Ricker Oils Marketing Plan

Executive Summary Armstrong (2000, p.22) defines a marketing plan as a written document which details the necessary actions necessary to achieve the marketing objectives formulated. A Marketing plan is a blueprint for communicating the value of your products and services to your customers (Anon, 2005, para. 2).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Ricker Oil’s Marketing Plan specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Ricker Oil limited was founded in 1979 and currently operates 49 convenience stores in Indiana State. The company distributes high quality oil products to various categories of consumers in Indiana. The company according to Simpson (2010, p.15) is committed to community service, customer service and corporate trust as its foundation. This Marketing plan is a one year strategy in response to the recent spillage in the Gulf of Mexico. The spill has affected the business. The future implications that it has to the company is analyzed. The spillage is a threat to the business and hence there is a need to have a clear way forward in handling the situation at hand. In order to attain this, the firm has developed a marketing plan. The strategies herein are in line with the overall business plan and acts as a strategic blueprint. Situation analysis One of the major challenges facing the oil industry in United States is as a result of oil spillage in the Gulf of Mexico by the contracted supplier that is British Petroleum Public Limited Company. The outcome of the spillage according to BP (2010) has affected a large number of entrepreneurs and independent distributors who deal with the brand. Being one of the businesses dealing with BP products as a distributor, the management team has to consider how to survive in business amid customer complaints regarding the situation. Some of the stations such as the Ricker Oil which deal with BP brands cannot distance themselves from the challenge facing t he oil company as stated by Elliot (2007, p.130). This is due to the fact that these stations are in existence as a result of a contract between them and BP Oil. These contracts stretch for a number of years hence it is impossible to terminate them without incurring huge financial obligation and legal consequences. Company analysis The Companys goal is to run the most profitable and professionally managed petrol station in the United States. In its operation, the firm focuses on customer care, employee and shareholders satisfaction. The company’s objective is to own 50% of the oil market share in Indiana by the end of the 2010.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Its market share has decreased recently as a result of customers shunning companies carrying BP brands which are attributed to the oil spillage crisis in the Gulf of Mexico. However, the management team is determ ined to ensure that the crisis does not greatly affect the business. Competition within the oil sector in Indiana is not stiff. In addition, there are a few established brands in Indiana. Most of these dealers are independent stations. The company has adequate resources available to fully implement the marketing plan. For example, during the previous financial year, the firm managed to register high profits. A significant proportion of the profit was put in the reserve which is in line with its policy. This means that the firm has sufficient amount of finances to implement the marketing plan. PESTEL Analysis According to Decision Group (2000, para. 2), the US political environment has undergone a change over the recent past. The government has formulated a policy aimed at enhancing the oil industry’s capacity to deal with the oil spillage crisis. For example, the government offered tax rebate to cushion against diminishing sales as the crisis is being dealt with. This cushion s Ricker Oil against economic changes such as inflation and rise in interest rates. This is favorable to the company’s operation. The daily journal carried an article which showed that drill oil in Indiana would be hard. In an effort to promote oil industry, the US government has formulated a policy aimed at increasing exploration of oil and gas (Department of Energy, 2010, para. 5). In order to exploit this opportunity, firms dealing with oil production are required to invest heavily on technology in order to be effective in drilling. Changes in the social environment have had the largest impact on business operation. One of the social changes relate to the low demand for the company’s products as a result of change in consumer behavior and attitude towards BP brands. On the other hand, technology has played a favorable role in the operation of the firm. This arises from the new eco-friendly petrol products launched by BP. Currently; the petrol product is the best qua lity in the market. Incorporation of new technology in oil storage and transportation will greatly reduce losses incurred through evaporation and spillage.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Ricker Oil’s Marketing Plan specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This will significantly reduce costs incurred by the firm. Legal issues in relation to health and safety are still unchanged though there are indications that the government will enact new regulation to prevent future oil spillage crisis and in handling oil crisis. Market Analysis The oil market has a high potential for growth despite the low sales which are attributed to the oil spillage crisis. Ricker Oil is well established in Indian state. However, the firm’s management team intends to acquire a 50% market share within the next one year. Through acquisition, the firm has been able to increase the number of its petrol stations. The recent acquisitions entailed two stations which were previously under one of our competitor’s brand. BP Company is communicating facts related to oil spillage to the consumers hence retain their trust to the brand. Recent demand for high quality eco-friendly petrol products coincided with introduction by BP of the same to the market. This gives the company differential advantage over its competitors. Establishment of a new college, a branch of the State University in the region with a capacity of 1,000 students will generate