Quality of Life Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Quality of Life - Assignment Example Diabetes commonly referred to as a diabetes mellitus is a group of biological metabolic diseases associated with blood pressure, frequent urination, increased hunger and increased thirst. If not checked and managed early, can lead to many other complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, stroke among others. The inability of insulin hormone to function normally has adverse effects on the metabolism protein, carbohydrate and fat. This is because insulin encourages storage of protein and fat thus considered an anabolic hormone. A relative insulin deficiency ultimately leads to weight loss, even though; there is an increase in appetite. Some untreated patients of diabetes also complain of fatigue, vomiting and nausea (Peacock, 2000). Patients with diabetes are probable to developing infections of the skin, bladder and vaginal regions. In addition, fluctuations in blood glucose levels can lead to blurred vision. Extremely elevated sugar level can lead to lethargy and coma. Potentially reversible diabetes conditions are such as pre-diabetes — when ones blood sugar levels are higher above normal, but not high enough to be considered as diabetes. The body does not produce insulin hormone. Some people could refer to this type as insulin-dependent condition of diabetes or juvenile diabetes. Individuals normally develop type 1 diabetes just before their 40th year, often in early adulthood or youthful years. There are two known kinds of diabetes type 1 and type 2. Type 1diabetes is nowhere closer as common as type 2 diabetes. About 10% of all diabetes cases are type 1. However, Type 2 starts with insulin resistance; normally cells fail to respond to insulin well. As the condition progresses, deficiency of insulin may also develop. The diabetes complications are biologically related to blood vessel conditions and are normally classified into small vessel conditions or diseases, such as those connecting

Online Grading System Essay Example for Free

Online Grading System Essay Today, many pre-school, elementary and high school students in their school are not use an automated system in daily life. But there are so many schools are still using manual system. Grading System is the most commonly used in computing and analyzing the performance, talents and skills of the students and for achievement and assist in identifying problems of the student? It is the important record to keep even for the longest time for the referral and credentials of the student to enter their next level of attaining their goals. Grading System for Data Accuracy will help a lot in the part of teachers, school, administration and as well as the security of data of students and tract record that recognizes of one student, this maybe use for analyzing of your attitude and values. Based on our research, the school of San Guillermo Academy in Talisay , Batangas is using a manual computation of grades of each student, which the teachers are using Microsoft excel to compute the grades of each students and they have no registrar, just the adviser of their section releasing their grades. Manual computation is very prompt to risk for any circumstances. It is time consuming in terms of recording grades, computation using of calculator. If some records are lost, they never retrieve it in case of unexpected calamity. Accuracy and security is not been so defined. The proposed system in San Guillermo Academy is an Automated Online Grading System where it will provide in the internet and made by using database and web development. This Online Grading System is unique because grade in each subject that just need to be able to compute the particular average grades of the each student. It consist of an office of the registrar where all the grades of each student in San Guillermo Academy took place and the office of the registrar will take charge to release all  grades of the student. Having an Automated and Online Grading System for the said school will give an unique formula that will be use in getting or computing the grades of the students and system where personnel can encode the student’s grade. Using the different formula in computing of student’s grades of the said school is not accurate and/or different result in other student’s grades using another different formula. Thus, having an Automated Grading System for the said school will become easy, accurate and time saving for the Teachers, Personnel as well as the students. Background of the Study The San Guillermo Academy Grading System today is processed manually, it causes the teachers doing heavy task of computing grades every grading period. The manual Grading System in San Guillermo Academy slows down the processing and delaying submission of grades as well as the security of data of the students has not been defined in manual system. The computerized grading system will benefit the school and help the students to view their grades every examination period. The rapid advancement of computers in our society has made our daily workloads easier and more accurate. With its vast development, we need to set ourselves in its change and go with its flow. Statement of the problem 1. Is automated grading system can retrieve any student records than manual grading system? 2. Is Manual grading system gives more accurate, efficiency and easy to use than the automated grading system? 3. Is manual grading system makes the task easier and less consuming of time than the automated grading system? 4. Is there any significance between the manual grading systems to the automated grading system?

