Career in Quantity Surveying

Career in Quantity Surveying Quantity surveyors come in two flavors. There is the PQS, Private Quantity Surveyor, who works in professional practice and the CQS or Contractors Quantity Surveyor, who works for a building contractor. The Quantity Surveyor   is responsible for all the financial, contractual and legal aspects of a construction project.   The PQS will provide cost planning advice during the design stage of a project and then monitor the actual costs against the budgets whilst the project is being built.   Building contractors are often paid monthly in instalments on large projects and it is the quantity surveyors job to determine a fair valuation for the work that has been completed.   In addition the PQS will advise the client on a suitable form of building contract. The Contractors Quantity Surveyor will be involved in pricing work that a contractor is asked to tender for, letting packages of work to specialist subcontractors and valuing and paying for subcontractors work. In the same way that the PQS provides cost planning advice to the client the CQS provides financial advice to the building contractor. If you think you are more skilled with figures than floor plans then you might think about becoming a quantity surveyor the so called economist of the construction industry.   As a student quantity surveyor, Ruth Smart worked on the McAlpine Stadium in Huddersfield calculating the construction costs.   Listen to what she has to say about her work by clicking on her link.   Hit Back on your browser to return to this page. If you think you are more skilled with figures than floor plans then you might think about becoming a quantity surveyor the so called economist of the construction industry. As a student quantity surveyor Ruth Smart worked on McAlpine Stadium in Huddersfield calculating the construction costs. The major one of this stadium was all of these they are called banana trusses because they are shaped like bananas. The steel work that went into this stadium was very expensive. There is a lot concrete in this building as you can see all the seats. The whole structure is concrete. The seats are put on top of concrete. Steps, huge, huge money. The nicer bits are thing like you know the actual pitch, and the lights all these extras that you don’t think of which need to be priced. The line markings, everything we have to take into account everything, signage, big project. I studied quantity surveying at Leeds and years 1 and 2 was spent in the college learning, year 3 was spent on site at McAlpine Stadium and year 4 was my final year again spent in College. It wasn’t just text book stuff it was things like learning to build a brick wall. What construction was about the actual physical building of buildings. Surveyors who have been educated in Britain are viewed very well overseas. Two months after I graduated I started work out in Johannesburg, South Africa. Which was fantastic lots of exposure. Thrown in at the deep end was great running my own jobs. I became chartered June 2000. It’s good in the fact that if you wanted to set up your own practice you have to be chartered to do it for your professional indemnity insurance. It’s good also because being chartered means you are more qualified and you get a bigger salary. And also if you take a break from your career when you are chartered it’s easier to get back into your career. Team work in this sort of industry is very important because there are lots of different parties you have to communicate with and that you have to work with. The design team being architect, quantity surveyor, engineer, contractor must all work together must all communicate because without each other we couldn’t get the job done. I was attracted to the construction industry because I had never met a woman who worked within construction and it was a challenge to me. I would say to a woman who was a little bit nervous about joining the industry to go for it because I think it’s worthwhile and she’d love it like I do. Quantity Surveying Our team undertakes all types of Quantity Surveying services for a wide-ranging client base and property profile. We cover all aspects of a project, from feasibility through to overall redevelopment, consistently applying a number of firm principles. These include strict financial and risk control at all times, continuous value engineering and cost-in-use assessments. Our Services Feasibility and Planning Provision of an unambiguous statement, setting out each client’s brief and objectives. Provision of initial cost advice and an anticipated complete out-turn price. Initial estimates are later developed into detailed cost plans to monitor the ongoing cost of the design development. Identification and control of the project’s risks, which can typically include neighbouring issues, access issues, ground conditions and programme restrictions. Procurement Recommendation on the form of contract. The selection of contractors and associated tendering/negotiating processes The provision of an unambiguous, concise and complete Agreement between all parties, accurately reflecting our client’s requirements and the contractor’s proposal. Appointment of the contractor and production of contract documentation. Construction Financial monitoring, including interim payments and variation control Programme monitoring Contract operation and administration Real-time reporting on programme and out-turn costs Completion Managed possession we can negotiate and agree full, sectional or partial possession of a project Agreement of final account Supplementary services We supply a range of supplementary services, complementing our other divisional colleagues by providing specialist cost and time critical analysis to them, where they may be responsible for the overall service to the client.   Such services include: Employer’s agent, as identified by the JCT Standard Form of Contract Litigation support for disputes arising within building contracts Expert witness relating to issues of construction Cost-in-use/value engineering for alternative construction solutions Development monitoring for third parties Fire insurance valuations Planning supervision as recognised by the Health Safety Executive Capital allowance assessments for increased allowances against corporation tax Tax and VAT guidance QS Description Quantity surveyors prepare cost estimates and plans, audit projects, manage construction costs and administer construction contracts for all levels and types of construction. Quantity surveyors may perform the following tasks: talk to architects, engineers, builders, contractors, suppliers and project owners study architectural and engineering drawings and specifications prepare a Bill of Quantities, which lists the individual components required to construct the project check on changes of design to assess the effects on cost assess and recommend payment to contractors during construction prepare monthly cash-flow forecasts for clients and tax depreciation schedules undertake feasibility studies to assist in decisions about the worth of a project proceeding act as consultants to business and government. Quantity surveyors usually work in offices. They also visit building sites, clients and other members of construction teams. Personal Requirements: analytical and logical able to concentrate for long periods good oral and written communication skills able to work accurately with figures able to work as part of a team able to work independently aptitude for working with computers. RICS Increasingly, Chartered Quantity Surveyors are becoming involved when they should be: at the start of the decision-making process. The role of the quantity surveyor has changed significantly in recent years. There was a time when they tended to be brought in, too late in the