Computer Operating Systems

ICT 100: Introduction to Information and Communications Technology Unit 3: Operating Systems Objectives: ? ? ? ? ? ? ? Define the term software Differentiate between system software and application software Define the terms operating system and utility program Identify the types of operating systems Explain the boot process of a computer Describe the functions of an operating system Identify common utility programs Software, also called a program, consists of a series of related instructions, organized for a common purpose, that tells the computer what tasks to perform and how to perform them.The two categories of software are system software and application software. System Software System software consists of the programs that control or maintain the operations of the computer and its devices. System software serves as the interface between the user, the application software, and the computer’s hardware. It includes the following: 1. Operating Systems 2. Library Programs 3. Utility Programs Operating Systems An operating system (OS) is a set of programs containing instructions that work together to coordinate all the activities among computer hardware resources.Every computer needs an operating system to act as an interface between the user and the computer hardware. It allows the user to perform tasks without having to know how they are done. For example, a user can give a command to save a file on disk without having to know where the file will be stored or how it will be retrieved again. When a command is given to print a document, the user does not have to be concerned with the details of how the printer works – a program called a device driver takes care of the details. ICT 100 – Operating Systems Page 1 of 9The operating system that a computer uses sometimes is called the platform. With purchased application software, the package or specifications identify the required platform (operating system). A cross-platform program is one tha t runs the same on multiple operating systems. Application programs are usually written to work with a particular operating system, so that a word processor, which works with Windows, will not work on an Apple Mac, which has a different operating system. When purchasing application software, ensure that it works with the operating system installed on your computer or mobile device.The Bootstrap Process The process of starting or restarting a computer is called booting. When turning on a computer that has been powered off completely, you are performing a cold boot. A warm boot is the process of using the operating system to restart a computer. A warm boot properly closes any running processes and programs; however, it does not save any unsaved work. Thus, always remember to save your work before rebooting (restarting) a computer. Each time you boot a computer, the kernel and other frequently used operating system instructions are loaded, or copied, from storage into the computer†™s memory (RAM).The kernel is the core of an operating system that manages memory and devices, maintains the computer’s clock, starts programs, and assigns the computer’s resources, such as devices, programs, data, and information. The kernel is memory resident, which means it remains in memory while the computer is running. Other parts of the operating system are nonresident, that is, these instructions remain on a storage medium until they are needed. When you boot a computer, a series of messages may appear on the screen. The actual information displayed varies depending on the make and type of the computer and the equipment installed.The boot process, however, is similar for large and small computers. The steps of the bootstrap process are given and explained below: Step 1: The power supply sends a signal to the components in the system unit. When you turn on the computer, the power supply sends an electrical signal to the components in the system unit. Step 2: T he processor finds the ROM chip(s) that contains the BIOS. The charge of electricity causes the processor chip to reset itself and find the ROM chip(s) that contains the BIOS. The BIOS (pronounced BYE-ose), which stands for basic input/output system, is firmware that contains the computer’s start-up instructions.ICT 100 – Operating Systems Page 2 of 9 Step 3: The BIOS performs the POST, which checks components, such as the mouse, keyboard, and adapter cards. The BIOS executes a series of tests to make sure the computer hardware is connected properly and operating correctly. The tests, collectively called the power-on self test (POST ), check the various system components including the buses, system clock, adapter cards, RAM chips, mouse, keyboard, and drives. As the POST executes, LEDs (tiny lights) flicker on devices such as the disk drives and keyboard.Beeps also may sound, and messages may appear on the screen. Step 4: The results of the POST are compared with data in a CMOS chip. The POST results are compared with data in a CMOS chip. CMOS is a technology that uses battery power to retain information when the computer is off. The CMOS chip stores configuration information about the computer, such as the amount of memory; type of disk drives, keyboard, and monitor; the current date and time; and other startup information. It also detects any new devices connected to the computer.If any problems are identified, the computer may beep, display error messages, or cease operating — depending on the severity of the problem. Step 5: The BIOS may look for the system files on a USB flash drive or on an optical disc drive or may look directly on drive C (hard disk). If the POST completes successfully, the BIOS searches for specific operating system files called system files. The BIOS may look first to see if a USB flash drive plugged in a USB port or a disc in an optical disc drive contains the system files, or it may look directly on drive C (th e designation usually iven to the first hard disk) for the system files. Step 6: The system files and the kernel of the operating system load into memory (RAM) from storage (i. e. , hard disk). Once located, the system files load into memory (RAM) from storage (usually the hard disk) and execute. Next, the kernel of the operating system loads into memory. Then, the operating system in memory takes control of the computer. Step 7: The operating system loads configuration information, may request user information, starts several background processes, and displays the desktop on the screen. The operating system loads system configuration information.Necessary operating system files are loaded into memory. On some computers, the operating system verifies that the person attempting to use the computer is a legitimate user. Finally, the desktop and icons are displayed on the screen. The operating system executes programs in the Startup folder, which contains a list of programs that open a utomatically