Geriatric Care Available in New Zealand

Geriatric Care Available in New Zealand Introduction Ageing population has out growth its number for years in many countries such as New Zealand that has a number of ageing population. Most ageing population are physically fit and have a healthy life style. But some of their numbers suffers from the most common geriatric problems such as dementia and Alzheimer which cannot be prevented due to their age, lifestyle factors they had when they were young and so as genetic factors. Thus, requires geriatric services in different delivery setting that will be able to help and support them to go on with their life as normal as possible. This geriatric services includes evaluation, treatments, recovery, support groups and includes support groups that are well knowledge in handling geriatrics needs. Abstract This report will identify and describe the different geriatric services that assisting the aged population here in New Zealand. That employees and people of our Rest Home will be well informed accurately of the other services that can also be offered to the clients and be able to know the proper care that aged people needs to be holistically cared of. The present discussion will embrace the reality, motivate and to promote quality geriatric health care services in our Rest Home with the services that is already available in the government services. There are different services that the New Zealand Government offers to the aged population to improve and protect their wellbeing. It is well stated by the Minister for Senior Citizen Hon Jo Goodhew (2013) that, â€Å"Our older population is becoming increasingly diverse, offering valuable knowledge, skills and experience. My vision for the future is a place where everyone lives life to the full. This is what we as New Zealanders want for our parents and grandparents, as well as ourselves and our children in years to come. People who lead full and successful lives in their younger years will take this success into their older years.† The government takes steps to focus the needs and improving the services that will ensure and protect the ageing population welfare and well-being. Health Disability Advocacy NgÄ  Kaitautoko This service supports people in making sure that their human rights are being valued. If in case of health and disability service complaints advocates takes side of complainants. This service is offered for people for free and advocates are willing to support in assistance to resolve complaints. Health and Disability Advocacy service is helpful for elderly and their family to ensure that they are well knowledge of what are their rights as consumers specially those who are living in a home care. In case like a member of a family felt that his or her love one is being neglected in a home care due to her illness such as dementia that we all know that is common to the elderly. The member can seek help and advice to the advocates to voice out their concerns in regards with the treatment and care. Advocates will be able to make arrangements for the both parties to resolve the complaint. Updated information can be access in Health Disability website (www.advocacy.hdc.org.nz) Age Concern He Manaakitanga KaumÄ tua Age concern is a non-profit organisation that offers useful help in the ageing population of New Zealand. They make sure that the whole walfare of every eldery is being respected and honored. Aged population over 65 years old can benefit in the services that the organisation offers they have a elder abuse and neglect prevention this service is available in majority cities in the entire country. The organisation can help elders that maybe physically, mentally, emotionally and monetary abuse by their family or other people due to their age or current state of health. More information can be access in Age Concern official site (www.ageconcern.org.nz) Alzheimers New Zealand A charitable institution that caters its service particularly for elderly with dementia and alzheimers. This institution helps provide support to people especially family with elderly that might be suffering or suffering from the illness. They give well rounded information regarding the early assessment and diagnosis of dementia, offer support to families to cope in caring with their love one who is diagnose with the illness and they organize programmes for the people who are diagnose with dementia and for the awareness of other people about the said illness. More up to date information and ongoing support can be seen in Alzheimers New Zealand (www.alzheimers.org.nz) HealthEd HealthEd, it is an online service that provides information to people regarding public health. They have array of up to date information that will boost people knowledge in taking care maintaining and improving of their present health condition. The website is designed to be easily use by everyone even the elderly they first have to register in order to save the article that they want to request and eventually use it as a future reference. Once the sign up is done the person may request or search from the resources the provider have. The articles maybe available in different formats like pampelts, books that can be borrow by individual who wants to learn more regarding on improvement of their health and their family. More detailed information can be access in HealthEd (www.healthed.govt.nz) Super Gold Super Gold card is a free of charge card and so as a privilege card for the eligible senior’s age 65 years and over and veterans in New Zealand. With this card elders can have general discounts in different business establishments. They can even have free ride on the government funded means of transportation like the buses and trains during the off-peak hours. This card also gives special discount on latest special deals that runs regularly which can be updated thru the website. Elders benefit a lot from this service for it helps them to lessen the amount of their daily expenses. Specific information is provided in the website of Super Gold (www.supergold.govt.nz) Geriatrics Service Provision Hospitals Hospitalsare one offew institution that provides service to aging populations that diagnose with illness that needs a completepatienttreatment and to be look after by specialised staff and equip with equipment that can be used to fully assess a patient. All level of care in related to assessments, interventions and managements care is available in a hospital setting. Hospital is composed of interdisciplinary team member that hand in hand helps patient to improve patient care and outcomes. Clinical set up provides elderlies the available, standardized and up to date treatments that they need to ensure quality of care. It have geriatric co management that have access to different specialist that will be able to properly assess the full detection of illness to decrease mobility and mortality rates. For dementia patient they are assessed more in this institution for it have all the equipment’s and specialist needed for them to be fully diagnoses with the illness. General Practitioner General practitionerprovides the first line of medicalcarein a community they assess, diagnose, treat acute non-life-threatening patient and referral to specialize doctor if necessary. But once patient requires more medical attention that is the time they are send to the hospital for further examination and treatment. Age related alteration such as dementia need to be fully assess in order for medical allied to set the appropriate interventions needed. Residential Care Residential care services has a different scope of related services for elderlies such as palliative care, rehabilitative services and other geriatric programmes. Residential care are composed of well trained, competence people who will provide supportive and full assistance in everyday aspect of care to the elders’. This people are full responsible in making sure that they provide holistic care to the