Sport Trends in the Ymca

There are multiple ways that recent trends in the sport industry are affecting the YMCA. A majority of them would be revolving around the economy and how the YMCA is considered a luxury to the people. Others would be the increase of fitness in the world and sport curiosity and also the elderly still maintaining their healthy lifestyles. The increased popularity of celebrity athletes in the world are leading to an increased popularity in the sport world (Balmer, 2009). The battle against obesity is increasing the number of people who join a fitness club or health organization.Also, many people are beginning to try to find both healthier lifestyles and seeking a balance between work and leisure (Sports, 2007). Lastly, the way that kids are being taught is changing; practices are becoming known as best practices and the kids are learning more of the sport and becoming better (Stephens, 2009). All members of the YMCA consider it as a luxury to their life. They would not die without it an d do not need it to sustain their current life. When the economy is bad so is the amount of memberships that are still active. If a member encounters a financial situation the first thing that would go would be their YMCA membership.Employees at the YMCA know this, â€Å"At Countryside YMCA, we welcome everyone’s involvement by providing financial assistance to subsidize memberships or classes for eligible families or individuals† so they encourage and run a scholarship program (YMCA). This program encourages young people to stay active and fit while still in school. If your parent may not be able to afford you a full time membership as long as you maintain good grades and can prove that you are a full time student then you will be supplied with a membership at next to nothing if not for nothing at all.Another current trend affecting the YMCA would be the new attitudes toward maintaining health and the attitudes of the elderly toward staying active. The YMCA recently h eld their annual Halloween run. This event is a marathon through the mud. Many officials were very concerned with their recent numbers and were in fear that the marathon would be a disaster and they might actually have to cancel the event. They stuck through it and held the event and they had one of the best turnouts they have ever had. It was because of the youth and the elderly banning together to make this event so amazing.The number for the amount of people participating in the event ages 40 and on increased from a meager 15% to an astounding 35%. The number of people participating from the ages of 18 to 40 nearly doubled. With the increase of sport curiosity the YMCA is prospering because they offer a variety of sports. The increased popularity of celebrity athletes is affecting the YMCA extremely. One of the founders of the YMCA was Neil Armstrong and a lot of people sign up just for that reason. As bicycling expands and the popularity of Lance Armstrong grows the YMCA is begi nning to develop into the trend by now offering spinning classes.Also, as the world of mixed martial arts expands they YMCA went from offering just karate classes to offering more diverse classes that people like to watch and want to learn how to do them. It is clearly obvious that there is a major hike in the world obesity rate. Effects from this rises are people wanting to become more active in the fitness area. â€Å"Health Organization, since 1980, the number of obese people in the world has more than doubled and that in 2008, 1. 5 billion people aged 20 years old and older are overweight and 500 million are obese† (Danek, 2011).Since the YMCA maintains a friendly environment where there is a mass amount of different programs offered more people are beginning to go to the YMCA. Next, people have to work longer and harder schedules at work. This is leading them to have no time to go to a gym or enroll in a class that meets on a certain day and time. The YMCA offers an affo rdable place to work out whenever you want to. It is open nearly all day and all areas are open at any point in the day. If a person is having a tough time balancing their business world with their activity world there wouldn’t be a better place than the YMCA for them.Lastly, the way kids are being coached and how practices are ran are becoming more proficient and more focused on the kids overall ability. Coaches are learning they way to manipulate a kid and get their full potential out. This is certainly happening at the YMCA from their basketball games to their baseball games. Kids are being coached a lot better leading to more success in their games. References Balmer, K. (2009). Sport industry trend. Foresight, Retrieved from http://foresight-trendscan. blogspot. com/2009/09/sports-industry-trends. html Danek, K. (2011).Trends and opportunities for small business companies and entrepreneurs in the sports industry. Entreprenuers Week, Retrieved from http://entrepreneurweek . com/business/2011/10/03/trends-and-opportunities-for-small-business-companies-and-entrepreneurs-in-the-sports-industry/ Sports, A. (2007). Industry trends. Retrieved from http://www. amersports. com/about/corporate_structure/our_industry/ Stephens, R. (2009). Top 10 sports/social media trends of 2010. Sports Networker, Retrieved from http://www. sportsnetworker. com/2009/12/24/top-10-sports-social-media-trends-of-2010/ The ymca. (2011). Retrieved from http://www. countrysideymca. org/

