Monday, September 30, 2019
Risk Assessment & Safe Systesm Of Work
Whitelee Wind Farm is a Scottish Power facilities situated on Eaglesham Moor, some 17 miles from Glasgow city centre. This is the largest wind farm in Europe boasting 140 wind turbines. Scottish Power have introduce a guided tour of this site, where visitors are shown the turbines and the many ponds that a spread throughout the site. Some of the water from the ponds is used to supply the surrounding area with drinking water. Scottish Water who previously owned the moor stipulated that pollution of the water course was not acceptable, and if Scottish Power were to introduce a tour then a pollution free method of transport was required. Scottish power purchased one of three electric buses which were built for Strathclyde Public Transport (SPT) by Smiths Electric Vehicles. SPT never made full use of these buses. The bus used on the Whitelee site is powered by 54 lead acid gel batteries, arranged in two parallel banks of 27. These batteries are located within the bus chassis. Mechanically the bus is a standard design, with the typical front wishbone and rear trailing arm suspension. The braking system is air over hydraulic, incorporating an air activated spring loaded fail safe parking brake. It is the power-train that is powered by the lead acid gel batteries and the ancillary systems are powered by two 12V heavy duty commercial vehicle batteries which connected in series will give the required 24V to power the ancillary systems, Table 1 shows the power requirements and consumption rates of these components. Risk Assessment The following pages incorporate a hazard checklist, risk assessment and safe systems of work for the use of the bus at the Whitelee facility. The hazard checklist was completed to form a qualitative risk assessment highlighting the where and why an incident was likely to occur. The information gathered from the checklist was then used to compile the risk assessment. The risks were classified according the likelihood of occurrence and the severity of the possible injury. The risks were scored from 1 to 25, where 1 shows there is no inherent risk involved in the task, and 25 shows this task to be highly dangerous and could result in fatal or debilitating injury. The risk register has a copy of the scoring mechanism at the bottom of the page. From this a Safe System of Work was complied to sever as an aid memoir. This highlight the salient points of the risk register to ensure risk of injury is kept to a minimum. Safe System of Work In compiling any Safe System of Work, the following steps give a good example of what points need to be reviewed. * The task o What is the work being carried out o What specialist tools are used o Who will do the task * Hazards associated with the task o From tooling o From plant and other equipment o From substances * Risk Assessment o Assess risks arising from the task * Define a safe method of work o Break task down into individual parts o Specify safe method o Produce documented work instructions * Implementation & operation o Ensure members of staff carrying out the task are adequately trained o Record training o Carryout regular checks and re-assess as appropriate In the case of the bus, I have identified two different tasks, the first being the daily maintenance, the other being the actually driving of the bus on the tour. The hazards associated with the tasks are dependent on which task is being carried out. The following pages are exemplar Safe Systems of Work for the daily maintenance of the bus and for driving the bus on a tour.
Sunday, September 29, 2019
The Purple Rose of Cairo
Film has captured and enchanted audiences since its origination with the Lumiere Brothers; and, as it developed, it began to be used to convey messages and ideas. Film started to become a creative outlet that then turned to a catalyst of philosophical thought. Film theorist Sergei Einstein expressed that film ââ¬Å"as a work of art, understood dynamically, is just the process of arranging images in the feelings and mind of the spectatorâ⬠.Thus, directors began to realize that audience manipulation was possible through the images and sounds they delivered, as well as through the way these images and sounds were presentedââ¬â it all has an effect of how viewers thought of and interpreted the films. This is especially clear in the German film, Triumph of Will, directed by Leni Reifenstahl. While the film is brilliantly made, with moving cameras, the utilization of long focus lenses, aerial photography, and a revolutionary approach to musical accompaniment, the film was also in credibly propagandistic and manipulative at the time of itââ¬â¢s release.The entire film is a vehicle to promote the ideologies of Hitler; beginning with Germanyââ¬â¢s near-destruction in World War I and depicting Hitler as a messiah, descending from the skies to greet his vehement followers. In the opening minutes of the film, there are close-up and over-the-shoulder shots of Hitler, making him seem rather personable, adored, and somewhat noble. There are also shots of children approaching him, showing that the ideas of innocence and purity are to be seen as parallel to the views and goals Hitler himself.Aesthetically, the entire film is superbly done, and politically its manipulative powers are astonishing. By showing Germany as unified under the divine rule of Hitler, it brought the nation together and created one of the most destructive and powerful nations in the 1940s. While film can be used as propaganda, like in Nazi Germany, it can also be used to provoke thought, rat her than control it, manipulate it, or deceive it. In Woody Allenââ¬â¢s film The Purple Rose of Cairo, the audience is pushed to move beyond the appearance of things and consider other worlds, other perspectives.For the heroine, Cecilia, film is an escape and an impossible inspiration. According to the fictitious movie (The Purple Rose of Cairo), the purple rose itself is supposed to grow in a pharaohââ¬â¢s tombââ¬â the expression of a perfect love. However, no flower can grow without light making it an impossible inspiration. According to Plato, and to partially to Allen, our relationship with truth is rather grim. When we attend movies we are much like Platoââ¬â¢s captives, chained facing a cave wall, only seeing a world of shadowsââ¬â our reality is suspended.But another point is made; although we can be deceived by shadows, we are also capable of understanding and questioning anything, shadows included. Yes, film is an escape from reality and the idea of being a ble to truly escape a somewhat horrid life is unimaginably wonderful, but thats just itââ¬â it is an idea. Change has to be brought on by oneself, not an unreliable outside source, and perfection is an illusion. I as a viewer absolutely love how Allen presents these ideologies in The Purple Rose of Cairo.He gives it an unconventional point of view, setting up a series of contrasts between perfection and imperfection, reality and illusion, loving someone and being in love with someone, that forces us to think about film as well as the actual content of the film. And this all ties back to Platoââ¬â¢s ââ¬Å"Allegory of the Caveâ⬠; our life is veiled and we must aspire to leave and become less dependent on the shadow world. What is interesting is that, in the film, Allen makes the audience unsure of which world is the shadow world and which is the illusion.The perfect world becomes the film world and the false one is the desired reality. As entertainment, the film is greatà ¢â¬â a nonsensical romantic comedy with a less-than-happy ending; but philosophically it goes much deeper than that, provoking audiences to think about reality and the importance of imperfection. While on the subject of imperfection, a third film demands some attention. Alejandro Amenabarââ¬â¢s The Sea Inside presents a whole new perspective on what perfection in life is. Many people see suicide as a selfish actââ¬â removing yourself from the lives of your loved ones far earlier than they would have liked.However, the question of who is more selfish is posed. Is it the people who remove themselves when they feel no more connection to life; or the people who expect those who want to leave to stay, regardless of their misery or feelings of lacking true connection to the vibrancy of life? Thus are the questions presented to audiences upon viewing this film. In my mind, everyone should have the freedom to choose the life they want to live, or not live; and to choose what meani ng they take out of said life. In Clendineââ¬â¢s ââ¬Å"The Good Short Lifeâ⬠, it is said that we speak of living life, but never of death.That ââ¬Å"we act as if facing death werenââ¬â¢t one of lifeââ¬â¢s greatest, most absorbing thrills and challengesâ⬠and that being incoherent and immobile until one only sees friends and family as ââ¬Å"a passing cloudâ⬠. Both Clendine and Ramon didnââ¬â¢t want to put their loved ones through that, and taking oneââ¬â¢s life seemed to be the best solution. Both were ââ¬Å"vital to the end, and knew when to leaveâ⬠. In my opinion, if someone has legitimate, justifiable reasons to want to leave this earth (such as a degenerative disease), that they have a right to do so.And if they cannot on their own accord due to that degenerative disease, I think that others (physicians, family members, friends) should be legally permitted to assist them. They shouldnââ¬â¢t be obligated to assist, but if they give consent and are willing to aid, I think they should be permitted. Mark from Breathing Lessons and Ramon were also similar on a few levels, but Mark had more hope and determination to live with dignity. Unlike Ramon who saw his life as undignified, Mark viewed it more as excessively challenging. Mark still desired lifeââ¬â though considered suicide, but ââ¬Å"chickened outâ⬠ââ¬â showing that he did truly still want to live.Ramon, however, was lost in his melancholy and nostalgia for the past, choosing to disregard the possibilities the future could bring. I think that it is a personal choice and that each individual should be given the liberty of making that choice. The phrase ââ¬Å"dying with dignityâ⬠always reminds me of greek mythology when humiliated warriors would throw themselves on their swords for an honorable death, rather than live life in humility. I think Ramon saw his life as more humiliating and therefore wanted to throw himself on his sword, so to speak.W ith this, I think that the US should have a ââ¬Å"death with dignityâ⬠law. Everyone has a right to life, as well as a right to death. Film is one of the most influential and powerful media. Itââ¬â¢s capabilities to provoke, cultivate, and manipulate audience thought is incredible and worth studying. The innovations that film itself has gone throughââ¬â the amount of genres it contains, special effects, and advancements in soundââ¬â all contribute to film as a whole, and all contribute to the beauty of how film is created and suspends the reality of viewers if only for an hour or two.
