5 Best WordPress Gallery Plugins A Hands-on Comparison

On the hunt for the best WordPress gallery plugins to display great-looking galleries on your site? There are a ton of popular and well-rated gallery plugins at WordPress.org and other marketplaces, so sifting through all your options is a bit like that needle in a haystack people are always talking about.To help, Im going to go hands-on with five of your best options. For each of the WordPress gallery plugins on this list, Ill:Share its free features.Show you what a sample gallery looks like using the exact same set of images for easy comparison (yes I actually used all of these on my own site).Tell you some of the cool things that you can do with the Pro version. PluginFree Version?Starting Price For ProEase Of UseModula GalleryYes$295/5NextGEN GalleryYes$793/5Envira GalleryYes$295/5Photo Gallery by 10webYes$303/5FooGalleryYes$494/5The five best WordPress gallery plugins in 2019To give you an idea of how all of these WordPress gallery plugins function, Ill create a gallery using t he exact same set of images with each plugin.To make this as fair as possible, Im going to use the default settings for each plugin.This isnt a perfect representation of what a plugin can do because many WordPress gallery plugins let you choose from multiple gallery layouts, but it will give you a good idea of the default experience and what you can create without any learning curve.1. Modula Modula Image Gallery Author(s): MachoThemesCurrent Version: 2.1.6Last Updated: September 13, 2019modula-best-grid-gallery.2.1.6.zip 94%Ratings 510,329Downloads WP 4.6+Requires Best forpeople who want galleries that look great without requiring any tinkering (though it does let you tinker, if you want).Modulas unique selling point is that it lets you create beautiful responsive grid galleries with very little configuration. It does this by splitting its gallery builder into two parts:Basic you choose a few minor settings, upload your images, and Modula puts it together into a neat grid gallery. If you want, you can stop here and still have a great-looking end product.Advanced this optional settings area lets you go back and refine how your gallery looks and functions.Some other things you can do with the free version of Modula are:Pull captions/titles from image metadataAdd social share buttons to gallery images, and choose which networks to includeAdd animation effects when images loadUse a Lightbox galleryAdd hover effects on mouseoverShuffle images on each page load to create a different arrangement each timeExample gallery using Modula default settingsMost notable reasons to consider the premium versionFilterable galleries, where users can click a category tag to only filter out gallery items with that tag (this is especially helpful for portfolios, though you can use it for anything)_More lightboxes, animation effects, etc.Remove the 20 image per gallery limit in the free versionThe Pro version starts at $29.2. NextGEN Gallery WordPress Gallery Plugin Nex tGEN Gallery Author(s): ImagelyCurrent Version: 3.2.18Last Updated: September 18, 2019nextgen-gallery.3.2.18.zip 84%Ratings 27,633,247Downloads 4.0.0Requires Best forpeople who work with images for a living (e.g. photographers) and need deep functionality beyond just showcasing images in a stylish gallery. If you just want a simple gallery plugin, its overkill.NextGEN Gallery is the most popular gallery plugin at WordPress.org. While the default galleries in the free version dont look that snazzy, its highly customizable and has very deep functionality. For that reason, its especially popular with photographers and other people who work with images for a living.The free version gives you a few different gallery/album styles, but most of the unique functionality comes in the various premium versions (more on those in a second).Beyond the album styles, you also get image management features like:Automatic watermarksEasy image resizingAlbum supportExample gallery using NextGEN Ga llery default settingsMost notable reasons to consider the premium versionMany more gallery style options (these let you create much nicer-looking galleries than the default example above)Image commentsSocial sharingImage deep linksSell images via payment gateways or WooCommerce/Easy Digital Downloads integrationsThe cheapest Pro bundle starts at $79.3. Envira Gallery Gallery Plugin for WordPress Envira Photo Gallery Author(s): Envira Gallery TeamCurrent Version: 1.7.0Last Updated: October 7, 2019envira-gallery-lite.zip 96%Ratings 1,758,769Downloads 4.4.0Requires Best forboth casual users and power users. Envira Gallery does a good job of keeping its interface beginner-friendly, while still giving you access to more advanced features, like the ability to sell photos via WooCommerce.Envira Gallery is a popular option that comes in both a free Lite version, as well as a more full-featured premium version.The Lite version gives you basic controls for things like:Number of colu mnsLightboxLazy loadingMany of the more advanced features are only available in the premium version, though.Example gallery using Envira Gallery default settingsMost notable reasons to consider the premium versionSocial media integration, including an option to import images from InstagrameCommerce support via WooCommerceVideo galleriesDeep linking and pagination for large galleriesAutomatic watermark and image protectionLightroom add-on to automatically sync photo galleries with your Adobe Lightroom collections.The Pro version starts at $29, though that plan does not include all features.4. Photo Gallery by 10web Photo Gallery by 10Web Mobile-Friendly Image Gallery Author(s): Best forlike NextGEN Gallery, Photo Gallery by 10web skews more towards power users who need support for lots of images. Its overkill if youre just looking for a simple solution to display a few galleries.Photo Gallery by 10web is another popular option with deep functionality, including an option to sell images with the premium eCommerce extension.The free version comes with a few basic gallery layouts, but many of the better-looking layouts, like the masonry option, are only available in the paid version.Other neat free features include:Full video support so that you can create video galleriesAutomatic watermarksAlbum supportImport gallery photos from InstagramExample gallery using Photo Gallery by 10web default settingsMost notable reasons to consider the premium versionHonestly, much of the plugins unique functionality is locked away behind the premium version, including:eCommerce functionalityMore gallery layoutsSocial sharingSlideshow effectsThe Pro version starts at $30.5. FooGallery FooGallery Image Gallery WordPress Plugin Author(s): FooPluginsCurrent Version: 1.8.12Last Updated: September 5, 2019foogallery.zip 94%Ratings 1,913,843Downloads WP 3.9+Requires Best forcasual or power users who want customizable galleries, but do not need eCommerce functionality (FooGall ery doesnt have it).Like Modula and Envira, FooGallery is one of the simpler WordPress gallery plugins to use. The free version lets you set up your own:Hover effectsLightboxAutomatic captions/titlesPaginationRetina supportGallery template (you get 6 options in the free version)Example gallery using FooGallery default settingsMost notable reasons to consider the premium versionSupport for videos in galleriesMore gallery templatesInfinite scroll for image loadingMore loading and hover effectsCategories and tags for imagesReal-time gallery filteringThe Pro version starts at $49.Picking the best WordPress gallery plugin for your needsYou certainly dont need five WordPress photo gallery plugins on your site, so which is the best solution for you?If youre looking for the options that let you create a great-looking image gallery in as little time as possible, youll probably be happiest with Modula. Envira Gallery is also a viable option, though the free version of Envira is a little more limited.On the other hand, if youre looking for a gallery plugin to help you manage tons of images/albums and maybe even sell the images in your galleries, youll likely be better off with NextGEN Gallery, Envira Gallery Pro, or Photo Gallery by 10web.FooGallery is also a solid option that fits in somewhere between those two extremes.And no matter which plugin you end up choosing, make sure to optimize your images and maybe even consider an image optimization plugin.Have you used any of these WordPress gallery plugins? Which one is your favorite and why? A hands-on look at 5 popular #WordPress gallery plugins. #comparison

