Comparing Vincent Van Gogh And The Starry Night And The...

Vincent Willem van Gogh was a painter of the 1800’s who was born in the Netherlands. Van Gogh created about eight hundred and sixty oil paintings, including his widely known â€Å"The Starry Night† which was created in 1889. Van Gogh was born into a Catholic household however converted to Protestantism at a very young age and began to go on missions within the area of Southern Belgium. Van Gogh suffered several mental illnesses and was eventually sent to an asylum where he would develop and create some of his most known works such as â€Å"Cypresses† in 1889, â€Å"Country road in Provence by Night† in 1890, and various others. Originally, Van Gogh created the â€Å"Starry Night Over the Rhone† in the year 1888. However, within a year of his original†¦show more content†¦In the â€Å"Starry Night Over the Rhone† you can see how the stars are portrayed in a dull color as well as at a further distance. The wind is not depicted, something that is done in â€Å"The Starry Night†, making the night itself seem at peace. The Rhone River, which is portrayed in the piece, was a location close to the home Van Gogh was inhabiting at the time. In a sense, Van Gogh was attempting to portray his everyday life and his current emotions into the same idea. Van Gogh might have wanted to have a peaceful mind as well as life, such as what is depicted in the image, a calm, still night. On October 2, 1888, Van Gogh sent a letter to a close friend of his named Eugene Boch, which in such letter also received a small sketch of the work Van Gogh was in the process of doing. Within the â€Å"Starry Night Over the Rhone† it is clear that the view which Van Gogh had seen was very calm and peaceful, however, its lack of activity and color can be considered a factor which demonstrates how Van Gogh’s mental illnesses would affect his day to day life. Within the time span of a year, in just 1889, Van Gogh had created a very similar yet increasingly colored and detailed version of â€Å"Starry Night Over the Rhone† which he would later on come to name â€Å"The Starry Night† and which would become one of his most famous works which is still admired to this day. Once Van Gogh had been entered into the asylum, I believe that he was able

Comparing mortgage rates Example

Essays on Comparing mortgage rates Research Paper Finance and Accounting A comparison was completed between five separate mortgage lenders using rates for fifteen yearand 30 year fixed rate mortgages, with a financed amount of $100,000 in the State of Florida. Geographical information was used only on with those lenders who requested it before providing a rate. These rates were then converted into effective annual rates. Lender 15 YR EAR 30 YR EAR Bank of America 3.500 3.905% 4.250 4.505% Lending Tree 2.75 2.97% 3.63 3.75% GMAC 3.250 3.555% 4.0 4.121% Chase Bank 3.625 3.789% 4.375 4.492% AmeriSave 2.750 2.991% 3.250 3.505% There are number of common mistakes individuals make when looking at quoted mortgage rates and shopping for mortgage rates. Mortgage quotes that are published such as these are usually rates and terms available under the best of circumstance while your rate will vary according to: credit, down payment, house location and size, and your ability to prove income and assets Verbal rates are not a guarantee and you must get a written quote if you want to be assured the rate is ‘locked’ in and you should always get a letter of confirmation of your rate, rates that go up between the start of your mortgage process and the closing date can cost you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan Do not assume that because you are offered at good rate on one type of loan that you will get the same rate on a different type of mortgage Many people do not consider closing costs and fees when shopping for a mortgage Based on the effective annual rate the Lending tree offers the best rate for a fifteen year fixed interest rate loan. This amount is the percentage paid per year on the mortgage over the lifetime of the loan. AmeriSave offers the lowest effective annual rate on a thirty year mortgage. Paying some of the interest in advance can reduce the accrual over the course of the year. Any fees or penalties that you accrue during the loan are added to the principle and will increase the EAR. These effective annual rates make sense as being the lowest because they are also in line with the lowest rates. Different lenders are able to offer different rates somewhat based on what type of lender they are, a mortgage lender or mortgage broker, each charging a different commission rate on the loan. Mortgage broker do not actually lend money and are used to help an individual find a direct loan, charging the consumer a fee for this service. While this is advantageous in that they will shop many lenders for you in an attempt to gain the best rate you will pay the associated fees, which are usually between 0.5-1 % of the loan value. The difference in rate will have a material impact on the consumer because the value of the property will either decrease or increase with the market over the course of the loan. Investors may choose 30 year investment mortgages over other options because the value of the dollar while continue to decrease while the investment property and amount of payment remains the same. This is due to inflation of the economy and other market factors. References Todays Rate Results. (2012). Bank of America. Retrieved 2012, from https://www9.bankofamerica.com/home-loans/mortgage-purchase/TodaysRateResults.go?referrer=/home-loans/mortgage-purchase/rates Mortgage - Home Loans - Refinance - Mortgage Refinancing - Mortgage Rates - Home Equity. (2012). Retrieved 2012, from http://www.lendingtree.com/ Mortgage, Refinancing, Home Loan, Mortgage Rates - GMAC Mortgage. (2012). Retrieved 2012, from http://www.gmacmortgage.com/ Chase Mortgages - Home Lending | New or Refinance Mortgage Loans Online. (2012). CHASE Home: Personal Banking | Personal Lending | Retirement Investing | Business Banking. Retrieved 2012, from https://www.chase.com/online/Home-Lending/mortgages.htm