Market Reserach

Unit 3: Introduction to Marketing Nike Market Research Market research helps Nike to make decisions by helping them to understand the changing dynamics of the market. Market research helps Nike understand who their target market are along with its competitors it has and where they differ. It helps Nike to make improvements, change their business plan or change their product. There are 2 types of market research, these are primary and secondary research. Primary Research Primary Research would be research that Nike have conducted first hand, meaning that Nike have done their own research.This could be internally or externally. If Nike was to do internal primary research they would look at things that are within the organisation. Such as their sales figures to see what products are selling well and in which areas, but also to see what products aren’t selling so well so they can try and improve them. They could also look at the customers data held on Nikes central database. This would be good for Nike as they could contact them customers and ask them what they liked about the products and what they didn’t like to give Nike more of an idea on how they can improve.Nike could also conduct external primary research which is doing primary research outside of the organisation. This could include things like questionnaires and surveys. These would also benefit Nike as they could find out more about what people like about their products and what sort of people they are. Interviews and focus groups are also another part of external primary research. These would be good to Nike as they would be able to see peoples’ reactions and find out about their product. Secondary ResearchSecondary Research would be Research that Nike have already done before, or research that another organisation would have conducted. This type or research would also be known as ‘Desk Research’ as it would normally take place at a desk. This could be helpful to Nike as they could look at a survey which the British Markey Research Borrow conduct (BMRB), such as the National Buying Survey so they can see where it is best for them to sell some of their products. Also these surveys help Nike to find out when they should advertise their television adverts and on what channels they should advertise them on.Quantitative Research Quantitative research relates to numbers and figures that can be analysed mathematically and/or be presented graphically. This can include figures and market values, it can also include customer’s responses. In a questionnaire a quantitative question would be one that gives you a series of answers to choose from, then it can be measured. For example 55% of customers like blue Nike trainers. This could be helpful to Nike as they could find out what customers like more and maybe it will tell them whether to change their product or keep them the same.Qualitative Research Qualitative research is the research that is subjectiv e and normally open ended. It often involves interviews or focus groups with customers. It results in a wide range of answers which reflect people’s personal experiences and feelings. Qualitative helps Nike investigate customer preferences. Nike could use qualitative research to help them see what people think about their products and their brand. It can also help them see how customers would react to changes in price and products.

Beowulf & King Lear Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Beowulf & King Lear - Essay Example Nowhere is this more evident than in his blatant disregard of Cordelia’s affection and the subsequent decision to hand over control of his kingdom to his two unworthy daughters, Regan and Goneril. His two wicked daughters who praise and flatter Lear, tripping over themselves to demonstrate with words to convince them of their great love for him as their father, are the same two women who spend the remainder of the play seeking to destroy him. It is Cordelia who attempts to save him and the rest of Britain by bringing in an army to try and save them from the evil represented by her sisters. King Lear quickly disowned Cordelia, previously his favorite of his three daughters, for not showing him the same flattery and praise that her sisters faked in his presence. He placed her in a terrible position, leaving for France and her wedding without the benefit of a dowry or the blessings of her family. Dependant solely on her virtuous nature, she leaves Britain to be married to the King of France who, unlike her father, treasures that nature above any flattery that she would bestow upon him. He gifts her with an army to return to her father’s kingdom in the hopes of saving it from destruction at the hands of her sisters. Cordelia displays an inner strength that is enviable. She faces harsh punishment at the hands of her beloved father for simply refusing to stroke his ego without breaking down. She also sails off to her husband without so much as her father’s blessing to encourage the marriage. Cordelia displays a kind of courage not shown in either her father or her siblings. While she could have saved herself the torment that her father put her through by pleasing him with pretty, empty words as her sisters did, the play would have lost much of its tragic element and the catalyst for future events. If Cordelia had sided with her sisters, she would have been given an equal

Globalization Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 10

Globalization - Essay Example Globalization also allows businesses to take up cost cutting measures by outsourcing production to countries where they can avail the benefits of cheaper labor, raw material, equipment, processing etc. that being said, operating in an international market also poses a number of threats some of the major ones being compliance to laws of specific countries of operations and increased competition For example, Nike outsourced its production to Asia and was criticized greatly for not considering the significant amount of child labor used in the factories there. Thus, the need have a strategic competitive edge is imperative for success in this era of globalization. For governments, globalization is seen as a threat as well as an opportunity. On one hand it hampers the growth of local industries and adds the aspect of uncertainty to the economic construct of a country. This is why many countries make it difficult for foreign companies to enter and operate in the home country, as a measure to protect their local industries to promote self-sufficiency For example; China has restrictive import policies so that the local industry does not suffer as a result of increasing trade. On the up side, globalization opens doors to trade and investment, boosting the economy (Imf.org). It also allows greater consumer power of choice and the influx of foreign business helps in the development of technology and communication locally. Lastly, it helps in countries to maintain positive relationships with each other, contributing to world peace and regional harmony like the trade relationship between US and European Union aimed at bringing both regions together th rough trade. Agreements like the transatlantic trade and investment partnerships regulate and support such trade

Marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 4

Marketing - Essay Example Was their objective to change their image from a conservative clothing store to a more fashion-updated store? Did they want to reposition their products? Are they willing to sacrifice their conservative market just to tap another segment of the market? These are essential questions which should have been addressed before deciding to come up with the ad. Another important aspect which Penny might have overlooked is the pre-testing stage of the advertisement. They should have randomly picked out a â€Å"consumer jury† who will view the ad and see how they would react to the ad. The â€Å"jury† should be representative of their target market, to include their present consumers and the market which they want to tap. Had they done this process, they could have gotten outright feedback on the impact of their ad. 2. How could Penney use public relations strategies to counteract the bad publicity it received as a result of the ad and the t-shirts? As a result of its television commercial entitled â€Å"Attitude Adjustment†, Penny suffered from bad publicity. Their customers reacted negatively. This same problem was encountered by Penny when they came out with a T-shirt design with a slogan â€Å"Home Skooled†. To counter the negative publicity that they experienced from these instances, I think Penny should try to redeem itself and beef up its reputation again.

Reflective Portfolio 04014 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Reflective Portfolio 04014 - Essay Example adopting the sustainability models of working, organizations are able to focus upon providing long term values for stakeholders of present as well as the future (Baumgartner and Ebner, 2010). PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) is one of the most globally renowned financial services firms. Their sustainability strategies are known to be highly feasible. The framework the company follows in this respect is as follows: PwC’s sustainability strategies focus upon four important business areas. These are essentially; the marketplace, people, community and the environment. The sustainability strategies of PwC focused on two crucial tenets which are being the catalyst of change and to pursue the right activities (Dyllick and Hockerts, 2002). Starbucks and Ford are also companies which are popular globally for their feasible and logical sustainable practices. Corporate analysis in general reveals that sustainable strategies are a responsibility of not just a single firm. It is an aspect that must be given effect to by a number of organizations collectively. Sustainability strategies are related to meeting issues such as weather change and resource scarcity (LÃ ³pez, Garcia and Rodriguez, 2007). Being a broad phenomenon, such issues can only be met through collective efforts. Sustainability, in most firms as also in the case of Ford, is about balancing the needs of stakeholders and the environmen t, keeping in mind the needs of the future generations. In many companies such as in Nike, innovation is considered to be a useful tool for meeting sustainability related objectives (Salzmann, et al., 2005). During the seminar, a number of aspects relating to sustainability and the manner in which firms adopt different approaches and strategies for meeting sustainability needs were elaborately discussed. Through the discussion carried out, I could gain valuable insights regarding the subject matter of sustainability. On the basis of the discussions carried out, I came to the

Development of the Five Islamic Schools of Law Essay

Development of the Five Islamic Schools of Law - Essay Example Medina was the location that Muhammad and his followers settled in after traveling to it in 622. (Kahn 2001). Other Arab tribes as well as Jews were already living there, so Muhammad made a series of agreements with them in order to maintain an organized, peaceful relationship, as well as lawful order. These formal agreements have come to be known as the Constitution of Medina; it involved the rights, duties and methods of solving disputes among members of various classes. (Al-Muhajabah, 2003). The agreements also gave the prophet Muhammad jurisdiction over all of the people living there. His actions, including his jurisdiction, were based on his interpretation of and strict adherence to the Qu'ran. (Kahn, 2001). "In simple terms, the first Islamic state established in Medina was based on a social contract, was constitutional in character and the ruler ruled with the explicit written consent of all the citizens of the state." (Kahn, 2001). The constitution of Medina established a pluralistic state -- a community of communities. It promised equal security to all and all were equal in the eyes of the law. (Kahn, 2001). Each tribe had its own laws, and they all had to agree on them for them to be held as laws. "To the tribe as a whole belonged the power to determine the standards by which its members should live." (Coulson, 1994). The pluralism set forth by the community of Medina set the stage for the pluralism found of the separation of Islamic law into five distinct schools. The first school of law to be discussed is the Maliki school. The school of Islamic law referred to as Maliki was founded by Anas ibn Malik. This is the school that was formerly the ancient school of Medina. Thus it continued to accentuate the practices that were encompassed by the Medinese community. While the three other schools or jurisprudence adhered to using the Qu'ran as their primary source for law formulation, the Maliki school was the only one to use the practice of the people of Medina as not only a source but often the primary source (rather than the Qu'ran). Malik felt that utilizing the practices of the people of Medina was a good source because both Muhammad and his companions lived their for most of their lives. Malik considered the people of Medina to be "living Sunnah." (Wikipedia 2008). Although some reliance on "Hadith (traditions concerning the Prophet's life and utterances)" was still evident, the Malikites preferred traditional opinions and analogical reasoning. (Encyclopedia Britannica 2008). The Maliki school believed that their laws did not need to be based on the Qu'ran and could instead be based on Muhammad's companions, for he gave them a "distinction and knowledge" that God had given to him. There were no records of God's words save those in the knowledge shared by Muhammad. (Brockopp from Weiss 2002). "The Great Shaykh theory makes explicit what is implied in these texts: that individuals, such as Imams and teachers, are invested with such religious authority that their words can generate law. Ascribing religious authority to great individuals quickly became endemic in Islamic culture great men and women, while no longer prophets, were still thought to embody certain ideals of truth and justice which emanated from the divine realm." (Brockopp from W

