Evaluating Life Cycle of Pavements

Evaluating Life Cycle of Pavements Case Study from Nevada Department of Transportations Perspective Nowadays increasing number of agencies and companies have started to shift to the principles of sustainability in conducting business and activities. These principles also make good business sense as we try to improve the environmental, social and economic value of a product. The transportation industry is no different and many Departments of Transportation (DOTs) have already shifted to this by incorporating Life Cycle Analysis of pavements. Life cycle analysis of pavements is a comprehensive approach where economic costs of different alternatives during the life of a pavement are evaluated and the best one is chosen to be implemented. It is a complex process and varies from one DOT to another but usually there are some guidelines laid down by the Federal Highway Administration that are followed. For our case study, we have selected the Nevada Department of Transportation, also known as NDOT. This report presents a brief overview of the various components and strategies used in pavement analysis, maintenance and rehabilitation are discussed in detail. NDOT has a defined Pavement Management System to collect data and the application of LCA for construction of pavements has already been started. The various parameters considered in LCA as well as the limitations are discussed in this report. Keywords: Pavement, Life Cycle Analysis, NDOT, Maintenance, Rehabilitation Pavements, like any other thing, have a definite life cycle. They are constructed by keeping a certain period of utility in mind. The continuous use of roadways often leads to their degradation in their serviceability. The rate of this deterioration is dependent on many factors both environmental and load related. Using appropriate maintenance and rehabilitation techniques at the right time also can impact the life of a pavement drastically. The life cycle of pavements can be very broadly described as Stage 1: New Pavement Newly constructed pavements fall into this category. They require almost no repairs while in use. Stage 2: Minor Repairs After some initial time, the utility of the roads begins to decrease. Some maintenance work is favored. Stage 3: Major Repairs After long time in service the roads become deficient structurally and continuous use of roads in this state is not recommended. Stage 4: Complete Reconstruction Roads in this state of disarray are not be used except under extreme circumstances and require a complete overhaul and construction of new pavements. However, some agencies have been lagging in their effort to properly preserve their roadways. This has led to one third of the roads in United States being in poor or weak condition. Annually an estimated of 70 billion dollars to maintain the highway network in USA. This considerable sum has led people to try and manage pavements more efficiently. Constant evaluation of pavements has been adopted by many state DOTs to try and limit pavement deterioration once it is in use. There are two major categories for repairs of pavements in general terms are Maintenance Rehabilitation Maintenance is the process of repair of roads is done on a small scale as the pavements contain only minor faults and are fixed relatively easily. Some common maintenance techniques include fog seals and crack sealing and mainly slow down the deterioration rate of the pavements [1]. Rehabilitation is the procedure where existing portions of damaged pavements are completely redone as the damage is of significance. Rehabilitation techniques include in-place recycling and overlays and reset the whole process of deterioration [1]. The cost of either maintenance or rehabilitation of pavement is substantive and continuous to rise even today. This has lead highway agencies to use tools that can help combine economics and operations research to achieve pavements that are both cost effective without compromising their long-term properties. The most common method in use is the Life Cycle Cost Analysis or the LCCA [2]. It is a process where the value of the total project is calculated using the initial cost and discounted future costs over the life of the pavement. The components of LCCA is defined by different DOTs independently. For this report the case of Nevada DOT is chosen and LCCA used by NDOT will be explained later. The Nevada DOT was founded in 1917 and has since built and maintained almost 5,400 miles of road. There is an additional of more than 46,000 miles of public road mostly maintained by local agencies. The roads maintained by NDOT account only for 20% of roads in Nevada but these roads account for 52% of all traffic and 82% of heavy truck traffic of the state [3]. In the fiscal years of 2013 and 2014, NDOT spend around 270 million dollars on maintenance rehabilitation repair works. As one can infer from the figures the process of maintaining the roadways is costly and therefore NDOT uses various tools that can help to minimize this cost in the long run. Some of these tools are discussed in this report. Connecting the empirical data collected from the field and theoretical data calculated by an engineer in the lab has been one of the most difficult task in pavement engineering. Long term pavement performance has gained importance as it is a major component of any cost analyses that is conducted on the pavements. Therefore, predicting long term performance of pavements with good accuracy can provide valuable data for pavement modeling. Field data collected from various sites can also be used to verify whether the materials possesses required qualities or the design was sufficient. This can in their turn help in altering future pavement designs to better perform in the field. This has led to the creation of a Pavement Management System by pavement engineers. Data collected from various sites in the field is collected in the PMS and stored for further analysis by engineers. This collected data can be utilized to develop and verify pavement performance models The PMS used by NDOT was established in 1980 and is accordance with ISTEA guidelines. It monitors various pavement characteristics with time on a mile-by-mile basis for the entire NDOT system. The data collected includes cracking, rut depth, patching, surface condition, and ride with data on traffic and accidents are collected for informational purposes only. Using the data collected from the field seven performance indicators are calculated to classify pavements into four repair categories. The performance indicators calculated are Ride Rut Depth Cracking Patching Bleeding Raveling Present Serviceability Index (PSI) The PSI used by NDOT is calculated by the following formula PSI = 5*e-0.0041*IRI 1.38RD2 0.01(C+P)0.5 Where IRI = International Roughness Index (in/mile) RD = Rut Depth (in) C = Cracking Area (ft2/1000 ft2) P = Patching Area (ft2/1000 ft2) For the considered pavement points are assigned for the severity and extent of each of the distress indicators. The total summation of the points is used to assign the pavement into one of four repair categories which are Do Nothing Maintenance Overlay Reconstruction For details refer to Development of Pavement Performance, Analyses and Procedures [4]. The PSI of pavements is kept in check by performing routine maintenance and rehabilitation activities. As explained maintenance as a process only slows down the rate of deterioration while on the other hand rehabilitation will show an initial change in PSI and may also change the rate of deterioration of pavement. Generally, one observes that the cost of maintenance of pavement tends to be lower than the cost of rehabilitation. Therefore, if one has to be cost effective there needs to be a balance between the maintenance and rehabilitation of pavements. That is using only one type of repair work will be more economically inefficient. NDOT has chosen specific repair activities to catalog in the state of Nevada based on availability of previous data. If a technique was chosen without sufficient performance data, then the model would be of limited use only. The techniques