Information Service Management for Environment - myassignmenthelp

Question: Discuss about theInformation Service Management for Global Environment. Answer: Introduction A managers desire each and every day is to see their business organizations grow to extensive levels not only in the local fonts but also at international levels. Operating a business organization within a local environment comes with another of specific factors and elements worth considering. However management at international levels may be accompanied with more complicated standards and measures. Each of the aspects needs to be carefully addressed in order to achieve successful management at an international level (Albrecht, 2000, P.34). A global environment can be described as the business arena or the market surrounding for a business organization which spreads beyond the local scope across borders. There are various factors worth considering especially when a manager intends to venture into the global market environment (Allaire and Firsirotu, 2004. P.35). In this paper, the issue of managing in a global environment shall be discussed. The discussion shall be based on a review of relevant literature and other research arguments which have been conducted alongside the topic of discussion. Factors influencing Managing in a Global Environment Economic levels Buckley (2010) in his article discusses the issue of direct investment in the global market. According to the author, a manager ought to put into consideration the financial implications which come with venturing into the global business management. The economic conditions tend to change as one moves from one country to another. This therefore implies that the financial strategies put in place while venturing into global management ought to be flexible enough to take care of the dynamic economic conditions. As highlighted by the author, managing an organization in area which is generally stable economically is much easier. On the other hand, regions mared with economic challenges offer a lot of hindrance to international investors. It would therefore be appropriate for the global manager to have extensive research before venturing into such markets in order to deduce the financial implications associated with managing in a global environment. Government Policies According to Charles (2015), successful management in a global environment requires an individual to have a good understanding of the standing government policies. It is a point worth noting that these policies tend to vary as one moves from one business environment to another. Government policies equally have a unique link with the economic status of a country. For instance, when the economy of a nation is stable, the policies put in place are in most cases quite accommodative to international investors. In line with this, the author explains that good government policies play a pivotal role in encouraging global investors. For instance, when the polices put in place to govern international ventures are attractive then a global manager may find is easy fitting in such environments. On the other hand, stringent government polices act as a major hindrance to global management. Managing a business organization in an area characterized by hardy policies would therefore require an indivi dual to put in place the right measure to counter this challenge and ensure success despite the dynamism of the business environment. Product Prices As noted by Luthan (2015), changes in product prices which also depends on the economic status of a given business environment also have an effect on the performance of a global venture. It is therefore crucial for the manager to factor in the standard product and service prices and the variations in these values as one moves from one country to another. The set value for the product prices determine the return on investment that a company is likely to obtain from sales. For instance, the product prices in developed countries may be relatively low in comparison to the less developed areas. In addition, the product prices are determined by the set government policies. It is therefore important for the global manager to have a good grasp of the existing standards with regard to product pricing. This goes a long way in minimizing cases with authorities which may involve an organization being tracked by the government for not complying with certain standards. At the same time, the prices set by a manager ought to be such that the accrued sales will result in a good profit margin for the organization. Consequently, a global manager ought to achieve an effective balance which ensures that the organization does not only make profits and grow but also see to it that the legal requirements and policies are adequately addressed. Presence of Competitors Daniels, Radebaugh and Sullivan (2014) in their book International Business: Environment and operations give a detailed description of the elements that define an international business environment. Among the many aspects discussed in this book, one the authors outstanding contributions is the aspect of competition and its influence on global investments. The presence of other organizations which deal in similar products or services may hinder the complete development and expansion of an organization. As pointed out by the authors, the competitors should not be treated as an obstacle to organizational success but a sure challenge which the global manager can easily deal with using better strategies. Developing a stable market for ones goods and services is an important feature in global business investment. A manager therefore needs to identify and protect its base of clientele which ensures good sales in the long run. When other organizations which provide similar services come up w ithin the same business environment, the initial market may end up being divided. This scenario gets worse when the competitors offer better prices which may easily sway customers to their side. As a result, the authors suggest specific strategies which a global manager would put in place in order to counter the challenges that come with presence of competitors in a global market. To begin with, a global manager is encouraged to enhance proper customer relations in the management strategies as such steps help in customer retention. This could be achieved through variation in product prices, after sales services, offering discounts and rewarding the companys most loyal clients Secondly, a global manager can enhance their market by making use of consistent customer reviews in a bid to identify the areas which may need adjustment which finally leads to customer satisfaction. Using the readily available media like the internet, radio and television, an organization is able to obtain fee dbacks from its clients regarding their products and services. These feedbacks can then be analyzed and highlighted so as to establish the portions that need improvement. Effective interaction with the clients leads to good consumer relations. This assures the organization of a stable market which remains even in the presence of competitors (Barrick and Mount. 