harmful) in Business Climate

Californias Environmental Policies (helpful/harmful) in Business Climate The impact of Californias Environmental Policies in the business climate has aroused an unending debate on whether it will result in positive or negative effects. Despite the conflicting arguments, the state’s authority has continued to push forward unabated to effect the policies. The clamor for even more aggressive environmental regulations is ongoing. The regulations are affecting all spheres of California’s livelihood.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Californias Environmental Policies (helpful/harmful) in Business Climate specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Positive Impact California has defied the national environmental trend with her sophisticated approach to environmental management. The policy aims at cutting greenhouse emissions. This will encourage technological innovation and efficient consumption and generation of energy. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has adopted an economy-wide ca p-and-trade program. This program, drafted by professional environmentalists and other stakeholders, aims at reducing the overall state’s greenhouse gas emissions. The implementation of the clean energy law, AB32, will boost green business industry. The environmental policy is a positive signal to business in the state as it shows the authority’s commitment to promote clean energy and bring efficiency in the energy sector. The leadership role taken by the state in adopting clean technology has had a positive economic impact. California State is leading in venture capital financing to promote the use of clean energy. The state received over half a billion dollars in investments towards the end of last year. Positive prospects have been predicted for investments in California once the law is fully implemented. This can be attributed to the state’s resolve to embrace a clean energy economy (Davoudi, Crawford Mehmood, p. 128). Using Clean Energy The business enviro nment is set to reap benefits from the requirement by the law that all premises within the state invest in clean energy. This will see use of wind and solar energy. This will not only increase efficiency, but also reduce cost of production. The ultimate benefits will thus reach the business and consumers. Use of clean fuels and upgraded efficiency standards will encourage business stability. This is because businesses that pollute the environment by emitting dirty fossil fuels will be penalized for the equivalent deleterious impact on the environment. Such a measure will see many businesses opt for the clean energy. In turn, this will encourage innovativeness as firms adopt energy efficient- environmental friendly systems that do not compromise on profitability.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The California environmental law has been designed elaborately to minim ize any chances of market abuse. This is by adopting measures that discourage market gaming or any other form of manipulations. Borrowing from past experiences that saw the emergence of new tendencies of market exchanges such as the 2008 incidence that birthed a housing crisis across the nation, CARB has made the program transparent and highly liquid. With the adoption of further recommendations from the Emmett Center on Climate Change, California is set to become America’s, as well as the world’s leader in clean technologies. Investing in such innovations will create a new platform for cutting edge business ventures in the state. The initial success registered so far only goes to indicate that sound environmental policies do not necessarily kill business. The success story of California may lead the way for other states in America and the world at large. The overall impact will be a clean world coupled with smart businesses (Davoudi, Crawford Mehmood, p. 129). The Do wn Side The California environmental policy could have a negative impact on the business climate. The restriction the law imposes on exploitation of oil reserves for instance discourages local drilling of oil. The stringent laws governing the drilling of oil have seen many investors relocate to other places. On the other hand, those investors who continue drilling have to fulfill many requirements set by the authorities. The reduced rate of drilling has negatively affected business. This is because America continues to rely on expensive foreign procured oil. The regulations on air pollution may have resulted in clean air within California. Unfortunately, this has been achieved by the leading emitters of air pollutants relocating to adjacent states of Nevada, Arizona, and Mexico. This translates into clean air within California but not in America and the world as a whole (Fulton, para 7). The claim to adopt clean energy systems by the local firms and homes means overhauling the syste ms currently in use. Reduction of air pollution requires installing scrubbers, using wind, and solar energy requires installation of turbines and solar panels and other related installations. Overall, this is a capital intensive venture. The resultant increased cost is forwarded to the final consumer negatively affecting their economic wellbeing (Fulton, para 9). Conclusion and Recommendations It is agreeable that environmental management and sustainable development is necessary for the world to overcome the looming threat of global warming. Many events directly linked to the impact of environmental degradation have been witnessed. The plan by California to adopt an ambitious climate policy to reduce greenhouse gas emission is one such step.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Californias Environmental Policies (helpful/harmful) in Business Climate specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The state has crafted laws that have g rave impacts on economic, as well as environmental status. The comprehensive policy aims to among others encourage use of clean energy such as solar and wind energy. It also aims at using ecofriendly strategies in running businesses. The benefits are numerous since apart from a clean environment, the law will encourage innovativeness. However, the law is not without pitfalls as experts warn that its way of implementation could negatively affect the business climate. The demand to invest in new energy systems and pollution reduction strategies is a capital intensive venture that could have far reaching economic impact. One of these effects would be the high cost of production and efficiency breakdown since energy sources that rely on nature do not guarantee efficiency. Overall, the plan is beneficial but would be more fruitful if the government adopts a policy that allows the private sector to adopt the green technology. Rushing the process will only result in firms adopting technolo gies that may compromise on efficiency or which may not be greener. The law may strictly set standards on the green technology to adopt. However, consideration should be put in place to ensure that green capital investments have a long payback period. The state should initiate low cost financing programs to encourage quick adoption of the new technologies especially by firms experiencing financial constraints. This is a part from formulating and implementing the strict environmental law. The enforcement of energy consumption reduction by relying on solar and wind energy may negatively affect efficiency. As such, the state should encourage gradual adoption of alternative energy sources while discouraging the use of conventional energy sources such as hydro and fuel based. This will over time transform California’s economic status while protecting the environment. Davoudi, Simin, Jenny Crawford Abid Mehmood. Planning for Climate Change: Strategies for Mitigation and Adaptatio n for Spatial Planners. London: Earthscan, 2009. Print. Fulton, William. Do Environmental Regulations Hurt the Economy? 2010. Web. https://www.governing.com/columns/transportation-and-infrastructure/Do-Environmental-Regulations-Hurt.htmlAdvertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More