elderlies specially those who are dependent to the care of others. There are different residential care that specialized in care for different geriatric problems such as dementia care, psychological challenged patients for they can surely provide proper care and attention to the client. Physiotherapists Age associated changes such a s loss of muscles mass and strengths, decrease of muscles force and other physiological changes have a negative impact in elders daily living. For a stroke patient after full assessment proper treatment most elders need to under series of rehabilitation to be able to cope with their daily life routine and to recover and increase their independence if possible. Interventions for functionality, mobility, gross and fine motor skills is being develop slowly in every session to increase, promote and to enhance elderly functionality for their daily activities to prevent falls and injury. Memory Services It is age related that neurological changes such as memory function and cognition of the aged population is being affect through time. Some elders cognitive process declines where some still able to sustain information and still have significant cognitive performance. For those who are diagnose with Dementia or Alzheimers’ disease can undergo treatments and lifestyle modification to be able to improve their cognitive function if not be able to be assess with their daily functional status to ensure their safety specially they are predisposed to accident such as fall and injuries. Dieticians Elders’ nutrition should be given one of the highest priority to promote and maintain good health. Aged people should have a proper balance of all their daily intake, dietician are experts to help to determine nutritional needs and health of an individual. Individual specially the elderly’s who are diagnose or predispose with diabetes should see a dietician to have their assessment, management and modification of their daily intake. As part of the Geriatric Health Care Specialist I have prepared a simple outline that can be use to help individual such as family members, staffs to understand and to take part in taking care of our elders and understanding the stigma geriatrics are facing specially dementia and Alzheimer patients. Our elders needs us specially the frail, known disability and those who have diminished their quality of life. Geriatric problems are not just centered to delirium, malnutirion, falls, incontinence that should be assessed and management. We should be able to recognize and address the every needs of the older people to be able to improve our care and their quality of life. To help reverse the stigma that elderlies facing due to their age and conditions mostly those who are diagnose with dementia. We will deliver quality care and collective interdisciplinary effort to protect our elders with some of the current stigma they are facing. Dementia patients faces social isolation from individual and their families Dementia patient may have cognitive decline unlike any other geriatric associate illness they still have emotion and they still need to feel the sense of belongingness and acceptance of their family and the society. This isolation stigma can be lessen if there will be enough knowledge regarding the illness. A health educator will be able to help with managing health education regarding the changes and what to expect as the illness affects the patient. With proper care, awareness and understanding will be beneficial to the patient and so as physical and social activities can be offer to maintain their physical, social and cognitive function. Family and friends can have a flexible time of visitation if the patient is settled in a rest home and bonding with family members must be encourage. Elderlies will be encourage to participate in scheduled physical activities such as routine exercise, indoor and outdoor activities to promote socialization with other patients and people around them. People’s assumption of automatic loss of independence of dementia patients Some people who are not well informed regarding dementia assumes that individual after by this illness loss their sense of independence. It may be true in some ways but it is only for the people around the patient can truly understand their needs. Family and care providers could be educated regarding the value of independence for elderly with dementia and it is highly recommended to increase functional activity. With simple routine of letting them eat in their own with care giver less supervision can help them to improve their independence. Family members and care providers should be given free education regarding the safety needs of the elderly in regards will falls, injuries and other common complication due to their health condition and to assure the safety as they move independently as much as they can. Dementia patients unable to make decision regarding their own care Cognitive impairment may be present in dementia and they may not be able to actively participate in making decision with their care but they still need to be advise of their present situation, care plan and treatment that they will be undergoing. They may not be directly involve with the care management family should be there to give care and be there to know the situation of the patient. But dementia patient capacity to secure consent should be and could be practice in making, adjusting and changing health care programme though they may not seemly understand and remember the situation the fact they were involve with the process it will give them the sense of individuality. Dissatisfying interaction with the medical community Dementia has an essential research topic for years as this is well labelled aged illness people became hesitant in seeking evaluation. Medical personnel or physicians may sometimes become hesitant in discussing dementia for the patient and family may have initial thought of it is total useless for them to know those vital information because the said illness is non curable and progresses to worst case scenario in time. But having it well explain in an easy manner that can be clearly understand and physician can give an clear insights of what to expect and what treatment can be offer can provide an opportunity to improve the quality life of the patient. Having uncertainty of support services and treatments As some think that dementia have no cure and highly prevalent to elders they become uncertain in seeking medical attention in regards with the illness. For they may think that what is the sense of having it manage if they is no evidence of progress. Support care like rest homes must to be a friendly and safe place of elders with handrails, good and adequate light source, wide doorways, hallways and other setting to ensure safety. Personnel’s and care givers must will be highly trained to deliver a friendly and non-threating physically, emotionally, mentally environment to dementia patients. Advice that family members and friends are highly advise to bring in patients familiar personal things to promote familiarization. If patient or patient family cannot afford medication or treatment be able to recommend alternatives where they can ask for help or further assistance. Conclusion All in all, Elderlies many challenges to their health and daily function as it is not inevitable. Relevant interventions is available in many ways as the government also supports and sees the needs of the aged population. It is the people surrounds and care for them that is responsible to make use of it for their good. As this interventions and practices will still acknowledge, maximize the older person’s capabilities and potential as an individual to function with and without assistance. That sick and well elders must be treated well, individuality is respected and their dignity must be maintain at all times. Elders must be given an opportunity to remain independent and be able to function in the situation as possible they may