Saturday, September 28, 2019
Economic and Political Environment of Orange Mobile Essay
Economic and Political Environment of Orange Mobile - Essay Example The state of social stability within the environment also often becomes the cause of vast development in a certain industry and insufficient funding in another. The extent of influence produces by various conditions within the environment differs for one industry and for another. There are companies, which businesses are so vital to the community, which government strives to maintain stability within their environment. On the other hand, there are companies that must adjust themselves to changes in their environment without significant bargaining powers to question the situation. It is important to recognize the differences of corporations regarding to this issue. Within this elaboration, I am discussing the effect of political and economic changes in the environment to the telecommunication industry. The objects of study are Orange Mobile, one of the market leader of the telecommunication industry in Europe, and several of its competitors. The purpose of the elaboration is to define the extent to which environmental changes contributes to the changes of corporate strategy or corporate operation within the telecommunication industry. ... To date, Orange Group companies have a strong business in United Kingdom, France, the Netherlands, and various other nations in Europe. Furthermore, the Orange brand has also operated in several Asian countries. The company launched its business to the public of United Kingdom in 1994. However, it is not until 2 April 1996 has the company underwent its first initial public offering with the shares being listed in the London and Nasdaq markets. The company obtained its first million customers in 1997 and named as the best performing share in 1998 under the name Orange Plc. In June 1999 Orange is described as 'one of the outstanding business success stories of the past few years' and a company who has 'courageous vision and commitment to the long running potential of mobile telecoms ('History of Orange', 2005). III. Influential Aspects III.1 Earlier Market Condition In its first year of operations, the group faced difficult times. The social condition of the market was hardly conducive for development of mobile phone business. The mobile phone markets in 1994 were a confusing place for customers in UK. Digital networks are new stuffs and only few people understand the benefits. Tariffs regulations are complex and prices are high making the industry only attractive to business customers. For illustration of the inconvenient system, users had to sign-up to a three year contract, with high monthly rental fees, high call tariffs and with little flexibility regarding the type of services offer ('History of Orange', 2005). Today however, the business has developed into millions of dollars worth of industry in UK. Rapid innovation produces new types of communication services, competing in terms of prices and service qualities.
Friday, September 27, 2019
GDP per Capita and Its Challengers Research Proposal
GDP per Capita and Its Challengers - Research Proposal Example First of all, it should be noted that GDP was not designed to evaluate the well-being of a country. Instead, it measures particular types of economic activities within the country, which does not necessarily refer to a standard of living. For one crude example, a country with all goods and services exported will have a high GDP but low well-being of its citizens. Second, GDP takes into account only documented operations. It does include neither black market nor non-monetary operations, like bartering, showing inaccurate information for countries where any of these issues plays an important role. Moreover, some companies commit a cross-border trade within themselves in order to escape high taxation - this distorts GDP, creating additional imports/exports data. Third, GDP indicator shows little information for changes in ecology, society, and lifestyle. For instance, ecological damage is treated by GDP as a double growth: at first, it counts natural resources retrieved, and then it counts services used to replenish natural resources, but it would be far better if the disaster had never occurred in the first place. Additionally, the philosophy of GDP shows wars as contributors to the economy, but child upbringing and housework as valueless actions. It ignores volunteer and unpaid work, but instead, GDP counts work that produces no net change or that results from repairing harm (e.g. the healthcare industry, where economic activity increases along with a number of unhealthy population). Fourth, people buy often low-durability goods and make rare purchases of high-durable products, because of their long use. Sometimes it is possible that the monetary value of the items sold in the first case is higher than that in the second case, in which case a higher GDP is simply the result of greater inefficiency and waste. Fifth, since GDP does count financial purchases as investments, then if a nation does not spend, but saves and invests overseas, its GDP will be diminished in comparison to one that spends borrowed money. Therefore, accumulated savings and debt are not taken into account so long as adequate financing continues. Sixth, sometimes different calculations of GDP confuse each other. There are two different types GDP calculation for cross-border comparison: current currency exchange rate, where GDP is calculated by exchange rates prevailing on international currency markets) and purchasing power parity (PPP) exchange rate, where GDP is calculated by PPP of each currency relative to a selected standard.Ã
Thursday, September 26, 2019
Evaluating Research Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words
Evaluating Research - Essay Example Yes, since the research problem concerns with the influence of stimulating tasks on motivation and reading comprehension, then the findings of the study must therefore be quantified using a quantitative approach. Yes, in fact, the author stipulated the following line at the end of the study: ââ¬Å"finally, researchers should continue to explore reading comprehension and reading interest to identify their reciprocal relationshipsâ⬠(Guthrie et al., 2006, p 244). Yes, the research study definitely employed the APA Referencing Style in their in-text citations and referencesââ¬â¢ page. In fact, here is an example of the entry in their reference page that typified the use of APA: Yes, the authors stated the purpose of their study, which is to give light to one particular research inquiry that receives little attention, that is, the use of stimulating tasks to arouse reading interest (Guthrie et al., 2006, p. 233). Yes, the assumptions and hypotheses were both expressed in the study. The assumptions regarding the stimulating tasks were written prior to the statement of hypotheses. Moreover, the hypotheses of the study are as follows: (a) Students who were given a high number of stimulating tasks related to reading would have higher reading comprehension scores than would students given a low number of stimulating tasks related to reading, controlling for prior comprehension and quality of task performance; (b) Students who were given a high number of stimulating tasks related to reading would have higher reading motivation scores than would students who were given a lower number of stimulating tasks; and Yes, the authors were able to identify and provide an explanation prior to presenting their hypotheses. In this regard, the phrase ââ¬Ëstimulating taskââ¬â¢ was employed to embody their theoretical framework, which was proposed by Nolen and Nichols (1994) that refers to classroom activity that elicits
Wednesday, September 25, 2019
Will climate change destroy New York City How can it be managed ( Essay
Will climate change destroy New York City How can it be managed ( weather science) - Essay Example As noted by Russs, Sandy resulted in damages amounting to about $20 billion with 43 people confirmed dead and many more injured by the storm. The transport facilities in the city, including highways, subways, railways and airports, were shut down. The city was thrown into darkness as critical infrastructure, including wastewater treatment plants, hospitals and infrastructure, were incapacitated. Communication systems were also cut following the effects of the storm. Reports on Hurricane Sandy pointed out the increase in the intensity and frequency of hurricanes observed in the North Atlantic from the 1980s. The devastation caused by Sandy had been worsened by changing climatic factors. Partly to blame according to the New York City Panel on Climate Change, NPCC (4) was the rise in the sea level in the region around New York City which increased the magnitude and extent of coastal flooding during Hurricane Sandy. Therefore, New York City remains exposed to destructive effects of clima te change. Borrowing from the Special Initiative for Rebuilding and Resiliency, SIRR, report authored after the exposure of the vulnerability of New York City by Sandy, there exist genuine threats to the city. Among the notable threats, heat waves, intense precipitation and coastal flooding have been noted to be the most extreme (NPCC 12). Heading towards 2050s, heat waves could increase in frequency, duration and intensity. New York has for a long time been experiencing an average of 18 days per year with temperatures of 32oC or 90oF and above. The SIRR report observes that by 2010, New York could experience between 26 and 31 such days. This could rise to up to 57 days a year by the year 2050. With this change would be an additional average of 110 to 260 deaths per year related to heat waves. The number of days when rainfall exceeds 2 inches or 5 centimeters could increase from the current average of 2 days per year to five by 2020. Coastal flooding has been projected to
Tuesday, September 24, 2019
The existence of botnets is the most serious threat to the information Essay