Australian TOT(Terms of trade) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Australian TOT(Terms of trade) - Essay Example On the other hand, a TOT value greater than 100% implies that the country is accumulating capital or more money is coming into the country from the exports. If the TOT of a country improves (rise above 100), it means that for each export unit sold it can be able to buy more units of the imported goods. Therefore, a rise or increase in the TOT creates a benefit in terms of the number of goods required to be exported in order to purchase a particular amount of imports. Improving TOT can also contain a valuable effect on the domestic cost-push inflation because an improvement shows falling import prices relative to the prices of exports. However, a country can undergo suffering in terms of the falling export volumes and a deterioration payments balance. Contrary to the indications of an increasing TOT, a deteriorating TOT (decreasing below 100) shows that a country needs to export increased amount of goods in order to buy a particular quantity of imports.1 Australian TOT Between the yea r 1998- 1999 and the year 2008 to 2009, the TOT of Australia have undergone or went through an unprecedented rice of 75% indicating the alterations in both the composition and prices of traded services and goods. The prices of exports grew by 86% whereas that of imports grew by 9%. The increase or rise in the prices of exports was driven by the rise in metal ores and coal while the decrease in prices of most manufactured goods assisted in keeping the import prices down.2 In the year 2011, the TOT peaked rising to a level of 105% above the preciously prevailing values from the year 2002. This particular boom in TOT was attributed largely to the staggering high prices that the foreign buyers were paying for commodities such as iron, gas, and coal. Holding down of the import prices by the recorded high Australian dollar also boosted the TOT. In the month of December 2011 to march 2012 a decline of 9.8% was reported in the TOT. From this time, a free fall has been there in the Australia n TOT a situation that economists argue is beginning to get serious. The data available for the period of June quarter on the Australian dollar and the prices of commodities suggests that the TOT decreased by another 7% bringing the total TOT decline in three consecutive quarters to approximately 16%. The TOT absolute level is still high on any particular long run assessment but the decline does not suggest that the country is at the low point of the cycle. The fall in the TOT presents a huge downside risk to the economy of Australia.3 The TOT and the TWER (trade weighted exchange rate), for the actual year 1998 to 2012 and also the indicative for the year 2012 to 2017 are displayed in the figure below. Sources: the exchange rate was retrieved from the Statistical Bulletin of the Reserve Bank of Australia while the TOT (terms of trade) was retrieved from the ABS Table 1 Cat. no. 5206.0 The Mundell-Fleming model is regarded as an open economy IS-LM version with inclusion of capital f lows as a vital constituent of the model. The model is developed for the assessment of macroeconomic policy in a little open economy regarded as a price taker in import and export markets. The economy of Australia is definitely a small and open economy thus the application of this model to analyse the macroeconomic policy. In the last decade the imports and exports of services and goods of Australia were averaged at 37.3% of the GDP. The ISLM – BP model requires the capital mobility in order for the capital flows role to be activated. From the year 1980s both the capital outflows and inflows have