experience distressing situation but their support system must be evidence at all times. Recommendation Given the above information’s in this report improving the health care for the elderly in facing their geriatrics concern is a hand in hand contribution starting from the patient, family, friends, elderly institution and the government. Consistent action with all the parties involve will address the identified and the unknown needs of the elderlies to be able to live their lives the best way possible. The measure of the overall effectiveness of services provided to the elderlies will show minimum supervision from their caregivers in performing their daily activities and they will be fully accepted by the society the way they should be. With the support and contribution of the government aged care system will be more sustainable and affordable for the each and every individual well and sick. Be able to promote good, positive attitude and awareness towards patients who were diagnose with dementia or any illness and their rights as individual must be respected at all time in any situation. References Age Concern. Retrieved from http://www.ageconcern.org.nz Alzheimers New Zealand. (2012). Retrieved from http://www.alzheimers.org.nz Health Disability Advocacy. (2009). Retrieved from http://www.advocacy.hdc.org.nz HealthEd. (2011). Retrieved from http://www.healthed.govt.nz Office for senior citizen. (2013, October 01). Ministers foreword Hon Jo Goodhew. Older New Zealanders-Healthy, independent, connected and respected, 3. Retrieved from http://www.msd.govt.nz/documents/what-we-can-do/seniorcitizens/positive-ageing/older-new-zealanders.pdf Super Gold. Retrieved from http://www.supergold.govt.nz

Prostituting the Constitution Essay examples -- Exploratory Essays Res

Prostituting the Constitution It has become fashionable to propose amendments to the constitution for all imaginable causes. Thus the nation's charter is endangered by a barrage of new and unworthy ideas offered up by opportunistic politicians seeking to exploit popular passions. Indeed, constitutional reform seems to be the hot topic around Washington and in the writings of both liberal and conservative journalists across the country. No longer is it suitable for legislation to follow the normal means of entering into law - ratification by both House and Senate, pending the signature of the President. Rather, this new breed of constitutional reformers seeks to undermine this very process, not to mention the Constitution itself, with their volley of proposed amendments. Proponents of such congressional reform bitterly deny that the sanctity of the Constitution is ever tarnished in the midst of their attempts to update the Constitution to reflect pressing social issues. These proponents contend that the very proposals with which they seek to indelibly stain the Constitution are comparable to those other amendments added to the Constitution in its history. In other words, current policy issues merit equal attention with amendments such as those whic h eradicated the poll tax or secured suffrage for all Americans. Whether or not there exists an equality between those problems plaguing contemporary society and those thought ageless in the eighteenth century is difficult to assess. Nonetheless, assuming that issues such as abortion, school prayer, flag burning, term limits, and the balanced budget deserve the attention that they have received in Washington, it remains to be argued convincingly that th... ...t say that the policies themselves proposed to become permanent fixtures in the Constitution are flawed. Rather, it is to say that such hysteria is merely empty symbolism, and a way to clutter the Constitution with dubious prose. For instance, there very well ought to be means to ensure that the government operates with a balanced budget, or that the rights of those who wish to pray in school are protected. However, as of yet, it has not been demonstrated that these mere issues of domestic policy warrant inclusion in the nation's most sacred document. Politicians ought to return to the Constitution with heartfelt resolve, seeking from it inspiration and guidance. The Constitution ought never to become the prostitute of two-bit politicians across the nation who, in the dire moments of reelection, call upon its sacred name to secure their own futures.

International Development and Development Projects

Since Pakistan's commencement in 1947, the legislature has attempted nonstop endeavors to give free, all inclusive, essential training to its residents. This is prove by instructive plans, strategies, and five-year training segment changes, incorporating organizations with global offices and created nations. Be that as it may, these endeavors have not yielded any additions for the natives. Pakistan has a proficiency rate of 49.9 percent, one of the most reduced in South Asia and whatever is left of the world. Pakistan's male and female education rates are 61.7 percent and 35.2 percent. The female education rate drops to 25 percent in rustic regions, and young ladies' school enlistment of fifty-five percent drops to 20% from Grade 1 to 6. For the reasons for these measurements, a proficient individual is characterized by Pakistan's Ministry of Education as one who can read a daily paper and compose a straightforward letter in any dialect. Pakistan's populace of 167 million is sixty-five percent country and thirty-five percent urban, with residents confronting different interlinked issues influencing their personal satisfaction, for example, absence of education, neediness, and the absence of essential necessities (protect, gas, water, and power). Likewise, a culture of feudalism and man controlled society makes structures of energy and control that deny nationals of their rights, including that of training. Studies have been directed on training in Pakistan, 1. Investigations of ladies' character, sexual orientation, and training have been directed by United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), United Nations Children's Funds (UNICEF), and the Aga Khan University-Institute of Educational Development (AKU-IED) Institute in Pakistan. View all notes, be that as it may, they have been constrained in scope as far as young ladies' training. This article tends to the hole in female proficiency grant. Its motivation is to fundamentally examine the condition of young ladies' instruction in Pakistan regarding three factors: the purposes behind low proficiency and school enlistment rates, sexual orientation inclinations in educational programs and reading material, and social standards. In view of this investigation, the article finishes up with measures to build school enlistment and proficiency rates for young ladies and ladies.Paper ref:A Critical Analysis of School Enrollment and Literacy Rates of Girls and Women in PakistanAmna LatifJournalEducational Studies  A Journal of the American Educational Studies Association  Volume 45, 2009 –  Issue 5: WOMEN AND EDUCATION ReferencesAzam, Z (1993). Towards the 21st Century Pakistan: Women, education and Social Change. National Book foundation, Islamabad: Pakistan, p.53. Federal Bureaue of Statistics, Islamabad (2008-09).Khalid Tanveer, (1998) An Introduction to Educational Philosophy and History, 9th Edition, S.M. Printers, Karachi, Pakistan, p. 3.Khalid, H.S. (1996), â€Å"Female Teachers' and Girls' Access to Primary Schools in rural Pakistan: A Case Study†, pp.34-55. Latif, A. (2007).Alarming Situation of Education in Pakistan. World Education Forum, News and Views, Grassroots Stories Pakistan. Saeed, Amera, (1990), Structural Issues in Women Development in Pakistan, UNICIEF; 12 D East SNC Center, Blue Area, Islamabad,1990, pp.27-35.Vidyu Lata, (1990).Developing Rural Women, New Delhi, Discovery Publishers, p.1. Leach Fiona E., Angela Little (1999) Education, cultures, and economics: dilemmas for development, 1st Edition, Routledge Publishers, Newyark, pp. 351-375.

