are necessary to make such systems is readily available. This paper will look at the OpenBTS. What it means, how it works, components needed to create it, how these components function about each other. Also, the paper will look at the cost involved in setting up OpenBTS and how viable it is in the developing nations.? OpenBTS: A Way of Providing Internet Access to Developing CountriesOpen Base Transceiver Station simply is known as OpenBTS is a GSM access point that is software based. It allows the use of mobile phones that are GSM compatible with voice over the internet protocol. The software is categorized as open source by its developers Range Networks. Its public release as an open source software revolutionized the lower three layers of the GSM protocol stack (Iedema, 22). The OpenBTS is abbreviated by the C++, as free software, its controlled by the GNU Affero General Public License terms and conditions. How the OpenBTS works. OpenBTS operates by replacing the third layer of conventional GSM operational infrastructure. As opposed to GSM system that forwards calls through the radio resource management protocol via base stations that are external, OpenBTS has internal units that perform this function. OpenBTS uses SIP to deliver calls to VOIP soft switch and therefore bypasses the need to route the call to the operator's mobile switching center Burgess (David ; Samra, 13). The VIOP software is installed, and the OpenBTS are installed in one computer to form a cellular network that delivers calls to VOIP soft switch and therefore bypasses the need to route the call to the operator's mobile switching center. The VIOP software is installed, and the OpenBTS are installed in one computer to form a cellular network that is self-sufficient. However, it also possible to configure several OpenBTS units to share a common VOIP switch to form a network.Other components of GSMGSM components can be divided into four areas. These are the MS (Mobile Station), BSS (Base-Station Subsystem, NSS (Network and Switching Subsystem) and OSS (Operation and Support Subsystem. These four elements within the GSM network operate together as one unit, and therefore users never realize the difference that exists in the System (Iedema, 32). The components would take the below shape regarding a diagram representation.The MS or mobile stations also known as the cell or mobile phones and is the part of the GSM network that is seen and operated by the users. Technological innovation has improved the size and functionality of this part of the network over the years. The mobile station has two elements that help it carry out its functions. These are the Hardware, and the Subscriber Identity Module often referred to as the SIM (David & Samra, 13). The SIM contains the user's information that the network uses to identify them and the IMSI which is the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI). The hardware contains the devices that are used to generate data and transmit it. It also contains the International Mobile Equipment Identity which is an international identification used to trace stolen phones. The BSS or Base Station Subsystem has two sections, the Base Transceiver Station (BTS) and the Base Station Controller (BSC). The BTS communicates with the mobile through an Um interface and associated protocols (Iedema, 24). The BTC provides radio resources that communicate with and control through an Abis interface. The NSS or Networking Switching Subsystem is the core element of the GSM network, and it contains several elements. These elements are Mobile Services Switching Centre which acts as the switching node and enables functions such as registration, authentication, and call location among other functions to be performed. The Home Location Register element contains the administrative information used to register the user to the network and direct calls appropriately. The Visitor Location Register contains information that allows individual users to access the services that they request. The Equipment Identity Register, checks for the International Mobile Equipment Identity to verify if the particular equipment is allowed to accesses the services. Authentication Center provides the link between the SIM card and the network through a key that helps in radio connection. The Gateway Mobile Switching Center is responsible for obtaining Mobile Station Roaming Number that helps in call termination.The other element of the GSM network is the OSS (Operation and Support Subsystem). It's the component that connects the NSS and BSC. The GSM network is controlled and monitored by this element. It also used to monitor traffic load that goes through the BSS. The connection between OpenBTS and other GSM network components OpenBTS can be connected to GSM through software or hardware. The software elements are the GNU Radio and the Asterisk. This is a software