day, to cost someone else’s work and ended up being wrongly cast in the role of the spoilsport who said it was all too expensive. Today the skills are largely the same but importantly the perception and understanding have changed. Increasingly, quantity surveyors become involved when they should be: at the start of the decision-making process. Whilst the primary role of a quantity surveyor remains to manage costs on building or construction sites, arguably they are just as valuable at providing ideas and creative solutions in the early stages of the project. Quantity surveyors are particularly skilled at taking the long view, assessing the options and at providing the client with a full picture on which to make decisions. Take, for example, a large new housing complex requiring an access route. When all the aesthetics and environmental issues have been considered the decision is whether to go for the shorter more direct option or for the longer one. Superficially the shorter route seems more attractive but detailed examination reveals expensive additional engineering would be required. The full job specification for a quantity surveyor would alone fill this page but typical responsibilities include: preparing cost estimates managing costs on site advising on choice of materials advising on construction techniques dealing with planning issues, building regulations, architects involvement in the procurement process providing cost and contract expertise The type of project could range from large residential or offices to motorways, water companies or a sports stadium. Alasdair Thompson is a Divisional Director of Franklin + Andrews, one of the UK’s leading firms of quantity surveyors. With ten years’ experience Alasdair has a very clear opinion of how quantity surveyors should be used: â€Å"There is no doubt our clients get the best value when they involve us at the outset. I also believe the relationship with the other professionals is much more cooperative and open with everyone listening and taking advice early on.† Quantity Surveyor: a person who measures and prices building work. In real life: Quantity surveyors are the accountants of the building profession planning and managing costs of construction projects from start to finish. Quantity surveyors (or QSs as they are known, since its a bit of a mouthful) either work for a private QS practice and act on behalf of clients or for a contracting firm which carries out construction work. This profession is certainly not all hard hats and wellies. In fact the role of the quantity surveyor has changed so dramatically in recent years that the profession doesnt always answer to the name of quantity surveying anymore! You will often see private practices referring to themselves as cost consultants and project managers because of the nature of the work they now handle. Due to the recession, QSs have had to adapt or die and there are now fewer, larger private practices than ever before taking on a broader remit of work. No longer do quantity surveyors just measure and price work, they have a more strategic role. Nowadays the QS is involved at all stages of a project from preparing tenders and planning costs to preparing final bills of quantities; essentially, making sure projects are planned and completed to cost and quality, on time. UK construction professionals are respected abroad and, partly in response to the depressed home market, many UK firms have developed an international outlook. Best bits Seeing things happen exactly as you said they would. The opportunity to have a career with commercial AND practical elements. No two projects are the same. Worst bits As with all parts of the construction industry, quantity surveying is very recession sensitive. Everyone outside the industry thinks you are an estate agent! Dont bother if Youre sensitive to jokes about counting nails. You want a nine to five career full of textbook projects. Demands Technical and business knowledge. QSs understand the building work in hand and make sure work is done in a commercially viable way. A logical mind with a down-to-earth approach to problem solving and a personality which is at ease with business executives, site employees and spreadsheets is an advantage. Teamwork Overused word, but in this business you appreciate the clients needs and work with them to achieve a satisfactory outcome. Also required is the ability to motivate and lead people on site. Flexibility Youll be required to travel to projects all over your patch (a car is often part of your salary package). Qualifications and training Most entrants follow relevant degrees or HNDs and have gained work placements in the process (sandwich courses are popular). To qualify as a chartered quantity surveyor entrants take the APC (assessment of professional qualification) run by The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). The APC is all about what you know and how well you can apply it. Areas of work Contracting QS Private Practice QS Contracting QS Often seen as the muddy boots side of the profession because contracting QSs are usually based in site offices although contrary to popular rumour they do not count bricks all day! The contracting QS has a budget for every project and must make sure a project stays within it. To control the purse strings the QS will: Organise work on site in the most efficient manner. Liaise with the site employees, plus employees from subcontracting organisations (smaller organisations brought in to handle particular portions of work). Negotiate with the clients QS over any price changes. Approve payments made to suppliers, employees and subcontractors. Prepare bills of quantity for work in progress and the final accounts. Private QS A private quantity surveyor is employed by a client to advise on their construction costs. Key roles for the private QS include working out the most appropriate way to meet clients needs and advising on: The site chosen. Costs of labour, plant and materials. A suitable building contractor. Once the project is up and running the QS monitors costs and negotiates with the contractors QS (agreeing payments and any changes to the original price) to ensure work is carried out to the quality specified and in the time available. Once a project is complete the services of a QS can be retained to ensure a building is managed and maintained efficiently. Quantity Surveyors National Commercial Services UK National Commercial Services specialise in the following areas Quantity Surveyors Careers in Construction Construction Consultants Construction Dispute Resolution Quantity Surveying Quantity Surveyors are concerned with financial management, measurement and accounting on construction projects. They deal with detail and tend to be highly literate and numerate and possess computer and IT skills to enable them to fulfil their responsibilities. They work on their own or within teams of other QSs or multi-disciplined professionals. They can be employed by Contractors, Subcontractors, Trade Specialists, Architects, Consulting Engineers or other companies or organisations involved in the construction process. Quantity Surveyors are trained professionals. Some will start straight from school, some will study further with a university or higher education degree in the subject. Professional qualifications can be gained through a number of institutions recognized throughout the world, examples being the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) or the Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (Inst.C.E.S.). QSs can work in all levels of the industry, from assistant and trainee through intermediate, project, senior, managing, regional and chief Quantity Surveyor levels to Company Directors. Quantity Surveyors are involved with all financial aspects of construction work and