thus used by NDOT include Maintenance Techniques: Rehabilitation Techniques: Sand Seals, Chips Seals. Flexible Overlays, Roadbed Modification, Mill and Overlays Sand Seals Sand seal is the application of an asphalt emulsion being sprayed on with a layer of clean sand or fine aggregate being embedded in the emulsion either by spreading immediately or using a pneumatic tire roller. After application of the tire-roller excess particles are removed from the pavement. The sand seals are useful for improving the surface properties of pavements and can also help in filling up any fine cracks of pavement surface. In addition, the sand can also improve the skid resistant properties of the road while reducing the chances of raveling. [5]. Chip Seals Chip seals have become one of the most used surface treatment technique for roads with less traffic. Similar to a sand seal, a chip seal is the process of spraying asphalt and applying a layer of aggregate over it. The asphalt applied could be in form of hot asphalt cement, cutback or emulsified asphalt. After the application of any of the listed types of asphalt aggregate layer is administers onto the surface, before the asphalt either cools down or the emulsion breaks so as to maximize adhesion. The aggregates in the asphalt matrix are further seated and reoriented using a pneumatic roller. Afterwards the excess aggregates are removed from the surface by use of brooming. Chip seals are used as a protection from further raveling as well as seal any small cracks that are in the pavement. Sometimes use of lightweight aggregates is justified in chip seals in cases where heavier aggregates might become a cause for windshield cracking. LWA are manufactured mainly from light minerals like shale, slate or clay and are usually more expensive and less durable than normal aggregates but these are much lighter in weight. This light weight prevents these aggregates from being able to crack windshields in the case they become projectiles. The cracking of windshields can also be prevented by use of polymer modified emulsion [5]. Flexible Overlays Flexible overlay is a method of rehabilitation wherein on top of the old structure a new intermediate layer is constructed. The major purpose of this new layer is to both add an additional structure to the pavement and to prevent the proliferation of reflective cracks from the structure underneath. The old structure can still provide a uniform support. The design and planning of the overlay should be done keeping into consideration the expected traffic loading that the pavement will be under. As such this technique usually causes an increase in the highway profile. Care also has to be taken to prevent moisture from getting between the overlay and old structure. To prevent this the materials uses in the overlay should be tested for both moisture susceptibility and durability [6]. Roadbed Modification Asphalt roads are also reclaimed using roadbed modification. This technique is usually applied to pavements where the PSI has fallen way below desired level. Pulverization of existing pavement is done to a depth depending upon the structure of the old pavement. The pulverization process sometimes also includes base materials sometimes if the depth of pulverization is greater than the bituminous layer. On the other hand, if the depth is lower than that of existing structure then use of cold milling can be beneficial as this will lead to minimal disturbance to the materials underneath. The materials pulverized is then mixed with cement and water, where it acts basically as aggregates. This concrete is spread out and compacted according to the design intended. Pavements with very weak or uneven foundations can benefit from this technique [7]. Mill and Overlays The mill and overlay method is a method of rehabilitation where the top surface of the damaged pavement is removed, usually up to 2 inches. This removal is done by the use of a milling machine capable to perform the task. The removal of the top layer comprises of the milling portion of the method and usually takes around a couple of days. Afterwards a new layer of bituminous layer is constructed on top of the structure, in place of the removed surface. The surface of the milled pavement is coated with liquid asphalt that acts as a tack coat between the old structure and the new bituminous layer. The construction of the overlay can take around one to two days depending upon the width of pavement and the traffic. The asphalt overlay to be placed on pavement is usually embedded to a depth of 1ÂÂ ½ using a paver [8]. When developing NDOTs pavement performance model three categories of data were considered Structural, Environmental and PMS. A list of factors from these categories was created that could possibly affect pavement performance was compiled into standard data collection form. Analyzing all the standardized data the following data sets were finally used when developing the model- Materials data of activity being modeled: These data include the types and percentages of asphalt binder and aggregates used in the maintenance or rehabilitation activity for which the performance model is being developed. Materials data of existing pavement layers: These data include the types and percentages of asphalt binder and aggregates used in the layers underlaying the maintenance or rehabilitation activity for which the performance model is being developed. Structural data: These data include the thickness of the various layers in the pavement structure including the thickness of the maintenance or rehabilitation activity that is being modeled. The structural number (SN) as defined by the AASHTO design guide was used to normalize the structural data among all of the pavement section. Reference 3 describes the method used to convert the layer thicknesses into SN values. Pavement performance data: These data include the PSI, percent cracking, and average rut depth values as obtained from the NDOT PMS data base. Traffic data: The equivalent single axle load (ESAL) was used as the traffic element. The average daily ESAL figures were obtained from the PMS data base and used to obtain the cumulative ESALs over the life of the maintenance or rehabilitation activity. Environmental data: These data include maximum and minimum temperatures, number of freeze/thaw cycles, number of wet days, and annual precipitation. LCCA is a tool that is used by NDOT to evaluate the economic assessment of pavements when considering the entirety of its useful life. It takes into consideration the initial costs as well as maintenance and repair cost that the pavement is likely to undergo in its life. This tool can be used by pavement engineers to optimize their budget to improve the overall useful life of the pavement. Different alternatives for repairs are considered and the one with the most utility or least cost is chosen to be put forward for consideration. LCCA is made from the following steps- All initial treatment alternatives must be identified For each alternative, their analysis period as well as treatment scheme should be determined The price of annual and each alternatives maintenance should be computed The economic assessment calculated for each alternative should be compared The alternative with the best economic assessment should be selected based on LCCA When performing LCCA, NDOT uses the AASHTO prescribed Present Worth method. This method is highly recommended and frequently used by state highway agencies. In this method, any future expense is converted to present value of the dollar. The present value of future expenses is the amount of money which will need to be invested at a particular compound interest rate for the total sum to be equal to the value of the future expense. The formula used in calculation is PW = F(1/(1+i) n) Where F = The future expense after n years i = Discount rate n = Number of years Since the costs of production keeps on changing with time due to inflation and other economic factors, a discount rate is chosen to compare the cost across all time periods. LCCA is performed on the pavement for a specific analyses period. The length of this