Rhetorical analysis essay Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Rhetorical analysis essay - Assignment Example These three stories are about â€Å"connecting the dots†, â€Å"love and lost† and â€Å"death†. Steve Jobs establishes his credibility, influence, and sometimes combines multiple rhetorical strategies to affect his audience to accept these enlightenments of life. To entirely understand goal of Steve Jobs in creating his argument on speech, the anticipated audience, apparent purpose and context ought to be initially analyzed. This presentation is at Stanford University as commencement. The audiences include top brains from the finest universities in the world. Steve Jobs advices and enlightens the graduates who are about to face life. In context, being an achiever, he imperceptibly uses his own life stories to convince his audience because the stories are reality. Steve Jobs’ humble beginning and the fact that he never graduated indicates that he has a lower starting point than these graduates thus confirming the reality of his stories. Steve Jobs presents his opinion and history as evidence that creates rhetorical backing in ethos. Steve Jobs, just like any other prominent speaker uses emotional anecdotes to represent their own personality and history. He begins his life story with his unwed graduate mother who puts him up for adoption and other clearly disadvantaged background as a poor child (Jobs Web). Steve Jobs, just like any other prominent speaker uses emotional anecdotes to represent their own personality and history. Presentation of his past connects well with his audience because they are able to relate his past and success. Job creates an environment that enables the audience understand that despite harsh historical encounters, it is still possible to excel. He also explains about a company he started that later grew into a big company and this reminds the grads that even them they can start off things humbly and be successful. Steve Jobs success in

Tuvan Throat Singing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Tuvan Throat Singing - Essay Example Tuvan throat singing is done by individuals to mimic the sounds of nature, rivers and animals. One of the most important ways Tuvans could connect with nature was through music. Traditionally Tuvan music leaves open spaces in which nature can come in and add itself to the conversations. Shamans traditionally used music to call upon spirits, ancestors and connect with natural surrounds. Shepherds used music to call their herds and imitate galloping horses. Certain songs were performed for enjoyment and other music created while working. Tuvan singing, also known as Overtone or "throat" singing is unique to this region of Tuva and Mongolia. Simply put it is the harmonized sounds that they are able to produce from deep within their throats. Tuvan singers simultaneously use two or even three voices extracted from one singer. Overtone singing uses low, suspended grumbles with guttural timbre colouring coupled with its upper overtones that sound like high-pitched whistles. These overtones are caught and amplified by the head resonator. In some cases a special additional sub sound joins the lower sound producing the effect of solo three-voice singing. These diaphonics, emitting two or more overtones together, are used to evoke spirits or imitate sounds found in nature. There exist a number of Tuvan overtone-singing styles. ... The styles differ by pitch and timbre. Each style has its own distinctive expressive properties. Khoomei means all throat-singing and encompasses all styles. It can refer to the pressure one feels when throat-singing and also to chest resonance. This is not apparent when listening to recordings but only obvious when listening in person. Not only is khoomei a generic name but it is also a particular style. It is a soft-sounding style, with clear and diffused-sounding harmonics. The timbres are slightly muffled and there are two or more notes clearly audible. Kargyraa is a style the features intense croaking tones, very rich in harmonics. They are usually performed low in the singer's range. There are two major styles of Kargyraa, mountain (dag) and Steppe (xovu). Kargyraa is unique in that nothing feels like singing it. The description used is "a mouthful of sound". This style uses dual sound sources, using both the vocal and ventricular folds in the larynx. This style is the one Tuvan style that is most closely linked to vowel sounds. The mouth varies from a nearly closed "O" to an open one. However unlike most other singing there is no correlation between the vowel and the pitch. Mountain kargyraa is usually lower in pitch than Steppe. It can often include nasal effects. It features a strong low-chest resonance and not a lot of throat tension. Steppe Kangyraa is the opposite and features more throat tension and less chest resonance. It is usually sung at higher pitches and has a raspier sound. Sygyt is the highest and brightest style which uses the highest register of the voice. This can be used to perform complex and distinct melodies, with a tone similar to a flute. The flute or shoor was originally played by the shaman to attract spirits for