The existence of botnets is the most serious threat to the information security today - Essay Example In other words, when one downloads bot software embedded in an email using a computer, the computer gets infected with the bot software and becomes part of the botnet. For a botnet to qualify as a botnet, it must always take action on a client machine through IRC channels, without the intervention of a bot herder. This means that the hacker (or group of hackers) need not personally log onto the clientââ¬â¢s computer. Botnets usually are host to several threats as one package. Typically, the botnet is made up of the bot server and at least one botclients. History of Botnets The origin of bots is associated with positive objectives, mainly to automate activities, the first real botnet being established in 1993. Botnets for example were used to run activities such as internet games, protect channels and perform conversions (Hudak, nd). Over time, the positive attributes evolved and started to be exploited for malicious purposes. Today, the negative activities carried out by botnets i nclude sending of spam, controlling of client PCs against their wishes and to propagate viruses and worms. Botnets first existed with DoS and DDoS with hackers creating better ways of managing the bots over time. From the traditional Command and Control (C&C) mechanism, botnets became transmitted signals based on P2P, IRC and HTTP according to Hudak (nd). The potential of botnets today cannot be understated. It is not uncommon for example for one botnet to consist of over 10,000 computers. It is also not rare to find a botnet consisting of over 400000 computers.The potential of having so many bots interconnected makes the potential of any botnet go beyond common imagination. In fact, it is this potential that is normally harnessed by botmasters (whether with positive or negative intentions) to achieve their goals or accomplish goals fast and efficiently. How Botnets Work and What they are used for The establishment of a botnet depends on the existence of a hacker, a server and clien t computers. The hacker creates and transmits commands to a computer through a server. The server performs this function repeatedly thereby creating an army of bots that lie in the control of the botmaster. Botnets having been created may be used for a myriad of activities including spamming, phishing, executing click fraud, transmitting Ad-ware as well as for Distributed Denial of Service (DDos) among pother purposes. In 1988 for example, a person by the name of Morris infected over 6,000 computers with Worm worm which represented about 10 percent of Fi (Schiller, 2007). The loss associated with this infection was approximated at between 10 and 100 million USD. Impact of Botnets on Information Security Those in favor of the establishment of botnets argue that botnets make work easier and is a creative way of making cash just like any other job (Schiller, 2007). In consideration of the fact stated above, botnets have been used before to make mega kills by persons with malicious inte ntions as they seek financial motivation or publicity. It has, for example, been reported that Jeanson James in 2006 earned over 60,000 US dollars using a botnet of 400,000 computers that transmitted ad-ware. The amount of publicity that botnets draw to their creators is usually amazing when they are discovered. Apart from the economic benefits of botnets to their creators, a lot of harm is associated with their existence especially considering that a lot of important information is stored by individuals and
Monday, September 23, 2019
Corporate Strategic Review on TESCO Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words
Corporate Strategic Review on TESCO - Essay Example In 1964, Tesco's innovativeness was put to a challenge when the British government imposed the Resale Price Maintenance System, a law that mandates all retailers to charge a set price for their products. However, Tesco found a way through it and introduced trading stamps so that it could bring lower prices to its customers. Customers collected these stamps as they purchased groceries and other items. By 1960, Tesco was in control of 212 store chains in north England, and 144 more in 1964 and 1965. By 1970, Tesco was a household name, known for its grocery products at very competitive prices. It was at this time when Tesco decided to broaden its customer base and make its stores more attractive to a wider range of customers. Tesco decided to concentrate on developing bigger superstores at the outskirts of the town, on selling a broader range of goods, and on providing quality shopping environment and customer service. Tesco likewise ventured into selling petrol at very competitive rates in 1974, opening its first filling station at its major sites. These changes earned more customers and greater profits for Tesco, and in 1979, its annual turnover reached 1 billion for the first time. Tesco has built its 100th superstore by 1985, and in 1987, it announced a 500 million plan to build 29 more stores. By 1991, the success of its petrol filling stations earned for the company Britain's biggest independent petrol retailer. In the 1990s, the company built on its success by developing new store concepts and new customer-focused initiatives. Tesco broke new ground in food retailing by introducing, in 1995, the first customer loyalty card, which offered benefits to regular shoppers whilst helping the company discover more about its customers' needs. Other customer services followed, including grocery home shopping, Tesco Direct for catalogue shoppers and the Tesco Babyclub for new parents, as well as the launch of Tesco Personal Finance a joint venture with the Royal Bank of Scotland. Tesco continued its winning streak in the new millennium. In January 2003 Tesco completed the acquisition of 870 T&S Stores in the UK; 450 of these stores will be converted to Tesco Express in the next three to four years. Moreover, Tesco opened in Taiwan in 2000 and, in May 2002 its first store in Malaysia in a joint venture with Sime Darby Sdn Bhd. In July 2002, Tesco acquired the "HIT" chain of hypermarkets in Poland. This acquisition added 13 hypermarkets to the Polish business, giving it a market leading position. By the end of 2002/03 Tesco had 45 percent of its space overseas, market leadership in 6 of its 10 countries, and was profitable in 8 out of 10 markets. Porter on Tesco Using Porter's Generic Strategies, this approach of Tesco shall be evaluated and assessed. It will also be subjected to the five industry forces such as: Entry Barrier, Buyer Power, Supplier Power, Threats of Substitute and Rivalry. Tesco can be categorized in Porter's Generic Strategies as belonging to the Broad Industry- as it targets an economy of scale whose product line is extensive (Reichheld and Sasser, 1990). Moreover, the standard
Sunday, September 22, 2019
Operational Management Kaplan Nortan Generic Map Essay Example for Free
Operational Management Kaplan Nortan Generic Map Essay In Kaplan Norton Generic Strategy map, one perspective is the learning and growth perspective. Explain the significance of this perspective. Write the requirement of the perspective in detail and what outcome can be achieved if it is followed. Significance * Learning and growth strategies are important for the long term development of the firm * Learning and growth perspective defines the intangible assets which are needed to enable the activities and customer relationships to be performed at high level * It includes measurement for people (employee retention, training, skills, morale) * It also measure critical real time information needed for front line employees * The chain of cause and effect relationships tend to cause improvements in business processes , which in turn cause improvements in sales and financial measurement of profitability. The direction of cause and effects relationship can be emphasized as: Learning and growth à º Internal business process à º Customer à º Financial * It continuously develop and deliver new innovative products and services * Organization innovation and learning perspective is used to maintain infrastructure needed for long term growth and improvements. Learning and Growth perspective: In learning and growth perspective organizations purpose is ââ¬Å"to achieve its mission and how it will sustain its ability to change and improveâ⬠it defines the intangible assets that are needed to enable activities and customer relationship to be performed at high levels of performance so that the firm can serve its customer well. This perspective is also the base of forming strategy if base is well structured and aligned with the organizational objective strategy can prove itself more effective. It is important important for the long term development of the firm. Requirements Requirements of learning and growth perspective are listed below: * Strategic competencies * Strategic technologies * Climate for action Strategic competencies: Strategic competencies are the strategic skills and knowledge required by the work force to support the strategy. Strategy itself is of no use until unless supported and implemented by the workforce of the organization. Employees should be involved in decision making so that they considered themselves a part of the firm and take rational decisions about .If some employee is doing well for the organization firm should reward him and give him recognition for the job that he has performed well this thing gives us the concept of motivation it is the driving force that drives a person to achieve its objective. Strategic Technologies: These are the materials and process technologies, information system, databases, tools, and network required to support the strategy. Once strategy is made now it requires some technical software tools for its processing it can be some software that enable the work force to reduce times in the operations of the business. An organization can gain competitive edge over its competitors by using technologies. Climate for actions: Climate for action provides the cultural shifts needed to motivate, empower, and align the workforce behind the strategy . itââ¬â¢s the course of action that how organization is going to align its strategic competencies, strategic technologies with each other . organization matches its abilities with its strategies and oversees if it can perform as they have made the strategy. Itââ¬â¢s a point where organization checks its strategic fit between the organizational plan and resources employed for it . It accesses the climate prior to the action . Outcomes As it focuses on intangible assets of the firm mainly on the internal skills and capabilities of the employees that are required to support the value creating internal processes. It also describes how technology people are combined to support the strategy and if it is implemented it can lead in the improvement in the internal processes, customers, and financial perspective
Saturday, September 21, 2019
Study of history Essay Example for Free