Company Analysis of Nike 2014 Essay

INTRODUCTION/ COMPANY BACKGROUND This report examines NIKE Inc. one of the leading sports brand in the world. It uses business analysis techniques such as SWOT, PESTEL, Porter’s five forces, and Ratio analysis to analyse the business environment and performance of this company. NIKE Inc. is one of the world’s biggest sporting brand based in Oregon USA. Founded in 1968, NIKE is the world’s biggest designer marketer and seller of athletic footwear, sports equipment, apparel, accessories and services, by sales revenue of $21.5 billion in 2012 (NIKE, 2013). With 48000 employees, NIKE’s operation cuts across different regions in the world including Canada, Asia, Latin America, Europe, and Africa. They posted revenue of $25313 million in the 2013 financial year ending May 2013, the company has enjoy growth in its revenue since 2010, and this trend is expected to continue as they leverage on top sporting events to boost their brand image (Tefris 2013). PESTEL ANALYSIS PESTEL (Political, Economic, Social, Technological Environment, and Legal) analysis is a business analysis technique that is used to analyse the growth potential of a company. It helps firms identify the environment in which they operate, and can firms predict future circumstances and situations by using information and data it provides (Yà ¼ksel, 2012). This report provides a PESTEL analysis of NIKE in the following paragraphs. Political Political environment have a huge implication on the micro and macro environment of a business, and they can significantly influence a range of business decisions (Leslie and Phillip, 2012). Political environment includes political system, government policies and other trade related regulations. Some of the political factors that can affect NIKE includes the relationship between USA (Nike’s country of origin) and other host countries where NIKE operates (for example China). For example increased tension between US and China can lead to certain aggressive policies that can affect the company’s operations in China. Furthermore recent pressure on US firms to keep jobs in the US can affect plans for future factory locations of NIKE. Economical The economic environment of the countries NIKE operate in is very vital to the overall strategy and decisions of the company. These factors include the state of the global economy, economic incentives from the countries where NIKE factories are cited, the general economic condition of these countries, inflation rates and changing oil prices. All of these factors can affect the revenue of the company, increased economic growth in emerging markets such as Brazil and China presented a huge revenue opportunity for the company, however recent decline in the growth of the Chinese economy will also have some negative impact of revenue projections of NIKE. Social Social factors can influence the business decisions of NIKE one way or the other. These factors includes tradition, customs, beliefs, level of education, corruption, customer’s consciousness, changing lifestyle, and income distribution (Singla, 2007). For example increased consciousness to maintain healthy living will lead to more demand for fitness centres and gyms that in turn could lead to more sales revenues for NIKE. Furthermore clamour for increased better welfare for workers in clothing factories in countries like China, Indonesia, and Bangladesh, and pressure from the civil society groups like Worker’s Right Consortium on companies like NIKE to ensure their suppliers follow health and safety standards are among some of the social situations and issues the company have to contend with. Technological The commercial success of NIKE’s product is based on technical innovation and quality control in the design and manufacturing process of footwear, athletic equipment, and apparel (Nike, 2014). For this reason changes in technological factors can have serious impact on the overall operations of the company. For example new technology can lead to new products, improve the manufacturing process, and improve the distribution network. This implies that the revenue of NIKE can increased, or there could be reduction in the cost of manufacturing due to better technology. To maintain competitive advantage the company need to constantly understand the technological factors that affect them. Environmental Business operations of firms such as NIKE can have huge impact on the environment. Factors such as climate change, waste management, water management, and use of hazardous chemicals are all environmental impact areas the company has identified. NIKE highlights its commitment to reducing the impact of the company’s operations through understanding how related these factors are, and how a coordinated approach in the design of its product and processes can mitigate the impact on the environment, and on their business. Legal The judicial system, consumer rights, trade treaties, and ethical codes are all legal factors that affect NIKE. Constant understanding of laws and regulations is imperative to avoid serious legal implication for the company. Gotham (2013) highlights that one serious legal related issue NIKE needs to constantly deal with is the issue of counterfeit product. Ensuring that fake NIKE products are not wide spread is necessary to keep the NIKE reputation, and avoid lawsuits that can increase the legal cost of the company. Furthermore, keeping ethical standards is very vital in protecting the NIKE brand. SWOT ANALYSIS SWOT is a management tool that is used to build strategic business plans (Amin et al, 2011). It is widely used in business due to its simplicity of its four factors (Strength, Weakness, Opportunity and Threats) and its flexibility (Al-Araki, 2013). The SWOT analysis of NIKE is presented in the next few paragraphs below. Strength One main strength of NIKE is its dominant position in the market, and the strong brand portfolio of the company. According to Forbes (2014a) NIKE’s market share in the global footwear market reached 18.6% in 2012, and it is expected to rise to 27% in the long