Ethics - Food Essay Example for Free

Ethics Food Essay Although most people do not realize it, patrons of food establishments place their lives in the establishments hands. Improper storing and labeling of food items or selling slightly-expired food can be tempting from a financial perspective but can lead to serious injury or worse due to food poisoning, cross-contamination or allergic reactions. Food establishments should include firm commitments to food safety in their codes of ethics, always placing food safety above financial concerns. This includes going beyond the letter of the law to enforce the highest product quality standards. A code of ethics should include a commitment to sell only healthy products and never to use harmful ingredients. (http://smallbusiness. chron. com/code-ethics-food-establishments-10815. html) Delicious This Code of Ethics describes standards of conduct for Healthylicious board members, officers, managers and all other employees of Heakthylicious, and has been approved by the Healthylicious Restaurant Group, Inc. Board of Directors. Many of the policies in this Code are based on various laws and regulations. Other are based on business and ethical principles than enhance Healthylicious ability to conduct its business effectively. Others restate basic work rules and principles contained in the Employee Handbook. The purpose of the Code is to provide guidance and set common ethical standards each of us must adhere to on a consistent basis. It governs the actions and working relationships of board members, officers, managers and all other employees in dealing with fellow employees, guests, competitors, vendors, suppliers, governmental and self-regulatory agencies, the media, and anyone else with whom our company has contact. These relationships are essential to the continued success of Healthylicious restaurant . (www. mortons. com/assets/pdf/code_of_ethics. pdf? ) This Code: †¢ Requires the highest standards for honest and ethical conduct, including proper and ethical procedures for dealing with conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships. †¢ Requires full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosure in reports and documents that Mortons files with, or submits to, governmental and regulatory agencies, and in other public communications made by Mortons. †¢ Requires compliance with applicable governmental laws, rules and regulations. †¢ Requires the prompt internal report of any illegal behavior or violations of the Code. †¢ Establishes accountability for adherence to the Code. †¢ Provides for methods to communicate violations of the code. * We consider moral as an inevitable factor in caring on any duties talking decisions. We try to follow the highest standards based on Sincerity, generosity, conscientious. * We carry on the affairs individually groups to bring about validity to our company. * We at all times spend all of our energy resources towards production and services to guarantee our success against our competitor. * We behave equally towards all our guests all race religion, nationally and beliefs. * We offer all our services productions in highest standard with perfect constancy. * We provide a safe sanitary environment for all our guests and personal. * We try to stay for good at highest position in majority in word, practice ethic affairs. * We promote knowledge, education experience and motivation for all the staff in order to do their duties in a higher standard. * We provide equal opportunities for anyone to carry on their duties and all the staff which is working in similar level would be evaluated no differently. * We fully try to protect the natural environment and resources while carry on our duties. * We are looking for a fair share of income, no more or less. an. Our Mission †¢ To provide a wholesome dining experience, with Top Quality food, healthy and a staff that wants to exceed the CUSTOMERS expectations!! Our Vision †¢ To maintain a profitable operation that will continue our TRADITION of Quality Family dining, at a reasonable cost, in a comfortable atmosphere, with exceptional service. Our Values †¢ We are in business to meet our customer’s needs. †¢ We believe in empowering our staff to resolve customers concerns on the spot. We treat our employees as we want them to treat our customers. †¢ We believe in continuing our Family Tradition. †¢ We believe in you the customer, and by this tradition we will continue to make a reasonable profit, that will allow us to remain competitive, healthy, community involved, and a Family Restaurant where generation will continue to gather. †¢ We seek your comments, for we realize to exceed your expectations, we need to know what they are. †¢ Your safety, health, comfort, nourishment and Quality Service are Number One to US!!!

