In some fields, it is direct and obvious, like operating a tool or machine or creating something physical.

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"Hinchingbrooke is showing that operating franchises can be a powerful tool for turning round failing hospitals, " he added.

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An industrial conglomerate that gives its many operating units management autonomy, Illinois Tool would seem to fit the Buffett management model.

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"We were confident that we were operating above and beyond the law before this new tool was introduced, and we're confident now, " he says.

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Included in the user-friendly interface, EZ Switch offers a quick software tool that alternates between the RT-N12HP's three main operating modes.

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One such tool, the Ramen worm, attacks computers that run a particular version of the Linux operating system.

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Most notably, an update to Apple's mobile operating system left the phone's map, which replaces Google Maps as the phone's default travel tool, a spotty mess with lots of locations missing.

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