Study of history Essay In studying history, the different ways to promulgate data and research in order to define a certain part of helped us recognize facts and claims that are relevant to the issues that we need to clarify. Historians usually interview the witnesses, victims, and heroes of the past to clarify and justify their thoughts and reviews on the different parts of historical accounts in the world. One of the most significant parts of history is slavery. The different kinds of slavery that emerged and developed during the period of colonization made us realize the true essence of our being as we acknowledge the facts and data of the past. Many have suffered and died during this period of struggle. Slavers have gone through different kinds of slaving ââ¬â in land and water. Land slavery is almost familiars to everybody because it was a phenomenon during colonization but it was an unbelievable revelation that even in the ships of the sea contains hundreds of slaves that could not eat, drink, speak, nor move. However, how do the historians perceive the slave ships? How do they research on this issue? Are they keen to the issue as they uncover the ââ¬Å"whole truthâ⬠by using their researchable documents and witnesses? Every person needs to study the past in order to justify the present and future. Nevertheless, are the historical data relevant and complete to signify the important details that we need? We must read and analyze those data by finding flaws and arguments that are necessary to clarify distorted cases and parts of history. Some of the Notable Philosophical Problems in documenting the Event Based on the research on the issue of Slave Ship, many researchers and historians support their materials through interviews and special communication with different witnesses and ââ¬Å"heroesâ⬠of the past. Most of the witnesses that they used are church leaders and doctors who went through the voyage along with the slaves. The objective of the research as what I have seen is to show its reader that the research is complete and accurate source of learning from the past because they contain justification from the witness of the slave ships. In the article of the EyeWitness entitled ââ¬Å"Aboard a Slave Ship, 1829,â⬠they used the accounts of Reverend Walsh to show the ââ¬Å"true situationâ⬠in a slave ship. ââ¬Å"We join Reverend Walshs account as he boards the slave ship,â⬠(EyeWitness, 2000). Another article stated that the research is an ââ¬Å"original accountâ⬠of the past that can be use to show the situation of a slave ship. ââ¬Å"Here, for your perusal and research, we present an original 1860 news account of a captured Slave Ship. The Slave Ship was owned by a New York Slave Trader, It was full of Native African Men, Women, and Children, and it was delivering the Cargo to be sold in the South,â⬠(Son of the Ship, 2003). On the other way around, an article entitled ââ¬Å"The Slave Ship: A Human History by Marcus Redikerâ⬠showed how Rediker, an author of a significant book that discusses the life in a slave ship justify all the historical accounts that he saw and heard from his interviews and materials. ââ¬Å"Rediker is a distinguished maritime historian whose previous books have used long-neglected primary sources to shed important new light on life around the 18th century Atlantic,â⬠(Rutten, 2008). All the examples above were seen that the objectivity and choice of sources or references should rely on the needs of the readers. They all used people who are familiar and witnesses of the scenario so they could thoroughly define and describe the situation of the slave ship. However, they did not state the issues of the slavers, which are needed to show the side of the slobbers and not the slaves alone. Though they have reached their resolution to uncover or reveal the situation in the ship, they ignored the stand of the slavers why they come up to that kind of situation. It became a bias account in the side of the slaves. Though a reader should have pity on the slaves during those times as they read the situation in a slave ship, the authors and researchers of the document should also speak about the stand of the slavers and on how they are able to do those things. These claims are factual accounts, which is important to justify both sides. Can such problems be avoided? How? These problems can be avoided if the authors and researchers also showed the other situation to compare and contrast the thoughts and ideology of both sides. We all know that the slaves during the period are abundant but we do not know the deeper meaning of slavery. According to Kaltenbacher, Mehta, and Nahas (2008), in their article entitled Antebellum Slavery: Interstate Slave Trade, ââ¬Å"Slaves forcefully pushed together, back to face, lay cramped and helpless on the boat. Their sweating bodies were so close to each other that it was not unlikely to feel the hot breath of another slave stinging the back of oneââ¬â¢s neck. â⬠The authors of the article discussed the situation of the slaves. It shows that the different documents tell us about the meaning of slavery its background, and development as years went on. However, it must also be describe in those articles to show the two sides of the situation so that people could thoroughly understand the scenario in a large perspective and concept because the authors only described the sides of the slaves and did not involved the sides of the slavers. Conclusion The hardest part of research is to document the past. Most of us say the term ââ¬Å"past is past. â⬠This is true in most of the time because we could not return to the past especially during the times when paper and pen was still not invented to write all the important details of a certain situation that part of historical events. If we think logically, how can we believe the books, articles, and journals that we read about history if the writers did perceive the event that they wrote? It was the hardest part I guess to educators of history to justify the claim of the past. However, this is also a challenge to discuss the historical events of human life because different perspectives and ideologies emerged as the interaction of both students and teachers are created. References Aboard a Slave Ship, 1829, EyeWitness to History, www.eyewitnesstohistory. com (2000) Kaltenbacjer, E. et al. (2008). Ship Life. Retrieved on January 21, 2008 from http://cghs. dadeschools. net/slavery/antebellum_slavery/interstate_slave_trade/ship_life. htm Rutten, T. (2008). The Slave Ship: A Human History by Marcus Rediker. Los Angeles Times. http://www. latimes. com/features/books/la-et-rutten2jan02,0,4348521. Son of the South. (2003). Slave Ship. Retrieved on January 21, 2008 from http://www. sonofthesouth. net/slavery/slave-ship. htm.
Friday, September 20, 2019
The Mergers And Acquisitions Management Essay
The Mergers And Acquisitions Management Essay In May of 1998, two of the largest car manufacturers in the business Daimler-Benz and Chrysler Corporation agreed to combine their organizations in what they agreed to be an egalitarian merger. Egalitarianism is a cultural value which represents the opposite of a hierarchy (Brett and Okumura, 1998) and which communicates the nature of the companys social structure (Brett, 2000). Whereas an organizational social structure defined by hierarchy demands respect, advantage, and authority to those in the top tier of the corporation, an egalitarian social structure places less demands on lower-level staff members, based on the premise that superior status is subject to change (Brett, 2000). However, an egalitarian merger would prove to be a challenge as German and American styles of management appeared to be polar opposites. German organizational structure was authoritarian, bureaucratic, and centralized; while American organizational structure was mostly participative, empowered, and ega litarian. To further complicate company relations, a statement emitted by Jurgen Schrempp in an interview with the Financial Times (1999), indicated the true intentions of the transaction, stating that the merger was never intended to be among equals. Such a statement revealed inherent flaws in communication which would disrupt perceived trustworthiness of Daimler-Benz, as well as control issues based on mutual misunderstanding as a result mutual insensitivity to cultural differences. Because an autocratic management style predominated in Daimler Benz, the acquisition instilled a sense of entitlement to authoritarian values within the German company, imposing upon Chrysler a top-down management approach which disregarded existing Chrysler company values and interpersonal dynamics. However, Chrysler also failed to recognize and adapt to dominating German styles of operation, choosing to adopt a more passive approach which reduced effective leadership within the American workforce. Because cross-cultural integration was so poorly prioritized within the Daimler-Chrysler merger, steps to generating a more adaptive response to the merger are recommended. First and foremost, both companies should create contingencies to account for the integration of potentially dissonant company values. Culture is a highly influential variable which must be thoroughly researched and communicated to both parties in order to create a higher understanding of mutual approaches. Once culturally sensitized, organizations must create and implement new organizational values which transcend both parties particular cultures, in order to create a third culture in which communication and productivity is based on awareness, respect, and commitment to fulfilling mutual company goals. Thus, by appointing an integration manager, the acquired company should report arising doubts stemming from the cultural aspects of the merger. In addition, company restructuring and related downsizing should be do ne as quickly and as respectfully as possible, in order to increase organizational efficiency. Finally, inclusive team-building amongst both entities should be promoted in order to generate innovative problem-solving ideas which strengthen and unite company relations. What is a merger? In general, a merger can be defined as the integration of an acquired company into the existing, acquiring company. In terms of finance, an acquiring company purchases the majority of shares from the acquired company, thus merging both assets into one expanding share. A merger tends to be a permanent arrangement and usually the company who acquires the shares retains its namesake. The International Competition Network identifies three major types of merger transactions: Share Acquisitions, Asset Acquisitions, and Joint Ventures. A share acquisition is defined by obtaining a controlling equity interest in the target such that it can exercise decisive influence over the targets business operations (ICN, 2010). On the other hand, an asset acquisition is defined as a buyout strategy in which valuable elements rather than shares of a financially unstable company are