increasingly, in the role of commercial, legal and contractual specialists. In addition to the prime quantity surveying functions, many QSs have an expertise in the research, preparation, submission and negotiation of contractual claims as a part of the general responsibility for financial control and financial well-being of contracts. Quantity Surveyors work in building, civil engineering, water, process, M E and other areas of the construction industry. They usually operate in two distinct environments. Pre-contract work involves the preparation of documentation to enable work to be put out to tendering contractors on behalf of the Client. Clients include government bodies, public and private authorities, developers and others seeking to undertake construction projects. Quantity Surveyors working in this area are usually employed by Professional Quantity Surveying Practices, Consulting Engineers, Architects or other companies, practices, professionals or individuals retained by the end user to ensure that what is eventually built is what he actually requires. He is likely to work in conjunction with designers and engineers and other construction professionals. The Quantity Surveyors work includes taking off quantities from drawings prepared by others, analysing, tabulating, formulating the information to facilitate the preparation of bills of quantities, schedule of rates or other documentation chosen to enable the works to be measured and valued. In doing this, the Quantity Surveyor follows guidelines set out under various documents which form part of the contract, including the method of measurement, conditions of contract, contract specification and other particulars. He may be involved in the preparation of preambles or other documents forming part of the contract. Once the documentation is prepared, the contract can be let and the work commenced. The quantity surveyor is then concerned with Post-contract work, for either the Employer or his agents, or the Contractor carrying out the work. He may work on site or remote from site in his Employers offices. The Quantity Surveyor working on behalf of the Employer may have been involved in the pre-Contract work or he may not. His job is to ensure that the value of work carried out is properly established in accordance with the particular contractual arrangements being used, and to certify appropriate payments to the Contractor. This involves taking receipt of the Contractors interim applications for payment usually at fortnightly or monthly intervals, checking the Contractors submissions and calculations and preparing details for certification of payment by the Engineer or the Architect. The principle role of the Quantity Surveyor working for the Contractor is to look after the financial interests of his employer. He will calculate and record the financial value of the work carried out and ensure that the Contractor is paid properly and on time. During the currency of the contract, he will be involved in measurements on site and from drawings in order to establish the true value of work done in the interim period. This is usually itemised within a bill of quantities or schedule of rates prepared in advance as part of the contract documentation. He will consider variations, modified and additional works and evaluate their value for his interim applications for payment. Concurrently, he will be concluding measurement and evaluation wherever possible as part of the final measure, to be submitted later as part of the Contractors Final Account. In addition to preparing applications for payment, the site-based Quantity Surveyor is also likely to be involved in internal company reporting so that the Contractors management are kept abreast of the financial status of the project. He is likely to be involved in forecasts and budgets and other reporting systems. Another key role for the modern quantity surveyor working for Contractors, is the procurement, appointment, administration, management and payment of subcontractors. On some projects, the management of subcontract accounts is the Quantity Surveyors chief responsibility. He may also have responsibility for matters such as insurance claims on behalf of the Contractor or third party claims.

Artificial Heart Devices Essay -- essays research papers

Artificial Heart Devices In its never ending pursuit of advancement, science has reached a crucial biotechnological plateau, the creation of artificial organs. Such a concept may seem easy to comprehend until one considers the vast knowledge required to provide a functional substitute for one of nature's creations. One then realizes the true immensity of this breakthrough. Since ancient times, humans have viewed the heart as more than just a physical part of the body. It has been thought the seat of the soul, the source of emotion, and the center of each individual's existence. For many years, doctors and researchers left the heart untouched because they thought it was too delicate, too crucial to withstand the rigors of surgery. However, the innate human desire to achieve brought about the invention of the artificial heart. The potential for such inventions are enormous. According to the American Heart Association, there are between 16,000 and 40,000 possible recipients of artificial heart devices under the age of sixty-five. If perfected, it would enable us to save thousands of human lives. In considering the full impact of artificial heart devices on society, we must not narrow our thinking to include only the beneficial possibilities. There exist moral, ethical, and economic factors that accompany these new innovations to humanity. Who will receive these brilliant inventions? Obviously not all of the patients will get transplants, so selection criteria must be established. The high price of artificial heart devices and their implantation will eliminate some candidates. Unfortunately, this is not fair. The rich, in essence, can buy life, whereas the poor are abandoned to die in a diseased state. A thorough analysis of the implications of the implantation of such devices reveals not only selection and economic consideration, but mortality and ethics as well. Many contest that it is simply wrong to tamper with the ways and creations of nature. By prolonging life through unnatural means were are defeating natures foremost tenet of the "survival of the fittest." We are preserving the weaker gene pools and contributing to the deterioration of the human species. These and other considerations play a vital role in determining the artificial transplants actual benefit to the contemporary world and the world of tomorrow. A... ...evices for the heart will definitely have a great impact on society. This can be classified in two major ways: financial problems and population problems. Of course, increased use of artificial heart devices in medicine is going to increase the financial burden on society. The potential gains will be substantial when the lives of many productive individuals can be saved. The extent of the financial burden depends largely upon the number of patients who benefit from the artificial valve, the availability of the device, and improvements in its efficiency and dependability. In the long run, worldwide utility of the artificial valve technology would increase the world population. Overpopulation is already the root of many of the world's crises. The many debates concerning artificial heart implantation as a medical technique each have their own significance, and each deserves thorough consideration. Before we rush headlong into complete employment of the devices in medicine, we must evaluate the moral, social, ethical, arguments. Hopefully we can reach a decision that blends all of the aforementioned considerations into a harmonious existence, working to the maximum benefit of society.