Research critique part 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Research critique part 2 - Essay Example Both the independent and dependent variables have been identified in the study. The independent variables were the task-oriented leadership, and relationship-oriented leadership. The dependent variable in the study relates to job satisfaction. Questionnaires were used to collect data from the 444 nurses. More to this, interviews were used to collect data from 40 ward managers, and 13 directors. The managers and directors also filled questionnaires after their interview. In addition, field observations in 40 wards were carried out to provide data for the study. The 444 nurses were too many to conduct interviews with them, thus had to use questionnaires to avoid the tedious process. Questionnaires also allow for fast collection of data. Interviews with and questionnaires for the managers and directors were used to collect specific information. The interviews were also used as they provided the researchers with an opportunity to clarify on certain things. The questionnaires to the 444 nurses were filled and were returned within the three to four days that observations took place in the respective wards. The interviews were also conducted during the week that the various wards were under observation, as well as filling of the questionnaires. Ward visits lasted between 20-30 hours per ward for the three or four days spent in a ward. A total of 900 hours were spent on the observations. The wards were visited one at a time, and the nurses issued with the questionnaire to fill in at their own time. The interviews also took place during the time the wards were visited for the first author to make observations. The data was analyzed by use of two-level analyses. These were the individual predictor and the ward-level predictors. Leadership style was the individual predictor. Use of teams, staff stability, and workload were the ward-level predictors. A software

The Story of an Hour (1894) by Kate Chopin Essay

The Story of an Hour (1894) by Kate Chopin - Essay Example When she first hears the news of her husband's death, she is excited. Although she cried when she first heard the information, she was happy about it at the same time. The narrative states, "She said it over and over under the breath: "free, free, free!" (1). She was at that moment beginning to realize that she was free of the challenges with her husband. As a widow, she would be able to live her life as she wanted, and the property and wealth would go to her. She was beginning to enjoy the idea of freedom. As an example, when she looked out into the open square from the opened window, she saw the treetops "that were all aquiver with the new spring life" (1). It was interesting that she noticed this because it symbolized her "new life" without her husband. As she imagined her husband in his casket, she knew that she would weep again, but it would not be out of grief; instead it would be from relief. She understood her freedom as the narrative states, "†¦a long profession of year s to come that would belong to her absolutely," "There would be no one to live for in those coming years", and "there would be no powerful will bending hers †¦" (2).