2001, p.33). Variation in Cultures, Values and Consumer Preferences Allaire and Firsirotu (2004) in the article titled Theories of organizational culture discuss the effects of values, cultures and consumer preferences on international businesses. The authors keenly note the fact that individual cultures tend to change as one operates from one country to another. While some cultures allow the use of particular products and foodstuffs, the case may not be the same in other areas. For instance, the kind of products consumed in Europe may not necessarily be the very ones used in Asian countries. This can be attributed to the relative variation in the cultures in these regions. The authors also examine the aspect of changing customer preferences. It is a fact worth noting that the consumer preferences may never be similar in different countries. For instance, in hot regions, an organization dealing in soft and cold drinks is likely to gain ground over a wide market. However, such a business may not prosper much in cold and temperate areas as the consumer preference in this case will be skewed towards products that can keep them warm. These elements can be intertwined with the aspect of customer values and beliefs and the extent of their effect on international business. In line with these core aspects, the authors suggest effective strategies which can be implemented by global managers in a bid to conquer the international markets. The manager needs to put into consideration the cultures, values and beliefs embraced in the international business environment (Augustine, 2007, p. 23). The organization can then align its goals with the societys values in order to minimize conflicts and enhance good customer attraction. The international business venture, despite being established in a foreign land ought to be such that the products and services distributed do not violate the values and needs of the very people the organization intends to capture (Henisz and Zelner, 2010, p.50). Additionally, the manager may need to have a detailed pri or study of the land before venturing into this business so as to establish their specific preferences. When such extensive research is conducted in a country, it is possible for a global manager to identify the market segments that would adequately fit their type of business. The authors therefore highlight the crucial place of prior study of a prospective market before venturing. Technology Ashforth and Mael (2014) in Social identity theory and the organization identify the place of technology in global business management. The dynamic business environment has seen the incorporation of highly sophisticated technological tools in managing businesses. This achievement has made work much easier especially for the international business managers. Technology has enhanced marketing through digital promotional tools, brand awareness and even sales. Through ecommerce which is basically hosted on an online platform, it has become possible for business organizations to make contact with consumers online and deliver goods to them on order. The authors also explain the extent to which emergence in technological ideas has reduced the distance and cost of communication. Through the use of handheld devices, mobile phones and the internet, it has become convenient for managers to distribute crucial information to their clients especially in case of the emergence of a new product or cha nges in product prices. The authors are however keen to note that the level of technological advancement tends to differ from one region to another. This could be attributed to the differences in levels of development and the economic ability in a given business environment. It is therefore important for a manager in the global business arena to venture in places which are technologically advanced. Incorporation of technology in management at the global level would go a long way in reducing operation costs in various ways. For instance, a global business implies the presence of several others situated in various countries and perhaps managed from a central point. Once in a while, the organizational leaders in each of these global outlets may need to meet and compare the situations before making crucial decisions for the company. Such meetings are largely expensive if they were to be done physically. This is the very point where technology becomes pivotal. The global manager can make use of video conferencing where the leaders use an online platform to meet and discuss important issues regarding the organization despite the geographical distance. The authors conclude their book by emphasizing that the use of technology in enhancing successful global management is inevitable. Global managers therefore need to fully embrace this in order to make management more convenient and effective. Effective Management Models Barrick and Mount (2001) in The big five personality dimensions and job performance: a meta-analysis discuss the need for managers in the global arena to make good use of effective business models and management strategies to enhance organizational success. Due to the high level of diversity in international business fonts, there is need for the global managers to work with a team of equally competent individuals with skills in their areas of operation. Team building and management would therefore be crucial for such managers in order to build the right cohesion among the workers within the organization. High level unity within the human resource department gives room for a good flow in actions across all the organs. The managers in this case are encouraged to embrace management models in which responsibilities are shared among individuals and each person served with specific target which ought to be achieved within a given period of time. Such management approaches keep the workers on toes which leads to a general improvement in the worker output. Furthermore, a management at the global level requires sobriety and appropriate personalities which ought to be evident in the managers form of execution of duties. Sobriety becomes an important element especially in the process of decision making. Despite the fact that the manager gives room for input by other leaders within the organization, there is need to have a definite stand on certain matters. Such personalities allow a manager to remain consistent in their delivery which leads to an overall organizational success. Conclusion Managing a business in a global environment is a technical venture which requires the consideration of various factors. From the review of literature above, it can be deduced that successful management at the global arena calls for a prior understanding of the nature of such environments before establishing an entity. There are dynamics which are ever changing for instance, government policies, product prices, economic standards, technology, cultures as well as beliefs among people. These are crucial factors which have a special influence on the nature of a global environment. The authors have made extensive explanations on the impacts of each of the factors above. Additionally, the authors have outlined the various strategies which a global manager can put in place in order to enhance success while operating in the global business environment. A good understanding of the current government policies and variation in product prices enables a manager to come up with effective measures which ensure success. At the same time, the challenge of completion in the global environment can be countered through efficient consumer relations. In conclusion, the challenges which are associated with management in a global environment do not necessary imply that these ventures are impossible. Various multinationals like Coca Cola, Samsung and Pepsi just to mention but few have succeeded. This success can be attributed to effective management strategies. References Albrecht, K. (2000).Brain Power: Learning to Improve Your Thinking Skills. New York: Simon and Schuster. Allaire, Y., and M. E. Firsirotu, M.E. (2004). Theories of organizational culture.Organization Studies5:193-226. Allen, R. (2009). Organizational politics:tactics and characteristics of its actors.California Management Review22: 77-83. Argyris, C. (2007). Double loop learning in organizations.Harvard Business Review(Sept-Oct): 115-125. Ashforth, B.E., and F. Mael (2014). Social identity theory and the organization.Academy of Management Review14 (1): 20-39. Ashmos, D., and Huber, G. (2007). The systems paradigm in organizational theory: Correcting the record and suggesting the future.Academy of Management Review12 (4): 607-621. Augustine, N. (2007). Reshaping an industry: lockheed martins survival story.Harvard Business Review(May-June). Barrick, M. R., and M.K. Mount. (2001). The big five personality dimensions. Boston: McGraw-Hill Higher Education. P.38 Buckley P.J. (2010). Stephen Hymer: Three Phases, One Approach?. In: Foreign Direct Investment, China and the World Economy. Palgrave Macmillan, London Hill, C. (2005).International Business: Competing in the Global Marketplace(10 ed.). Boston: McGraw-Hill Higher Education. P.38 Hill, Charles W. L. (2014).International Business: Competing in the Global Marketplace(10 ed.). Boston: McGraw-Hill Higher Education. pp.453454. Henisz, W. and Zelner, B. (2010).Hidden Risks in Emerging Markets. New York: Harvard Publishers Daniels, J., Radebaugh, L., Sullivan, D. (2014). International Business: environment and operations, 15th edition. Prentice Hall. Luthans, F., and Doh, J. P. (2015). International Management: Culture, Strategy and Behavior, 9th edition. McGraw Hill.