Light and Dark in Heart of Darkness Essay -- Heart Darkness essays

Light and Dark in Heart of Darkness       The brightest of lights can obscure vision while darkness can contain truths: one must not be distracted by the sheen of light, which conceals the deeper reality present in darkness. Joseph Conrad's novel Heart of Darkness illustrates this idea with the use of several symbols. White Europeans are used as symbols of self-deception, and objects with an alabaster quality are symbols of barriers to inner truth. Black is the foil of white; it represents the inner truth beneath the white surface reality. White people and objects represent the exterior reality that obscures the deeper truth present in darkness.    The Europeans in the novel represent those who hide from the truth within them and within reality. In Conrad's novel, most Europeans are portrayed as self-deceptive; they use societal customs to obscure the darkness and emptiness present within their souls. The chief accountant exemplifies the self-deceptive European. Marlow gives his impression of the accountant in this excerpt, "I took him [the accountant] for a sort of vision. I saw a high starched collar, white cuffs, a light alpaca jacket... He was amazing" (Conrad 84). The accountant later stated, "The groans of this sick person distract my attention [from his work]" (Conrad 85). The accountant is so centered on maintaining a proper European image and European work ethic that he impressed Marlow, but the accountant showed no compassion for his fellow man. The accountant's appearance belied the darkness in his soul. Similar to the accountant, the General Manager maintained an aura of white civilization to hide the em ptiness and darkness that existed beneath his white surface. The manager paid proper ... ...ists within every human soul. Conrad used the contrasting images of white and black to illustrate his view that evil exists within us all. Light, which relates to civilization and its practices, helps to control and hide the dark truth within us, but that black truth of human nature will always remain.       Sources Consulted:    Conrad, Joseph. Norton Critical Editions: Heart of Darkness.   Ed. Robert Kimbrough. New York: W. W.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Norton, 1963. 3-79. Gekoski, R. A.. "Heart of Darkness." Modern Critical Interpretation: Joseph Conrad's Heart of   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Darkness.   Ed. Harold Bloom.   New York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1987. 57-76.    Said, Edward W "The Past and the Present: Conrad's Shorter Fiction."   Modern Critical Views: Joseph Conrad. Ed.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Harold Bloom.   New York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1986. 29-52.    Light and Dark in Heart of Darkness Essay -- Heart Darkness essays Light and Dark in Heart of Darkness       The brightest of lights can obscure vision while darkness can contain truths: one must not be distracted by the sheen of light, which conceals the deeper reality present in darkness. Joseph Conrad's novel Heart of Darkness illustrates this idea with the use of several symbols. White Europeans are used as symbols of self-deception, and objects with an alabaster quality are symbols of barriers to inner truth. Black is the foil of white; it represents the inner truth beneath the white surface reality. White people and objects represent the exterior reality that obscures the deeper truth present in darkness.    The Europeans in the novel represent those who hide from the truth within them and within reality. In Conrad's novel, most Europeans are portrayed as self-deceptive; they use societal customs to obscure the darkness and emptiness present within their souls. The chief accountant exemplifies the self-deceptive European. Marlow gives his impression of the accountant in this excerpt, "I took him [the accountant] for a sort of vision. I saw a high starched collar, white cuffs, a light alpaca jacket... He was amazing" (Conrad 84). The accountant later stated, "The groans of this sick person distract my attention [from his work]" (Conrad 85). The accountant is so centered on maintaining a proper European image and European work ethic that he impressed Marlow, but the accountant showed no compassion for his fellow man. The accountant's appearance belied the darkness in his soul. Similar to the accountant, the General Manager maintained an aura of white civilization to hide the em ptiness and darkness that existed beneath his white surface. The manager paid proper ... ...ists within every human soul. Conrad used the contrasting images of white and black to illustrate his view that evil exists within us all. Light, which relates to civilization and its practices, helps to control and hide the dark truth within us, but that black truth of human nature will always remain.       Sources Consulted:    Conrad, Joseph. Norton Critical Editions: Heart of Darkness.   Ed. Robert Kimbrough. New York: W. W.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Norton, 1963. 3-79. Gekoski, R. A.. "Heart of Darkness." Modern Critical Interpretation: Joseph Conrad's Heart of   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Darkness.   Ed. Harold Bloom.   New York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1987. 57-76.    Said, Edward W "The Past and the Present: Conrad's Shorter Fiction."   Modern Critical Views: Joseph Conrad. Ed.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Harold Bloom.   New York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1986. 29-52.   

Essay on Appearance vs Reality in Everyday Use and The Gilded Six-Bits

Appearance versus Reality in Alice Walker's and Zora Neale Hurston's Everyday Use and The Gilded Six-Bits  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚   In "The Gilded Six-Bits" it appears that Otis D. Slemmons, the towns newest arrival, is rich, but by closer inspection by Joe Banks and Missie May, is found to be poor.   In "Everyday Use," Maggie doesn't appear to be smart enough to honor and appreciate her heritage, but she and not Dee/Wangero is really preserving the family traditions as well as heritage.   Both "The Gilded Six-Bits" by Zora Neale Hurston and "Everyday Use" by Alice Walker have the theme of appearance and reality.    Hurston and Walker use the theme of appearance versus reality to convey the message that things aren't always as simple as the outward appearances suggest.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The theme of appearance and reality is seen in "The Gilded Six-Bits" upon our first meeting Joe Banks and Missie May.   Even out first glimpse into their lives, we don't know they are married. It seems they are only dating.   Lillie P. Howard, author of the book Zora Neale Hurston, states, "The Gilded Six-Bits is the story of a beautiful marriage beset by difficulties, of trials and successes, of appearances and reality" (151). Joe admired Slemmons.   