purchased. Furthermore, the acquiring company can choose which specific assets or liabilities it wants to purchase. Finall y, a joint venture is defined as a partnership between two companies which participate in a transaction of shared risks and assets for mutual benefit. Joint ventures are commonly proposed to domestic companies of a designated region by foreign companies who wish to expand their markets. In this transaction, the foreign company usually provides an advantage in technology and materials while the domestic company provides established contacts, brand recognition, and fulfillment of required government procedures. Synergy: Reasons for Mergers Synergy is the belief that current productivity levels and overall value of two separate companies will be greater following the integration of both. Schweiger Very (2003) identify four elements which comprise synergy: cost, revenue, market power, and intangibles. A cost synergy implies reducing overall organizational costs of administration and sales, as well as promoting functional consolidation and optimizing sales force and distribution, among others. Revenue synergies are associated with increasing volume of sales by selling products throughout a variety of markets with the intention of reducing fixed production costs. Market power is related to the acquisition of a competing market in order to maintain or increase product prices. Finally, intangibles refer to the ability to successfully transfer expertise and brand-name power to the acquired company (Haspeslagh Jemison, 1991). Synergies provide a company with the motivation necessary to pursue a merger. Supported by the various synergies are various strategic reasons for pursuing a merger. Schweiger Very (2003) identify 5 particular objectives to be fulfilled by mergers: geographic market consolidation, extension of technology, services or products, and geographic market expansion, among entering a new business and vertical integration which is the process of becoming a supplier or distributor in order to increase company value. Once a company has been acquired and the merger fulfilled, it is important to fulfill certain variables in order to achieve a smooth transition of company management. The level and speed of integration are crucial to organizational adaptation and will vary in success depending on applied integration strategy, organizational culture, and employed acculturation strategies. Acculturation refers to the process in which the acquired company adopts the acquiring companys organizational culture as its own. It is argued that a successful integration of company values is a greater predictor of overall company progress than financial or strategic factors (Larsson Lubatkin, 2001). An acquired company which retains a high degree of autonomy and cultural identity is indicative of a successful integration. However, a company which abandons its cultural identity and structure in favor of the acquiring companys identity suggests previous failure and distrust of proper capacities to succeed. Quality of communication is also a fundamental factor in achieving post-merger success. Poor communication between organizations can lead to a perceived lack of trust and caring by the acquired company, as well as a decrease in commitment and satisfaction. In addition, the degree of retained autonomy displayed by the acquired company directly relates to the level of integration achieved by the company: A higher level of autonomy is suggestive of a low level of integration, and vice versa. Although a certain level of autonomy can be beneficial for the acquired company, it can prove to be counterproductive if it does not correspond to the defining terms of the merger acquisition. Mergers and the Importance of Organizational Change Change provides a company with the opportunity to develop, expand, and progress. Future-oriented theories define organizational change as the process of setting, executing, and renewing company goals in order to achieve an ideal state of relevance and innovation. Similarly, life-cycle theories explain change as an externally-dependent process which evolves through various stages: birth (or emergence), growth (or development), maturation, and decline. Finally, dialectical theory compares organizations to multicultural societies with clashing values which generate change. In any case, an organization which embraces change demonstrates its capability to adapt and thrive on an ever-evolving marketplace. Similarly, employees who adapt to implemented organizational changes experience enhanced satisfaction in their performance, additional to as a greater sense of involvement in their work environment. If embraced properly, positively-promoted change can create a stimulating environment ripe for innovation, as well as a renewed sense of commitment to the company. Thus, effective leadership during transitional states of implemented change is crucial to decreasing employee stress while increasing overall productivity (Halkos, 2012). Reasons for Failure of Organizational Change Many factors contribute to failure to adapt to change within an organization. Specifically, there are 6 fundamental factors which influence unsuccessful implementation of change: premature or insufficient willingness to change, lack of contingencies to support the change, expecting immediate results, focus on change as opposed to results, leadership and management deficiencies, and divergence between planned strategy and circumstances of change (Yhang, Zuo, Yu, 2009). In addition, research by Amburgey, Kelly, Barnett (1993) has found support for Hannan Freemans (1984) Structural Inertia Theory, which states that both internal and external constraints greatly influence the outcome of organizational change. Section 1: Daimler-Chrysler Merger: A Cultural Mismatch Q.1 Mergers and Acquisitions take place to realize the synergies between the two or more companies involved. Using Cultural theories, explain why do you think the Daimler-Chrysler merger failed to realize the synergies that were expected from it? The merger between Daimler-Chrysler failed to fulfill synergic expectancies because appropriate steps to ensure adequate integration between two organizational cultures were not implemented. Daimler-Benz did not effectively communicate their true intentions regarding the merger with Chrysler, initially setting expectancies for a joint-venture equalitarian status which was later revoked by Daimler-appointed, Chrysler USA CEO Juergen Schrempp. This lack of communication created expectancies of equality and autonomy among Chrysler employees which were disregarded post-merger. However, Chrysler USA showed lack of leadership in adapting to the new model of organizational structure implemented by Daimler-Benz, thus increasing levels of stress among employees while reducing perceived trust in leadership capabilities, level of commitment to the company, productivity and job satisfaction. Cultural differences were vast, and failed to adapt to typical inclusion challenges faced by foreign companies intending to establish their presence in domestic markets. Whereas the German organization displayed the level of formality, precision, bureaucracy and orientation to detail typical of autocratic and bureaucratic styles of management, leadership within Chrysler USA inclined towards a participative approach which valued empowerment and egalitarian relations. In order to minimize cultural clash, Schrempp allowed each company to retain their own structural and cultural approaches, suggesting the adoption of a separatist mode of acculturation. However, the lack of communication which accompanied this decision failed to address the uncertainties in organizational procedure brought by the merger, in addition to the true intentions of Daimler-Benz to acquire the company as a subsidiary and not as an equal partner. Thus, the true nature of the merger was revealed in the way Daimler- Benz promoted cultural assimilation without regard to existing structure in Chrysler USA. Q.2 Many a Cross Cultural mergers have failed because proper attention was not given to the difference in cultures between the two companies. What issues should be addressed to make cross culture merger a success? Include an Action plan in your recommendation section. In order for a cross-culture merger to be a success, cultural issues must be assessed and addressed as thoroughly as possible in order to dispel uncertainty which may give rise to increasing tension and diminished productivity in the workplace. To further any plans without assessing overall adaptation to newly-implemented changes would hinder any opportunities for organizational development. A merger that is both culturally aware and financially sound is fundamental to achieving success as a newly-formed corporation entity. Even though Daimler-Benz eventually attempted to increase cultural awareness within its organization by promoting seminars on cultural awareness, learning the language and experimenting with a casual dress code, cultural integration remained ineffective as both parties were still heavily entrenched in the bases of their pre-existing organizational structure. American employees were encouraged to learn the German language and increase specificity in their planning, but remained fundamentally adrift in their leadership while their German counterparts continued to eliminate Chrysler authority by replacing top-tier management with German executives. Essentially, both organizations resisted the changes implemented by the merger and did not manage a successful integration of company cultures. Because of the complexity involved in adapting and conforming to external cultural values, a new approach focusing on promoting a Third Culture has been suggested by a growing body of research as a way to demonstrate respect for pre-existing cultural identities within the organization. Yan and Luo (2001) suggest a series of actions to motivate intercultural learning. A partners level of commitment and negotiating skills should be thoroughly assessed; flow of knowledge should be constantly improved through effective communication; and inter-organizational trust should be reinforced (Graen, 2003). In addition, Graen Wakabayashi (1994) suggest an alignment of diverging cultures by implementing the LMX Third Culture Way, an overall procedural strategy which encourages mutual respect among cultures, as well as the acceptance and commitment of both parties to a mutual way of fulfilling the merger transactions objectives. Subsequently, acquired knowledge should be integrated successfully i n organizational practices (Graen, 2003), and knowledge leaks should be prevented in order to