new market for our products. Consumer Analysis The current oil spillage crisis has resulted into a change in consumer buying decision. The 5.4% drop in sales is attributed to the crisis. Compared to other players in the market, Ricker Oil has a high potential of growth. The new drive inns experienced depicts the trust customers have on the brand. According to Simpson (2010, p. 6), consumers are loyal to the company because of the good customer care and efficiency in service provision compared to the competitors. If consumers cease purchasing from the company’s stations, they will be hurting the local economy. This is one of the the public relations campaigns that the company has considered in order to deal with the situation. The changing consumer behavior and attitude is attributed to the BP crisis. Consumer dissatisfaction is minimal and the crisis has been blown out of proportion as shown by groups in Facebook and other social websites.The company considers this as a personal issue. It therefore does not cut across the whole consumer base.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More SWOT Analysis Gillespie (2007, p. 4) defines a firm’s strengths and weakness as inherent advantages the company has over other players in an industry. The strong brand and good distribution networks maintained by Ricker Oil, financial capability and operating capabilities are our strengths. Employees of the firm will have to play a critical role and use their skills for the company to grow. To overcome our weaknesses the company will be launching a new brand of engine oil from its own production line hence reduce overreliance on BP brands. The oil crisis has provided Ricker Oil with an opportunity to buy of our competitors stations at bargained price hence establishing a higher market share and effective distribution network. Launching of new eco-friendly petrol product coincided with demand for high quality environmental friendly fuel. This gives the company an added opportunity over its competitors in the market (Anon, 2010, para. 3). The only threat experienced relates to competition from stations carrying other brands which have been innovated as a result of the crisis. However, this is temporary and the company expects normal operations in two month’s time. Threats of new entrants to the market have been foreseen and the company is repositioning itself as a leading oil provider. In addition, the firm offers other services such as convenience stores, free oil change and Children Park. Marketing analysis The market for oil products has grown tremendously over the past one year.This trend is expected to grow in the future due to the favorable economic environment brought about by strong dollar relative to other currencies. In addition, implementation of the stimulus package will promote market growth. The company expects a market growth of at least 5% per month which will be consistent throughout the period of the plan. The company is expanding its market target to satellite towns within the state through recruiting small distributors who have established businesses in these areas. Market segmentation It is important for Ricker Oil to expand its market by targeting institutional customers such as corporate organizations and schools in the region.This category of customers are loyal and entering into contractual agreement with them to be their suppliers ensures a sound customer base. The company intends to use market segmentation strategy in order to retain customers and to create product differentiation to meet the customer needs. Market segmentation is important in the company’s effort to position itself in the market as the leader via provision of high quality and reliable oil products. Price discrimination will also be exercised thanks to clear market segments and target as stated by Bangs (1992, p.3). Market share Ricker Oil market share has undergone a significant increase over the past few years it has been in operation. For the next one year, the firm projects its market share to increase with a margin of 50 % as a result of marketing its products in Indiana. The market share is expected to be boosted by the convenience stores. This arises from a change in consumer behavior. For example, consumers are considering purchasing product at convenience store while refueling. This plan sets a one year period as the maximum time allowed to gain half of the share of the oil products market (appendix). Increasing the market share is expected to generate more sales. Convenient stores contribute more than half of its annual profits. Over the last period, there has been a sustainable growth in customer base. Improving outlook, display, branding and services in the stores will eventually increase sales from oil products and increase customer base and market share. Sustaining the existing customers is key to achieving the desired levels of sales and a consistent 5% monthly increase in sales level. According to Lewis (2002, p.1), sustaining a company’s projects is more important and crucial than mere implementation of strategies. Competition There is stiff competition in the industry arising from independent stations which sell oil products for other brands. Competition is based on customer relations and service. The company will focus on efficient and effective customer service, relationship building and reliability in services provision. To gain a competitive advantage, the company will embark on expanding its convenience stores to include children parks in an effort to attract potential customers who have families. The Chartered Institute of Marketers (2008, para. 4) states that relationship marketing is important in achieving company goals and a database of all customers will be created within this period. The company will carry community empowerment and social responsibility twice this year, the main aim is to restore trust and market confidence as stated Verma (2006,p.20 ). Marketing strategy The company will adopt a new marketing strategy which will consider value a ddition. By offering extra services to clients ranging from free oil change, windscreen wiping, expanding convenience stores and free oil products delivery to loyal customers will go along way in building customer relations. There will be a change in