He says, "Yeah, he's up to date.   He got de finest clothes Ah ever seen on a colored man's back" (2089). Joe also admired Slemmons coins "He's got a five-dollar gold piece for a stick pin and he got a ten-dollar gold piece on his watch chain and his mouf is jes' crammed full of gold teethes.   Sho wisht it wuz mine" (2089-90). Slemmons gave the impression to Joe and the rest of the town that he had lots of money and expensive jewelry. Joe wants the possessions that Slemmons has, and Mis sie wants him to have them too.   Ã‚  Ã‚  ... ...ity, v. XXI, no. 3, Summer, 1985.   Short Story Criticism. Ed. Thomas Votteler, v. 5.   Detroit, MI: Gale Research Co., 1990.   Baym, Nina, ed. The Norton Anthology of American Literature.   Shorter fifth edition.  New York: Norton, 1999.   Hurston, Zora Neale.   "The Gilded Six-Bits" Baym 2087-2095.   Walker, Alice.   "Everyday Use" Baym 2522-2528.   Bone, Robert.   "Three Versions of Pastoral" in his Down House: Origins of the Afro-American Short Story, Columbia University Press, 1988.   Short Story Criticism. Fowler, Carolyn. "Solid at the Core," in Freedom Ways, v 14, no. 1, first quarter, 1974.  Short Story Criticism. Ed. Thomas Votteler, v. 5.   Detroit, MI: Gale Research Co., 1990.    Howard, Lillie P.   Zora Neale Hurston.   New York: Twayne Publishers, 1980.    Winchell, Donna Haisty.   Alice Walker.   New York: Twayne Publishers, 1992.    Essay on Appearance vs Reality in Everyday Use and The Gilded Six-Bits Appearance versus Reality in Alice Walker's and Zora Neale Hurston's Everyday Use and The Gilded Six-Bits  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚   In "The Gilded Six-Bits" it appears that Otis D. Slemmons, the towns newest arrival, is rich, but by closer inspection by Joe Banks and Missie May, is found to be poor.   In "Everyday Use," Maggie doesn't appear to be smart enough to honor and appreciate her heritage, but she and not Dee/Wangero is really preserving the family traditions as well as heritage.   Both "The Gilded Six-Bits" by Zora Neale Hurston and "Everyday Use" by Alice Walker have the theme of appearance and reality.    Hurston and Walker use the theme of appearance versus reality to convey the message that things aren't always as simple as the outward appearances suggest.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The theme of appearance and reality is seen in "The Gilded Six-Bits" upon our first meeting Joe Banks and Missie May.   Even out first glimpse into their lives, we don't know they are married. It seems they are only dating.   Lillie P. Howard, author of the book Zora Neale Hurston, states, "The Gilded Six-Bits is the story of a beautiful marriage beset by difficulties, of trials and successes, of appearances and reality" (151). Joe admired Slemmons.   He says, "Yeah, he's up to date.   He got de finest clothes Ah ever seen on a colored man's back" (2089). Joe also admired Slemmons coins "He's got a five-dollar gold piece for a stick pin and he got a ten-dollar gold piece on his watch chain and his mouf is jes' crammed full of gold teethes.   Sho wisht it wuz mine" (2089-90). Slemmons gave the impression to Joe and the rest of the town that he had lots of money and expensive jewelry. Joe wants the possessions that Slemmons has, and Mis sie wants him to have them too.   Ã‚  Ã‚  ... ...ity, v. XXI, no. 3, Summer, 1985.   Short Story Criticism. Ed. Thomas Votteler, v. 5.   Detroit, MI: Gale Research Co., 1990.   Baym, Nina, ed. The Norton Anthology of American Literature.   Shorter fifth edition.  New York: Norton, 1999.   Hurston, Zora Neale.   "The Gilded Six-Bits" Baym 2087-2095.   Walker, Alice.   "Everyday Use" Baym 2522-2528.   Bone, Robert.   "Three Versions of Pastoral" in his Down House: Origins of the Afro-American Short Story, Columbia University Press, 1988.   Short Story Criticism. Fowler, Carolyn. "Solid at the Core," in Freedom Ways, v 14, no. 1, first quarter, 1974.  Short Story Criticism. Ed. Thomas Votteler, v. 5.   Detroit, MI: Gale Research Co., 1990.    Howard, Lillie P.   Zora Neale Hurston.   New York: Twayne Publishers, 1980.    Winchell, Donna Haisty.   Alice Walker.   New York: Twayne Publishers, 1992.   

Comparing Nietzsche and Schopenhauers Attitudes Towards Life Essay

Comparing Nietzsche and Schopenhauer's Attitudes Towards Life ABSTRACT: On the basis of his metaphysics, Schopenhauer was led to advocate quietism and resignation as attitudes toward life. In the course of his career, Nietzsche reversed his estimation of Schopenhauer from initial agreement to final excoriation. In what follows, I examine and assess the grounds on which Nietzsche revised his opinion of Schopenhauer as educator of humanity. I argue that three fundamental issues divide Nietzsche and Schopenhauer. The first concerns the eliminability of human suffering. The second regards the value of sympathy to those who feel rather than are recipients of this sentiment. The third is the value of cultivating indifference to the suffering of others. Schopenhauer considers suffering as inextricably bound up with human existence, whereas Nietzsche views suffering as a sign of weakness that is ultimately eliminable from human existence. Schopenhauer assumed that sympathy and compassion have a benign effect upon those who experience these emotions; Ni etzsche maintains they have the opposite effect. Contra Nietzsche, Schopenhauer deplores the cultivation of indifference towards the suffering of others. I defend Schopenhauer against Nietzsche on all three issues, though I argue that Schopenhauer exaggerates the ubiquity of human suffering and hence the need and desirability of the cultivation of self-denial. 1. Nietzsche's Revaluation of Schopenhauer On the basis of his metaphysics, Schopenhauer was led to advocate quietism and resignation as an attitude to life. As is well known, Nietzsche held Schopenhauer's views on this and other matters in far higher esteem at the start of his intellectual career than he did at its end. To... ..., Friedrich (1965), Schopenhauer as Educator, trans. J.W. Hillesheim and Malcolm R. Simpson, (South Bend, Indiana, Gateway), pp. 25-26 (2) Nietzsche, Friedrich (1968), Twilight of the Idols and the Anti-Christ, trans. R.J.Hollingdale, (Harmondsworth, Penguin), pp.79-80 (3) Nietzsche, Friedrich, op cit, p.75 (4) Nietzsche, Friedrich, op cit, p.88 (5) Nietzsche, Friedrich, op cit, p. 88 (6) Mill, John Stuart (1962), Utilitarianism, (ed.) M.Warnock, (Glasgow, Collins), p.26. (7) Nietzsche, Friedrich (1968), Twilight of the Idols and the Anti-Christ, trans. R.J.Hollingdale, (Harmondsworth, Penguin), pp.118-119. (8) Schopenhauer, Arthur (1965), On the Basis of Morality, trans. E. F. J. Payne, (Indianapolis, Bobbs-Merrill), pp. 211-212. (9) Nietzsche, Friedrich (1969), Thus Spoke Zarathrustra, trans. R.J.Hollingdale, (Harmondsworth, Penguin), p.103.