maintain organizational unity and edge. Similarly, overdependence in either one of the parties should be avoided, instead incentivizing employees from both parties to provide efficient and innovative suggestions. Finally, all acquired knowledge should be implemented in company culture and promoted through frequent and effective communication, and consultancy and support for both parties should be provided throughout every stage of the merging process. Such support would assist organizational transition by promoting a general understanding of distinct cultural values and potential attitudes and behaviors related to each of the involved parties. In turn, promoting a companys own awareness helps develop consciousness of typical behaviors inherent in the company and their influence on others, thus developing a greater level of cultural sensitivity which fosters more effective inter-management a nd management-employee relationships. Finally, constant promotion and reinforcement of third-culture values increase trust and perceived competence among both entities, increasing the overall effectiveness of communication. Section 2: Renault Enters India with a Joint Venture Q1. Examine the factors that influenced Renaults Decision to choose a joint venture entry mode as opposed to Green Field entry mode to enter the Indian market. Include in your answer an explanation of how the characteristics of India have affected this decision. As previously discussed, a joint venture is a strategic merger approach typically employed by a company that wishes to corner a foreign market. By approaching Mahindra and Mahindra (subsidiary of Nissan) as a joint venture, it seizes the opportunity to create a lasting, egalitarian relationship between both parties, in a dynamic which delegates autonomy and expertise to the Indian company while benefitting from the familiarity of its brand name and knowledge of domestic markets. However, profitable benefits are mutual as Mahindra and Mahindra disregard their allegedly small stake in the Indian subsidiary of Ford in order to gain a 20 per cent share of the total auto market in India. Q2. Discuss the main advantages and disadvantages for Renault using a Joint Venture mode compared to a Green Field entry mode. Explain the main differences between the two modes in terms of control, risk, and flexibility. Include an action plan which includes some steps to portray Renault as a good corporate citizen to reduce its political risk. In general, a joint venture with Mahindra and Mahindra allowed Renault to benefit from valuable, strategic assets, as well as a quicker and more formidable entry into a competitive, locally-cornered market. Had Renault approached the Indian market through Green Field Entry, it would have spent additional costs in starting a foreign subsidiary and forgone the invaluable expertise and established market shares it earned through the partnership with Mahindra. Furthermore, an analytical gaze at the Indian automobile market reveals that India is developing exponentially, with its southern cluster alone holding a 35 percent revenue share. Had Renault opted for the Green Field approach, it would have had to face a deeply competitive market with no realistic, cost-effective strategy of entry. Alternatively, both companies have demonstrated a successful adaptation to the merger by focusing on the strategies necessary to achieve mutual benefit. As previously suggested by Yan and Luo (2004), both Renault and Mahindra promote business interactions characterized by Third Culture elements, by incentivizing effective performance by communicating their company objectives and expectations in a direct manner, also reinforcing trust and productivity among both organizations. However, one frequent problem resulting from joint ventures relates to attitude changes by one of the owners (Miller Glen, 1997), suggesting difficulties in aspects of control. Diverging interests in products, disregard for more cost-effective sourcing, and mutual misunderstanding based on insensitivity to cultural differences are only a few of the issues arising from control problems. Thus, it is important for both Renault and Mahindra to continue fostering a Third Culture approach to their relations by contin ually generating cultural awareness and securing valuable knowledge produced by their interactions and joint experiences, as well as by increasing overall organizational flexibility when approaching overlapping company structures. Conclusions Mergers occur for various reasons, which include: increased mutual profit, market power, and intangible assets such as shared expertise. However, the process of merging to distinct companies with particular organizational cultures and structures can prove to be challenging to both parties, especially in regards to integrating new objectives and culturally-influenced expectations of productivity. As seen in the case study of Daimler-Chrysler, an inappropriate communication dynamic, as well as intercultural resistance, diminished the potential to achieve greater levels of productivity and satisfaction among both parties and failed to extinguish increasing levels of stress and distrust among the acquiring and acquired entities. In order to increase opportunities for a successful multicultural merger, both organizations should raise cultural awareness amongst each other through direct and respectful feedback and a constant and secure influx of knowledge which reinforces a general and uni ting third culture.
Thursday, September 19, 2019
Terry Tempest Williams Refuge :: Terry Williams Refuge Memoir Essays
Terry Tempest Williams' Refuge Everything known to man is held in some sort of balance. It is a delicate balance, one which swings rhythmically to the ebb and flow of this world. Many have studied it but it has proven too complex, too broad to understand everything that is at work. That is why it must be preserved. One such movement has recently begun which looks exclusively to preserve this balance, ecofeminism. Terry Tempest Williams is just that, an ecofeminist. In her memoir Refugeà ¸ Williams attempts to examine the ecological and social worlds that balance on this pendulum. Refuge brings together a range of topics and ideas with her own mix of environmental, social, and cultural problems to present the reader with a clearly laid out stance for ecofeminism. There is an ecofeminist stance in Refuge because she believes women have a bond with nature that men do not, land has its own life, and all things were created equally. The roots of ecofeminism are credited to a rising interest in both the environment and womenââ¬â¢s rights. These topics became hotly debated after the Victorian era but many scholars say ââ¬Å"ecofeminism is a new term for an ancient wisdomâ⬠(Diamond & Orenstein). Ecofeminism combines ecological and feminist rights to generate a very virtuous cause. It aims to change humanââ¬â¢s relationships with each other and also with the environment, but it of course encompasses much more than that. Ecofeminism can best be defined as an attempt to show that all life is interconnected (Baker). That humans and nature share a common bond and that bond is what each depends upon to ensure the other survives. There is a definite stance by Williams to assert that women are more connected with nature than men in Refuge. This is clear because Williams identifies each sex with different components of life. Men are matched with culture while women are connected to nature (Kircher). This is clear when Williams says, We spoke of rage. Of women and landscape. How our bodies and the body of the earth have been mined. ââ¬ËIt has everything to do with intimacy,ââ¬â¢ I said, ââ¬ËMen define intimacy through their bodies. It is physical. They define intimacy with the land in the same way.ââ¬â¢ (10) This quotation shows that women understand the earth while men simply try to dominate and overcome nature. It is male doctors who diagnose and treat Diane.
Wednesday, September 18, 2019
A Study of Literature Isms :: essays papers
People change through every generation. But the bidding force through all the generations has been literature. There are four essential classifications for literature, romanticism, realism, naturalism, and existentialism. Romanticism centers ââ¬Å"around art as inspiration, the spiritual and aesthetic dimension of nature, and metaphors of organic growthâ⬠(VanSpanckeren, ââ¬Å"The Romantic Period: Essayist and Poetsâ⬠). VanSpanckeren says that in his essay ââ¬Å"The Poetâ⬠, Ralph Waldo Emerson, one of the most influential writer of the Romantic era, asserts: For all men live by truth, and stand in need in expression. In love, in art, in avarice, in politics, in labor, in games, we study to utter our painful secret. The man is only half himself, the other half is expression (qtd. in ââ¬Å"The Romantic Period: Essayist and Poetsâ⬠). Romantic literature came from a reaction to the neoclassicism and formal orthodoxy of the preceding period (Holman and Harmon). ââ¬Å"Romanticism arose so gradually and exhibited so many phases that a satisfactory definition is not possibleâ⬠(Holman and Harmon). According to VanSpanckeren, the development of the self became a major theme in romanticism; self- awareness was a primary method. According to the Romantic theory, self and nature are the same, and self- awareness is not a selfish dead end but a mode of knowledge opening up the universe (VanSpankeren, ââ¬Å"The Romantic Period: Essayists and Poetsâ⬠). With this new found idea of self, new compound words with positive meanings emerged: self- realization, self- expression, and self- reliance (VanSpankeren, ââ¬Å"The Romantic Period: Essayist and Poetsâ⬠). Romanticism stresses individualism, affirmed the value of the common person, and looked to the inspired imagination for its aesthetic and ethical values (VanSpankeren, ââ¬Å"The Romantic Period: Essayists and Poetsâ⬠). In New England, Romanticism prospered, the New England transcendentalists, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, and their associates, were inspired to a new optimistic affirmation by the romanticism ideas (VanSpanckeren, ââ¬Å"The Romantic Period: Essayists and Poe tsâ⬠). The transcendentalists believed that the soul of each individual was thought to be identical with the world (VanSpanckeren, ââ¬Å"The Romantic Period: Essayist and Poetsâ⬠). Some examples of romantic writers are the New England transcendentalists (Emerson, Thoreau, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Margaret Fuller, Bronson Alcott, and William Ellery Channing), Oliver Wendell Holmes, and Edgar Allen Poe (VanSpanckeren, ââ¬Å"The Romantic Period: Essayists and Poetsâ⬠). The New England transcendentalist carried the expression of philosophical and religious ideas to a high level through essays and lectures (Holman and Harmon). Ralph Waldo Emersonââ¬â¢s first publication, Nature,
