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Chapter 7: Problem Solving (Utilities, Service Providers and World-Class Resorts)

A student choosing a path through signs for utilities, services, and resorts, representing thoughtful problem solving.
Illustration: Problem Solving

VII. Problem Solving (Utilities, Service Providers and World-Class Resorts)

It is no secret that problem solving is one of the more difficult things to do with a high degree of efficiency. In this chapter, this concept will be introduced along with tasks and strategies to solve them. While you read the seven passages, you will be introduced to a number of tasks designed to challenge your thinking and to test your ability to make sound decisions. In addition, the level of difficulty in some tasks will present greater hurdles than others. Nonetheless, the various tasks will teach you to develop more effective problem-solving and sound decision-making skills as you learn to respond to all of life’s challenges.

Chapter 7

Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) Open matching workbook questions

For many years, this well-known utility company has been the only provider of electricity on the island of New Providence as well as many of the family islands. Formerly known as the Bahamas Electricity Corporation BEC, now Bahamas Power and Light BPL, its new ownership has embarked on a course of action to improve the quality of electricity distribution to thousands of homes and businesses throughout the islands. However, this task has not been easy as the reliability and consistency of delivering high-quality service to customers continues to be an uphill battle.

More often than not, BPL has been the topic of discussion and debate on talk shows, in the daily news and on the streets. Customers take to the airwaves to express their frustrations, to level their criticisms or to recommend solutions to existing problems. During the summer months, criticism is at its peak, for the utility provider seems not to be able to keep the lights on. To make matters worse, the rising cost of electricity and the rapid decline in service quality remain two of the greatest obstacles that BPL is yet to overcome. Despite the many challenges, Bahamians have no other options because BPL is currently the only provider of electricity in the country.

Bahamas Telecommunication Company (BTC) Open matching workbook questions

Prior to the expansion of the telecommunication industry in the Bahamas, The Bahamas Telecommunication Corporation, once referred to as BATELCO now BTC, was the only provider of internet and mobile services on the island. When services fell short of expectations, filing complaints and waiting for services to improve often frustrated customers. Today, BTC is no longer the only provider of same services on the island as the growing need for competition has made expansion of the industry possible. Consequently, customers do not have to be confined to one company for the long term. If unsatisfied, another viable telecommunication option is now available.

ALIV Open matching workbook questions

One of the newest providers of telecommunication in The Bahamas. ALIV has been that long-awaited second option for Bahamians. As a provider of internet and mobile services, ALIV has no doubt helped to revolutionize the telecommunications industry by providing cutting-edge technologies, lower prices and the excitement to drive competitiveness among local utility providers. Despite the new innovations, many of its customers are still not always satisfies with its products and services.

Cable Bahamas Open matching workbook questions

Since 1995, Cable Bahamas has been the only provider of cable tv services in the Bahamas. In later years, internet and telephone services were introduced to expand and diversify its services. Over the years, Cable Bahamas has enjoyed tremendous success. However, with Cable Bahamas being the sole provider of cable services to the Bahamas, the loyal patronage of Bahamians remains unwavering, for they continue to be some of the largest contributors to its business. One bone of contention, though, customers are concerned about increasing prices in a market where Cable Bahamas remains the only provider of cable services in the country.

The Atlantis Resort Open matching workbook questions

Imagine living in an island paradise like The Bahamas. Vacationers from far across the globe often -frequent Atlantis Resort to satisfy their taste for pleasure, fun and frolic. When they are not basking in the sunshine, swimming in the beaches or building sandcastles along the shoreline, the delight in the native cuisine or fine dining that the resort has to offer.

Atlantis is a majestic sight to behold. It has an under-water aquarium teaming with exotic fish and other forms of marine life, a water park with breath-taking slides, a mile-long river ride and multiple swimming pools for all to enjoy. During the peak seasons, the Cove, Coral Towers and all other majestic Atlantis properties are inundated with affluent guests anxious to experience the island paradise. For those who prefer to stay indoors, the casinos with Blackjack tables and slot machines, gift and clothing shops, a movie theater and private dance lessons could make for other intriguing options. Despite all of these wonderful amenities, Atlantis still must continue its growth, while Baha Mar, its number one competitor in the industry, remains poised to replace the Atlantis Resort as the main destination of choice.

Cable Beach Open matching workbook questions

Located on the Western part of the island, the Cable Beach strip like its name suggests is home to lots of beaches, hotels, upscale homes, commercial businesses and fast food restaurants. Many years ago, the Sheridan Grand, Marriott Crystal Palace, the Radisson and other well-known brands once occupied its space. Today, the Breezes Super Clubs, Sandals and Bob Marley Resort have Replaced them. However, the grandest of them all, is the Baha Mar Resort, a jewel on the island paradise, after which it is named. Although the construction of Baha Mar and other hotel chains have transformed Cable Beach into a Bahamian modern-day playground for tourists, Cable Beach must continue to reinvent itself to meet visitor expectations and to maintain its competitiveness.

Baha Mar Open matching workbook questions

This gem on the treasured island known the world over by pleasure-seeking tourists stands on more than 200 acres of pristine landscape, surrounded by sandy beaches, world-class resorts and magnificent scenery. In addition to the Atlantis, its well-known competitor, this world-class resort is the only other resort on the island that offers the every-day tourist a unique, homemade, Bahamian experience that caters to every whim and fancy. For a day of play, take a moment to enjoy Baha Bay, a water park unmatched by no other on the island. Here, you will find exhilarating water slides, duel coaster rides, lagoons, among other thrilling water adventures. After working up an appetite, you can dine at the Regatta Buffet, the Swimming Pig Food and drink, Sugar Factory, The Library, Pizza Lab and other well-known restaurants.

With tourism being one of the most significant pillars of the Bahamian economy, Baha Mar employs thousands of Bahamians from various personal and professional backgrounds. At Baha Mar, Bahamians have an amazing opportunity to build meaningful careers while helping to transform the industry into a first-class resort. However, the task is not an easy one, considering that the world-class Atlantis remains a force to reckon with.

Part 4: Comprehension Skills for Transformation

VIII. Empowering Yourself with Knowledge (History and Politics)

This chapter marks a very essential aspect of comprehension as it seeks to promote crucial transformation skills for learning. The purpose of explicitly including transformation as a comprehension skill and strategy is to embed through practice the importance of comprehension as self-empowerment through knowledge of your country, its significant events and support systems. With that said, you will find all nine of the passages presented here characteristic of our Bahamian pride, our Bahamian heritage and our efforts to preserve our Bahamianness. With the theme of transformation underpinning this chapter you are challenged to reflect on what it truly means to you to be Bahamian from your absorption of the knowledge and culture to which your Bahamian identity is inextricably linked.

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