suite that has several modules that are combined with minimal hardware and used in implementing radio systems in personal computers. It's an interface that is graphical with blocks that represent stages through which data flows. This graphical representation is achieved through the use of Python programming language (David ;Samra, 13). The asterisk is the communication server that provides the capability that enables BTS to route calls accurately, perform correct registration and authentication processes in the GSM networks. The asterisk enables the network to read the Subscriber Identity Modules as the SIP user, and their International Mobile Subscriber Identity as the SIP username. This is achieved by connecting the Asterisk PBX to the OpenBTS. The other way of connecting OpenBTS to GSM network is through the use of hardware such Motherboard Ettus Research Universal Software Radio Peripheral. Also, daughterboards RFX900 with VERT900 antennas and GSM terminals equipped with SIM cards is required. The connection is made through motherboard that can accommodate several daughterboards (David ; Samra, 13). The interface between the motherboard and the daughterboards is provided by USB cable that can transmit Radio frequency bandwidth.Cost of OpenBTS and other components Compared to the traditional cell networks, OpenBTS is low in cost as most of the components needed are easily available. The software and the equipment used to create an OpenBTS through GSM network are readily available in stores and online (Heimerl et al., 3). This has made OpenBTS cost effective as compared to the traditional landline network or the other cellular networks such satellite. The only challenge that OpenBTS faces are the availability of power in rural areas that are of the grid. The use of other sources of power could prove to be expensive and drive the cost of the network high especially in a developing country where income levels are low.Feasibility of OpenBTS in the rural areaThe feasibility of OpenBTS in providing internet access in the rural and remote area is great. Through the use of simple and easily available material, networks that can cover a radius of up to 15miles is easily created (Heimerl et al., 3). This would drastically improve the coverage area of these of grid areas that would otherwise be impossible to reach. Various advantages would come with Using OpenBTS to provide internet to the rural area. The cost of OpenBTS is low compared to other forms of such as satellite or landline. The equipment and technology required to build OpenBTS are affordable and readily available. However, there are also the cons of OpenBTS (David ; Samra, 13). Several regulations hinder the development and use of this technology. The process of getting approval to develop OpenBTS network can be tiresome in some countries. Also, the radius covered by OpenBTS network can be relatively small requiring the creation of multiple networks to cover wide areas. OpenBTS in Indonesia In Indonesia, the OpenBTS is provided by an American startup Endaga. The company operates the module through the Village Base Station which is mounted on the small box and mounted on metallic poles (Heimerl ; Brewer, 3). The equipment is powered by solar panels that are mounted on the same pole. The box is further fit with management software that performs billing and analytics functions. These stations combine the function of a traditional GSM equipment and programmable computer allowing them to provide more value. They provide both voice and data capabilities to the rural villages. After experiencing success with this innovation in two primary towns, Endaga is preparing to expand to other locations within the country and the continent. Conclusion For the two first century to truly be a century of technological advance, there must be an equal distribution of internet services. Both the rural and urban areas must be covered effectively by internet services. There has been concentration on the urban areas with the number of services providers in these areas going up. However, the rural and poor areas have been given little attention or at times completely neglected. Most developing countries in Africa and Asia lack essential internet connectivity. In the areas where the services are available, they are still expensive for many who are poor. The OpenBTS promises to solve the two-fold problem that many remote and poor areas are facing. Since it allows for firms to provide for cheap internet services, it will eliminate the problem of affordability. Also, it will also offer off-grid areas that lack power. Through innovation like the one that has been exhibited by Endaga, it is now possible to provide internet services in any area. It is now upon the various governments of the developing nations to ensure that right policies that will facilitate the development of the concept is in place.