Tuesday, September 17, 2019
Brunswick Plastics Essay
Introduction Brunswick Plastics, located in Canada, is an injection molding company. Brunswick Plastics produces 50 different products; however, they are not reaching capacity. Production required multiple labor hours, and since they werenââ¬â¢t at capacity, they were finishing a little above breakeven. The Division Manager of Brunswick Plastics, Michael Smith was informed of an opportunity for his company and must make a decision on whether or not to venture into this opportunity. Mr. Smith was informed of a project of producing 150,000 milk crates. He can place a bid for the project. However, Mr. Smith isnââ¬â¢t confident in the information that he has, and needs answers to best estimate the costs of producing the additional units. The costs that he knows are as follows: Production Labor$0.14 Loading Labor 0.02 Crate Materials 1.71 Stamp Materials 0.04 TOTAL$1.91 per unit Stamping Machine $5,000 one-time cost Mr. Smith must make a critical pricing decision to have a competitive advantage in the bid process. He has specific questions which answered, will provide a confident grasp on the situation to enable him to make a decision on whether to place the bid and at what price. If the bid is too high, it will most likely be rejected, and the company would lose the opportunity to reach capacity and make a higher profit. But, if the bid is too low it would cause a loss for the company. We will answer Mr. Smithââ¬â¢s questions throughout this case analysis. Question #1: Based on your interpretation of Exhibit 3, what is your estimate of the change in ââ¬Å"PFMOHâ⬠cost if the factory were to run one extra batch of 150,000 milk crates? Based on the interpretation of Exhibit 3, the linear regression that has the most accurate relationship with Plant Fixed Manufacturing Overhead (PFMOH) is Direct Labor Hours (DLH). Michael Smith calculated that 3,472 scheduled machine hours would be need, 2,083 running hours. Using the equation, PFMOH=4321+(2.85*DLH), and knowing that an operator must be present for each hour of scheduled machine hours (3,472), we can determine an increase of $14,216.20. We must also factor in depreciation expense (straight line depreciation) of $500 annually ($5,000/10years). Yielding a change of $14,716.20. 4,321+(2.85*3,472)=$14,216.20 $14,216.20+$500=$14,716.20 Question #2: What is your estimate of the incremental cost per unit for one batch of 150,000 milk crates? The incremental cost per unit is $2.09 and is determined by adding the direct labor and direct materials per unit to the variable overhead. Variable overhead is determined by multiplying the number of machine hours by the ââ¬Å"rule of thumbâ⬠for variable overhead, which is stated in the case as $13 per machine hour of ââ¬Å"running time,â⬠and dividing the product by the number of units. ($13*2,083)/150,000=$0.18 $1.91+.18=2.09 Question #3: What does Exhibit 2 suggest would be a ââ¬Å"normalâ⬠price for milk crates for an ââ¬Å"averageâ⬠job shop? What does this suggest about the $3.00 price which seems to prevail at the time of the case? The case suggests the price for the crates for an average job shop is: 150,000*$3.00=$450,000*57%=$256,500 Therefore, the direct materials and direct labor is $256,500, $1.71 per unit for the average job shop. At $1.71 per unit, Brunswickââ¬â¢s bid price will be much higher at $3.00, which increases the chance that the bid will be rejected. Question #4: What is the ââ¬Å"strategically relevantâ⬠cost per unit for milk crates? (for purposes of deciding whether or not the $3.00 ââ¬Å"market priceâ⬠is profitable, on an ongoing basis) At $3.00 market price, producing the 150,000 crates would be profitable for Brunswick, because the profit per unit is $0.81. Production Labor$0.14 Loading Labor 0.02 Crate Materials 1.71 Stamp Materials 0.04 Variable Overhead 0.18 PFMOH 0.10 TOTAL COST$2.19 per unit $14,716.20/150,000=$0.10 $3.00-$2.19=$0.81 At $0.81 a unit for 150,000 units, Brunswickââ¬â¢s annual profit would be $121,500. $0.81*150,000=$121,500 Question #5: What is your advice to Mr. Smith regarding the milk crate opportunity? Be specific and show the calculation supporting your advice.à Assuming the original fixed costs will not be changed, we would recommend that Mr. Smith place the bid for the project. A price of $3.00 is the average current market price; however, considering Mr. Smithââ¬â¢s need for the contract to alter his contribution margin and to meet capacity, we recommend him bidding at $2.90. His opportunity cost of not getting the bid is greater than the $0.10 he will lose if he made a bid at $2.90.The chances are fair for Mr. Smithââ¬â¢s bid to be accepted at this price. If it is accepted, Brunswick would increase their profit by $106,500 annually. They would also come much closer to meeting capacity if they placed the bid. $2.90 Market Price per unit-$2.19 Total Cost per unit= $0.71*150,000 units=$106,500 of profit Question #6: What overall strategic advice do you have for Mr. Smith? What isnââ¬â¢t the business doing better, given the new ââ¬Å"specialties strategyâ⬠and good business conditions? Support your answer with relevant cost analysis. Based on details within the case, Mr. Smith is obviously bidding jobs too high and not allowing his plant to increase its volume and obtain fullà capacity. We would advise Mr. Smith to get a better understanding of his costs in order to price his jobs more competitively. Take this project for example, if the incremental cost of this milk crate project is $2.09 and he is certain he can win the bid at $2.90, then that $0.81 of revenue can contribute to 55% of the SG&A costs for the year, from a project that is only 25% of Brunswick Plastics annual sales revenue. Additionally, the case states that a successful bid would give Brunswick a competitive advantage in future orders. Therefore, if they won the other half of the milk crate orders, it would further cover their fixed overhead and not hinder the capacity requirements of the other products Brunswick produces. $0.81*150,000=$121,500/$220,000=.55 or 55% Conclusion Considering the calculations we have made, we recommend that Michael Smith place a bid on behalf of Brunswick Plastics for the 150,000 milk crate project at $2.90. It will be wise for Mr. Smith to come in at the lowest market price to dramatically increase the chances of his bid being accepted. Brunswick needs to win this bid so that they may be able to better their contribution margin and come closer to meeting capacity. A win will also increase profit, so they are much higher above breakeven. This could lead to further business with the Dairy Counsel as well.
Monday, September 16, 2019
Online Game Addiction Essay
Online game addiction is no longer just a worry of an American-chubby-childââ¬â¢s mother, but the worry of many parents in Cambodia and other less affluent countries. Recently, more teenage Cambodians were addicted to online games, in order to satisfy their fantasy of being heroes or warriors. Cambodian teens would rather eat less or even skip meals just to save money for the online games. Other than spending money, they also wasted their time. According to Chheng Roth Donior, a Cambodian teen, he normally spends three to five hours a day in internet cafes, even under the threat of his mother. It might have sounded strange to you, since Cambodia is not a wealthy country and most of the urban teens do not have internet at home, and why would they be addicted to online games? One of the reasons is more and more internet cafes have opened up, and Web access is growing rapidly these years. Another reason would be the teenagers in fact do not know theyââ¬â¢re addicted to the online games or its harmful effects. The consequence of online game addiction could be serious, for example, last year in South Korea, a man died after playing online games for five days straight. For sure, the teenagers would waste all their money and time on those internet cafes. They would have less incentive to work or study since the satisfaction gained from the games is far more than those they could gain in their daily lives. It would also harm the gamersââ¬â¢ health (e. g. with poorer eyesight and less exercise) and would lower their face to face communication skills. Later, they may not be able to distinguish between the reality and the created world. Teenagers are the future of the country, measures must be taken as soon as possible to curb the addiction. First, promotion from the government is very crucial. The teenagers may not understand the harmful effects of online game addictions, government should advertise the harmful effect and possible consequences through mass media, i. e. TV advertisements, news paper, radio etc. Posters should also posted in school, streets and especially the internet cafes, just like a warning note must also included on the package of cigarettes. For why the teenagers would addict to online games, is that they could gain a sense of satisfaction by beating down their created enemies. Therefore, the teachers and parents of the teenagers should help them build their confidence, like giving them chances to develop their talents. For example, school can provide more Extra-curriculum activities for them afterschool. They should also help the teenagers to identify their dreams and targets, assuring them that nothing is impossible and encourage them to fight for their dreams through talks and lessons. Then they would not stick to the computer screens, instead, they would work very hard on their dreams. On their ways towards their goals, parents and teachers should give supports and advice to them. Third, government should set up clinics to help the gamers overcome their internet addictions, just like what China and South Korea did. The clinics should provide counseling and information about online game addiction, this could help those people who had already addicted to online games. Lastly, education is always the last resort of most problems. Schools and parents have the responsibility in teaching the teens about the harmful effects of online game addiction. They should educate the students or their children starting from their childhood. Schools can hold more talks on the issue in order to make sure that they receive related information. If we do not cope with the problem as soon as possible, the situation would become more complicated and serious. The solutions I suggested above would definitely help dealing with the problem, and I hope the situation would be improved soon.