The SWOT analysis

The SWOT analysis PG is a global manufacturer and marketer of consumer products. It operates in five distinct business segments: fabric and home care, beauty care, baby and family care, health care and snacks and beverages. It has some of the most well-known and established brands in its portfolio but faces intense competition from other global consumer giants as well as local companies. Strengths Large scale of operations PG has significant scale advantages. It is the global leader in all its four core categories fabric and home care, beauty care, baby and family care, health care. Its products are sold in over 160 countries worldwide with manufacturing capabilities in over 42 countries. The company manufactures and markets close to 300 products. It derives substantial economies from its scale of operations in finance, logistics, marketing, research, new product development, innovation, technology and other functions. The companys huge buying power (from commodities to media) is being progressively leveraged through global procurement and services. A large scale gives PG significant competitive advantage against the smaller, unorganized players in local markets. Strong branding PG is one of the worlds most successful brand creation and brand building companies. The company participates in more than 40 product categories with 300 brands in roughly 60 markets. Some of its very well-known brands include Tide, Pampers, Bounty, Charmin, Cover Girl, Pantene, and Clairol. Moreover, as of 2004, the company had 13 brands with sales exceeding one billion dollars. Together, these brands have sales of over $24 billion. PG continuous involvement in consumer research helps it understand, anticipate and respond to consumer needs and wants and hence create marketing and advertising innovations more effectively and efficiently than many other companies. PG brand leadership helps it implement brand building innovations with retail and media partners in ways that few companies can match. It has one of the largest and strongest portfolios of trusted, quality brands, including Pampers, Tide, Ariel, Always, Whisper, Pantene, Bounty, Pringles, Folgers, Charmin, Downy, Lenor, Iams , Crest, Clairol Nice n Easy, Actonel, Dawn and Olay. These brands have leading market share in their respective categories, an offer the company a significant edge over its competitors. Product innovation PG creates more new brands and categories than any other consumer goods company. In 2003, three of the top 10 new non-food products introduced in the US were PG products. Over the past eight years, PG has introduced the number one or number two new non-food products in the US every year. PGs brand-creation and product development leadership is driven by the companys enormous research and development capacity. The company has nearly 7500 researchers working in 20 technical centres on four continents. It has more than 29,000 patented technologies for its products. Strong performance in core categories On a worldwide basis, fabric home care, beauty care, and baby family care products are Procter Gambles largest businesses, contributing a total of roughly 80% of sales. PGs fabric and home care is also its largest and oldest business and it continues to grow to record levels. The segments net sales grew 10% to $15.26 billion in 2005. The baby and family care and heath care divisions recorded an even higher growth in net sales. The net sales from the baby and family care division grew 11% to $11.9 billion while health care business recorded net sales growth of 11% to $7.8 billion in 2005. Strong performance by its core business groups is one of the prime reasons contributing to the companys above industry average revenue growth rates, and has significantly helped the company to grow to a stage where it is virtually hedged against threat from smaller new entrants. Developing markets infrastructure PGs developing markets infrastructure is a huge strategic advantage. The company has developed a best in class distribution infrastructure consisting of exclusive distributors in fast growing markets like China, Russia, Poland, the Philippines and India. Unlike most of its competitors, who use agnostic wholesalers that sell a variety of competing products, PGs network, while independently owned and operated, sell only PG HPC products (although often they carry various no competing food products). PGs scale allows these distributors to achieve higher dollar profit (not profit margin) while insuring that PGs products get all the distributors attention. Moreover, because of the large distribution pipe (unlike the multi-tributary wholesaler system), PG is able get the breadth of its products to market faster and more efficiently, even in the outer reaches of some of these developing markets, without multiple wholesaler markups that typically occur under the wholesaler system. The company s highly efficient markets infrastructure has helped the company in considerably increasing the speed at which its products reach the market and the companys overall market scalability vis-ÃÆ'Â  -vis its peers. Weaknesses Customer concentration The companys operations are heavily concentrated among its top customers. PGs largest customer, Wal-Mart, accounted for 18% (2003), 17% (2002) and 15% (2001) of sales. PGs top 10 customers account for 35% of its sales. A financial hardship experienced any of these customers; or a substantial decrease in sales to any one of the top customers could materially affect revenues and profitability of the company. Performance of the Clairol business Since the acquisition of Clairol in 2001, PG has been aggressive in using its distribution channels overseas to expand Clairol Herbal Essences shampoos and conditioners into new markets. In the US, however, the brands rapid growth before PG acquired Clairol has proven difficult to maintain and Herbal Essences has lost share in an environment of aggressive competitive promotional spending. With regard to the hair colorants side of Clairol, its 35% market share (approximately) in the US (number two position) has slipped further to market share leader LOreal. This in a scenario where global hair color is expected to grow at mid-to-high single digit rates in the next few years. The companys inability to grow its Clairol business could have a negative effect on the PG Beauty division. Overexposure to mature markets PG remains largely a mature-market company, with only 26% of sales and 22% of profits generated outside the US and Western Europe. Moreover the company is primarily exposed to mature categories in these markets, such as laundry detergents and paper. This indicates that the company focuses on leveraging its scale which often means growing where it already has a sizeable detergent and/or consumer paper business. The downside is that this strategy does not necessarily align its portfolio to tap growth, mainly in developing and emerging markets. As a result only 35% of PGs sales are in developing and emerging countries and its total market share in the FMCG segment is estimated to be below 20% as compared with 27% for Unilever. In contrast, its share in developed markets is estimated at 37% or twice Unilevers 18%. The companys overexposure to mature markets could act as a setback to future growth prospects. Opportunities Developing markets The consumer products business in developing markets is expected to be a significant opportunity for FMCG majors globally. This is primarily due to the fact that these markets are witnessing growth across three basic demographic factors: population growth, household formation and household income growth. These factors have driven developed market growth for decades and are now driving strong growth in many developing markets. China, for example, is now considered one of the most lucrative markets by FMCG companies, which could be further explored by the company. Due to growth across developing markets, PG can look towards achieving substantial growth by focusing on these higher-growth, structurally attractive markets. Gillette acquisition PG and Gillette are currently category captains at retailers in many of their respective product categories (given their leadership market share positions in their categories). Therefore the combination of these two dominant players will imply that they would to able to summon their competitive advantages across a wider variety of key categories, thereby increasing their competitive onslaught on smaller home and personal care (HPC competitors and private labels. Furthermore, the two companies also benefit from synergies in oral care, which could be a significant positive for PG. Other revenue upsides expected from the merger include Gillettes growth potential in emerging markets; cross-leveraging shaving and skin care brands and technologies; and, go-to-market efficiencies. The Gillette merger is expected to significantly add value to the company and help it further strengthen its already leading market position. New product pipeline PG has announced a full pipeline of new products to come in 2005. This is a clear evidence of PGs intense commitment and focus on its core business. Some of the most noted announcements include the launches of Hugo Boss Skin Care for men; Tamp ax Fresh tampons (the companys first scented flushable tampon, priced at a 10-15% premium to base Tampax); Iams Savory Sauces for dog and Iams MultiCat pet food; Charmin Basic toilet tissue (launched in February 2005 and Bounty Basic paper towels (launched in April 2005), both selling at a 15% discount to the brands base products; Bounty Glass and Surface Care towels; Charmin Mega Roll toilet tissue; and Tide Simple Pleasures. The launch of new products would significantly help the company in pushing forward its revenue generation across some of the otherwise matured product categories in the FMCG market. Threats Intense competition PG operates in a very competitive market, with rivals including consumer giants such as Johnson Johnson, Unilever and Kimberly-Clark. Each of these has revenues in excess of $10 billion. Private labels or store brands strive to match innovation quickly and try to present a compelling value alternative in many categories. This requires the company to continually strive to develop innovative products and price its goods competitively. For instance, sales in PGs beauty division could weaken sequentially as a result of an aggressive innovation drive from LOreal. Throughout 2005, LOreal is expected to launch a large number of new products globally. An increase in competitive onslaught by a majority of the companys competitors is expected to further challenge the companys growth. Increase in prices of raw materials The company is witnessing a significant increase in its raw material prices. Oil prices are up an average of nearly 40% year-to-date in calendar 2005 (after increasing 34% in 2004 and 19% in 2003), while resin prices are up an average of 14% (versus a 13% increase in 2004 and 21% increase in 2003) and pulp prices are up 8% (after rising 18% in 2004 and 14% in 2003). As a result of PG is facing higher commodities costs, which is expected to have a negative bearing over the companys earnings. ECs Gillette deal stipulations In 2005 EC announced that its only stipulation to the closing of the Gillette deal is PGs sale of its Crest Spinbrush business (brand which holds only a roughly 5% share of the power toothbrush market in Europe, representing nearly $200 million in sales to PG globally) as well as the licensing out of its oral care brand names associated with the Spinbrush, including Crest, Blend-a-Dent and Blend-a-Med. The licensing out of some of PGs oral care brand names has raised a concern over the companys ability to preserve the integrity of those brands given that those brands represent important future growth drivers for PGs toothpaste business. Furthermore this also raises a risk of the US Federal Trade Commission asking the company to further divest some of its other businesses. Uncertainty in pharmaceuticals business PGs Intrinsa, a prescription drug designed to counteract the loss of sexual desire in post-menopausal women, was rejected by the FDA in December 2004. The company is still waiting to hear from the FDA as to the extent of the required further testing of the product, to the extent its economical (the sample size is not too broad and the time frame of the test is not too long) span.. Concerns are also being raised over the FDA status of another drug soon to be launched by PG, Pexelizumab (a drug designed to reduce infarction and mortality post cardiac bypass surgery). This is primarily because the companys pharmaceuticals track record is marred by the withdrawal of both Vioxx and Celebrex from the market, in highly-publicized cases. The companys poor pharmaceuticals track record combined with an uncertain outlook for two of its major drug releases is expected to negatively impact the companys ability to grow in the highly lucrative over-the-counter pharmaceuticals market.