run. The main source of value for NIKE are footwear and apparel that are sold under the NIKE brand, together they make approximately 70% of the overall value of NIKE (Trefis, 2014). This competitive brand portfolio of NIKE and the dominant position of the company  are key strengths that enables the company outperform the industry. Weakness Watts (2009) asserts that one of NIKE’s weakness is their inability to address problems linked to their labour and factory conditions. The company has been consistently criticised for its lack of control, and dependence on contractors and manufacturers that do not meet labour standard, safe factory conditions in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and China. This has caused to bad publicity for the company, and increased calls for product boycott in recent years. Furthermore the company’s focus on quality could be a potential weakness as it explore emerging market like Brazil, because its price points will be higher and some customers in these markets could lack the level of income to purchase their products. Opportunities Increased growth in emerging economies presents a huge expansion opportunity for NIKE. The company’s management believes there is high potential for their products in markets such as China, Brazil, and other emerging countries (Trefis, 2011). The growth these economies enjoy expands the global footwear market, and NIKE is in a strong position to tap into this growth opportunity. Furthermore the increasing use of multi-channel platforms such as online and mobile for shopping is an opportunity for NIKE to reach out to more customers worldwide. Threat The company’s main threat is its increasing competition, the intense competition and unpredicted changes in in technology and consumer preference in the industry NIKE operates presents a huge risk that can threaten the operations of the company (NIKE, 2013). Some of the main competitors that remain a threat to the company includes Adidas, Puma, and Under Amour. Furthermore, the strong brand value of NIKE products increases the risk of counterfeiting of their products. This is a constant threat the company needs to tackle to ensure it doesn’t lose brand value and revenues. PORTER’S FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS Porter’s five forces analysis helps firms to understand the competition and profitability in an industry, the framework includes potential entrants, industrial competitors, suppliers, buyers and substitutes. According to  Porter (2008) understanding the competitive forces, and their fundamental causes enables companies see the root of current profitability of an industry, while it provides framework that helps anticipate and influence competition over a period of time. The following paragraphs give analysis of the how these five forces influence the competition of NIKE. Potential Entrants Potential new entrants into the market can cause NIKE to lose market share, however in the current situation the risk of potential new entrant to NIKE is minimal because of the high entry barrier because of the established nature of the global sportswear industry. While the risk of new entrants is low, it should be noted that there is a risk of new entrant into NIKE’s existing product line, this can lead to loss of sales and revenue. The company needs to channel its energy into continuously expanding its market share through improving on existing products, and introducing innovative products that will enable them maintain their competitive advantage. Level of competition The level of competition in the global sport footwear and clothing industry is very high. NIKE faces stiff competition from other brands like Adidas and Puma. According to Forbes (2014b) the company faces tough competition in emerging markets and Western Europe, as rival brands like adidas increases their competitive campaign through lunch of products and other related activities aimed at gaining back lost market share. Furthermore, NIKE also faces competition from local brands like Li Ning as they expand to emerging markets like China. The company need to work very hard to continue to protect and expand its brand, for them to be able to maintain the dominant level they are presently. Bargaining Power of Suppliers Suppliers often determine the success of companies selling a product (Bode et al, 2011). However, the availability of commodity items like rubber, and cotton NIKE uses for the production of its goods, and the high amount of suppliers in the industry gives the company absolute advantage over its suppliers. NIKE can choose to switch to any supplier at any time with less cost implication, and low risk of disruption to it supplies due of its brand reputation. Furthermore, every supplier will want to do business with NIKE because of the huge manufacturing ability of the firm. This gives NIKE power over its suppliers, and guarantee of steady supplies. Bargaining Power of customers The loyalty of customers to NIKE brand gives the company bargaining power over its customers. NIKE can decide to set its prices at high levels because it knows customers are willing to pay to be identified with its brand. As long as the company continues offer products that are innovative and appealing to its customers, the company will continue to maintain it strong position, and attract more customer loyalty (Lussier and Kimball, 2014). The bargaining power the company has over its customers gives them a great deal of flexibility in their pricing. Threat of Substitutes There is a high tendency for customers to substitute NIKE products for other brands when they face squeeze in their income during economic downturn. This is due to the fact that NIKE product are considered pricey can could be considered luxury product among certain middle class families if there is a squeeze on their disposable income. Competitors can capitalise on this to release cheaper products that will be appealing to these customer during economic slowdown, therefore NIKE need to constantly monitor the overall economic wellbeing of its customers before introducing any