when you boot the computer. ICT 100 – Operating Systems Page 3 of 9 Figure 1 The bootstrap process Shut down options including powering off the computer, placing the computer in sleep mode, and hibernating the computer.Sleep mode saves any open documents and programs to RAM, turns off all unneeded functions, and then places the computer in a low-power state. If, for some reason, power is removed from a computer that is in sleep mode, any unsaved work could be lost. Hibernate, by contrast, saves any open documents and programs to a hard disk before removing power from the computer. Operating System Functions Operating systems perform the following functions: (1) manage resources, (2) manage backing store, (3) handle interrupts, (4) provides a user interface, (5) provide networking capabilities, (6) provide security. . Manage Resources The operating system keeps track of all resources (CPU, disk, memory, files, input and output devices etc. ). Through scheduling it decides what process gets what resource, when it gets it, ICT 100 – Operating Systems Page 4 of 9 how much and for how long. This is called allocation of resources. Resources can also be taken away from a process. This is called de-allocation of resources. Memory Management Computers are capable of holding several programs in memory simultaneously so that a user can switch from one application to another.The purpose of memory management is to optimize the use of random access memory (RAM). The operating system allocates, or assigns, data and instructions to an area of memory while they are being processed. Then, it carefully monitors the contents of memory. Finally, the operating system releases these items from being monitored in memory when the processor no longer requires them. If there is no memory management then one program might accidentally address the memory space occupied by another. This would result in corrupting programs with potentially disastrous results.Virtu al memory is used when sufficient physical RAM is not available. Part of a hard disk is allocated to be used as if it were main memory. The speed of access is very slow compared to RAM access speed. File Management The file management part of an operating system has four basic functions: 1. To allocate space on the storage device to hold each file stored, and to deallocate space when a file is deleted. Space is usually divided into fixed size allocation units (addressable blocks) of say 512 or 1024 bytes. 2. To keep track of the allocation units occupied by each file.Files may be split over several allocation units, not necessarily contiguous (i. e. together). A file may initially occupy one unit of 512 bytes, and then when updated by a user, need extra space which may have to be found somewhere else on the disk. 3. To control file access rights and permissions. 4. To map logical file addresses to physical addresses. For example, a physical disk may be split into several logical dri ves C, D, E, F, G. Managing Programs Some operating systems support a single user and only one running program at a time. Others support thousands of users running multiple programs.How an operating system handles programs directly affects your productivity. A single user/single tasking operating system allows only one user to run one program at a time. A single user/multitasking operating system allows a single user to work on two or more programs that reside in memory at the same time. When a computer is running multiple programs concurrently, one program is in the foreground and the others are in the background. ICT 100 – Operating Systems Page 5 of 9 The one in the foreground is the active program, that is, the one you currently are using.The other programs running but not in use are in the background. A multiuser operating system enables two or more users to run programs simultaneously. Networks, servers, mainframes, and super computers allow hundreds to thousands of use rs to connect at the same time, and thus are multiuser. A multiprocessing operating system supports two or more processors running programs at the same time. Multiprocessing involves the coordinated processing of programs by more than one processor. Multiprocessing increases a computer’s processing speed. 2.Manage Backing Store The operating system is responsible for the transfer of data from secondary storage (e. g. disk) to memory and vice versa. It also has to maintain a directory of the disk so that files and free spaces can be quickly located. 3. Handle Interrupts The operating system detects interrupts (such as the click of the mouse or a process indicating that it is finished with the processor) and then performs the necessary task (such as allowing the processor to be used by another process). 4. Provide a User Interface You interact with software through its user interface.That is, a user interface controls how you enter data and instructions and how information is d isplayed on the screen. The operating system acts as a user interface between the user and the machine. Command-Line Interface To configure devices, manage system resources, and troubleshoot network connections, network administrators and other advanced users work with a commandline interface. In a command-line interface, a user types commands or presses special keys on the keyboard (such as function keys or key combinations) to enter data and instructions. Graphical User Interface Most users today work with a graphical user interface.With a graphical user interface (GUI), you interact with menus and visual images such as buttons and other graphical objects to issue commands. Many current GUI operating systems incorporate features similar to those of a Web browser, such as links and navigation buttons (i. e. , Back button and Forward button). Some GUI operating systems provide access to command-line interfaces. Menu-driven Interface User is presented with a range of options from whi ch to choose ICT 100 – Operating Systems Page 6 of 9 Form Interface A user interface in which the computer outputs separate prompt and response fields for a number of inputs.Natural Language – the interface consists of standard languages such as English, Spanish, French, and Dutch etc. 5. Provide Networking Capabilities Some operating systems have networking capabilities built in, others are creating specifically for managing networks, e. g. server operating systems. Networking capabilities include organizing and coordinating how multiple users access and share resources on a network. Resources include hardware, software, data, and information. For example, a server operating system allows multiple users to share a printer, Internet access, files, and programs.The network administrator, the person overseeing network operations, uses the server operating system to add and remove users, computers, and other devices to and from the network. The network administrator also uses the server operating system to install software and administer network security. 