The Lower Classes Smell free essay sample

At the beginning of the essay The lower classes smell Orwell says that he was born into a lower-upper middle class. The thing that separates the English class system from other class systems is the fact that its not entirely explicable in terms of money, that is to say, its also a caste-system. I was a little bit confused as to what was the difference between the lower-upper middle class, and the higher-upper middle class. This confusion probably stems from the fact that classes in Croatian society today are not categorized in this manner. But the difference between the classes is more than obvious. In Croatia I should say the minority is living extremelly well; having a lot of money, influence, and real estate, opposed to the majority that has just enough money to get by and to feed their families. In most of these families, educating their children in another city is a luxury they cannot afford. We will write a custom essay sample on The Lower Classes Smell or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Its sad that even today in the 21. century there are people in Croatia living below the living standard; without any running water or electricity. The distinguished mark of the upper-middle class is,as Orwell noted,:Â » People in this class owned no land but they felt that they were landowners in the sight of God and kept up a semi-aristocratic outlook . Â « This ment that in theory they knew everything about servants and how to tip them, but in practice that had no servants, or perhaps just one. Another example is that they knew how to wear their clothes but they could never afford to go to a decent tailor, which reminds me of the phenomena in Croatian society where there are people that spend all their money on expensive clothes,making sure they look wealthy and at the same time dont care that they have no food in the fridge. Their whole income goes in keeping up appearance. I find this ridiculous. Orwell also says that the average middle-class person was brought up to believe that the working class is ignorant, lazy, dishonest and smelly . This kind of snobbish approach resulted in hatred between the middle and the lower class. This is what Orwell says about the woking class : Â » We realised that they hated us, but we could never understand why, and naturally we set it down to pure,vicious malignity. Â « People belonging to the middle class prevented their children from playing with children of the working class. They thought they were better people just because they were born into a family with higher incomes than those beloning to a working class family. These prigs deserved nothing less than contempt . The working class had every right to hate them. People do not have the privilege to choose their parents,background or their origin but they should have the right to prove their qualities and intellect no matter which class they belong to and they deserve to be given the same opportunities as any other person.