Laser And Intense Pulsed Light Therapy

Laser And Intense Pulsed Light Therapy The focus of this assignment is to examine the current legislations applicable to an establishment of a laser or Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) practice within England. The aim is to demonstrate an understanding of the current market and undertake a critical review and evaluation of the range of equipment for the removal of hair and skin enhancement. The equipment is to include treatment of photo rejuvenation, acne and vascular abnormalities. The discussion points will outline the key requirements of the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in registering the use of IPL or laser treatments in a beauty clinic. It is vital to undertake a critical review of the latest advances in laser or IPL equipment on the market, including the types of conditions they can treat, and to ensure the equipment covers skin types 1 to 6 on the Fitzpatrick scale. When consider purchasing IPL or laser equipment for a new clinic discuss what factors need to be consider when selecting appropriate systems. Methodology The methods used to gain information regarding this assignment were secondary from books and websites. By using the search engine Google and taking information from books data was gathered to put this assignment together. Also primary research was carried out when discussing, with other managers, the registration process and equipment used within their establishment. Findings Outline the key requirements of the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in registering premises for the use of IPL or laser equipment. In April 2009 the CQC took over the Healthcare Commission and is established under the Health and Social Care Act (2008). The CQC outline specific standards that are adhered to by each type of independent healthcare provider such as non surgical cosmetic procedures including IPL. By law, certain establishments and agencies providing healthcare in the independent sector must be regulated by the Care Quality Commission (Care Quality Commission, 2009) it is the duty of the CQC to ensure the equipment is properly maintained and all staff involved in the use of the machinery are fully trained to operate it. This is to maintain standards of health and safety towards members of staff and clients. This includes annual checks on the establishments and paper work that includes training certificates and records of clients undergoing treatment. Before beginning the registration process there are requirements that a manager undergoes to ensure the process is dealt with efficiently. These include the set up of the treatment room, customer complaints policy, a statement of purpose, and a medical report, all of which should be written and documented to show proof to the CQC. When setting up a treatment room for the purpose of laser or IPL the area must be suitable for the procedure which includes no reflective surfaces, a cool cabinet or fridge, a treatment bed, room for the machine to manoeuvre, equipment for performing the treatment, razors and a sharps box. The lighting must be to a high standard and a lock on the door means no one could potentially walk in during the treatment. This is to ensure all health and safety measures have been taken to provide a safe working environment. Risk assessment of the laser controlled area is vital and needs to be updated yearly or when any new equipment is acquired. The risk assessment includes PAT testing, treatment room standards, COSHH on the products used and the appropriate health and safety guidelines. When applying to register for the first time the manager must first read the guidance on applying for registration. It is compulsory to complete application forms R1 and R1SOP, along with a self-assessment form available from the CQC website. If it is required to have a registered manager, the form R1A needs to also be completed. When apply for registration, there is a non-refundable application fee. A series of other information is required to fill out the forms mentioned above, which includes a copy of the applicants birth certificate, any certificates of a change of name, a recent passport photograph, a copy of certificates relating to any relevant professional qualification obtained, a copy of each applicants up-to-date curriculum vitae (CV), a medical report, two personal references and a pre-interview self-assessment questionnaire should be filled out sent to the CQC. A statement of purpose consists of information on the intention of the equipment; this should be outlined and u p dated when necessary and a copy should be sent to the CQC. The registration process cannot start until the appropriate fee has been submitted for laser and IPL from then on annual fees are applied. The registration process can then take eight to twelve weeks to complete. Key staff involved in the process of laser and IPL include the manager and owners of the business and the staff who will be operating the machinery. Staff training can be provided by appointed Colleges that have the facilities, alternatively when buying the machinery specific companies provide training. For staff to be eligible for training the minimum qualification is NVQ level 3 or equivalent in the Beauty sector. This is to ensure the therapists using the equipment have a high standard of anatomy and physiology. It is imperative that the employees are trained to a high standard as the equipment can be dangerous. It is the managers responsibility to ensure all therapists are competent and trained in the equipment before providing treatments. The policies needed to ensure the correct standards are maintained include consultation forms, records clinical controls and client protocols. It is the responsibility of the manager and all employees to maintain current accurate records of clients medical history, skin conditions and personal information and to ensure they are signed by both the client and the member of staff performing the treatment. Undertake a critical review of the latest advances in laser and IPL equipment on the market and the types of conditions they can treat. Ensure work covers equipment for skin types 1 to 6 Laser and IPL machines are ever advancing with technology. This provides companies with up to date knowledge and expertise which can enhance the treatments given and adapt to new ones. It is important to discover clients needs and expectations to find a treatment that can help with the majority of concerns. Research is obtained to ensure the products produced will have an impact and be successful. It is vital that the equipment chose by