positioning of premium unleaded petroleum products to suit needs of the corporate target market. The company will cease from selling repackaged diesel engine oil, rather it will act as a reseller to BP’s oil. These will lead to savings in relation to production costs. Product The Company’s oil products will still carry the BP brand. However, the convenience stores will introduce new customized products relating to the brand. Extensions in petrol oil products are necessary due to rising competition and changing consumer demand. Our products are known to be reliable, convenient and dependable and this is our strong foundation that we should uphold. Branding of company products is integral and with the BP brand under scrutiny from the market in the short run, the company will focus on selling benefits rather than the brand it carries. In the long run the company intends to do branding on the products but under license from BP. Price Pricing decisions for oil products will be based wholly on global prices, forces of demand and supply and competition. In order to retain and maintain the current customer base amidst the oil spillage crisis, quantity discounts will be offered to customers. For corporate clients, base payment options will be available provided. This will enable the company to achieve high levels of customer retention. Price discrimination will be exercised by charging different prices to different consumers groups. The criteria to practice price differentiation will be based on geographical distance and consumer loyalty. Consumers with loyalty cards will get cash discounts on products thus building loyalty and trust. Pricing decisions will be based on total cost plus mark up at same time ens uring the prices are competitive in the market for the sake of market penetration and market expansion. Promotion In the short run, that is the next three months, depending on the outcome of the oil spillage crisis to the business and public relations will be the main promotional which will be used. The BP brand will aid in communicating and advertising to leverage the company against the oil crisis for the next two years. BP will send sales representatives who will work with the company’s sales force in implementing new sales promotion to be launched in 6 months time. Cash discounts will be given to loyalty card holders and bulk buyers at a rate of 5% on total purchase. In addition, advertisement will form a major promotion tools.Bangs (1992, para. 4) stated that advertisement is critical in building brands and reminding consumers of the products existence in the market during their buying process. In most cases, consumers will purchase brands they are aware of. Advertisemen ts serve in enhancing brand awareness. The company will for the first time run game shows to be aired in the local television. This will help in building brand awareness thus countering competition. To increase product availability in the market, distributors will be awarded trade discounts and rebates. A sales promotion targeting distributors will be launched to increase their competitiveness and reward them for carrying Ricker Oil products. Distribution The Company has the largest distribution network in Indiana State. Another station will be opened in the sprawling up market of Indian town. New logistics software is in place to aid in logistics related to electronic distribution hence a high level of efficiency in the network. With regard to warehousing, the refurbishment will be completed in a month time. This will in turn increase holding capacity by more than 25% of the current holding capacity. The company has considered incorporating small independent distributors in an effo rt to ensure that its products are accessible in the entire market. Kotler (1996, p.120) describes a good channel of distribution as one which takes the shortest time and is cost effective to operate. Based on this definition, the company has integrated the Critical Path Method of identifying the shortest and most effective distribution channel to use (Heerdens, 2005,p.76). Implementation Implementation of the firm’s strategies will be faced with a number of challenges in relation to personnel requirements, financial requirements and change management as described by Kennedy (2000,p.34). The implementation of the strategy will be done in three phases. These phases include dealing with the challenges brought resulting from the crisis, adopting changes and taking corrective measures. Alternative strategies will be developed to meet changes in the environment and unforeseen circumstances (Klastorin 2003, p.54). Personnel requirements New staff will be required in some of the fir m’s departments. These include warehousing, sales and marketing, operations, finance and talent acquisition. Recruitment will be done in the next one month. The staff recruited will enable the marketing plan to be well executed by providing enough human capital. As a result, the plan will be achievable within the one year as it is stipulated. Restructuring of the marketing department will be conducted on sale and marketing functions under the head of marketing (see appendix). Financial requirement Huge financial outlay is expected with recruitment of new staff, expansion of convenient stores, establishing a new station, warehouse renovation and increased promotion activity. This will result into a 20% increase in the company’s total expenditure. Returns expected will be 10% of sales revenue. Theis figure is expected to rise to increase so as to cover operational costs over the next phase of the firm’s operation. Change management Other than restructuring the Mar keting department, all managers are expected to embrace the plan in their departmental levels. As departmental heads, managers will be the change management in implementing the strategies and evaluation will be done at the end of the year to check on performance. The company expects all departments, staff and management to work together to successfully implement the plan. Deviations noticeable during the implementation process will be communicated directly to the Marketing department under strategic management. All departments will be treated as strategic management units thus ensuring maximum effort and energy is driven towards achievement