analyses period has been calculated for various types of roads keeping important factors into consideration. Highway Class Analysis Period (Years) High Volume Urban 30 50 High Volume Rural 20 50 Low Volume Paved 15 25 Low Volume Aggregate Surface 10 20 For newly constructed flexible pavements NDOT recommends an analysis period of 25-40 years while for rehabilitation they recommended a period of 20 years. This data is derived from two major conditions, (a) It represents a realistic life of asphalt mixtures and (b) one or two rehabilitation periods are included in the period. Pavements have a defined life cycle. Regular repair work must be done during the useful life of a pavement to maintain it to a serviceable level. NDOT uses PSI as an indicator to determine the serviceability level of pavement. PSI can range from 0 to 5.0 and repair is done on a pavement when the PSI drops below an unacceptable level. NDOT uses 2.5 as the terminal level of PSI with roads having average daily traffic of more than 750. NDOT also has placed some reality checks in place for calculating the pavement performance period. They are not considered in when in performance models because they can act as an empirical check to the values obtained from theoretical models. These checks include data such as traffic accidents, high maintenance costs, specific site failures, etc. LCAA also include cost factors that encompass all the expenditure that is incurred by the pavement from the design phase till the end of its useful life cycle. These costs have to be properly compared for different alternatives in LCCA to arrive at the most economic pavement. These costs can include First Costs: These include both the expenditure for the initial construction of the pavement and the cost for the operations that occurred to facilitate the construction like surveys, designs and analyses. Annual Maintenance Costs: These include the expenditure that is use to maintain an optimum PSI level of the pavement so as to provide a smooth ride to the drivers. Road User Costs: These are the costs that are associated with driving on the road and include things like increase in travel time, accidents, change in fuel consumption by vehicle etc. Salvage Value: This is the value of the road at the end of its life cycle. These casts can be either positive or negative depending on the condition of the road. 1. Pavement Interactive 2. Evaluation of pavement life cycle cost analysis: Review and analysis 3. State Highway Preservation Report 4. Development of Pavement Performance, Analyses and Procedures 5. https://www.fs.fed.us/eng/pubs/html/99771201/99771201.htm 6.http://onlinemanuals.txdot.gov/txdotmanuals/pdm/flexible_base_overlay_and_flexible_base_thickening.htm 7. https://www.nevadadot.com/uploadedFiles/NDOT/About_NDOT/NDOT_Divisions/Operations/Construction/CM%20Section%206%20-%20300.pdf 8. https://www.stpaul.gov/departments/public-works/street-maintenance/mill-overlay

Energy Crisis Interrelated to Global Warming. Photovoltaic Cell †A Pos

Energy Crisis Interrelated to Global Warming. Photovoltaic Cell – A Possible Solution Abstract- The world’s energy crisis has worsened in recent years, as oil prices dramatically increased due to the limited amount of available oil. Global warming is considered as a byproduct of energy crisis, because as oil continues to burn in the refining process, CO2 is constantly emitted to the atmosphere at a fast rate and in heavy concentrations, which in turn, worsens the global warming situation. Photovoltaic cell technology converts sunlight into direct current electricity. This source can be a possible solution to solve the energy crisis as well as the global warming issue. Introduction- Energy crisis has remained a top concern in the world today. Fossil fuels, the most widely used energy source in the U.S. and in the world, is rapidly being depleted due to the fast consumption rate. Since we are highly depended on oil for transportation, cooking, and communication in our daily lives, the oil storage is starting to run out and eventually it will be all gone. Petroleum oil is always considered as a cheap energy source; however, the price of oil per barrel and per gallon has gone up significantly worldwide. The price of oil has already passed $60 per barrel, due to the energy crisis and oil shortages (Crude Oil Futures Prices – NYMEX, 2005). The increased oil prices and the limited energy resources will have a great impact to the global economy where stock prices fall, unemployment rates increase, economic recession and inflation can occur. Burning fossil fuels are not only causing the existing energy crisis in the world but are leading to global warming as well. Due to the excessive burning of fossil fuels, the ... .... Website: http://www.cintelliq.com/res_photo.htm Renewable Energy (2005) The Wikipedia Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved July 23,2005. Website: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renewable_energy Turner, John A. (1999) A Realizable Renewable Energy Future. Retrieved July 21, 2005, from Energy Viewpoint. Website: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/reprint/285/5428/687.pdf 14 The Coming World Energy Crisis. (2005) Retrieved July 21, 2005 from Planet for life. Website: http://planetforlife.com/ William, James L. Alhajji, A. F. PhD. (2003). The Coming Energy Crisis? Retrieved July 21, 2005, from Energy Economics Newsletter. Website: http://www.wtrg.com/EnergyCrisis/ Zittel, Werner. Schindler, JÃ ¶rg (2003) Future world oil supply. Retrieved July 21, 2005, from University Salzburg. Website: http://www.energiekrise.de/e/articles/International-Summer-School-Salzburg- 2002.pdf

Math Skills for Today’s Workforce

Sometimes people would think that what we learn is school is actually useless when we work in the real world. Yes it is true. You will not really apply everything what you learn, but there are skills that we acquire during the process of learning, and that is what’s more significant. A skill that is very indispensable is basic math. It will get you a long way. Perfecting your ability to calculate in your head and properly analyzing word problems will not hurt. Basic math is actually occurring in different situations, some in implicit ways, everyday. From street vendors, to hairdressers, to clerks, to managers and leaders, they all use it. By being skilled in that area, you will absolutely make your work more efficient.There are issues in education on the required math units for students, setting a higher standard for them to be more competent when they get to step into the real world. However, with higher requirements, it was discovered that employers do not actually need educ ation in math higher than what is taught in 9th or 10th grade (Cavanagh 21). Yet, it is still believed that having more advanced skills will help you succeed in college, as well as get a higher-paying job.The contradiction is that, if students work right after high school, what they should be taught must be more of the applied math and not much dwell on the technical and complex side of math. This will not only help them improve their skills needed for today’s workforce, it may increase student’s participation and interest on the subject.In that same article, it was revealed that out of the 51 varied professionals interviewed by Rosenbaum in the mid-1990s, on the subject of skills that are relevant in the workplace; basic math like arithmetic, fractions, algebra are them most common (Cavanagh 21). Another shocking survey took by Michael Handel revealed that out of the 2300 white and blue-collar workers, 94 percent applied math in their jobs. 22 percent of the workers s aid that they only used math skills like adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing. 19 percent only used Algebra 1 skills and only 9 percent used Algebra 2 (Cavanagh 22).Handel also proved the statement a while ago that people taking the most mathematics are earning way better – and that is Algebra 2 and above (Cavanagh 23). It was shown in their research that only less than 5 percent makes use of Algebra 2 and other higher math like trigonometriy, calculus and geometry.Math teachers have been greatly criticized on the theoretical approach and many students are actually looking for ways to apply the concepts being taught.   