Marlows Assessment of Africa in Conrads Heart of Darkness :: Heart Darkness essays

Marlow's Assessment of Africa in Heart of Darkness   Ã‚   Marlow's assessment of the African wilderness in the beginning of the story is like that of something that tempts him and his fellow explorers to Africa. When Marlow says, "And as I looked at the map of it in a shop-window, it fascinated me as a snake would a bird - silly little bird" (Conrad, Longman 2196). If we take note of the phrase "silly little bird" it may be noted that the Marlow is comparing Britain to that silly little bird. It could be that he felt Britain's occupancy of Africa was nothing more than his own country falling into a trap. It was not a designed trap but one of destiny. It was his countries destiny to fall prey to the allures of that Dark Continent. Millions would die in the attempt to make monetary gains while occupying Africa.    When Marlow mentions "the whited sepulcher" he could be referring again to his homeland, and when he makes this statement he may be referring to the fact that Britain has sent many of its people to be buried in that deep and mysterious place referred to as the Congo. According to YourDictionary .com, the word sepulcher means, "to bury" (YourDicitonary.com). In combination with the word white, referring to his Caucasian race, could Marlow be referring to the death of his fellow countrymen, or could he be referring to the death of a continent, Africa, at the hands of the white race invading her? These thoughts may both have validity when deciphering this text. When Marlow describes the, "Two women, one fat and the other slim, sat on straw-bottomed chairs, knitting black wool" he may be describing the future of two races combined in utter disarray in Africa. He may be using the "black wool" as something akin to insight into what future had in store for millions of people both black and white in the Congo (Longman 2197). The "black wool" may be referring to black shards for covering the dead. It may also be an idea of not human death but the death of an area such as the Congo. He may have been sensing that the influx of his own countrymen may be taking away the spirit of that wild and forbidden Congo. Marlow's utterance of, "guarding the door of Darkness, knitting black wool as for a warm pall, one introducing, introducing continuously to the unknown, the other scrutinizing the cherry foolish faces with unconcerned old eyes" could give more clues to Marlow's characterization of the African wilderness (Longman 2198).