of the set goals as per the plan. Financial Summary The main assumption taken is that the dollar rate will remain constant over the year with no major fluctuations. The balance sheet will change to reflect the inclusion of a new Children Park to be built in convenient stores and a restructured warehouse. A significant change in the income stateme nt is expected with more capital outlay and increased expenses brought about by expansion measures. The cash flow statement will also be affected because more cash from the reserve will be used in expansion. Therefore a lower profit margin is expected. However, at the end of the year investments, the firm will expect higher returns. According to Kerzner (2003, p.32), capital expenditure and related expenses are considered as investments rather costs to the company’s account. Scenarios There are two scenarios expected. First, if the BP oil crisis escalates beyond the firm capacity to deal with, the company will experience a significant loss thus running into the risk of insolvency. Incase of this occurring, there will be a reduction in customer loyalty. The customers will completely cease from purchasing BP products. The only option left to the company will be to close down its operations or obtain its supplies from other suppliers. This will amount into breach of its contract with BP. The second case scenario relates to whether the crisis will be resolved soonest possible. If this is attained, the firm will attain a favorable business operating environment backed by consumer confidence and trust for its brands. This forms the foundation of this marketing plan (Verma, 2009, p.21). Conclusion The marketing plan provides a blueprint which the company will utilize in its operation during the next financial year. The ongoing oil spill crisis has resulted into a challenge in the firm’s effort to improve marketing strategies to meet changing customer demands, behavior and characteristics. In order to deal with the crisis, the firm’s departments will be allowed to develop alternative strategies. However, these strategies must be in line with the overall plan. This plan acts as a guide regarding Ricker Oil’s market position during the next year of its operation. The marketing department is responsible for drafting the marketing plan with con sultations from other departments. In addition, it will ensure that the plan is effectively implemented. The top management team of the company will be responsible for providing leadership and resources to implement the plan successfully. The oil market is characterized by fluctuating prices and hence the biggest decisions a firm has to undertake relates to pricing. Market research is very important. Firms which conduct continuous market surveys remain competitive, are adaptable to changing environment and meet changing consumer demands. In depth understanding of consumer behavior enables a firm effectively meet market needs. As a result, the customers are satisfied by consuming the firm’s products thus increasing the probability of the firm attaining its organizational goals as a going concern entity (Cohen, 2006, p. 21). Reference List Anon. 2010. Swot analysis.Web. Available at:  https://www.12manage.com/methods_swot_analysis.html Anon. 2005. Marketing plan. Web. Web. A rmstrong, G. Harker, M. Kotler, P., 2000, Marketing: An Introduction. Prentice Hall. Bangs, D. H., 1992, The marketing planning guide: Creating a plan to successfully market your business, products or service. S.l: University of Minnesota. British Petroleum., 2010. Gulf of Mexico report. [Online] Web. Chartered Institute of Marketers., 2009, Strategy. London: CIM Cohen, W., 2006, The Marketing Plan. 5th ed. Cornel University: J Wiley Sons. Department of Energy. , 2010. BP oil spill.Web. Available at:  https://www.energy.gov/ . Elliot, R. Percy, L., 2007. Strategic Brand Management. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Gillespie, A., 2007, Foundations of Economics :Additional Chapter on Business Strategy. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Heerkens, G., 2001, Project Management :The Briefcase Book Series. McGraw–Hill. Kennedy, D. S., 2000, The ultimate marketing plan: Find your most promotable competitive edge Canada: Adams Media. Kerzner, H., 2003, Project Management: A System s Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling. 8th ed. s.l:s.n Klastorin, T., 2003, Project Management: Tools and Trade-offs. 3rd ed. Wiley. Kotler, P.,1996, Marketing management: An Asian perspective. PrenticeHall Lewis, J., 2002, Fundamentals of Project Management. 2nd ed. American Management Association. Luther, W. M., 2001, The marketing plan: How to prepare and implement it. New York: American Management Association. Simpson, S., 2010. Rickers oil. Associated press. Web. Web. The Decision Group., 2000. PEST: Political, Economic, Social and Technological  analysis. Sydney: University of Sydney. Verma, R. 2009. Brand Management. New Delhi: Laxmi publications. Appendix: Graphs, Charts and diagrams Organization structure Market share Critical path This essay on Ricker Oil’s Marketing Plan was written and submitted by user Hezekiah Burt to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Free Essays on Logic Of George Boole And Its Application To The Design Of Modern Computers

A. Introduction Modern computers are now considered as one of the most important digital machines in our modern time. People use computers in many ways. In business, computers track inventories with bar codes and scanners, check the credit status of customers, and transfer funds electronically. Computers in automobiles regulate the flow of fuel, thereby increasing gas mileage. Computers also entertain, creating digitized sound on stereo systems or computer-animated features from a digitally encoded laser disc. Computer programs, or applications, exist to aid every level of education, from programs that teach simple addition or sentence construction to programs that teach advanced calculus. But did you know that that the design of modern computers originally came from the logician George Boole who developed the Boolean algebra? Boolean algebra is a two-valued system of algebra that represented logical relationships and operations. Later, scientists and physicists like John von Neumann and Alan Turing used his system of algebra for the development of modern computers. In the latter part of the study you will see the different people who used the Boolean algebra as their channel for the progress of digital computers. 