6. Provide Security Computer and network administrators typically have an administrator account that enables them to access all files and programs on the computer or network, install programs, and specify settings that affect all users on a computer or network.Settings include creating user accounts and establishing permissions. These permissions define who can access certain resources and when they can access those resources. For each user, the computer or network administrator establishes a user account, which enables a user to access, or log on to, a computer or a network. Each user account typically consists of a user name and password. A user name, or user ID, is a unique combination of characters, such as letters of the alphabet or numbers that identifies one specific user. Many users select a combination of their first and last names as their user name.A user named Henry Baker might choose H Baker as his user name. A password is a private combination of characters associated with the user name that allows access to certain computer resources. Some operating systems allow the computer or network administrator to assign passwords to files and commands, restricting access to only authorized users. After entering a user name and password, the operating system compares the user’s entry with a list of authorized user names and passwords. If the entry matches the user name and password ICT 100 – Operating Systems Page 7 of 9 ept on file, the operating system grants the user access. If the entry does not match, the operating system denies access to the user. To protect sensitive data and information further as it travels over a network, the operating system may encrypt it. Encryption is the process of encoding data and information into an unreadable form. Administrators can specify that data be encrypted as it travels over a network to prevent unauthorized users f rom reading the data. When an authorized user attempts to read the data, it automatically is decrypted, or converted back into a readable form. Types of Operating SystemsOperating systems can be divided into the three following types: 1. Stand-alone 2. Server 3. Embedded Stand-Alone Operating System A stand-alone operating system is a complete operating system that works on a desktop computer, notebook computer, or mobile computing device. Some stand-alone operating systems can work in conjunction with a server operating system (here it functions as a client operating system); others include networking capabilities allowing users to set up small networks (e. g. home or small business network). Examples of currently used stand-alone operating systems are Windows 7, Mac OS X, UNIX, and Linux.Server Operating System A server operating system is an operating system that is designed specifically to support a network. These operating systems can support all sizes of networks from small to large-sized networks and Web servers. A server operating system typically resides on a server and provides client machines with access to resources. Examples of server operating systems include Windows Server 2008, UNIX, Linux, Solaris, and NetWare. Embedded Operating System The operating system on mobile devices and many consumer electronics, called an embedded operating system, resides on a ROM chip.Most handheld computers and small devices use embedded operating systems. Popular embedded operating systems today include Windows Embedded CE, Windows Mobile, Palm OS, iPhone OS, BlackBerry, Google Android, embedded Linux, and Symbian OS. ICT 100 – Operating Systems Page 8 of 9 Library Programs A library program is available to all users of a multi-user computer system, typically to carry out common tasks required by everyone. For example a routine that searches for lost files or restores corrupted files may be stored in a library. Utility ProgramsA utility program, also calle d a utility, is a type of system software that allows a user to perform maintenance-type tasks, usually related to managing a computer, its devices, or its programs. Most operating systems include several built-in utility programs. Users can also buy stand-alone utility programs. Utility programs perform common tasks that thousands of computer users need to do at some time or another, such as searching for files, viewing images, backing up files and disks, uninstalling programs, defragmenting disks, burning optical discs, and so on.One common utility is compression software such as WinZip that ‘zips’ files so that they occupy less space. This is very useful if your want to transmit a graphic or large data file over the Internet, as the transmission time will be much reduced. References Shelly, G. B, Vermaat, M. E. (2010). Discovering Computers 2011. Boston, MA: Course Technology Daley, B. (2008). Computers Are Your Future 2007. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education Heathcote, P. M, Langfield, S. (2004). ‘A’ Level Computing, 5th edition. Oxford: Payne-Gallway Publishers Ltd ICT 100 – Operating Systems Page 9 of 9

High performance system Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

High performance system - Assignment Example This system is not enough for checking for errors in a software coordination network [1]. The validation procedure is the main solution presented by Tran in this publication. Validation is a system that is able to check for errors with design and display an operational system. With majority of the article dealing with the Y2K problem, multiple software corporations have praised the new function of validation procedures in software similar to IV&V companies. An example offered is SEEC (Space Exploration Educators Conference). The conference has managed to employ an IV & V workbench able to comprehend and incorporate a proper remediation. The security case is another solution provided by the author of the article towards the checking of errors in a system. The safety case is a crucial document used to maintain certification [1]. Whilst the conditions of verification and validation are employed in credentials and texts, there are discrete variations in their vocabulary. According to Tran, E., 1999, verification is mainly described as the procedure by which assessment of a system or element is carried out with the aim of finding out whether commodities of a specified development stage please the terms imposed at the beginning of the stage. The solution therefore can not only check for errors, but also simply reveal whether the productivity of a stage follows the contribution of t stage in opposition to the revealing of the productivity of the software of commodity that is definitely accurate. [1] Tran, E., 1999. Verification /Validation/Certification, Dependable Embedded Systems [online] Available at: http://www.ece.cmu.edu/~koopman/des_s99/verification/index.html [Accessed 31 august 2009] [2] U.S. Department Of Health and Human Services, Food and Drug Administration, Center for Devices and Radiological Health and

Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Term Paper Example 1. Supply Chain Problems in Business Organizations The external environment of business corporations is countering large amount of changes in regard to alterations in demand for the products and services by the consumer sphere. Therefore, business organizations feel the requirement of strategizing the business operations in strict adherence to changing market demands. Supplies of goods and services must reach the end consumer on time. Furthermore, the manufacturing and supply chain operations need to be carried out with a focus on the changes in the demand sphere. Absence of demand driven supply chain systems for business organizations tends to make the production activities obsolete, leading to a loss of productivity, profitability, and blockage of working capital (Tai, Ho, and Wu 5397-5398). 2. Concept of Transformational Leadership Transformational leadership or the ability to transform focuses on incorporating a visionary approach in dealing with a change or alteration of the pre sent state of operations or conduct. Such visionary approach implies that the transformational leader focuses on generating key strategies based on objectives the organization is to achieve. A transformational leader is required to work on effective communication to help people working at different levels to receive a clear understanding of their way of approach. Such enhancement of the communication activities helps in generating confidence in the minds of the people to work collaboratively in the atmosphere of change. The change leader is required to reflect on the benefits the people and the concern will accrue in regard to the change process. Such transparency in communication between the leader and the subordinate groups instills confidence and, therefore, motivates the people to work more productively (Chen, Preston, and Xia 258-259). The transformational leader in regard to business organizations is found to incorporate the systems of information technology to enhance the wor king potential of the firm. The incorporation and use of information technology on a mass scale helps the firm to augment the level of resource utilization in achieving key managerial objectives. The transformational leader observes that the use of information technology in regard to business operations helps enhance the skills of the employees and efficiency of business processes. The alignment of information technology with the firm’s operations helps the concern enhance the operational and business processes, helping them to meet market demands effectively. The transformational leader gains efficiency in aligning the information technology incorporated with human and other organizational resources in different departments and levels. Transformational leaders are thereby required to effectively train, and communicate to, the people based on new objectives and skills to be gained to achieve the objectives underlined. Therefore, transformational or change leadership is a dema nd-centric approach which works best when focused on changes or alterations in the market demand for the services or commodities (Grant 471-472; Defee, Stank, Esper, and Mentzer 70). 3. Transformational Leadership in Generating Business Solutions The following segments reflect the transformational activities involved in supply chain systems, which an organizational leader can effectively

La Marseillaise, the Internationale and The Horst Wessel Song Essay

La Marseillaise, the Internationale and The Horst Wessel Song - Essay Example During different radical and political revolutions occurred in different parts of the world songs are created with motivating lyrics and several propaganda movies have also been produced to influence the behaviors and thoughts of masses(Parker, p126). Some of the popular songs in the history of world revolutionary politics include La Marseillaise, Internationale and The Horst Wessel Song. These songs have been writing during different time spans to advocate the political revolutions of in France, Russia and Germany however these songs are not limited to these countries and nations only but have inspired the whole world through their enthusiastic way of motivating and rousing people towards political changes and revolution. These songs enjoy worldwide popularity and appraisal and they have become international songs of revolution and radical political movements. The essay discusses the importance and role of these songs in fostering the movements during which they were written and pub licized and also illustrates the importance of songs and mass media messages by taking example of Riefenstahl’s political propaganda movie Triumph of the Will. La Marseillaise also called The Marseille song is the national anthem of France. The song was originally titles as the war song for the Army of the Rhine. The song was written in 1792 by Claude Joseph Rouget De Lisle and three years later in 1795 it was adopted as the first national anthem of the country. The melody of the song was adopted from a theme written by Giovan Viotti in 1781. Soon after its composition La Marseillaise received popularity among the masses. People started singing this song on the streets and it became the rallying call to the French revolution (Darnton and Roche, p60). The lyrics of the songs reflect the French invasion by the foreign invaders that came from Austria and Prussia and later the invading forces were repelled from France after losing the Battle of Valmy. However, later the song was banned by Napoleon I, Louis XVIII and Napoleon III because they viewed the song threat to the stability of peace within country. During the regimes of these rulers other songs were adopted as national anthem of France however, in 1879 it was restored as French national anthem and it was widely accepted that La Marseillaise was not only the anthem of France but it became the anthem of the international revolutionary movements occurred during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries (Prescott and Nelson, p87). The song played active role in motivating people and geared up their emotions towards fighting for social and political change in the society. La Marseillaise proved to be an impressive song with strong, passionate, encouraging and emotional lyrics and zealous music composition (Parker, p126). Another important and popular revolutionary song is Internationale that was originally written in French language soon after the demise of the Paris Commune by Eugene Pottier who was a revolutionary exile. However, the song didn’t remain engaged with the French revolution but it soon became the international anthem of the working class all over the globe. The song gained the attention as the common voice and expression of the people having firm belief upon socialism. The song gained popularity