Booker T Washington A Representative of the Black Population

It is considered general knowledge that slavery was one of the biggest struggles this nation faced. However, many forget that the strife did not end when slavery was abolished. Reconstruction laid a heavy hand on this country and nearly tore it apart. Booker T. Washington explains this concept in his famous tree analogy. â€Å"Before our freedom, a giant tree was growing in the garden [slavery], which all considered injurious to the progress of the whole nation. The work to be done was direct and simple-destroy the hurtful tree. The work before us now is not the destruction of a tree, but the growing of one. Slavery presented a problem of destruction; freedom presents one of construction. This requires time, patience, preparation of the soil, watering, pruning, and most careful nursing† (Washington, 50). Booker T. Washington became a representative of the black population during this turbulent time. However, he was met with much criticism due to his controversial ideas and public speeches. The white citizenry largely appreciated his pacifying tone, but many of the blacks were irritated by the inactive agendum Washington was suggesting. Some of Booker T. Washington†s ideas were practical and worthwhile, however some of his theories contained many contradictions and fallacies. I agree with his ideology to a point, but at certain times, I feel that he is too much of a pacifist. Washington stressed repeatedly in his speeches the importance of an industrial education. His own contribution to this was the Tuskagee Institute. It taught young blacks a trade that was practical, so they would be able to easily find a job, and begin earning income. Washington†s thought was that an industrial education was far more important than a liberal education. He believed that a liberal education was a waste of time, because there weren†t any immediate benefits, or instantaneous wage earning possibilities. Washington†s point was that the blacks needed money at once, so they should excel at what they already know. African Americans already had the skills they learned from slavery, which was mostly farming and agriculture. He thought that they should utilize that knowledge in the work force. â€Å"†¦let the Negro begin right where he is by putting the greatest amount of intelligence, of skill, and dignity into the occupations by which he is surrounded† (Washington 42). Many blacks did not like that suggestion, because they felt that they had been trapped in the agriculture business because of slavery, and they did not want to go back to that way of life. It would mean no change in labor and little chance that the white employer would treat them any better than they had in the past. The ex-slaves wanted experiences in life that they never before had the opportunity to have. They wanted a liberal education, because it had been denied to them in the past. They wanted to rise out of working the fields. Washington believed in sticking to one thing and excelling at it. He thought that blacks should learn a trade and become the best at it, so there is no room for discrimination. â€Å"Whenever in the South, for example, the Negro is the carpenter, let him realize that he cannot remain the carpenter unless people are sure that no one can excel him as a carpenter. This black carpenter should strive in every way possible to keep himself abreast of the best woodwork done in the world. He should be constantly studying the best journals and books bearing on carpentry. He should watch for every improvement in his line† (Washington 42). Personally, I think that B.T. Washington was right in aspiring to use the skills one already had, however I don†t think it is right to deny anyone the chance of stepping up and bettering themselves. Washington claims this change will happen, but it will occur gradually. â€Å"The second or third generation of this black man†s family need not be carpenters, but can aspire successfully to something higher because the foundation has been laid† (Washington 43). However, the black man, at this time, did not want gradual change. They wanted the change they deserved, and they wanted it right away. In my opinion, Washington†s idea to learn a trade to have an immeidate source of income is a good one. It is practical and promotes a way for blacks to meet financial needs. Nonetheless, it is important to have a well-rounded education if the change for bigger and better places is to ever take place. Another problem with Washington†s dogma, is that he is lumping all black people into one category. He is assuming that all of the ex-slaves will not mind going back to the same labor force they were in pre-abolishment. That is untrue. Many African-Americans at this time had untapped interests that they wanted to pursue. Many would actually be more talented in other fields. When slavery was abolished, this implied freedom for blacks. Freedom is all about the ability to choose. In taking choices away from the ex-slaves, Washington is stifling independence. As the representative man of his time, Booker T. Washington made several public speeches. In these orations, it was quite evident that he was aspiring to be as diplomatic as possible. He sought to keep the whites on his side, even amongst the most racially controversial issues. In regarding crime, he not only chastised white people for the heinous hate crimes that were rampant, but he also admonished the black people for their criminal acts. â€Å"†¦idleness and crime should cease, and that no excuse be given the world to label any large proportion of the race [blacks] as idlers and criminals†¦bring to punishment those who commit crime, when proper legal procedure is sure†¦we consider no legal punishment to severe for the wretch of any race who attempts to outrage a woman [lynching]. The lesson for the other portion of the nation to learn is that†¦the same laws should be made to apply to the Negro and the white man whether it relates to citizenship, the protection of property, the right to labor, or the protection of human life† (Washington 49). The manner in which Washington addressed the mixed crowd was filled with diplomacy, and therefore, did not anger the white citizens. Booker T. Washington realized that this was intelligent, because he knew that if he aroused the whites, the black population would have a much more difficult time in their rise through reconstruction. During all his addresses to the public, B. T. Washington stressed economics. He did this to speak to the white population about racial equality in terms that they thought would benefit the entire nation. Racial equality would lead to a better economy, and since the South was almost destitute after the civil war, the Southern whites were willing to listen to anything that would help the financial situation. â€Å"It is not only the duty of the Negro to thus put himself in possession, but it is also the plainest duty of the white man†¦No state can have the highest civilization and prosperity with one-third of its population down. This one-third will prove a constant millstone about the neck of the other two-thirds† (Washington 43). Economics, Washington also said, would bring about political and racial equality. He argued that once African-Americans obtained money, property, and/or other tangible goods, they would be given more respect, and hence, equality. â€Å"†¦when he [the black man] has paid the cost-paid the price of his freedom-it will appear in the beautiful, well-kept home, In the increasing bank account, in the farm†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Washington 42). I don†t agree with B.T.W.†s theory on this. Just because one has material commodities, this does not guarantee them respect or equality of any kind. The white southerners were brought up on racist beliefs. A black man†s wealth will not change the white bigot†s opinion. If anything, the whites will just begin to resent the black man. Moving up financially, was a good idea for the black race, as long as they protested equality simultaneously, because equality would not just appear along with financial stability. Agitation was not one of Washington†s endeavors. He believed that blacks should not provoke the white populace. He states in one of his articles, â€Å"Vastly more courage is often shown in one†s ability to suffer in silence†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Washington 48). This enraged many blacks. They had already been ‘suffering in silence† through the endless years of slavery. Washington averred that rather than agitation, the black move upward should be a constant struggle. â€Å"The wisest among my race understand that the agitation of questions of social equality, is the extremest folly, and that progress in the enjoyment of all the privileges that will come to us must be the result of sever and constant struggle rather than of artificial forcing† (Washington 140). Washington needed to realize that no political changes would come about without the black population demanding them. If the African-Americans did not command civil rights, the whites would never have bothered to change their ways. In this situation, speaking out is necessary.

How to Make Ice Spikes in Your Freezer

How to Make Ice Spikes in Your Freezer Ice spikes are tubes or spikes of ice that shoot up or off at an angle from a container of frozen water, such as a bird bath or bucket in the winter. The spikes resemble an inverted icicle. Ice spikes form rarely in nature, but you can make them in your own freezer quite simply and reliably. Heres what you do. Ice Spike Materials distilled waterice cube trayfrost-free freezer (ordinary home freezer) Its important to use distilled or reverse osmosis purified water. Ordinary tap water or mineral water contain dissolved substances that may prevent the water from forming spikes or reduce the number of spikes that are formed. You can substitute a bowl or cup for the ice cube tray. Plastic ice cube trays are nice because they contain several small compartments, meaning you have a quick freeze time and several chances for spikes. Make Ice Spikes Its easy! Simply pour the distilled water into the ice cube tray, set the tray in your freezer, and wait. You can expect about half of the ice cubes to contain ice spikes. An ordinary ice cube tray freezes in about 1-1/2 to 2 hours. The spikes degrade and soften over time since most home freezers are frost-free and will blow warmer air over the spikes. How It Works Pure water supercools, which means it remains liquid past the ordinary freezing point. When it starts to freeze at this lower temperature, it solidifies very rapidly. The freezing process starts at the edges of the container because the nicks, scratches, and imperfections allow for nucleation of the ice crystals. Freezing continues until there is only a hole near the middle of the container, which contains liquid water. Ice is less dense than liquid water, so some of the crystals float to the top and are pushed out, forming a spike. The spike grows until the water is frozen. There are two reasons why ordinary tap water or mineral water are less likely to form ice spikes. The first reason is that this water tends to freeze at its regular freezing point. This is a much slower process than freezing from the supercooled state, so solidification is more likely to be homogeneous or occur throughout the ice cube all at once. If there isnt a hole in the ice, the ice spike cant grow. The other reason is that contaminants or impurities in the water become concentrated in the liquid as the water freezes. Researchers believe solids become concentrated at the growing tip of an ice spike and inhibit further growth. Learn More How To Supercool WaterMake Hot Ice or Supercooled Sodium AcetateWhy Ice Floats