1. Life of George Boole Boole, George (1815-1864), British mathematician and logician, who developed Boolean algebra. He was born on November 2, 1815 in Lincolnshire, England. Largely self-educated, in 1849 Boole was appointed professor of mathematics at Queen's College (now University College) in Cork, Ireland. In 1854, in An Investigation of the Laws of Thought, Boole described an algebraic system that later became known as Boolean algebra. In Boolean algebra, logical propositions are denoted by symbols and can be acted on by abstract mathematical operators that correspond to the laws of logic. Boolean algebra is of prime importance to the study of pure mathematics and to the design of modern compute... Free Essays on Logic Of George Boole And Its Application To The Design Of Modern Computers Free Essays on Logic Of George Boole And Its Application To The Design Of Modern Computers A. Introduction Modern computers are now considered as one of the most important digital machines in our modern time. People use computers in many ways. In business, computers track inventories with bar codes and scanners, check the credit status of customers, and transfer funds electronically. Computers in automobiles regulate the flow of fuel, thereby increasing gas mileage. Computers also entertain, creating digitized sound on stereo systems or computer-animated features from a digitally encoded laser disc. Computer programs, or applications, exist to aid every level of education, from programs that teach simple addition or sentence construction to programs that teach advanced calculus. But did you know that that the design of modern computers originally came from the logician George Boole who developed the Boolean algebra? Boolean algebra is a two-valued system of algebra that represented logical relationships and operations. Later, scientists and physicists like John von Neumann and Alan Turing used his system of algebra for the development of modern computers. In the latter part of the study you will see the different people who used the Boolean algebra as their channel for the progress of digital computers. 1. Life of George Boole Boole, George (1815-1864), British mathematician and logician, who developed Boolean algebra. He was born on November 2, 1815 in Lincolnshire, England. Largely self-educated, in 1849 Boole was appointed professor of mathematics at Queen's College (now University College) in Cork, Ireland. In 1854, in An Investigation of the Laws of Thought, Boole described an algebraic system that later became known as Boolean algebra. In Boolean algebra, logical propositions are denoted by symbols and can be acted on by abstract mathematical operators that correspond to the laws of logic. Boolean algebra is of prime importance to the study of pure mathematics and to the design of modern compute...

Research and analysis of business problems Paper

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Packet-Hiding Method for Preventing Selective Jamming Attack Abstract The open nature of the wireless medium leaves it vulnerable to intentional interference attacks, typically referred to as jamming. This intentional interference with wireless transmissions can be used as a launchpad for mounting Denial-of-Service attacks on wireless networks. Typically, jamming has been addressed under an external threat model. However, adversaries with internal knowledge of protocol specifications and network secrets can launch low-effort jamming attacks that are difficult to detect and counter. In this work, we address the problem of selective jamming attacks in wireless networks. In these attacks, the adversary is active only for a short period of time, selectively targeting messages of high importance. 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We consider a sophisticated adversary who is aware of network secrets and the implementation details of network protocols at any layer in the network stack. The adversary exploits his internal knowledge for launching selective jamming attacks in which specific messages of high importance are targeted. For example, a jammer can target route-request/route-reply messages at the routing layer to prevent route discovery, or target TCP acknowledgments in a TCP session to severely degrade the throughput of an end-to-end flow To launch selective jamming attacks, the adversary must be capable of implementing a classify-then-jam strategy before the completion of a wireless transmission. Such strategy can be actualized either by classifying transmitted packets using protocol semantics, or by decoding packets on the fly. In the latter method, the jammer may decode the first few bits of a packet for recovering useful packet identifiers such as packet type, source and destination address. After classification, the adversary must induce a sufficient number of bit errors so that the packet cannot be recovered at the receiver [34]. Selective jamming requires an intimate knowledge of the physical (PHY) layer, as well as of the specifics of upper layers Modules:- 1. Network module 2. Real Time Packet Classification 3. Selective Jamming Module 4. Strong Hiding Commitment Scheme (SHCS) 5. Cryptographic Puzzle Hiding Scheme (CPHS) Module Descriptions Network module- We address the problem of preventing the jamming node from classifying m in real time, thus mitigating Js ability to perform selective jamming. The network consists of a collection of nodes connected via wireless links. Nodes may communicate directly if they are within communication range, or indirectly via multiple hops. Nodes communicate both in unicast mode and broadcast mode. Communications can be either unencrypted or encrypted. For encrypted broadcast communications, symmetric keys are shared among all intended receivers. These keys are established using preshared pairwise keys or asymmetric cryptography. Real Time Packet Classification Consider the generic communication system depicted in Fig. At the PHY layer, a packet m is encoded, interleaved, and modulated before it is transmitted over the wireless