a business appeals to the majority of clients. As there are many different skin types the machinery has a Fitzpatrick Scale (see fig 1) the equipment should cater for all 6 skin types on the chart. The equipment neodymium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet; Nd:Y3Al5O12 (ND:Yag) and IPL are the only pieces of equipment that work on all 6 skin types of the Fitzpatrick Scale. See Appendix 5 for a table on a wide range of products that use laser and IPL. This table shows the ND:Yag and IPL equipment is versatile and adaptable to accommodate all skin types. Appendix 1 shows a comparison of the equipment which demonstrates the qualities and uses. It is shown that the IPL works on the upper layers of the skin to aid with skin rejuvenation and hair removal amongst other treatments. IPL treatments are well established and have had many studies and independent surveys performed on them. ND:Yag is the new technology so it does not have all information on long term affects and results. This equipment works on the lower layers of the skin and hair follicle to enhance the treatment. The ND:Yag provides treatments for acne treatment and works more effectively on darker skin types. Lynton are a leading recognised company in the UK providing equipment for the use of hair removal and skin rejuvenation using IPL Laser and ND:Yag technology. Lumina is a piece of equipment that is versatile and works on many skin conditions (see appendix 3) and has options to select from Intense Pulsed Light only or Intense Pulsed Light with laser. This piece of equipment is high powered for fast results and has the flexibility and adaptability to perform well in most businesses. The Lightseries is a piece of equipment that has the latest multifunctional Alexandrite technology (see appendix 4) to perform treatments similar to the Lumina. Both machines have benefits to the business and it would be down to the manager to decide which would be most suitable to the individual clientele. Consider purchasing IPL or laser equipment for a new clinic, include what factors need to consider when selecting appropriate systems When a manager decides to invest in a new piece of machinery there are many factors that need to be considered to ensure the purchase it suitable for the business. There are many points to a new piece of machinery including, latest technology, design, cost and function which need to be researched. Demonstrations from the different companys to provide presentations on the information gathered on the product can be invaluable to making a decision on where to invest. This provides an opportunity for the manager to see the machinery, packages, ask all questions and see a presentation on the results. It is important to gather all information and have written proof of offers; this provides some security with facts and figures, to refer to at a later stage. The company providing the machinery needs to be reputable and information on the companys back ground can be fundamental to evaluate whether an investment is worthy. The longer the company and product have been established can make impact on a managers decision. The company need to provide a good basis of knowledge and results of the equipment to prove its functionality. Independent studies are effective in sourcing information on a product and confirming results produced. Questions such as how likely the machine is to break down, and if it does how easily is it to call out an engineer and have the parts available for replacement should be clearly outlined by the company. It is vital to know how many engineers are close by, how often does it need servicing and how much time will this take away from clients receiving treatments. What is the contingency plan of the company, what happens when it does not go according to plan and how efficient and proactive are the company at providing r esults. What organisations are the company affiliated with and what customer support is provided will prove to a manager that the company are committed to the success of a business. The machine needs to suit a certain criteria including size, design, mobility, presentation and function. The function of the machine needs to appeal to the majority of clients skin types and conditions. From an accounts point of view cost is an important issue. How much are the start up costs, replacement parts, how much are servicing costs and how often are they performed. Profit needs to be considered as to how much could the machinery make for the business, how long before a return will be seen and how much will the marketing and advertising cost. The manager will asses staff training, what is required, how often and where the training will be carried out. The company should explain if the training is an additional cost or included in the cost of the equipment or package. With all of this information a manager can make an informed decision on the investment. Conclusion To summarise, the first task was to research the process of obtaining the permission of the CQC to provide laser and IPL treatments. The legislation process involves a lot of paperwork, time and effort. This venture takes planning and determination from a manager and thorough meticulous, attention to detail. The outcome of the assignment is to show understanding of the different companies that provide equipment and the types of equipment available. With good understanding of what is involved in the decision process a manager can make an informed choice of what is suitable for the business needs. From a managers point of view the information gathered can be the deciding factor on whether or not to invest in such a venture. From this assignment I found it interesting to look at the tasks from a managers point of view and reflect on what I may consider doing in the future to encourage expanding the treatment range available to clients. Bibliography ABC lasers (2010) Home (online) available from www.abclaser.co.uk accessed 1st April 2010 Aesthetic lasers (2010) IPL and Laser (online) available from http://www.laseroffers.com/category/risk-and-safety-issues-in-aesthetics/ipl-and-lasers/ accessed 1st April 2010 Alma Lasers (2009) Alma Lasers (online) available from www.almalasers.com accessed http://www.almalasers.com/products.jsp accessed 28th October 2009 Bickmore, R.H( 2004) Miladys Hair Removal techniques British Medical Laser Association (2010) Medical Laser Resource (online) available from http://www.bmla.co.uk/index.php/medical-laser-resources accessed 1st April 2010 Care Quality Commission (2010) Laser Lights (online) available from http://www.cqc.org.uk/_db/_documents/Lasers_Lights.pdf