Kone Case

GONE managers, however, weren't quite sure how they would take Moonscape to market. GONE managers had to decide what segment of the market they were going to target, how they were going to penetrate this segment, and how they could quantify the overall economic value of their product to their potential customers. Recommendations The marketing strategy that we chose for GONE Fugue was to advertise their product at trade shows, sales visits, and exhibitions such as Constructor. We also chose to install fully functional Moonscape elevators in all regional offices throughoutGermany in order to demonstrate the potential benefits of this revolutionary new product first hand to our customers. Moonscape elevators will come with a price guarantee between initial quotes to final delivery. This will alleviate any financial anxiety that our customers might have about dealing with a single supplier. Furthermore, we recommend that GONE set the price of the new Moonscape elevator at DMS 85,000 and increase their sales force, especially in regards to introducing new products, in order to compete with their competitors.Analysis GONE Moonscape is a revolutionary machine-room-less elevator that yields significant advantages over other designs. The gain of additional usable space for revenue-generating purposes and the greater architectural freedom In the design and construction of new buildings are some of the many reasons why GONE Moonscape is a truly innovative product that will help increase revenues of potential clients. There are many savings that potential clients will see when operating a GONE Moonscape elevator in addition to using new freed up space for revenue generating purposes.Those Savings include saved energy costs of G 1,540 per year vs.. Hydraulic elevators and G 740 per year vs.. Eared traction elevators. There Is no machine needed to operate the elevator which accounts for another savings of G 7,500. Finally, it is estimated that the savings for a construction company is upwards of 5% of construction costs when using a GONE Moonscape elevator as compared to any other hydraulic or geared traction elevator. Please see attached Excel Spreadsheet for savings comparisons. In addition to the quantitative savings factors, there are also qualitative benefits that Moonscape elevators provide.These qualitative benefits Include the reduced risk of a fire hazard when compared to unforgettable to ride in with shorter average ride times and are more aesthetically appealing. These improvements will be very popular among future riders. The perceived disadvantages that potential customers may have to the GONE Moonscape elevator are the higher initial investment and the size of the Ecocide required machine room for greater than 16 floors. However, the higher initial investment costs are almost immediately recovered in the cost savings from the machine room of G 7,500, as well as the energy savings of G 1 ,540 per year vs.. Hydraulic elevators and G 740 per year vs.. Geared traction elevators. Our target market segment includes those customers who are less than 16 stories in height, which would eliminate the latter concern. Customer, Company, ; Competition GONE was established in 1910, and headquartered out of Finland. Its core business was focused on the sale and maintenance of electrical motors. Over the years GONE expanded its core business to include steel equipment manufacturing, maritime equipment sales, and elevator manufacturing and services, among many others.GONE is currently the world's third largest elevator company behind rivals Otis and Schneider. GONE Fugue A. G. Which operated in Germany and was the most important market in mainland Europe. It manufactures and sells low-rise passenger elevators, medium-rise elevator systems, and high-rise elevator systems. Low-rise elevators accounted for approximately 75% of Cone's equipment sales, while mid- rise and high-rise elevators accounted for 15% and 10% of sales, respectivel y (Case). CONE'S elevator business was organized into two distinct divisions: New Equipment, called VI; and Services, called IV.According to case statistics, the New Equipment Division accounted for 38% of revenue, while the Service Division accounted for 62% f revenue. Over 90% of CONE'S sales are outside of Finland with 53% in the European Union, 29% in North America, 10% in Asia, and 4% in Australia (Case). CONE'S new revolutionary Moonscape elevator is a machine-room-less elevator that will yield significant additional usable space for its customers and allow greater architectural freedom in the design and construction of new buildings.Moonscape is being targeted at low rise buildings in Germany, which constitute 74% of real estate in Germany. Currently, this segment is served by 60% hydraulic, 40% geared traction elevators. We will target the geared traction segment, albeit with a price slightly higher than current price levels. We make this decision based on the fact that the elevator market is not as cost sensitive as it is quality and utility sensitive based on the fact that over 66% of the geared market went for the more expensive option.Product, Price, Place, & Promotion Moonscape elevators are a revolutionary product which take induction motors to a new level and offer the chance to architects to get rid of the clumsy and inconvenient machine rooms which so often spoil the perspective of the building or hampers basement and foundation design. It offers developers the chance to save the significant costs related to building these machine rooms. It was attractive owners of projects in that they would be substantially cheaper and safer to operate.GONE Fugues branch managers have often commented that the sales force of their competitors in Germany often outnumbered those of GONE by one to five. We believe force should be drastically increased to be at par with the competition in order to maximize exposure and to launch this brand new product. Demo insta llations at our regional headquarters throughout Germany will also convince those careful buyers ho wouldn't want their project to be the ‘Guiana pigs' for this new technology. Moonscape has typically found that going to Constructor and other trade shows is not as lucrative.However, because we are launching a completely revolutionary new product, it is essential that the contractors and architects (who together make up 90% of the elevator decision makers) are exposed to this new product. So while we will continue to invest in trade press and Journal advertising, we will have to make the investment to attend expensive trade shows for maximum impact. While the cost, ease and speed of construction will be emphasized to the contractors, the selling point to the Architects would be the aesthetic value that the absence of a machine room can bring to the skyline.According to the company's policy for markets with less than 15% market share, we have decided to price Moonscape slightly above current price levels, I. E. , at DMS 85,000. Most elevator models across brands have been making an average loss of 5% on initial elevator sales. For the first time, Cone's Moonscape would be profitable in the initial sale as well. Conclusion GONE Moonscape is a revolutionary product with a great potential to bump up avenues for Gone and to regain lost market share even in an economy where construction activity was slow.GONE has the technology to vastly and dramatically differentiate its products from anything else in the market and be not only qualitatively better, but much more cost effective. With this marketing strategy, we believe GONE has the potential to make the most of Moonscape as a lucrative new product. We believe that with a marketing strategy along the lines of the recommendations made above, Moonscape can be a very lucrative new elevator product and can reap large benefits for GONE in the German market. Kone