channel. At the receiver, the signal is demodulated, deinterleaved, and decoded, to recover the original packet m. Moreover, even if the encryption key of a hiding scheme were to remain secret, the static portions of a transmitted packet could potentially lead to packet classification. This is because for computationally-efficient encryption methods such as block encryption, the encryption of a prefix plaintext with the same key yields a static ciphertext prefix. Hence, an adversary who is aware of the underlying protocol specifics (structure of the frame) can use the static ciphertext portions of a transmitted packet to classify it. 3. Selective Jamming Module We illustrate the impact of selective jamming attacks on the network performance. implement selective jamming attacks in two multi-hop wireless network scenarios. In the first scenario, the attacker targeted a TCP connection established over a multi-hop wireless route. In the second scenario, the jammer targeted network-layer control messages transmitted during the route establishment process selective jamming would be the encryption of transmitted packets (including headers) with a static key. However, for broadcast communications, this static decryption key must be known to all intended receivers and hence, is susceptible to compromise. An adversary in possession of the decryption key can start decrypting as early as the reception of the first ciphertext block. 4. Strong Hiding Commitment Scheme (SHCS) We propose a strong hiding commitment scheme (SHCS), which is based on symmetric cryptography. Our main motivation is to satisfy the strong hiding property while keeping the computation and communication overhead to a minimum. The computation overhead of SHCS is one symmetric encryption at the sender and one symmetric decryption at the receiver. Because the header information is permuted as a trailer and encrypted, all receivers in the vicinity of a sender must receive the entire packet and decrypt it, before the packet type and destination can be determined. However, in wireless protocols such as 802.11, the complete packet is received at the MAC layer before it is decided if the packet must be discarded or be further processed . If some parts of the MAC header are deemed not to be useful information to the jammer, they can remain unencrypted in the header of the packet, thus avoiding the decryption operation at the receiver. 5. Cryptographic Puzzle Hiding Scheme (CPHS) we present a packet hiding scheme based on cryptographic puzzles. The main idea behind such puzzles is to force the recipient of a puzzle execute a pre-defined set of computations before he is able to extract a secret of interest. The time required for obtaining the solution of a puzzle depends on its hardness and the computational ability of the solver. The advantage of the puzzlebased scheme is that its security does not rely on the PHY layer parameters. However, it has higher computation and communication overhead We consider several puzzle schemes as the basis for CPHS. For each scheme, we analyze the implementation details which impact security and performance. Cryptographic puzzles are primitives originally suggested by Merkle as a method for establishing a secret over an insecure channel. They find a wide range of applications from preventing DoS attacks to providing broadcast authentication and key escrow schemes System Requirements: Hardware Requirements: System: Pentium IV 2.4 GHz. Hard Disk: 40 GB. Floppy Drive: 1.44 Mb. Monitor: 15 VGA Colour. Mouse: Logitech. Ram: 256 Mb. Software Requirements: Operating system :- Windows XP Professional Front End :- JAVA, Swing(JFC),RMI Tool :Eclipse 3.3

Science Education Reform :: essays papers

Science Education Reform The entire purpose of educational reform is to improve the learning of the students. With that in mind, state governments have been and continue to implement programs in their school systems geared towards improving academic performance. Topics under consideration and implementation include lengthening the school day and, in turn, lengthening the school year. This would allow more time for more time for instruction. An important part of educational reform is the reform of teacher education. Nationwide, state school systems are improving the preparation and performance with more meticulous graduation requirements, performance based pay, and â€Å"career ladders† that will require the teachers to continue their education (Blosser, 1989). Most of this educational reform blossomed in the 1980’s, a period which is now referred to as the school reform movement. It was during this time that many of the ideas of educational reform came into public view. Science Teacher Education Most colleges in the U.S. require science teacher candidates to enroll in a vigorous course of study. There are many more areas of study beyond science necessary in order to adequately prepare the students for the teaching world (National Science Teacher’s Association, 2001). For example, at Towson University science education students must complete special education, psychology, communications, and information technology classes in addition to their core science and general education courses. These additional classes help to better prepare the candidates for what they might encounter in the professional world (www.towson.edu, 2001) Certification In the state of Maryland, there are many requirements to receive and hold certification to teach in the state. According to the Maryland State Teacher’s Association, candidates who wish to obtain certification must â€Å"possess an earned bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution of higher education in a discipline appropriate to an assignment in the elementary or secondary school curriculum, receive an average of "B" or better in courses related to area of assignment, submit qualifying scores on teacher certification tests- Praxis I and II (Basic Skills and Content tests only), and complete 135 clock hours of study prior to employment as a resident teacher.† Basically, this means that the candidate must attend a four-year school and graduate with a degree. They have to get a B or better in their science and education courses, pass both Praxis exams, and complete one semester of student teaching.