Costs of College essays

Costs of College essays Should College Cost be Subsidized More? The government, at both the state and federal level, pays huge amounts of money every year aimed at reducing the costs of attending college. Whether by helping to run an institution, subsidizing its expenses in various ways, or through loans and tax breaks to students and their parents, the government takes on much of the cost of a college education. But tuition costs have still risen substantially over the past years and how big of a role the government should take in the whole process and whether the government should increase or decrease the vast amount of assistance it provides is often debated. Both sides want to improve college attendance and increase the number of people going to college but they differ in how they see when it is that going to college is determined and thus how and when the money should be spent. The position that the government should take a lesser role in paying college costs asserts that for most people, whether or not they attend college is determined very early on in life by the income of the family when they are young. In order to illustrate this point, Heckman shows that while there are countless programs available to help students gain the funds necessary in order to enroll in college, and that while there are many private institutions with high tuitions, the average cost of a community college or public school is not all that high and there are enough loan programs to cover those costs. In fact, many of these programs do not spend the money they are allotted fully and are not taken advantage of by students. He also shows that in the long run, when you take into account the childs intellectual abilities, those abilities account for very little of the difference in attending a college. That who goes to college is in fact determined early on in a childs life, by h ow that family raises the child, not only to help develop the appropriate skill ...

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT ANALYSIS Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT ANALYSIS - Essay Example The company seeks to liaise with other automobile companies and revive electric vehicles in Israel. This way, a major network of electric vehicles will be formed (Gilder, 2013, p. 95). Better Place has a mission to exist on which aims at complete elimination of automobiles that use oil. These cars will be friendly to the environment as there will be no toxic fumes production via exhaust pipes. This implies that there will be no threat of gas build up from these cars. Better Place asserts that it is different from other companies in the sense that it works in the view of changing the world by bringing on board the electric vehicles. The vehicles will be cost effective as opposed to cars that are wholly dependent on petrol and diesel. According to statistics, it can be shown that internal combustion vehicles would cost owners an average of $ 0.11-0.12 for every mile cruised. On the other hand, electric cars are estimated to spend $ 0.06-0.08 mile on average (Alt, 2013, p. 6). These sta tistics fully support the Better place in its assertion that it will make a difference that will impact positively on the lives of Israelites. On the contrary, if Better Place were not there, there would also be unhealthy competition due to the fact that there would be no change in different car models to offer a wide range of choice (Etzion & Struben, 2011, p.8). Also, creativity and innovation would be phased out in automobile industry leaving no opportunity for more choices. Better Place has stakeholders who intend to build long term relationship with for constructive progress of the company. These stakeholders decide on forms of engagement and recording of the outcomes as well as improving the way the organization works (Husted & Allen, 2011, pp. 128). These stakeholders include employees, customers, suppliers and members of the community in Israel. The headquarters in California provide the effective guide in terms of delocalized management in which case the company is able to have well co-ordinated activities in all countries of operations. They are very important in business engagements as they contribute in its growth and development. This relationship is illustrated using a table below whereby employees’ involvement is to improve morale, motivation and creation of dynamic safe environment. Customers on the other hand engage in building reputation helping in building the business (Etzion & Struben, 2011, p.21). Then, government helps the company keep abreast with policy and regulations while the community builds the organization’s reputation. Venture capital investors have the duty to invest more capital into the business so that its financial status is strategically envisioned. Suppliers have a very big role to play in production as the supplies of for example tires keep the company service and goods provision to the market strong and stable. Other utility companies are very important as they either make use of the company products or ma ke relevant supplies of validity. Car manufacturers are of great value because they make the industry have the required supplies of cars and spare parts as much as possible. Low level of Interest High Low Power High source: (Gilder, 2013) Industry Analysis and Scenarios Better place is bound to face various positive and negative scenarios in its course of it business activities. This means that eventualities are expected and the company must device new strategies of fighting its rivals in business activities. In this respect, it should prepare to fight all possible threat that may undermine its progress. This would be achieved by proper incorporation of methods that re reasonable and

Situation 1 Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Situation 1 - Coursework Example Lugar was inspired by the personal experience he got when helping out his mom with her garage sale. Prior work experience might also contribute in Lugar’s idea. Through his experience with other garage sales in the area, Lugar believed that he had the capability to offer new services to people regarding garage sales. Lugar’s start up idea is worth trying. The fact that Lugar has good pricing insights and is ready to use advertising to make his business feasible and successful gives him an upper hand in the area. Using pricing strategies for the garage sales idea is an important service differentiation method that can offer superior performance and thus, competitive advantage in the market. Wise pricing will help customers happy because they will maximize their profits and risk of not selling the garage items. Lugar’s pricing strategy might help ensure customer loyalty thus make the concept successful. However, before developing the concept into a business plan Lugar needs to conduct a feasibility analysis to assess the probability of the business becoming successful (Longenecker, Petty, Hoy, & Palich,