Case GONE managers, however, weren't quite sure how they would take Moonscape to market. GONE managers had to decide what segment of the market they were going to target, how they were going to penetrate this segment, and how they could quantify the overall economic value of their product to their potential customers. Recommendations The marketing strategy that we chose for GONE Fugue was to advertise their product at trade shows, sales visits, and exhibitions such as Constructor. We also chose to install fully functional Moonscape elevators in all regional offices throughoutGermany in order to demonstrate the potential benefits of this revolutionary new product first hand to our customers. Moonscape elevators will come with a price guarantee between initial quotes to final delivery. This will alleviate any financial anxiety that our customers might have about dealing with a single supplier. Furthermore, we recommend that GONE set the price of the new Moonscape elevator at DMS 85,000 and increase their sales force, especially in regards to introducing new products, in order to compete with their competitors.Analysis GONE Moonscape is a revolutionary machine-room-less elevator that yields significant advantages over other designs. The gain of additional usable space for revenue-generating purposes and the greater architectural freedom In the design and construction of new buildings are some of the many reasons why GONE Moonscape is a truly innovative product that will help increase revenues of potential clients. There are many savings that potential clients will see when operating a GONE Moonscape elevator in addition to using new freed up space for revenue generating purposes.Those Savings include saved energy costs of G 1,540 per year vs.. Hydraulic elevators and G 740 per year vs.. Eared traction elevators. There Is no machine needed to operate the elevator which accounts for another savings of G 7,500. Finally, it is estimated that the savings for a construction company is upwards of 5% of construction costs when using a GONE Moonscape elevator as compared to any other hydraulic or geared traction elevator. Please see attached Excel Spreadsheet for savings comparisons. In addition to the quantitative savings factors, there are also qualitative benefits that Moonscape elevators provide.These qualitative benefits Include the reduced risk of a fire hazard when compared to unforgettable to ride in with shorter average ride times and are more aesthetically appealing. These improvements will be very popular among future riders. The perceived disadvantages that potential customers may have to the GONE Moonscape elevator are the higher initial investment and the size of the Ecocide required machine room for greater than 16 floors. However, the higher initial investment costs are almost immediately recovered in the cost savings from the machine room of G 7,500, as well as the energy savings of G 1 ,540 per year vs.. Hydraulic elevators and G 740 per year vs.. Geared traction elevators. Our target market segment includes those customers who are less than 16 stories in height, which would eliminate the latter concern. Customer, Company, ; Competition GONE was established in 1910, and headquartered out of Finland. Its core business was focused on the sale and maintenance of electrical motors. Over the years GONE expanded its core business to include steel equipment manufacturing, maritime equipment sales, and elevator manufacturing and services, among many others.GONE is currently the world's third largest elevator company behind rivals Otis and Schneider. GONE Fugue A. G. Which operated in Germany and was the most important market in mainland Europe. It manufactures and sells low-rise passenger elevators, medium-rise elevator systems, and high-rise elevator systems. Low-rise elevators accounted for approximately 75% of Cone's equipment sales, while mid- rise and high-rise elevators accounted for 15% and 10% of sales, respectivel y (Case). CONE'S elevator business was organized into two distinct divisions: New Equipment, called VI; and Services, called IV.According to case statistics, the New Equipment Division accounted for 38% of revenue, while the Service Division accounted for 62% f revenue. Over 90% of CONE'S sales are outside of Finland with 53% in the European Union, 29% in North America, 10% in Asia, and 4% in Australia (Case). CONE'S new revolutionary Moonscape elevator is a machine-room-less elevator that will yield significant additional usable space for its customers and allow greater architectural freedom in the design and construction of new buildings.Moonscape is being targeted at low rise buildings in Germany, which constitute 74% of real estate in Germany. Currently, this segment is served by 60% hydraulic, 40% geared traction elevators. We will target the geared traction segment, albeit with a price slightly higher than current price levels. We make this decision based on the fact that the elevator market is not as cost sensitive as it is quality and utility sensitive based on the fact that over 66% of the geared market went for the more expensive option.Product, Price, Place, & Promotion Moonscape elevators are a revolutionary product which take induction motors to a new level and offer the chance to architects to get rid of the clumsy and inconvenient machine rooms which so often spoil the perspective of the building or hampers basement and foundation design. It offers developers the chance to save the significant costs related to building these machine rooms. It was attractive owners of projects in that they would be substantially cheaper and safer to operate.GONE Fugues branch managers have often commented that the sales force of their competitors in Germany often outnumbered those of GONE by one to five. We believe force should be drastically increased to be at par with the competition in order to maximize exposure and to launch this brand new product. Demo insta llations at our regional headquarters throughout Germany will also convince those careful buyers ho wouldn't want their project to be the ‘Guiana pigs' for this new technology. Moonscape has typically found that going to Constructor and other trade shows is not as lucrative.However, because we are launching a completely revolutionary new product, it is essential that the contractors and architects (who together make up 90% of the elevator decision makers) are exposed to this new product. So while we will continue to invest in trade press and Journal advertising, we will have to make the investment to attend expensive trade shows for maximum impact. While the cost, ease and speed of construction will be emphasized to the contractors, the selling point to the Architects would be the aesthetic value that the absence of a machine room can bring to the skyline.According to the company's policy for markets with less than 15% market share, we have decided to price Moonscape slightly above current price levels, I. E. , at DMS 85,000. Most elevator models across brands have been making an average loss of 5% on initial elevator sales. For the first time, Cone's Moonscape would be profitable in the initial sale as well. Conclusion GONE Moonscape is a revolutionary product with a great potential to bump up avenues for Gone and to regain lost market share even in an economy where construction activity was slow.GONE has the technology to vastly and dramatically differentiate its products from anything else in the market and be not only qualitatively better, but much more cost effective. With this marketing strategy, we believe GONE has the potential to make the most of Moonscape as a lucrative new product. We believe that with a marketing strategy along the lines of the recommendations made above, Moonscape can be a very lucrative new elevator product and can reap large benefits for GONE in the German market.