Drilling vs Solar Power

I choose solar power over drilling oil. I chose this â€Å"side† because drilling oil is hazardous to the environment. Solar energy is from energy directly from the sun’s radiation and Drilling is coming from below the ocean floor. The oil spill in the gulf 2010 was devastating to the environment and is still being looked at as one of the worst environmental disasters of all time. Solar power is better for the environment and we can use it for years to come. The key habits for hindering my thinking when looking at the opposing view, was stereotyping that oil drilling is not safe and causes a lot of problems for the environment because of what I heard in the news. I was also was resistance to change, I don’t like change but when it comes to the environment I believe we have to stand up for what we believe in. I also used the â€Å"mine is better habit† where I thought my opinion was the right one until I researched the topic. After researching I found out that oil spills can be devastating to wildlife. Drilling oil creates jobs which is influential for the economy. In return solar power is better for the environment because it uses natural process for energy. In order for solar energy to work you must have temperature, it is an important factor that may affect the performance of solar power. I still believe that solar power is more beneficent because we are protecting our wild life and environment. What I can do to overcome my habits hindering my thinking is to not be resistant to change. Try and not believe that my opinion is the right one, I have to do my research so I can back up what I am saying. Try not to stereotype that all drilling is bad. I need to examine my first impression of the problems and issues. I need to research all views of the situation and then determine what is best. I did research benefits of solar power and drilling and then researched the disadvantages of both I stand by my choice that if I had to choose between the two I would still choose solar power. I found both topics to be intriguing and informative.

Time Management Strategies for Students

Time Management Strategies for Students Time Management Strategies for Students How Not to Let Game of Thrones  Fail Your Exams It’s 9 pm and you got a fresh new season of Game of Thrones to watch! But, first you promise yourself only 1 episode. Half way through the video you are hooked and by the time it ends, you throw your hands in despair, John Snow and the White Walkers! I have got to know what happens next! Soon enough you end up watching the entire series. Whew †¦ That was one hell of a season. You suddenly notice its morning, and remember you have a Math exam just in two hours! Two hours!? It’s all your fault, Starks and Lannisters! It’s a matter of urgency and you can’t let Game of Thrones fail your exams! Well, let’s identify the problem. The challenge you face is poor time management. Time management is simply planning, prioritizing, delegating, controlling, understanding yourself and identifying your problematic habits. Once you know how to manage time you will be surprised how easily you can accomplish a lot of activities in only 24 hours! Planning You need to make a comprehensive plan besides a simple to-do list. Your plan should include how you target to carry out an effective time management routine. Before that find free online resources, read article, books and keep on changing your plan when necessary. Prioritizing Divide your work into four main areas: Urgent Put all the urgent work in this area, for instance, upcoming exams, assignments or quiz. Moreover, allocate the most of your time in this zone. Plan to do This is perhaps the most essential part but you have to give it the second most importance. This part usually includes work that matters to you. For instance, researching or networking with other student, scheduling and planning other work related activities. Reject Explain Put here work that causes useless distractions such as email notification or requests from others. Resist and Cease You must try to spend the least amount of time for work that involves in this region such as meaningless doodles, watching Game of Thrones marathon, or listening to songs. Delegating First, take the free delegation review form to see how good you are in this matter. Second, follow these simple steps in a sequent manner: Define the task Select the individual or team for the assignment Provide resources Delegate the task to the individual or team Make a feedback system Review Controlling You have an effective plan or a routine. What happens when you fail to abide by it? You end up letting Game of thrones fail your exams all over again! You must practice your routine and use your plan in a controlled manner until you are accustomed to it. Understanding yourself Understand yourself and the conditions you work best in. Ask yourself these questions:- Do I study better under pressure? Do I study better in a calm or a busy environment? Which time of the day am I most productive? Identifying problematic habits Everyone has some problematic habits such as procrastinating, checking the phone every 5 min, chatting with friends while working, taking a break every now and then and so forth. You must identify all the awkward habits in order to address these matters as soon as possible. See? Time management is not an impossible task. Once you apply this knowledge as well as other resources available you can easily manage your time and if you are smart enough you might even be successful at acing exams that you claim you have no time to study for! Our term  paper writing service can be very useful for you during your exams in college and university.