Not everyone will be taking Chemistry or Engineering so why tackle more on the very complex math? Employers are actually disappointed on the workforce today, which lacks the basic workforce skills like basic math, which involves more problem solving-related skills.In another study, which involved technical professionals, it has been discovered that m ath is very essential in areas that involve electronics (Stasz 210). They use geometry, algebra, trigonometry and even statistics. For health workers and vocational nurses, basic math is only needed in implementing their tasks.Waipahu High School and Kihei Charter School promotes education on the field of science, math, engineering and technology, which are needed to â€Å"fuel our new knowledge economy†. (Hatada 1) He said that math and science are very critical subjects and students must be able to master these subjects. It was said that most businesses are in need of â€Å"creative problem solvers†, which requires higher and stronger math and science knowledge.In their study, only half of the 17 year old students have strong enough math skills that will bring them to jobs in production. America’s 15 year olds rank poorly, with 24 out of the 29 developed nations in terms of math and problem solving skills (Hatada 1). That is why a lot of schools now are trying to reinvent their curriculum, especially for high school, whose big chunk already goes to the workforce after they graduate.There are programs for adults which refreshes you with basic education. An example is in Iowa, wherein local employers have been reported to provide education and training of their employees, which are more focused on the skills that are needed on a particular job description (Lundberg 1).The topics that will e discussed include the usual addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of whole numbers, addition and subtraction of decimals, addition and subtraction of shop fractions, addition and subtraction of shop decimals, basic calculation using scale drawings, ranking decimals and fractions, conversion between centimeters and millimeters, conversion between inches and metric measurements and last is tape measure reading.In Canada, the employability skills that are needed to enter, remain and also progress in your career are divided into three: fundamen tal skills, personal management skills and teamwork skills (The Conference Board Canada 2). Fundamental skills involve knowledge in math. When you communicate, you have to impart your knowledge through clear explanation of your ideas. When you manage information, you must be able to apply skills in mathematics as well, especially in statistics. When you use numbers, you measure something and methods in mathematics are really important. When you solve problems, math is undeniably an important tool in your analysis.It is also very evident in most skill tests in pre-employment examinations include math topics that are applied in business. An example question would be:If two employees working together product 12 products, four employees product 36 and eight employees produce 96, how many products would sixteen employees be expected to product?192  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  208  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  220  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  240If you were to organize the products for efficiency in picking and shipping, how would you position them relative to those employees responsible for picking the products?Product Z closest to the picker, then X and then Y.Such questions were taken from G Neil Skills Profiler Website. Evidently, there is a use of logic and common sense in these questions. This is to evaluate the applicant’s ability to strategize in different situations as well as assess how the applicant is able to apply such math skills than on the theoretical perspective of the math problem. Which means that the math used in workplace are more applied than the theoretical one that is mostly taught in school.The National Institute for Literacy took a survey regarding skills tested in the workplace. 11 percent of the firms have tested all their applicants of their math skills during 2001, which is higher by a few percentage points from the past several years, while 38 percent tested only some applicants (American Management Association 1).In 2001, math skills rank third in the survey, â€Å"Voices from Main Street: Assessing the State of Small Business Workforce Skills† with 62 percent (American Express 12). Verbal communication and interpersonal skills ranked higher. Other skills include written communication, basic business skills, financial accounting, mechanical ability, computer skills, internet knowledge and science.There was also a study by the National Center on the Educational Quality workforce (2). As said earlier, there have been efforts from employers to provide workplace education programs. In the manufacturing sector, 10 percent increase in the education of the workers is related to the 8.6 percent increase of productivity. An increase of 10 percent of working hours increases 5.6 percent of productivity, while 10 percent increase in the capital stock produces an increase of 3.4 percent in productivity. Evidently, the highest among the three would be increasing the average education of the workers, which emphasizes the importance of workforce training.In the non-manufacturing sector, a 10 percent increase in education yields a higher increase in productivity, with 11 percent. A 10 percent increase of working hours increases 6.3 percent productivity, while a 10 percent increase in capital stock yields an additional 3.9 percent productivity. This implies that training provides higher benefits in the non-manufacturing sector, although it is not really that far from the performance in the manufacturing sector.Training means an additional year of schooling for workers. With workplace education programs, there is at least one benefit gained by the organization itself, and at least one skill gained by the employees.   Thus, these programs mutually benefit the organization and employees and such programs would really be worth of the organization time, effort and money (Bloom 9).With these findings from various studies, I do believe that strong math skills pose a lot of benefits in the workforce today, by giving you an edge over other employees. You will be more efficient and be more likely receive higher compensation.   Math skills do not mean mastering the various mathematical theorems and definitions. There is a difference between being good in math and being good in applied math. Math is really useless if you cannot apply it to your job, since courses in school in the first place have the purpose of being applied when you get out of the campus. I believe that the current workforce must be reinforced with their basic education that is already geared towards their line of work.References:American Express, Small Business Services, Voices from Main Street: Assessing the State of Small Business Workforce Skills (PDF file), American Express, New York, NY, 2000.American Management Association, 2001 AMA Survey on Workplace Testing: Basic Skills, Job Skills, Psychological Measurement – Summary of Key Findings (PDF file), American Management Association, New York, NY, 2001.Bloom, Michael R. and Brenda Lafleur, Turning Skills into Profit: Economic Benefits ofWorkplace Education Programs, The Conference Board, New York, NY, 1999.Cavanagh, Sean. What kind of math matters? 12 June 2007. 5 February 2008. .Conference Board Canada. Employability Skills 2000+. 5 February 2008. .G. Neil Website. Skills Profiler. 5 February 2008. < http://www.gneil.com/info/skillsprofiler>.Hatada, Tori. Students need stronger math, science skills. 5 February 2008. .Lundberg, Marty. Workplace Math. December 1999. 5 February 2008. .Stasz, Cathy. Do employers need the skills they want? Evidence from technical work. Journal of Education and Work, 10(3), 205-223. 1997.