product. ANALYSIS OF NIKE FINANCAL RATIO *Extracted data Ratios Formula 2013 2012 2011 Asset Turnover Ratio Revenue/Total Assets 1.44 1.51 1.39 Return on Assets(ROA) Net Income/Total Assets 14.13% 14.37% 14.22% Return on Equity(ROE) Net Income/Equity 22.28% 21.41% 21.67% Gross Profit Margin (Revenue-COGS)/Revenue 43.59% 43.50% 45.58% Quick Ratio (CA – Inv.) / CL 2.60 2.22 2.19 Current Ratio CA/CL 3.47 3.05 2.85 Debt Ratio Total Debt/Total Asset 7.89% 2.49% 4.42% Debt to Equity Total Debt/Total Equity 12.44% 3.71% 6.74% Inventory Turnover COGS/ Inventory 4.16 4.09 4.35 Receivables Turnover Revenue/Receivables 8.12 7.45 6.65 *P/E Ratio 22.90 22.40 18.90 *EPS 2.71 2.37 2.20 Nike’s revenue increase by approximately 8% in 2013 from 2012 figures, looking at the profitability ratios in the table above, it can be observed that the company’s profit margin reduced from 45.89% to 43.50% in 2012 and slightly increased later in 2013 to 43.59%. The gross profit margin is a reflection what is left after the cost of production is deducted, other profitability ratios such as ROE also shows upward trend from 2011 to 2013 indicating a favourable year for the company compared to its 2012 figures. This according Forbes (2014a), and NIKE was as a result of pricing actions, and reduce cost of material such as cotton, and lower investment activities by the company in 2013. The asset turnover of the company reduced in 2013 compared to 2012, this could be attributed to the fall in sales in China one of the biggest market for the company. Furthermore, looking at the liquidity ratio of the company, it can be observed that its current and quick ratio  have been i ncreasing within the period under review. For 2013 quick ratio was 2.60times an increase from 2.22times in 2011, this is well above the industry average which is currently at 0.77times. The current ratio of the company has also been increasing in the years under review, this reflects a strong financial position for the firm because it indicates that the company will be able to meet up future debt obligations. Other solvency ratios such as debt ratio and debt to equity ratio saw a high increase from 2.49% and 3.71% in 2012 to 7.89% and 12.44% respectively. This is an indication that the company relies on debt to fund its assets, this can be due to the strong liquidity position of the company which is reflected in its quick and current ratios. The company has the ability to meets its debt obligations so the risk of using debt of using debt is low. Finally from the efficiency ratios it can be observed that the inventory turnover for the company reduced from 4.35times to 4.09times in 2012, and later rose slightly to 4.16times in 2013. This indicates that the company is still slow in the number of times its inventories is sold and replaced compared to the 2011 figure. This could be as a result of the slow recovery of most countries coming out of recession, and slow growth in key markets for NIKE. However this is not a problem peculiar to NIKE, and the company is still above the industry average of 3.6times. The receivable turnover of the company has been increasing within 2011 and 2013, it is possible that this also adds to the increasing liquidity position of the company. The EPS of the company has observed an upward trend from $2.20 in 2011 to $2.71 in 2013, also its P/E ratio also increased 18.90% to 22.90% this is an indication of NIKE’s profitability within these years and it reflects NIKE’s strong position among the investing community. The increasing P/E ratio of NIKE also indicates investors’ confidence in NIKE’s future earnings and the growth prospect of the company. In conclusion, from the analysis of NIKE financials it is evident that the company maintains a strong position in the industry, because of its inc reasing revenue despite slight drop in certain emerging market, its liquidity position is strong compared to industry average and their growth prospect is also high as reflected in their growth ratios. ANALYSIS OF SHARE PERFORMANCE Figure : Movement of Nike share price in the past 6 months. The figure above presents the share performance of NIKE for the past 6 months, from the figure it could be observed that in the third quarter of NIKE’s financial 2013 year ending May 2014, the share price of the company observed a sharp drop to $70.51, then rose to $79.64 reaching its peak in the period under review. The share price dropped to $73.2 and since then have been fluctuating within 70 and $71. According to NIKE (2013) fluctuations in NIKE share prices can be attributed to various factors that affects performance in these quarter, they include the seasonality of its products, general economic condition, weather condition, and changes in consumer preference. However, dividend pay-out announcements, expectations of quarterly results and other industry related factors could also lead to the fluctuations of NIKE share price. Overall NIKE’s share performance has been fairly stable at $70-$80 as no highly significant drop have been observed in the period under revie w. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the analysis of NIKE indicates that it remains one of the biggest sports manufacturing brands in the world. The company’s focus on manufacturing innovative products has kept them in a very strong position in the sportswear and clothing industry. Though the global economic growth has slowed down slightly, and this has also affected key emerging markets such as China, growth projections for NIKE remain strong as investors believe the company has the ability to fight off intense competition and continue to expand its dominance in the market. It is very imperative for the company to continue to maintain its level of innovation to ensure continued customer loyalty and increasing revenues. References Al-Araki, M 2013, ‘SWOT analysis revisited through PEAK-framework’, Journal Of Intelligent & Fuzzy Systems, 25, 3, pp. 615-625, Business Source Premier, EBSCOhost, [Accessed on 19th June 2014]. Amin, S. H., Razmi, J., & Zhang, G. (2011). Supplier selection and order allocation