Ceremonies And Duties Of A Knight Essays - Knight, Jousting, Squire

Ceremonies And Duties Of A Knight Essays - Knight, Jousting, Squire Ceremonies and Duties of a Knight Introduction Knights were a important part in medieval times. They were used as protection on the manors to stop invading enemies. The worst hated were the Vikings. Knights did more than just sit around and wait for someone to attack them.The trained for when there was going to be a battle and also taught soon to be knights. They also had tournaments for practice and entertainment. Probably the most common tournament known today is jousting. Jousting is where two opponents are on horses going as fast as they can with very big and long poles and try to hit there opponent off of their horse which is also moving and the opponent also has a pole. In the tournaments they first used very sharp and pointy jousting sticks but too many people were getting hurt and no one thought it would be fun to enter a tournament where you get hurt so then everyone agreed to use blunt jousting sticks instead of using sharp pointy jousting sticks so that people wouldn?t get hurt as bad. Jousting then lead to a ! game called tilting that became popular back in the 1400?s. Two knights would be on horses heading towards there opponent in narrow lanes so the horses could not hit into the other horse. The knights would carry jousting sticks and try to hit there opponent of of their horse. There was also many other games that took place at the tournaments like sword fighting and many others. * Training Before becoming a page you would learn take care of the woman in his family.Also during this time he learned how to take care of horses and how to ride a pony.To become a knight you would first have to go through many years of hard work. You would first start of at the age of seven as a page until your teens. During this time a page would learn how to fight with swords and play games that helped him learn strategy and skill. He would also learn how to hunt with birds like hawks and falcons. He also learned manners. When you became a squire you were mainly the knight?s servant. A squire would also take care of prisoners in a battle. A squire had to help out his master. If your master went to war you would have to go to war with him. If your master was hurt you would have to dress his wounds. Then if your master died you would have to make sure that your master had the proper burial grounds and funeral. Then i f your were very good and proved it to your master you might become ! a knight. But becoming a knight just didn?t happen over knight. (That was a play on words.) Becoming a knight didn?t happen until you were eighteen and that was only if you were one of the best pages and squires. Most squires were knighted at a time of peace but some squires were knighted on the battlefield i f they had shown great bravery. The first knighting ceremonies were very simple but then later in time the ceremonies were more complex.For example, in early knighting ceremonies all a knight did was buckle the armor on the squire and he was knighted. In later ceremonies one knight would buckle on the armor and another knight would put on the spurs. The squire then knelt before the knight that was going to knight him. Then the knight would give the squire a blow to the back with his hand. Then the knight tapped the squire on the back again with his sword but he did not cut him because he used the side of the sword that wasn?t sharp. After that the knight said ?I dub you! knight? and then he was a knight. When the knight tapped him with the side of the sword it was called the accolade which means neck from the French word col. When Christianity became more popular Christianity was linked in with knighthood. The night before a knight was going to be knighted he would place his armor on the alter and pray all knight. He also would confess,

Investigation About Forklift Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Investigation About Forklift - Essay Example This essay stresses that the forklift operators must be trained and retrained time again so that they can always remember not to push or shove bins while workers are in front of the line, as this may trigger an accident. In addition, employees have to be keen while working at all times, in this case, if Tina was keen, she would have seen the forklift that is if she did not have her back turned. The forklift operator is normally trained and must have received a tool box talk on not pushing or shoving bins while workers are in front of the line. If proper disaster management were in place medical officers would have been in the place of incident at the right time. This can be attributed to poor event management. Moreover, an accident may be caused by unattended medical issues in employee’s body. This paper makes a conclusion that lack of educating the employees on the safety measures is one of the principal causes of the incident that happened to Mrs. Tina. The accident would be avoided if a proper education was carried out and proper safety equipment put in place. Also, the employees would be in a better place to handle Tina’s case if they had skills in first aid operations. Management should heavily invest in training its employees on the site’s safety program can only be successful when employees on the site receives sufficient training to comprehend what their safety responsibilities and opportunities are and how to fulfill them. Consequently, training forum is a high priority to ensure a safe workplace.

Casual Factors Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Casual Factors - Essay Example mer includes such factors as genetic disposition and peri-natal conditioning, chemical imbalances, damages to the central nervous system, etc., while the latter includes such factors as schooling system, family and other cultural aspects. The remainder of this essay will foray into ways of identifying these factors, their consequences, and ways of mitigating them (Dodge, 1993) Emotional disorders caused by family can take several shapes. For example, a child that is constantly exposed to domestic violence, sexual abuse, excessive insults, constant poverty and loss of a parent can develop symptoms related to anxiety and depressive disorders. Some tell-tale signs of family-induced psychological disorders are: an introverted personality, academic underperformance, poor social skills, juvenile delinquency, etc. Recognizing early signs can be difficult as the affected children can assume a normal external disposition (Dodge, 1993). Usually, the underlying problem comes to light only after a traumatic episode. Nevertheless, child counselors can play a significant role in remedying some of the emotional and behavioral patterns through application of such techniques as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Primal Therapy, etc. Medications such as lithium, Buspirone, Fluoxetine, Bupropion, etc. can also be useful but have to be used with caution. Also, medications d on’t provide permanent cure but only temporary symptomatic relief. Hence, a prolonged counseling regime to change negative cognitive and behavior patterns is the most efficacious of the treatment options (Stewart, 1999). Emotional disturbances that are caused by an unsuitable school environment are similar to those that are caused by chaotic family circumstances. Inappropriate corporal punishments, bullying by peers, lack of proper attention from teachers, etc., can make the child feel sad and lonely. The child is also likely to experience feelings of guilt and worthlessness. The afflicted child