Defining Wal-Mart

Defining Wal-Mart Wal-Mart is able to deliver their customers a quality product at low prices. Wal-Mart does this by being efficient. This efficiency shows how they are able to acquire goods from all over the world, and get them to stores, which in turn, are also all over the world. Only through a flawless logistical system is this ability able to send products to any location at a moments notice. Wal-Mart's effective logistical system lies in the flexibility it has when choosing suppliers. Wal-Mart will only pay the most competitive prices when negotiating with suppliers, and those suppliers know that. It would be simple for Wal-Mart to find a different supplier of a particular item with a lower price. This gives Wal-Mart a great amount of leeway when handling suppliers. Should a particular supplier know Wal-Mart has found a lower price, it will lower its own price accordingly. They know that Wal-Mart's logistical system can handle transition seamlessly and therefore they gain nothing by refusing to reduce their prices.English: Supermercado de Wal-Mart in Spring Branch...Another factor which allows Wal-Mart such low prices is that they buy in such large quantities that transportation from one end of the supply chain to another is not as costly for additional units. Wal-Mart buys in such quantities that they have the luxury of using bigger trucks which use less fuel to move their goods back and forth. Also, if they must resort to using shipping services to transport their items from one place to another, Wal-Mart will give them so much business they earn huge discounts. Wal-Mart is able to offer items much cheaper than competitors because their logistical system is so effective, and the reason it is so stems from its flexibility (Simchi-Levi, 2008). All of these elements together give a great deal of added value to the...

The Impact Of Tourism In Malaysian Society Tourism Essay Example

The Impact Of Tourism In Malaysian Society Tourism Essay Example The Impact Of Tourism In Malaysian Society Tourism Essay The Impact Of Tourism In Malaysian Society Tourism Essay Malaysia has invested in a broad scope of touristry finishs for tourers. This state is blessed with diverse civilizations. traditions and histories. coupled with different landscapes and natural resources ; the state has built a strong and absorbing entreaty for both local and international tourers. Tourism sector. therefore. is of great importance to Malaysia’s economic system as one of the major foreign exchange gross or net incomes 2nd to the fabrication industry. Introduction Malaysia is a state situated in the Southeast Asia crossing from about 1?N to 6?45?N latitude and 99?36?E to 104?24?E longitude. dwelling of 13 provinces and three Federal Territories. with a land mass of about 329. 845 square kilometers ( 127. 354 sq myocardial infarction ) . The state is divided into two parts: Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysia Borneo also known as East Malaysia by the South China Sea. Malaya gained its independency on 31st August. 1957. It is surrounded by many states in Southeast Asia such as: Siam in the North. Singapore in the South and Philippines in the north-east. Dutch east indies in the south and south-west. Malaysia has a long coastline in the Peninsular Malaysia. It borders the Strait of Malacca. which is an of import international transportation cross-path. and contributes positively in the development of international trade which forms an built-in portion to its economic system. Malaysia is bio-diversified with scope of vegetations and zoologies. with picturesque coastal fields lifting to the hills and mountains. These pudding stone scenic natural beauty along with a diverseness of civilizations. races and ethnicity contributes vastly to the development of Malaysia. Tourism investing was endorsed by Malayan authorities in the early 90s and it was projected to go one of the chief stay of Malaysia’s economic system by lending to her income gross by a humongous 85 % growing in the twenty-first century. Malaysia has grown over the old ages to be one of the biggest participants in touristry. Just like other developed and developing states. Malaysia has invested to a great extent in touristry. which has grown to be among the universe category and as a consequence touristry has become one of the major gross for nation’s wealth. The tendency form and economic impact of Malaysia’s touristry sector Following the full indorsement of touristry by Malayan authorities. full graduated table analysis was conducted to see how they can tackle the profusion of natural resources and bio-diversified nature of the Malayan environments. There are assorted facets that contribute to the Malayan touristry industry. which is the amalgam of: nature. heritage. civilization. diverse races. tradition and spiritual diverseness. installations and its activities. ( Peters R. F ) stated that based on Malaysia’s strong natural characteristics of outstanding scenery. natural environments and alone life beings. nature touristry. a sub-sector of touristry. is a chance to be capitalized on further. Based on the turning involvement cultural/heritage touristry and planetary inflow of tourers in Penang and Malacca has improved the range of touristry in Malaysia without sabotaging every landscape of tourer attractive force site. In the early 90’s. Nature touristry was besides considered to be a comparatively sub-sector of touristry that was lending up to 7 % to 15 % of the overall industry and was expected to turn up to 50 % by twentieth century. The touristry industry has grown over the old ages from origin to this present twenty-four hours by a humongous 75 % growing. In 1990s the sector contributes merely 7 % to 15 % to the economic system of this state ( Hill. 1994 ; Pleumarom. 1997 ) . ( Fdi Tourism Industry in Malaysia ) reveals that the touristry industry reported an increasing tendency from 2000 to 2005. They farther anticipated that the Tourist reachings are expected to turn at an mean rate of 6. 9 per cent per annum to make 14. 3 million by 2005. Tourism grosss are targeted to turn at an mean one-year rate of 9. 5 per cent to make RM 29. 5 billion in 2005 says ( FDi Tourism in Malaysia ) . In 2010 at the touristry finish conference. touristry has now taken a prima place in National cardinal economic countries ( NKEAs ) . The touristry sector being a strong subscriber is merely non a new determination as its part has received widespread acknowledgment in the state. ( The touristry finish conference for 2010 ) reveals that the touristry reception for 2009 was at RM 53. 367. 7 million. with 23. 65 million tourer reachings. doing this industry the 2nd largest income earner for the state in the same twelvemonth and though these figures are commendable. it is said that the local touristry sector has non been exploited to its potential’ ( Y. B. Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib. 3rd March 2010 ) . In 2009. Malaya made it into top 10 most visited states in the universe. and was confidently placed in the 9th place below Meleagris gallopavo and Germany. This comment shows that Malaysia’s touristry sector has pulled international acknowledgment and has gained force of attractive force that draws the attending of tourers all around the continents of the universe to take Malaysia as their touristry finish. Social impact of the touristry industry The societal impact of touristry in Malaysia is unerasable and will prolong a universe record in the nearest hereafter. In a state with a diverse nationality. diverse race. civilization and faith. it has proven to me that understanding. tolerance and credence are portion of the key values that is maintaining Malaysia at the top among the top tourer finish states in the universe today. The originators behind the success of the touristry sector and the presiding organic structure over the full state have grown beyond looking at inequalities in faith. societal position. race. nationality and concentrate on how they can tackle these differences to draw greater force by change overing these differences into wealth. acknowledgment and success. Malaysia being an Islamic state could hold created a more negative societal impact on the thrust for universe best touristry zone based on the regulations and basicss of the Islamic religion. but in the face of the universe. Malaysia hit a solid discovery in suiting the full universe regardless of their religion or background to establish a new face of dynamic leading in touristry and still maintaining their religions intact without defect. Broad heads at the helm of personal businesss in Malaysia. who are blessed with a strong thrust to do her citizens to stand for values that promote oneness such as tolerance. regard. honor. truth and justness. Capitalizing on the strength of beauties all around the metropoliss down to the rural communities has bridge the spread of alteration to societal interaction within and to the full universe. The flexibleness in authorities policies to do Malaysia an international meeting land for all nationalities in the universe has made Malaysia to derive a vivacious base to better societal interaction for tourer chances. The coming of touristry in Malaysia initiated the demand for substructures which is continually fulfilled as demand arises. The societal impact of touristry has improved the basic life criterion for tourers and locals. which has grown enormously and in return has influenced the manner of life of the dweller of Malaysia. The touristry industry is fragmented in nature. It consists of little stockholders working in different touristry concern country. including: housing. nutrient. travel and leisure said by ( Mostafa N. Mehran N ) . The betterment and cooperation contributed by the stakeholders has a holistic attack to the full construction and lack from any sector of the stockholders will destroy and botch the good experience that the tourers would hold experienced. The societal impact could be felt in other countries within the state: such as the proviso of assorted flexible. low-cost and assessable manner of pilotage within Malaysia and a good route map that provide readily made information about route pilotage. The farther betterment on this country is internet handiness of route webs through ( GPS ) Global placement system. Understanding the Potentials of Cultural and Heritage Tourism Coupled with the Malaysia’s enormous growing in touristry. cultural/heritage is emerging in the categorical touristry sub-sector as a possible signifier of alternate touristry for both domestic travelers every bit good as international tourers. ( Prof Badaruddin M ) stated that cultural touristry in Malaysia attracted great promotions with addition in the figure of incoming tourers yearly. Malaysia is rich in cultural touristry resources that has over the old ages been abandoned but they have eventually been realised through cooperate attempt of the stockholders and the stakeholders in the industry. Examples of impressive cultural touristry resources available in Malaysia are the being of historical edifices. colorful life styles. multi-cultural and friendly ambiance. Giving these facets a governmental engagement publicity every bit good as related schemes and policies that will back up the growing more than what is presently assessable will hike the touristry sector further. Heritage and civilization in touristry is really of import facet in this industry as it showcase the values embedded and the values in the hereditary lifestyle leftovers and the alteration in life style over the old ages. ( Badaruddin M ) farther highlighted that the relationship between touristry and civilization can take signifiers and the consequence can be viewed negatively and positively when meeting of hosts and visitants occurs and perchance leads to transmutation of the hosts’ civilization. Example of this possibly can be drawn from the civilization of the western universe and the Arabs. Over the old ages. the citizens from Arab states have been going to Europe for touristry and many have migrated for exposure into the glamor of the West but because of certain believe and civilization that prohibits some of the life style in the West has resulted in clang of involvement between few progressive and cardinal peoples. World Tourism Organization ( 1985 ) defines cultural touristry as the motions of individuals for basically culturally motive such as survey Tourss. executing humanistic disciplines and cultural Tourss ; travel to festivals and other related events. And civilization is farther defined from the ( National Assembly of State Arts Agencies. 2005 ) position to be based on mosaic of topographic points. traditions. art signifiers. jubilations and experiences that portray 1s state and its people. Culture is defined as quoted in Meethan ( 2001:117 ) as a set of patterns. based on signifier of cognition. which encapsulate common values and act as general guiding rules. It is through these signifiers of cognition that differentiations are created and maintained. so that for illustration. one civilization is marked off different from another . Heritage touristry could be a subtype of cultural touristry. These two categories of touristry has become a adult section of the touristry market topographic point in Malaysia. This facet has appeared to hold been extremely motivated for different grounds than traditional touristry. The civilization and heritage has over the old ages attracted the attending of the tourer stockholders and has grown to go a immense market topographic point. Malaya does non incorporate a unitary civilization but it could be perceived to be diverse in world because of the racial differences. Malaya is made up of three nationalities: Malayans. who are said to be the first and original dweller of this land has the largest population of 50 % . the Chinese are said to hold migrated into this state in the early twentieth century for concern and became really relevant subscriber to the state constructing through their impact in successful trade and the battle for independency. The Chinese are said to take 30 % portion of the population of Malaysia. and eventually the Indians who besides migrated into this state in the early yearss of colonial epoch take 20 % portion of the population. These three races have differences in civilization that is doing Malaysia to hold a major discovery in touristry as the stockholders in this sector have harness the cultural difference to convey about beauty and wealth into this land alternatively of pandemonium. This cultural plangency has been manifested and successful through the promotional slogan thrust Malaysia Truly Asia and the current motto that is moving as a accelerator to the integrity and growing of the state in touristry. which is 1 Malaysia . Malaya is besides known for its typical multicultural architecture with strong Islamic. Chinese. Indian and western influences ; which have been portrayed in the heritage edifices. Malaysia’s heritage elements for touristry are: historic sites. alone local civilizations and historic edifices are common in many historic provinces and metropoliss in Malaysia. The stock list of heritage edifices reveals that over 30. 000 heritage edifices are located in 162 metropoliss throughout the state said ( Idid. 1996 ) this figure shows that 69. 