Federal Budget Deficit Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Federal Budget Deficit - Essay Example This paper intends to discuss the significance, causes and recommendations attributed to the federal budget deficit. The federal budget deficit is significant in a number of ways. This may be either short term or long term. For instance, in a slack economy, the major effect of an increase in the deficit is stimulation of demand and consequent raise of output (The Moment of Truth, 22). It is significant to note that, as the economy approaches full employment and tightening of the credit markets, the federal government borrowing tends to push up the interest rates. In the same regard, higher interest rates influence the cost of financing new investment in plant and equipment. More over, the federal deficit causes higher interest rates influence international capital flows and consequent effect on trade balance. In addition, the deficit causes increase in the exchange value of the dollar particularly the price of the imported products falls. The deficit also increase the size of the nat ional debt consequently increase of the size of the annual interest payments make on the debt. On the other and, it should be noted that not all times the deficits pose disadvantages to the populace. Running temporary deficits especially during a recession economy a federal government can enhance a weak economy and cushion the effects of the downturn on Americans. Some of the causes of the budget deficit include tax cuts. According to the experts, the tax cuts pay for themselves. This implies that, the economy expands rapidly because of the tax cuts, which produce almost the same level of revenue, as it would have in the absence of tax cuts. This study observes that if the costs of extending the management of the tax cuts are not compensated by expenditure reductions, extending the tax cuts would somewhat decrease long-run economic expansion (The Moment of Truth, 24). On the same regard, increased domestic spending in various sectors of economy such as education, Medicare, defense ( homeland security) and infrastructure is immensely attributed to the current budget deficit. For instance between 2001 and 2006, the federal budget on domestic spending account for almost 26%. It is imperative to note that, even if the overheads of extending the tax cuts are compensated by expenditure cuts, the tax cuts would at preeminent have only small positive consequences on the economy. More over, today’s deficit is observed to have been caused by the 2001 economic downturn. The budget deficits can be reduced by cutting down expenditure on domestic spending. For instance, reduced spending on domestic programs through 2011 saw a total of $75 billion saved. In addition, tax cuts should be regulated to a lower level and more significant, strategies on reduced tax cut administration costs should structured to ensure reduced expenditure during this exercise (The Moment of Truth, 22). This study finds out that the federal government borrowing tends to push up the interest rat es, which are settled by the deficits. It is imperative to note that, deficits of such kind can be reduced by reducing government borrowing intended for the recurrent expenditure. However, this might not serve as a permanent solution in a slowly recovering economy attributed with the country’s medium and long term fiscal challenges. It is significant to note that, this is a tight economic situation, which requires stringent

New Labour Education Policy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

New Labour Education Policy - Essay Example In keeping step with the concept that the school is a reflection of society, New Labour's educational policies have been framed in their philosophy of free market competition, equality, and the recognition and reward of ability. New Labour has made a significant commitment to narrowing the gap between the rich and the poor and lessening the effects of the social and cultural capital that permeates the system. The policy is also committed to "reversing the increasing social exclusion of the unemployed and low-paid, and to equality of opportunity in education and the need to develop the potential of every child" (Tomlinson 2003, p.195). In addition, New Labour has maintained a steadfast commitment to "choice and competition, with education developing as a market commodity driven by consumer demand, fuelled by league tables of examination results, school 'choice' by parents, specialist schools and failing schools" (Tomlinson 2003, p.196). The ruthlessness of the market and cultural trad itions have often compromised the drive towards equality and fairness and has created tension in New Labour's controversial educational policies. No matter where you look in the educational system you will see the influence of the social stratification, racism, the gap between the poor and rich, and the class attitudes that are reflected in education's mirror. However, national standards and mandates have dictated that these influences must be overlooked and not considered in favour of an inclusive and performance based system. The initial enthusiasm that met New Labour's educational reforms has "dissipated into puzzlement, disappointment and concern about the direction of education policy, at least in... The researcher of this essay concluds that education reform in the UK has followed a violent and rocky road since the beginnings of formal education. Once thought to be the property of the elite, the researcher states that education is now perceived as a right that every citizen has an opportunity to attain. The traditional view that the school should be a reflection of the society becomes problematic when trying to instil equality, while honestly accounting for the culture. The call for free market choice and competition add additional tension to the multiple goals of the educational initiatives. Traditional social and cultural groups that underperform in society or economics will also underperform in education. This results in socio-economic groupings that take on the characteristic of being exclusionary. The students with social capital will group with like peers and self perpetuate the segregation. Meritocracy further increases the gap, as the most capable students will be the on es from an advantaged background. The researcher hopes that thse phenomena will resonate through race, ethnicity, gender, and the disabled. In this scenario demands that society make some fundamental changes in correcting its own prejudice. Still, Labour has shown a willingness to acknowledge its failures and alter their approach when possible. They have begun to consider the social context of the schools and it can be concluded that educational reform is far from ideal, but continues to evolve as society pulls it along.