Compare the ways the contrast between two fathers and their daughters are made interesting in ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and ‘An Inspector Calls’ Essay

‘Romeo and Juliet’ was written in the 16th century by William Shakespeare and ‘An Inspector Calls’ was written nearly 400 years later in the early 20th century by J.B. Priestley. In both of these plays the relationships of fathers, Lord Capulet and Arthur Birling and their daughters, Juliet and Shelia, are portrayed as being a typical father daughter relationship with seemingly very caring but slightly controlling fathers. In ‘Romeo and Juliet’, Lord Capulet seems to be very caring and considerate towards Juliet when speaking to Paris, a man that Lord Capulet would like Juliet to marry due to his status and financial position. This is shown when Capulet says â€Å"hopeful lady of my earth†, this infers Juliet means the world to him, it implies she is as precious to him as he created her and is very proud of her. It also shows that as she is his only child he wants nothing other than the best for her. We can also see that Capulet wants the best for his daughter when he is explaining to Paris how he wants him to â€Å"woo her† and to â€Å"get her heart†. This shows that Capulet wants Juliet to be in love with the man she is going to marry and wants to get married to him for her own emotional reasons and not just because her father wants her to. Many girls in the 16th century were forced into marriages they didn’t want to be in; many didn’t have a choice of whom they were going to marry but in Juliet’s case she did have some say which was a very rare occurrence. At the start of ‘An Inspector Calls’ we believe that Arthur Birling truly loves his daughter and he would do anything for her and support her in many ways. We can see this when he says â€Å"Sheila means a tremendous lot to me† over the engagement dinner with Gerald. It is portrayed that he truly has her best interests at heart and only wants the best for her. Although, as Birling later reveals that he wants Sheila to marry Gerald not only for her benefit but also for his, as Gerald’s father’s business (Crofts Limited) is Birling’s top rival and Birling knows that by his daughter marrying Gerald his business will thrive and exceed its current position. We can see this when Birling says â€Å"lower costs and higher prices† Birling is over joyed with Shelia’s choice as he can see the future business potential. So as we can see at the start of both of these plays both fathers only want the finest for their daughters and are trying to get them to marry into wealthy and well respected families. Change. The first time we see Juliet and Lord Capulet together is in Act 3, Scene 5, of the play when Juliet is about to tell her father that she doesn’t want to marry Paris. Lord Capulet walks in and witness’ Juliet crying, he thinks he is about to deliver good news which will stop her tears, but as he soon finds out she is crying because she doesn’t want to marry Paris. He is outraged. The audience can see this when Lord Capulet implies he will â€Å"drag thee on a hurdle thither† this shows that he is not going to take no for an answer and he is going to make Juliet marry Paris wither she likes it or not. He also refers to Juliet as a â€Å"curse† this proves that he is totally disgusted with Juliet that his own daughter is going against what he is telling her to do, and that all she is doing is bringing bad luck to the Capulet house hold, he is trying to make her feel so awful for not marrying Paris, in order to that she may change her mind. Even though Lord Capulet liked to give the impression that he was giving Juliet some choices in who she marries when he said to Paris â€Å"Within her scope of choice† we later find out that really Juliet had no choice and the decision was made for her. We thought that Lord Capulet was a kind and caring father but as we now can see he is not the person originally portrayed, when people do not do as he wants he turns into an strong willed man that will try to make them do it whether they like it or not . In ‘An Inspector calls’ Birling and Sheila’s relationship seems to be very childlike, this is shown when he says â€Å"Are you listening, Sheila?† and her reply is â€Å"I’m sorry, Daddy†. This shows that even though Sheila is growing up into a woman Birling is still talking to her like she is a child and is refusing to let her grow up. Birling is also very dismissive of Sheila; we witness this when he says â€Å"nothing to do with you, Shelia. Run along†, the way in which he speaks to her is quite belittling and we are made to believe that although she is his daughter, women are second class to men, he truly believes that she is not worthy of being spoken to with regard to the inspectors visit. Birling is a very single minded man who does not take kindly to opposition to his beliefs. This is seen when he says â€Å"we’ve had experience – and we know† this shows he is no longer prepared to discuss the topic any further, when discussing war with his son Eric. Birling has very similar expectations for his daughter as Lord Capulet has for Juliet, they both want their daughters to marry into good families however with a certain degree of control, we know this because Capulet says â€Å"within her scope of choice†, he is allowing her a certain degree of choice in whom she marries although it is clear that he would want to have the final say in who she married and therefore her choices are limited. Juliet clearly feels she is treated like a child too as she has no intention of marrying Paris as she is already in love with Romeo whom is a Montague. As the inspector questions each of the characters about a woman, Eva Smith (also known as Daisy Renton) who has apparently committed suicide. Each of characters have had some involvement with the young girl and may each of played a part into the her death. It is clear to see that Shelia’s personality goes from one of being immature and talked down to, to strong and mature, she accepts that she may have been partly responsible for the suicide of Eva. For the first time Birling is shown in his true light and Shelia she sees her father as being very opinionated and stubborn and refusing to accept any responsibility for his part in Eva’s death, as a rich employer to those in society who are not as wealthy, he has a duty of care. Birling also realises that his hopes and dreams may not become reality although he still refuses to accept any responsibility with regards to the death Eva, at the end of the play he cracks jokes about whole situation and about the way that possibly they have all been had over, although Shelia and Eric are remorseful, Birling mocks them when they are feeling so awful. When Capulet finds out his only daughter has taken her own life because she wanted to be with the man she loved, Romeo; not Paris, he seems to learn a lesson from his mistakes, this is shown in the quote â€Å"O brother Montague† (Romeo’s father) this conveys that now his actions have led to the death of a family members, Romeo also takes his own life and therefore there have been deaths on both sides which cause him to want to end rivalry between the Capulets and the Montagues. The word â€Å"brother† suggests that not only does he now want to take his rivals on as friends he sees them as almost family. This makes the audience feel sad for both families because for them, peace came at a very high price which both have paid but at the same time the audience would feel proud that both families have put their differences aside and came together to support each other. Ultimately the huge contrast between Lord Capulet and Birling is that although both men strive to be the successful men of their time and are trying to achieve the best for their daughters, Lord Capulet learns from his pushiness into trying to marry off his daughter to better the family name and Birling does not learn, even when someone has died and his daughter feels partly to blame he refuses acknowledge this or any part he himself may have had in the death of Eva Smith, or the feelings of his family. Juliet was a strong enough person to take matters into her own hands and hatch a plan to marry Romeo. Shelia shows that she is a more sensitive person by feeling guilt in her part of the death of Eva. The comparison of contrast between the two relationships became interesting and apparent when in each play someone died. Lord Capulet reflected on his actions and was able to offer an olive branch to his enemy in the hope that he could become a better person following the deaths of Romeo and Juliet. Birling still continued to be the single minded and stubborn man he started off as by not learning or realising that his actions have had consequences for others and especially his own family.