6 % of this heritage edifices are shop houses that are built before World War II. These edifices have contributed their quota to the success of the touristry industry in Malaysia whereby the alone colonial architectural manners of edifices is playing a major function in the creative activity of historic provinces and metropolis such as: Ipoh. Kuala Lumpur. Kuching. George Town and Taiping. In order to prolong these edifices and to do them deserving much roots by pretermiting the negative impact of the past into a gross for more fiscal income that will hike the economic system of the state. the nutriment and direction of these civilization and heritage edifices was placed under the Ministry of Tourism and civilization. uniting section of Culture from Ministry of Culture. Young persons and Sports with the Malayan Tourism Department Corporation from the ministry of Trade and Industries. but the ministry was subsequently renamed into ministry of civilization. Humanistic disciplines and Tourism and besides subsequently dualised into two dividers such Ministry of touristry and Ministry of Culture. Humanistic disciplines and Heritage ( Kraftangan Malayisa ) . This structural accommodation has a great consequence on the concentration and duties of each section without softening responsibilities and duties. Some of the bureaus placed under this ministry are: National Art and Gallery. Department of Museum and Antiquities. Malayan Handicrafts. national Archives. National Art academy. national library and the Culture Palace including the National Film Development Corporation ( Finas ) . Reports shows that this gesture was carried out to beef up the ministries but might hold an impact on the focal point of cultural and heritage touristry in the nearest hereafter. Challenges and Issues facing Culture/Heritage touristry There is no uncertainty that rapid growing in Malayan touristry has relied to a great extent on the country’s natural heritage including the many offshore islands along both the western and eastern coastlines of the peninsula. together with protected nature militias. Promoting heritage and civilization is confronting several implicit in issues in Malaysia that are comparatively complex to the society life in Malaysia. Some of the issues cut across so many countries such as: Whose civilization is to be promoted? Though Malaysia is proud of being a multicultural society that is continually promoted on the media as 1-Malaysia and Truly Asia . the inquiry at the head of this media slogan call is that whose civilization should be promoted? The Chinese and Indians society are experiencing marginalised that their civilizations are non good promoted in the touristry prospectus provided by the authorities. which has been a major concern for the other parties as their civilization are thrown behind the media forepart. Similar issue of call was besides raised by the Malays in Penang and Malacca during the nomination procedure for the listing of Penang and Malacca into the universe heritage metropolis. This cultural group believes that the listings do non favor them and the island’s Malay history is non giving consideration in this regard. They felt that the listing of the 12000 heritage edifices were colonial edifices and the Malays therefore calls it a new colonisation of the state. keening on why their colonial yesteryear has to be glorified by their authorities. Authentic versus Staged Culture by ( Prof Badaruddin M ) Tourism in Malaysia has been transformed to go a important factor in the development of civilization and heritage in two ways: as a support and as a menace. Culture has the potency of back uping or suppressing the growing of touristry. There has so far been no specific effort to analyze the value of cultural attractive forces from the point of position of the tourers. Tourism governments and promotional advisers merely assume that the cultural elements of a plural society are attractive. Further inquiries can be raised as to whether it is the staged culture’ or the street culture’ that is more appealing to foreigners. Harmonizing to Kadir Din ( 1997 ) . street culture’ depicts the scenes of mundane life that can be readily observed by tourers in their natural scene. as opposed to staged culture’ which refers to plan staged presentations. which are specifically prepared for the tourer. Not until late does Malaysia began to recognize the values embedded in the importance of heritage touristry because of the inflow of tourers into the state for cultural heritage visit and how it has generated significant income for he state. Malaysia has long old ages of association with imperial states such as Portugal. Japan. and Britain. From findings Malaysia is said to possess two major natural universe heritage sites in Kinabalu Park and Gunung Mulu National Park. Kadir Din ( 1997 ) concludes that in footings of authorities allotments of financess for touristry. and of coverage by the promotional media. at that place seems to be a belief that staged civilization contributes more to tourism than street civilization. As mentioned above. the nomination of Penang and Melaka includes the preservation of cultural elements of the society. However. with so much force per unit area and development that have taken topographic point. one may inquire how this society can conserve its cultural elements to stay reliable. We may besides inquire whether what is left is still reliable? A similar remark can be made on the theatrical production of the monolithic festival of Citrawarna’ . A cultural parade of assorted cultural groups in Malaysia. Possibly copying the success of the Samba Festival in Brazil or the New Orleans Parade or possibly the Gion Matsuri ( festival ) in Kyoto Japan. the Citrawarna Malaysia has a batch of colorss but lack genuineness and besides history! Safety and security for touristry in Malaya Malaysia as a touristry finish for 1000000s of people around the universe. one of the greatest concerns for tourer is the issue of safety and security. Although Malaysia has suffered from several other lesser crises including economic crises amongst others. with touristry progressively threatened by international terrorist act such as terrorist act aiming tourers in Indonesia. Mombasa. Kenya in October 2002 severally. and Bombay in India. and in the Philippines. which is continuously presenting greater challenges. concerns and frights towards sustainability of touristry in Asia. Another major recent bad lucks that will increase the frights of tourer taking Malaysia as their tourer finish is the instance of spiritual crisis that emanated from the statement between the Catholic Church and the Islamic fundamentalist in Malaysia that resulted into the arson onslaught against some churches in some major metropoliss in Malaysia. Religion being a sensitive countries and has been used by some spiritual fundamentalists of different religion to jump up political and economic crisis around the Earth might direct a incorrect signal to tourers who have chosen this portion of the universe as their tourer finish. I have lived in Malaysia for academic activities and. I can attest positively to the rate of credence of aliens by the locals. the peaceable co-existence among the frogmans cultural groups in Malaysia. I can attest to the security step by the authorities through the constabulary and other jurisprudence enforcement bureaus. I can attest to ocular security camera engineering festooned around the main roads and sensitive countries around Malaysia to control offenses and bad lucks and to guarantee safety and security of life and belongingss. I can attest to the uninterrupted and foolproof communicating systems available around the nooks and crevice of Malaysia for faster communicating and study bringing. these and more are one of the