Set Up and Operate a Business in Foreign Country Essay Example for Free

Set Up and Operate a Business in Foreign Country Essay This paper deals with the international business. It emphasizes on the means to start the business and the cost associated with the initiation of the business. It also describes the most important aspect of managing human resource. Because of the competitive environment, the need to do the business internationally has increased. This paper provides the overview of the two countries i. e. china and South Africa. Broad description of the legal processes that were supposed to be followed by the company to initiate business in the China has been explained. Apart from this, the staffing of local and expatriate staff along with the labor organization and legislation of the foreign country has been described. Therefore, the paper provides detailed analysis of the conditions that should be kept in mind while establishing business in the foreign country. Introduction International business is a term, which is used collectively to describe issues relating to the firm’s operations with interests in numerous countries. These firms are sometimes referred as multinational corporations. The main area of concern in the international business is the cultural considerations. These considerations include dissimilarity in law and legal systems, living standards, language barriers, climate and many more (Cherunilam, 2005). All these issues need to be overcome for an MNC in order to obtain success in an overseas venture. Nationwide economic growth and globalization of the economy provide an outstanding background for businesses in China as compared to the South Africa. Nevertheless, the growth of the company and sustainability can be hampered by the factors like industry consolidation, economic reform and globalization. The project of building substantial companies and integrating them effectively into the global marketplace is a complicated task. Reasons: Why Company Going Global Many companies and businesses get into international selling because of the existence of competitive environment. This environment compels the company to move further rather than staying at the same stage and size by just focusing on the quality. Another reason of growth and expansion is the fear of loosing the customers. If the company would not show sustainable growth, competitors would move ahead and chances of loosing of customers will increase (Cherunilam, 2005). Other general reasons for going international are: political changes like changes in the regulation of work and safety and economic changes that include cost of production. If there is an increase in the cost of production at home, company looks for places where cost of production is reasonable. The four major objectives that compel the company to go for international business are: to enlarge the sales, to successfully get hold of the resources, to diversify the sources of sales and to look for the diversifying the supplies (Kazmi, 2002). Overview Population China: China is a socialist republic and the most populous country with population over 1. 3 billion. It is having 90. 9% literacy rate (male: 95. 1% female: 86. 5%). The average educational achievement in China is low. South Africa: South Africa is a nation of diverse origins, languages, cultures and beliefs with population over 47-million. It is having 86. 4% literacy rate (male 87% female 85. 7%) of total population. The average educational achievement in South Africa is very low. Geographical Location  China: China is located in Eastern Asia bordering the East China Sea, Korea Bay, Yellow Sea and South China Sea between North Korea and Vietnam. China has mountains, high plateaus, deserts in west and plains, deltas, and hills in eastern region. The geographic coordinates of China are 35 °00N, 105 °00E. The total area coverage of China is 9,596,960 square kilometers (land area is 9,326,410 square km and water is 270,550 square km). China is the worlds third-largest country in total area after Russia and Canada, and the second largest country by land area. The total land boundary is 22,117 km and the border countries are Afghanistan, Bhutan, Burma, India, Kazakhstan, North Korea, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Vietnam. China’s coastline is 14,500 km (China, 2008). South Africa: South Africa is located at the southern region of Africa. The geographic coordinates of South Africa are 29 00 S, 24 00 E. The total area is 1,219,912 sq km. The total land boundary is 4,862 km and the border countries are Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland and Zimbabwe. Its coastline is 2,798 km. South Africa’s northwest region is desert and eastern is well watered. GDP, Per Capital Income, Current Inflation Rate, Unemployment Rate China: The GDP is $3. 42 trillion and officially recorded GDP growth rate is 11. 4% in 2007, per capital income is $ 2000, inflation rate is 7% in 2007 and it has jumped to 8. 7 percent in February after severe winter storms disrupted the economy and worsened food shortages (Chinas inflation at decade high, 2008). Unemployment rate in urban area is 8%-10% (China Unemployment rate, 2008). South Africa: The GDP is $283 billion, real GDP growth rate is 5. % in 2007, per capita income is $ 5700, inflation rate is 7. 1% and unemployment rate is 23% in Sep. 2007 (South Africa: Profile, 2008). Type of Legal System China: The legal system is based on civil law system. It is derived from Soviet and continental civil code legal principles. The legislature holds the power to interpret the acts. There are seven categories of laws in china’s legal system; these are: the constitution and related laws, civil and commercial laws, administrative laws, economic laws, social laws, criminal laws, and litigation and non-litigation procedural laws (The Constitution and Legal System, 2008). South Africa: The legal system is based on Roman-Dutch law and English common law. There is an independent judiciary in South Africa. Constitutional Court and Supreme Court are the highest court in the country. Constitutional Court deals with constitutional matters and Supreme Court deals with the final appeals of all the other matters. The bill of rights provides fundamental political and social rights to South Africas citizens (South Africa, 2008). Type of Economic System China: China is a major economic power and it has great potential of the development. Previously, the public sector was in dominant position, but after 2001, a socialistic market economy is taking place in China and the intensive mode is replacing the extensive mode of economic growth (Economic System, 2008). South Africa: The South African economy is an industrialized and productive economy. It has inadequate distribution of income wealth. Labor is divided into formal and informal sector. Formal sector is more developed, which is based on agriculture, manufacturing, services and mining. South Africa is looking forward for privatization along with free arket economy and favorable investment climate (Economy: South Africa, 2008). Type of Political System China: The National People Congress is the highest authority of state power in China. The people congress system is the fundamental political system in China. The representatives are elected by people at all levels. South Africa: The South African Republic is a federal state constituting of a national government and nine provincial governments. The constitution of South Africa was adopted in 1996 and implemented officially on 4 February, 1997. President of South Africa is the executive head of the state and leads the cabinet. He is elected for a two five year terms by the parliament (South Africa, 2008). Estimates of Future Economic Growth General Economic Projects China: China has become the world’s fastest growing economy after the economic reforms in 1979. It has achieved 11. 