accessed 1st April 2010 Eden Aesthetics (2010) Products (online) available from http://www.edenaesthetics.com/products.php accessed 29 the November 2009 Ellipse (2010) Ellipse Micro light (online) available from http://www.ellipseipl.co.uk/pdfs/Ellipse-MicroLite-Brochure.pdf accessed 13th February 2010 Goldberg, D. (2000), Laser Hair Removal. Martin Dunitz, London Godfrey, S. (2002), Principles and Practice of Electrical Epilation. Butterworth Heineman Lanigan, W.S. (2000) Lasers in Dermatology. London Springer Verlag Ltd. Lucid Training (2010) Core Knowledge (online) available from http://www.lucidtraining.co.uk/coreofknowledgecourses.htm accessed 13th February 2010 Reference Aesthetic lasers (2010) IPL and Laser (online) available from http://www.laseroffers.com/category/risk-and-safety-issues-in-aesthetics/ipl-and-lasers/ accessed 1st April 2010 Care Quality Commission (2010) Laser Lights (online) available from http://www.cqc.org.uk/_db/_documents/Lasers_Lights.pdf accessed 13th February 2010 Care Quality Commission (2010) Guidance on applying for Registration (online) available from http://www.cqc.org.uk/_db/_documents/Guidance_on_applying_for_registration_Independent_private_and_voluntary_healthcare.pdf accessed 13th February 2010 Care Quality Commission (2009) Guidance for Professionals (online) available from http://www.cqc.org.uk/guidanceforprofessionals/registration/independenthealthcareservices/howtoregister.cfm accessed 28th October 2009 Laser hair removal review(2009) Fitzpatrick Scale (online) available from http://www.laserhairremovalreview.com/comparison.html accessed 29 the November 2009 Lynton (2010) Lumina (online) available from http://www.lynton.co.uk/product_details.php?id=45 accessed 1st April 2010 Appendix Appendix 1 YAG 1064 nm Lasers Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Devices Applications Hair Removal, Photo rejuvenation, Skin Tightening, Active Acne treatment, Telangiectasias (spider veins), Rosacea, Sun Age Spots, Pseudofolliculitis Barbae. Hair Removal, Photo rejuvenation, Sun Age Spots, Rosacea. Efficacy High power to dermis: more energy to follicles, vessels, collagen, sebaceous glands. High power absorption in epidermis: less energy to deep dermal structures. Comfort Less painful due to shorter pulse durations. Painful due to tendency to super heat epidermal melanin. Skin cooling gels or equipment needed. Risk of Side Effects Safe on all Skin Types. all Skin Types. Consumables Few or none. Frequent head replacements (on average after 30,000 pulses), filters and gels annual cost $5,000-$10,000. Aesthetic lasers (2010) IPL and Laser (online) available from http://www.laseroffers.com/category/risk-and-safety-issues-in-aesthetics/ipl-and-lasers/ accessed 1st April 2010 Appendix 2 Lynton New Product information company equipment description use Lynton LP YAG HANDPIECE long pulsed Nd:YAG to add to a LUMINA base system hair removal for darker skin, skin rejuvenation, and leg veins for darker skin Lynton OMNILUX ideal for small treatment rooms, or those just starting out non invasive light therapy. Multiple treatment heads for use on acne, skin rejuvenation, wrinkles, non-melanoma skin cancer and psoriasis. Lynton Q-PLUS SERIES active q-switched Nd:Yag Laser with out puts at 1064nm and 532nm for use on epidermal and dermal pigmentation lesions and multicoloured tattoo fading and removal Lynton Q-PLUS C a single system combining actively Q-Switched YAG and Ruby Lasers providing outputs of 1064nm. 532nm and 694nm. For use on fading and removing tattoos of all colours and treatment of epidermal and dermal pigmented lesions. Lynton (2010) Lumina (online) avalabie from http://www.lynton.co.uk/product_details.php?id=45 accessed 1st April 2010 Appendix 3 Lynton Lumina LUMINA The flexible dermatological tool-box with Intense Pulsed Light, Laser and Q-Switched Laser technology. This clinically proven medical system leads the aesthetic sector in application versatility and revenue capability, with combined Intense Pulsed Light and Laser treatments. LUMINA is unrivalled in its system lifetime and flexibility, treating deep and superficial vascular lesions, unwanted hair, superficial and dermal pigmentation, photo-rejuvenation, active acne and multi-coloured tattoos. LUMINA has many unique features, including integral printer for treatment record keeping, patient database for instant and accurate records and digital imaging, as well as Interchangeable Light Guide (ILG) technology, all in a platform designed to accept application upgrades. Uniquely, LUMINA can be taken as an Intense Pulsed Light only specification at first and upgraded to add further Intense Pulsed Light handpieces and Laser accessories as required onto its compact single platform, givi ng a truly lifetime service. Please note LUMINA Intense Pulsed Light and Laser options require registration with the Care QualityCommission. KEY FACTS à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Select from Intense Pulsed Light only orIntense Pulsed Lightwith laser options à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ High power for fastresults à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Lifetime flexibilityand adaptability à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The leading UKaesthetic system Lynton (2010) Lumina (online) avalabie from http://www.lynton.co.uk/product_details.php?id=45 accessed 1st April 2010 Appendix 4 LIGHT SERIES The latest multifunctional Alexandrite, KTP and Nd:YAG Laser Platforms LIGHT Series systems are characterized by the best long pulsed laser technology available today, and the ability to combine multiple wavelengths into a single unit results in an extremely cost-effective system that allows a wide range of treatment possibilities and a rapid return on investment. The LIGHT A is an alexandrite laser at 755nm, the Gold Standard in permanent laser hair reduction for skin types I-IV and pigmented lesions. The LIGHT A* combines long pulsed Nd:YAG and alexandrite, resulting in the most comprehensive hair removal system on the market. It can also operate in short pulsed Nd:YAG mode, which is specifically designed for collagen remodelling and skin rejuvenation. The LIGHT C Long/Short Pulsed Nd:YAG (1064nm) Long Pulsed KTP (532nm) is ideal for practitioners who want to offer a wide range of treatments such as port wine stains, vascular treatments, post-sclerotherapy matting, rosacea, pigmented lesions, hair removal for all skin types, skin rejuvenation and tightening, and leg veins all in one system. Lynton (2010) Lumina (online) available from http://www.lynton.co.uk/product_details.php?id=45 accessed 1st April 2010