based on fuzzy SWOT analysis and fuzzy linear programming. Expert Systems with Applications, 38(1), 334-342. [Online] available from Science Direct Platform on: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.eswa.2010.06.071 [Accessed on 19th June 2014]. BanJo , S. (2014) Inside Nike’s Struggle to Balance Cost and Worker Safety in Bangladesh. Wall Street Journal. [Online] available from: http://blogs.wsj.com/frontiers/2014/04/22/inside-nikes-struggle-to-balance-cost-and-worker-safety-in-bangladesh/ [Accessed on 17th June 2014]. Bode, c, Wagner, s, Petersen, k, & Ellram, l (2011), ‘understanding responses to supply chain disruptions: insights from information processing and resource dependence perspectives’. Academy Of Management Journal, 54, 4, pp. 833-856, Available on Business Source Premier, EBSCOhost, [Accessed on 17th June 2014] Forbes (2013) Nike Shares Can Find Some Zip on Emerging Market Sales [Online] available from: http://www.forbes.com/sites/greatspeculations/2013/04/11/nike-shares-can-find-some-zip-on-emerging-market-sales/ [Accessed on 17th June 2014]. Forbes (2014b) Nike Faces Tough Competition In Europe and China. [Online] available from: http://www.forbes.com/sites/greatspeculations/2014/03/04/nik e-faces-tough-competition-in-europe-and-china/ [Accessed on 17th June 2014] Forbes. (2014a) Nike Brand Apparel Division in Focus. [Online] available from: http://www.forbes.com/sites/greatspeculations/2014/03/20/nike-brand-apparel-division-in-focus/ [Accessed on 17th June 2014]. Gotham, S. (2013) Nike’s Changing External Environment. Nike.Blogpost [Online] available from: http://philnike.blogspot.com/2013/02/nikes-external-environment.html [Accessed on 18th June 2014]. Hamilton, Leslie & Webster, Philip, (2012) The International Business Environment, Oxford University Press, 2nd Edition. Lussier, R, Kimball, D, (2014), ‘Applied Sport Management Skills’, Elms College, 2nd Edition. NIKE Inc. (2013) Annual Report and Notice of Annual Meeting. [Online] available from: http://investors.nikeinc.com/files/nike2013form10K.pdf [Accessed on 18th June 2014]. ‘NIKE, Inc. (2014) NIKE Inc. SWOT Analysis, pp. 1-8, [Online] Available from Business Source Premier, EBSCOhost , database [Accessed 18 June 2014]. Porter, M. E. (2008) The five competitive forces that shape strategy. Harvard business review, 86(1), 25-40. Singla, R. K. (2007) Business Studies. Prince Print Process, New Delhi. Tefris. (2013) Here’s What Matters For Nike’s $56 Valuation. [Online] available from: http://www.trefis.com/stock/nke/articles/167536/heres-what-matters-for-nikes-56-valuation/2013-02-12 [Accessed on 18th June 2014]. Trefis (2011) Nike’s

Yusuf Pathan

Yusuf Khan Pathan (born 17 November 1982 in Baroda) is an Indian cricketer. Pathan made his debut in first-class cricket in 2001/02. He is a powerful and aggressive right-handed batsman and a right-arm offbreak bowler. His half-brother Irfan Pathan is also an Indian cricketer. Though younger than Yusuf, it was Irfan who entered the Indian team first. Following his impressive performances in the 2007 Deodhar Trophy and the Inter-state domestic Twenty20 competition held in April 2007, Pathan was made a part of the Indian squad for the inaugural Twenty20 World Championship, held in South Africa in September 2007.He made his Twenty20 international debut in the final against Pakistan. He opened the batting for India in the match, and scored 15 runs in the process. [1] After a good domestic season in 2007/08, he was signed by the Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League for USD 475,000 (INR 1. 9 crore). In the 2008 IPL season, he scored 435 runs and took 8 wickets. He recorded the sea son's fastest half century (from 21 balls) against the Deccan Chargers, and was also the Man of the Match in the final against the Chennai Super Kings.Following his good showing in the IPL, he was selected for the Indian one-day team. After the IPL though he played all the games in the Kitply Cup and Asia Cup he got to bat only four times. He couldn't perform very well with the bat and the ball in the Asia Cup and in the Kitply Cup and so he wasn't selected for the Series. against Sri Lanka. He performed well in domestic circuit and impressed the selectors and was selected for the England ODI series in November. He scored a fifty off just 29 balls in the second ODI against England in Indore, on his 26th birthday. [2].Yusuf had made his One-Day International debut for India against Pakistan at Dhaka on 10 June 2008. He became a regular feature of the national One-Day International team, but has yet to make his test debut [3]. Even though Pathan could not repeat his first IPL performa nce in the second season, he was selected in the Indian team to play the 2009 ICC World Twenty20 championships in England. In the second of the Super 8 matches of India, he made an unbeaten 33 from 17 balls against England, despite his team losing the game and crashing out of the tournament before the semi-finals.In late-2009, Pathan was dropped from the limited overs team after a series of unproductive performances and the allrounder's position was taken over by Ravindra Jadeja. In the final of the 2010 Duleep Trophy cricket tournament, Pathan scored a hundred in the first innings and a double hundred in the second and led his team West Zone to a three wicket win over South Zone. Pathan made 108 in the first innings and an unbeaten 210 from 190 balls in the second innings. This became a world record in cricket for the highest successful run chase in first class cricket history. 4] On 13 March 2010, Pathan scored a century off 37 balls, in an Indian Premier League match against Mumb ai Indians. The innings also included record 11 consecutive hits to the boundary (6, 6, 6, 6, 4, 4, 6, 4, 4, 4, 4). On 7th December 2010 Y Pathan scored his maiden century against New Zealand in the 4th ODI at Chinnaswamy stadium Bangalore,he scored 123 runs off 97 balls with 7 sixes and 7 fours and he named match of the match award. At the award distribution ceremony he stated that â€Å"this knock will boost my career†. [citation needed]