4% GDP growth rare in 2007. Industrial manufacturing expansion has contributed in China’s rapid economic growth. European Union, Japan, United States, Hong Kong and ASEAN are the major trading partner of China. Rapid economic growth of China results in an increase in income, which in turn makes China a huge market for a variety of goods and services. So it would be beneficial for any company to start operation in China. South Africa: In previous years, South African economy was not doing well. Government was facing the problem of unemployment and poverty. But in recent years, country is seeking to achieve stable growth rate. To promote economic growth, South Africa is making optimal use of available resources and reducing completer dependence on primary sector industries. South African companies are now investing in retail, banking services, telecommunication and shipping industry. Government is seeking to liberalize its economic policies to attract FDI and increase future economic growth and now outsider companies may think to start its operations in South Africa. Social and Cultural Factors Social factor in China: In China, the main focus of the business entities is on the corporate social responsibility. The Chinese region has become the region full of opportunities for MNC’s in these days because of the rapid rise, elaborating receptiveness and growing consumer market. The social factors reflect the true picture of society’s attitude towards the corporate. The symmetrical society structure stimulates forces on businesses for concentrating on corporate social responsibility (Kyoon, 2007). Cultural factors in China: Understanding the culture of a country is one of the important factors in front of modern organizations. The traditions and customs vary among towns, cities and provinces in China. The social network structures in China assist in understanding the information sharing between the people (Kyoon, 2007). The Chinese environment is now open for the outsiders. The cultural values include the belief in God, unity, optimism and readiness to work together according to the rules of law. Social factor in South Africa: The social environment of South Africa is highly imbalanced and not much developed. It suffers from the problems of increasing population, poverty, illiteracy and lack of resources. The population of South Africa was 40. 6 million in 1996, which is growing rapidly at the rate of 2% per year. If the same trend continues, then by the year 2035, the population of South Africa will be approximately 86 million. This will be a problematic situation as the country has limited resources to support its increasing population. There is already a pressure on the resources to meet the needs and requirements of the people (Social Environment, 1999). Many people in the country live in informal and inadequate houses and just half of the population lives in towns and cities. Many people living in rural as well as urban areas even do not have access to water supply, electricity, sanitation and other services. Nowadays, the urban population of South Africa is rapidly increasing because of factors like growing employment opportunities, land reform and restitution and immigration from other countries. Unemployment and poverty are the major problems in South Africa that affect the social life of the people. The poverty level is the highest among the Black population of South Africa. It has reached up to a level of 60%. The education level of the country has increased as compared to the previous year levels, as the country has reformed its educational system. Almost, all South Africans now have access to education but still about 7. 5 million people are functionally illiterate. Such factors contribute to high crime rates in the country that have noticeably increased in the urban areas. These and other factors contribute to the high crime rates currently experienced in many urban centers. To promote sustainable development and reduce social imbalances such as poverty, unemployment and pressure on natural resources, the Government has developed a number of policies and passed a number of laws aiming at some constructive work in this direction. These include the Reconstruction and Development Programme, a White Paper on Population Policy, and the National Crime Prevention Strategy (Social Environment, 1999). Cultural Factor in South Africa: Africa has a diverse cultural environment with about 800 languages spoken all over the continent. Among these, South Africa have 11 official languages of its own, i. e. English, Afrikaans, Tsonga, Xhosa, Ndebele, Southern Sotho, Zulu, Tswana, Venda, Northern Sotho, and Swati. There are many cross-cultural challenges that are critical to success and organizations should be prepared to face these challenges. Analysis  The company has chosen china for its operations as china has successfully emerged as the best suitable market for the consumer products, especially in terms of the growth rate, potential and the market size. China is providing huge benefits to attract the players from the United States. The growth graph of the china depicts that the market of the consumer electronics is growing with a CAGR of 11. 7 percent from the year 2002 to 2006. Future also shows the greater intensity of market growth. There is a greater possibility of bright future in Consumer Products. The Company is willing to start its operation. Another major factor for establishing operation in china is the population as it is regarded the driving factor for any business. Apart from this, there is a well established market of credit card, which has increased the popularity of the consumer products in the country (Windsor Jones, 1999). China is the highly populous country and demands for consumer products are fuelling with greater pace. In china, urban centers are emerging which are called secondary cities, which comprise of 8 to 10 million people. These cities have huge buying power and industrial development. These cities would be best for the company’s operations and are located interiorly away from the cost. Tsingtao is a city, which is suitable for the operation of the company because its urban area is quickly expanding. It is also having excellent connections with the countryside. The disposable income of the people is quite similar to the people in the bigger cities. Another reason for selecting this place is that