fastnesss of Malaysia to supply equal security steps to guarantee safety for tourers. Crisis direction is one the anchor of tourer finishs and it has been a recognised construct since 1962 during the Cuban missile crisis. Crisis direction is good established in developed states than developing states but Malaysia being driven by finding for competition with developed states can non be underestimated when it comes to crisis direction. Malaysia recognises what it means to be recognised as the preferable location for tourists’ finish and they are populating up to and transcending the outlooks of their visitants. I have no concern inquiring excessively many inquiries on how they have been able to get the better of the challenges of crisis direction as I bumped into to pre-crisis analysis on Safety and security in touristry: relationships. direction. and selling ( By Colin Michael Hall. Dallen J. Timothy. and David Timothy Duval ) . which reveals how crisis direction can be better improved by through pre-crisis analysis. Malaya has history of crisis that can be learnt from but non every bit much in footings of international touristry. Lessons can be derived from crisis history of other state and the challenges they face and how they were able to get the better of these challenges. United States of America. United Kingdom. and Australia among others are the states that Malaysia has derived lessons from when it comes to crisis direction to further their touristry concern. Both the preparation and rating of a crisis direction program may be a beginning of trouble particularly in touristry given the disconnected nature of the industry. Testimonies gathered from people around the universe who have chosen Malaysia as their tourer finish have had cause to come over and over once more based on the delicious experience encountered in their old visit. Reports on the growing of tourers each twelvemonth from 2000 to day of the month has shown enormous addition in the concern of touristry in Malaysia. The negative economic impacts of touristry There are different factors that pose negative economic impacts on touristry. in instance where tourers don’t esteem the traditions. civilization or local life manner of tourer finish. or seasonal occupations such as people are merely employed when there are merely high inflow of tourer. which can take to high rates of unemployment. moreover. occupations involved in the touristry industry are seasonal and non good paid. this can be really unsafe for states that has full become dependent on touristry as their chief beginning of gross. The attendant consequence of all these factors frequently leads to: Infrastructure and incidental cost Economic independency Escape And rising prices Infrastructure and incidental cost. this state of affairs could happen when there is record or reception of high degree of harm on substructures than the sum earn from tourer visits Economic dependance. if Malaysia finally entirely dependent on touristry may present danger to their economic system. this can do the touristry sector to alter nightlong because of the natural catastrophe. terrorist act. altering consumer gustatory sensation and economic recession in the beginning of the state. Leakage. if Malaysia becomes a victim of escape the high proportion of the money spent by tourers that leaves the state. Therefore. escape can hold major impact in 3 countries such as: Tourist purchase of goods and services that have been imported. Hotels and other touristry related concerns and organisation import goods/foods as the local merchandise are non available or non up to the needed criterions Net incomes are repatriated by foreign proprietors of hotels and other services. Inflation could spike up goods and services in general degree of monetary values or a autumn in the buying power of money. Therefore. touristry can increase the value or monetary value of land. edifice etc. Tourists’ perceptual experiences and outlooks on the service quality in Malaysia touristry industry Malaysia ranks 6th amongst the preferable finish for Chinese travelers after Macau. Hong Kong. Singapore. Korea and Thailand. as per a survey by Taylor Nelson Sofres ( TNS ) . a planetary market penetration and information group. From this statement one can infer that Malaysia still missing in some countries that can draw more forces than their rivals. The secret lies in dynamic nature of other Asiatic states that happened to hold drawn more clients than the other. This might a strong belief in the spiritual tenseness that pops up intermittently within the state and more so Malaysia can foster tackle all the untapped touristry resources that are yet to outgrown research countries. Decision Like its Asean neighbours. Malaysia excessively regards touristry as a really of import sector that brings the much-needed foreign exchange. new occupations and concerns. The positive societal economic impact on a tourer finish can non be stressed plenty as Gartner ( 1996. pp. 64 ) . the money brought into an country through the procedure of hosting tourers provides more economic returns than merely the amount of the outgos accruing to the few concerns that come in direct contact with tourers. The impact of touristry in a state benefits all sectors of an economic system as the benefits from all these sectors can besides still be used prolonging the development patterns of the host state. Tourism has over the old ages been good every bit good as harmful for local economic systems. The argument goes on that whether it is blight or a approval? Experiences of finish vary in this respect. However. yesteryear records have shown that if touristry is non developed and managed decently negative impacts will take over and kill the finish in the long tally. Necessitate an essay? You can purchase try aid from us today! Read more: hypertext transfer protocol: //www. ukessays. com/essays/tourism/the-impact-of-tourism-in-malaysian-society-tourism-essay. php # ixzz2iG9YI9kb

Optimal Cognitive Development With the Help of Play Research Paper

Optimal Cognitive Development With the Help of Play - Research Paper Example A potential example of learning according to Piaget’s theory is in a kindergarten classroom. It is noteworthy here that in the kindergarten classroom, children are in the preoperational stage in which, they are egocentric. When a teacher in the kindergarten classroom asks the students to discuss their activity when it snows outside, different children share different thoughts; some might say that they like to make snowmen while others might say that they like making snow angels. None of these responses can be regarded as incorrect because these responses are grounded in children’s personal experiences of being outside in the snow. Such a discussion in the kindergarten classroom helps the children visualize and realize different activities that can be performed out in the snow with the information provided by their fellow classmates. Children in the kindergarten classroom think that the only correct answer to the teacher’s question is theirs since they are egocent ric. It is extremely important to realize different ways of employing the theories of cognitive development. Teachers can use Piaget’s cognitive theory of play in the kindergarten classroom to help the students become master learners. Major components of Piaget’s theory of play will be evidenced in my classroom through the division of the classroom into different centres or sections, each for a different type of play, as well as one where different types of plays can be organized in combination. For example, children will be given musical instruments like pianos and guitars to play.

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