Brand Image of a University

INTRODUCTION Origin of Report As a part of our Marketing 465, Brand Management course, we learnt the various aspects of marketing and the management of brands. Problem and Purpose We were assigned a project where we were asked to find out the brand image of private university business graduates; and more specifically, the brand image of North South University, its positioning and state any improvements if necessary. Scope and Limitations The main limitation of this project was the lack of time required to carry out the type of research this project requires. Historical Background †¦ Hypothesis We hoped to establish that North South University is the best private university in Bangladesh. Research Methodology As stated previously, due to the lack of time we were not able to conduct the type of in-depth research that this project required. Instead the basis of our research were a set of in-depth interviews we carried out among various categories of people, such as current students of North South University, alumni, guardians, faculties, prospective/current employers, students of other universities, faculties of other universities, the University Grants Commission, prospective students, and the general public. There were sets of questions (See Appendix) for the various categories, and interviews were taken accordingly. THE SURVEY Findings Current Student For the current students who study at North South University, this is the best alternative for us after IBA and going abroad for studies. It’s the pioneer private university in Bangladesh, and quite popular. Even though through the years the quality of NSU has diminished, there are too many students taken in, and especially through the â€Å"backdoor† policy, and it’s become really unfair to those who work hard. However, NSU still has a lot of good name, and people do have goodwill towards it. Alumni According to the questions asked to Alumni of North South University, they believe that NSU’s graduates have an advantage over other graduates of other schools because they are more fluent in English, smart, and easily adaptable with the organizational environment. Guardians According to guardians of students studying in North South University, they believe that NSU graduates will be able to have: Jobs in MNC, monetary benefit, and be able to finish graduation quickly. They also believe that NSU is highly competitive, has the best educational quality, and the best faculty. Faculties According to faculties believe that NSU is a good university but not as good as IBA. This is because IBA concentrates more on practical fieldwork, where NSU is still lacking. Another factor they said that NSU has very short semesters, so faculties aren’t able to cover their topics completely. However, NSU students have good presentation skills, are intelligent and also street smart. Employers Certain employers believe that the graduates that come out of NSU are very hot-headed and pompous, and many of them have high CGPAs but cannot even communicate properly in the English language. NSU is believed to be the next best alternative to IBA. IBA might have worse teachers, but their student intake is much better. Students of other universities Students of other universities believe that a private university’s business program provides better job opportunities. Private universities are more efficient than pubic universities. North South University is very popular and quite sought after. University staff The university staff believes that the environment of NSU is not good. They brought up issues regarding clothing and student’s behaviour. They think students are very rude and disrespectful. University Grants Commission There are several factors through which the UGC grants a university, it focuses on infrastructure, faculties, how much money there is in the fund to make their own campus etc. Then in order to rank a university, they see how many students compete for a single seat during the admission process, the value of the certificate in the job sector, the quality of the faculties and the quality of the students. A complaint they made is that all universities are expected to shift to their new campus within 5 years of establishment, but none of the private universities have been able to do so. Prospective Students Most of the prospective students we interviewed, around the age of 16-18, none of them want to come to NSU. They believe that NSU is becoming too overrated and crowded. They would either try for abroad, or a public university, and then try for a private university. General Public In the eyes of the general public, NSU is still very sought after and considered a very good place for education. It’s only the people who are direct recipients of NSU’s output, the students and the employers who are affected the most. NSU students are seen are very culturally â€Å"fast† and ignorant. Conclusion After research we can conclude that academically, the students of NSU are good but there are behavioral and attitude problems among themselves. They’re more ignorant about what’s going on outside of NSU and they’re very pompous and they lack professionalism in the corporate world. There are a certain percentage of students who create a bad image for NSU, so most students are slammed with this label as well. But NSU comprises of all types of students from various social and economical backgrounds and not all are bad. Recommendations Alumni: Teaching method should be more practical based Internship in a good organization is very important. CPDS of NSU should be efficient enough to manage their graduates’ internship in a good organization NSU should organize more and more seminar, workshop regarding different organizational issues. University staff correct English grammar in both reading and writing environmental discipline cultural discipline manner build up moral character dress code study more Employers NSU should increase their employability NSU’s image is of No. 2, they should raise it to No. 1 NSU should move on to the researching level and provide consultancy to the different companies. Most foreign universities do consultancy work for companies on their countries. It really sets the standard for good quality education. Universities should talk to employers and brush up on the curriculum NSU should go for downward extension and start from the grassroots level. They should create primary and secondary level education so that the students go directly to the university level.