the people in this city show greater likeability towards the product of the United States and relate the product with greater degree of integrity. People show positive view and experience towards the U. S consumer products. Operations In order to establish operation in china, company’s chairperson should visit these cities, must talk to the local officials and begin networking. Apart from this, the most important thing is to analyze the competitors’ working and strategies. Another step that the company can adopt is subcontracting, which can be done by forming joint ventures with the manufacturers of china. If the company doesn’t possess enough resources for joint venture, company can go for forming the partnership or consortium in the United States. This consortium acts as the legal entity, which can form partnership with the Chinese manufacturer. The advantage of the consortium is that it reduces risk and the cost for the company (Barron, 2006). While selecting the operations, evaluation should be made based on the analysis of cash accounting and not on absorption accounting. As in absorption accounting, the fixed costs are prorated over small volume of production and thus the number obtained can deter company from moving production to a subcontractor. The other operations include: integrity of product and trade safety, fair balanced economic development, financial sector reform, security energy efficiency, sustainability in environment and bilateral investment. All the above mentioned reforms would help the company to establish business opportunities in china. The agreement between the United States and China that relates to conduction of business with extensive cooperation covers the issue of climate change, environmental sustainability and energy security. This type of agreement would advance the innovation in the technology and the acceptance of extremely-efficient and clean energy technology will encourage the development of technology so as to address the changes in the climate and promoting natural resources. Three major factors, which can determine the success in the Chinese market and should be kept in mind, are: †¢Culture: Understanding of Chinese culture and behavior can provide better option to fulfill the demands of the customers. †¢Value Proposition: This includes having the knowledge of technical know how and understanding the level of competitiveness. †¢Negotiation: The Company should implement negotiation technique as per the way of Chinese. Success of doing business in China depends greatly on the extent of adoption to the requirements of he local customs instead of the value proposition of foreign investors. Legal processes In the process of starting a new business, Legal and regulatory processes play a very vital role. Legal processes include several restrictions, intrusive bureaucracy, dissimilar understanding of regulations from place to place even between authorities and recent formulations of policies that are aimed at safeguarding the domestic companies. Therefore, before starting any operation in the foreign country (china) the company should understand regulations and their applications before entering into any agreement. The company should look for legal proposals from experienced professional firms. Due attention should be given to the financial and legal background and also on the reputation of key partners. Apart from this, partners and employees should be educated on the protection of the intellectual property. If required, the rights can be enforced but for this, all the terms and conditions should be well known. Management Organization Structure Organization structure plays a vital role in determining the success of the company in the host country. Therefore, there is a requirement of change in the organization structure in order to accommodate a firm’s internationalization approach in answer to the worldwide competition. Significant research has shown that the structure of the firm must be conducive to the strategy implementation. In simple words, it can be said that the structure should â€Å"fit† the strategy. Managers should work towards achieving the fit between the structure and the strategy (Gupta, 2007). Management organizational structure refers to the representation of a formal structure, which describes relationship inside an organization. The level to which authorization is assigned ascertains centralization and decentralization. Most of the MNC’s in their initial phases of globalization utilized an international section traversing certain regions of the world to manage the functions in those regions. Matrix organizational structure is very effective for the business. The structure of the organization is decentralized, which merge the advantages of being large with the agility and concentration of smaller organizations. The small segments of the business assist in concentrating more on the needs and equirements of the customers and employees effectively. The company’s employees are associated with the goals and objectives for an established global enterprise. The organization is mainly focusing on the way in which the products and services are delivered to the customers. The development and marketing of products and services in an effective provision provide specialized and quality services to external and internal customers. The autonomous operating companies broaden the geographic reach of the associates around the world and provide larger marketplace and product focus. This way, the employees get closer to the customers and business. The employees would be able to gain more sensation of ownership in driving the business. The employees are authorized to aim their business to fulfill the varying needs of customers inside their regions (Mathew, 2003). The decentralized operating companies, associates and business sections are joined in the organization structure, which ensures that the activities are aligned with the overall strategic objectives. All the employees perform their work systematically with the high ethical standards. As the company rises, the structure also develops, assuring the effective growth of the business portfolio. In recent years, the business sections have constituted shared service groups that raise and confirm the capabilities of the individual companies in the elementary domains of responsibility. The corporate headquarters in the U. S. function with the family of companies for producing great synergism and efficiency by collaboration, dispersion of better patterns and organization of shared business information. The corporate headquarters render direction and services in different critical areas, which include human resources, finance, advertising, and law. The consequences of environmental circumstance (instability of technology), industrial circumstance (production technology) and organization structure on the involvement of customer in product development are the main areas of concentration in China (Windsor Jones, 1999). The earlier results demonstrate that for going through customer orientation in the firms at China, the company has to modulate towards market driven economic entities.