Sunday, September 15, 2019
Millerite Movement in the Second Great Awakening of American History
The Millerite Movement happened in the context of this nationââ¬â¢s Second Great Awakening: a religious revival that carried the country into reform movements. The Second Great Awakening had its start in Connecticut in the 1790s and grew to its height in the 1830s to 1840s. [1] During this time in the United States history, churches experienced a more complete freedom from governmental control which opened the doors of opportunity to a great spiritual awakening in the American people. [2] This awakening focused on areas of both religious and social issues of that era which were important to the religious movements and the nation as a whole.The Second Great Awakening was driven by these issues which included an increase in the evils associated with the recent rise of industry and a lack of the political ideals of freedom of choice. On the social front, the Second Great Awakening rose up to combat these matters and to promote temperance in lifestyle and more equality among people. T he religious aspect emphasized the importance of the soon second coming and that everyone had a chance at salvation. In order to evaluate the Millerite Movement, it is important to look at the general religious and social movements of the Second Great Awakening.Out of this period arose many new religions and the growth of other preexisting religions. Some of the prominent new religions included the Mormons, the Shakers, and the Millerite Movement which later evolved into Adventism. Presbyterians, Episcopalians, Baptists, and particularly the Methodists all saw immense growth in membership. Each of these groups had the following beliefs in common: the rejection of Calvinism and the soon second coming of Christ. Calvinists believed in predestination and this was the target of rejection by the Second Great Awakening.People were awakened to the notion that everyone had a chance to receive salvation and that it was not predetermined. [3] The Shakers and other more prominent protestant fa iths also believed strongly in the equality of social status, the level of education available, and gender, particularly in the area of voting. [4] Also common to these religious groups was the practice of temperance. At the heart of the Second Great Awakening was Charles Grandison Finney. He was a lawyer who became a Presbyterian minister and believed that since we ould choose to sin, we could also choose to abstain from sin. This idea that men and women could take charge of their spiritual future encouraged groups to band together to rid their society of evils that cursed this young American country. The American Temperance Society formed to avoid consumption of any alcoholic beverages. Before this time, it was suggested that people drink in moderation, however, many people, especially isolated farmers, drank heavily. Once the Awakening hit the nation, people rose up against alcohol abuse and formed the temperance movement. [5]The fundamental theology of the Second Great Awakening can be summed up in the following points: salvation came by choice and not predestination, Christ was coming soon, the push for equality and to live temperate lives free from sin. The Millerite movement began with a man named William Miller. He was a farmer and an atheist until a miracle directed his interests to the bible and prophecy. His calling and beginning was not unlike that of Joseph Smith of the Mormons or Mother Ann of the Shakers and many other reformers. He grew up in less than desirable conditions which shaped him for his future. [6] He felt called directly by God. God directed the mind of William Miller to the prophecies and gave him great light upon the book of Revelation. â⬠[7] Since William Miller and the Millerites focused so heavily on the second coming, little is said about their other beliefs or how they grew in context of the Second Great Awakening. It is very clear that they held an Anti-Calvinist view as they were eager to share with everyone the news o f Christââ¬â¢s soon coming and that they all must get ready. This would imply they believed that all could have a chance and salvation and were not predestined with not choice about their eternal outcome.The Millerite Movement is best known for its prediction of Christââ¬â¢s coming to be 1843 and later revised to October 22, 1844. The very core of this movement was the anticipation for the soon coming of Christ. They were not the only group to look forward to this event but it became of paramount interest to the Millerites, as they had a set date for Christââ¬â¢s second return. [8] As the Second Great Awakening grew more mindful of Christââ¬â¢s second coming, so did the Millerite Movement. The story of William Miller is one which climaxes in his desire to share about Christââ¬â¢s immediate return and the Great Disappointment.The result is the Adventist church we have today. The Seventh-day Adventist Church today still reflects the roots it had in the Second Great Awak ening. The founding principles that the Millerites discovered as they broke away from the mainstream Christianity of their time, are still a part of what we believe today. The Adventist faith holds that anyone who comes to Christ is a new creation and can find salvation. [9] There is no predestination and once saved does not assure that we are always saved. But no matter what, anyone can come to God for His gift of salvation. [10]Just like the second coming of Christ was an important part of the Second Great Awakening and a key foundation of the Millerite Movement, Adventists have in their name the hope of His soon return. The root of our name Adventist is advent which refers to the arrival of a notable person. It is still a belief of great import. We refer to the second coming as our blessed hope in reference to 2nd Thessalonians. As Adventists, we believe in a certain, literal, and soon second coming of Jesus. [11] The Adventist faith is unique in the degree to which it upholds th e importance of temperance.It is important to keep our bodies holy as they are the temple of the Holy Spirit. Adventists, like the Christians of the Second Great Awakening discourage drinking or using drugs at any point in ones life. We also take into consideration the Levitical laws on health and hygiene. Adventist encourage exercise and healthy eating. Many adventists are lacto-ovo vegetarians which means the avoidance of animal products with the exception of dairy. Ellen G. White, the churchââ¬â¢s prophet, encourages a completely vegan diet for optimum health. [12] BIBLIOGRAPHY 1. Boyer, Paul S.. Chapter 10. â⬠In The enduring vision: a history of the American people. 7th ed. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 2004. 232-236. 2. Foner, Eric. ââ¬Å"market revolution. â⬠American History. http://www. americanhistory. abc-clio. com (accessed November 15, 2012). 3. Smith, Timothy Lawrence. Revivalism and social reform; American Protestantism on the eve of the Civil War. New York: Harper & Row, 19651957. 4. White, Ellen Gould Harmon. ââ¬Å"An American Reformer. â⬠In The Great Controversy. DeLand, Florida. : Laymen for Religious Liberty Inc. , 1990. 317. 5. White, Ellen Gould Harmon.Early writings of Mrs. White Experience and views, and Spiritual gifts, volume one.. 2d ed. Battle Creek, Mich. : Review and Herald, 1882. 6. Dick, Everett Newfon, and Gary Land. William Miller and the Advent crisis, 1831-1844. Berrien Springs, Mich. : Andrews University Press, 1994. 7. ââ¬Å"2 Corinthians. â⬠In The Holy Bible. Glasgow [Scotland: Collins Publishers, 1989. 8. Seventh-day Adventists believe: a Biblical exposition of 27 fundamental doctrines.. Washington, DC: Ministerial Association, General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, 1988. 332-347 9. Stoia, Joseph P.. Seventh-Day Adventist Health Message. â⬠SDADA Home Page. http://www. sdada. org/sdahealth. htm (accessed November 19, 2012). ââ¬âââ¬âââ¬âââ¬âââ¬âââ¬âââ¬âââ¬â [1] Boyer, Paul S.. ââ¬Å"Chapter 10. â⬠In The enduring vision: a history of the American people. 7th ed. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 2004. 232-235. [2] Foner, Eric. ââ¬Å"market revolution. â⬠American History. http://www. americanhistory. abc-clio. com (accessed November 15, 2012). [3] Boyer, Paul S.. ââ¬Å"Chapter 10. â⬠In The enduring vision: a history of the American people. 7th ed. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 2004. 233-235. [4] Smith, Timothy Lawrence.Revivalism and social reform; American Protestantism on the eve of the Civil War. New York: Harper & Row, 19651957. [5] Boyer, Paul S.. ââ¬Å"Chapter 10. â⬠In The enduring vision: a history of the American people. 7th ed. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 2004. 235-236. [6] White, Ellen Gould Harmon. ââ¬Å"An American Reformer. â⬠In The Great Controversy. DeLand, Florida. : Laymen for Religious Liberty Inc. , 1990. 317. [7] White, Ellen Gould Harmon. Early writings of Mrs. White Experience and views, and Spiritual gifts, volume one.. 2d ed. Battle Creek, Mich. : Review and Herald, 1882. 8] Dick, Everett Newfon, and Gary Land. William Miller and the Advent crisis, 1831-1844. Berrien Springs, Mich. : Andrews University Press, 1994. [9] ââ¬Å"2 Corinthians. â⬠In The Holy Bible. Glasgow [Scotland: Collins Publishers, 1989. [10] Seventh-day Adventists believe: a Biblical exposition of 27 fundamental doctrines.. Washington, DC: Ministerial Association, General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, 1988. 332-347 [11] Ibid [12] Stoia, Joseph P.. ââ¬Å"Seventh-Day Adventist Health Message. â⬠SDADA Home Page. http://www. sdada. org/sdahealth. htm (accessed November 19, 2012).
Saturday, September 14, 2019
Essay About The Rights Of Men
1. Copy and paste the introduction to your essay in the space below. what is the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen2. Using techniques learned in this lesson, write the conclusion to your essay in the space below. In August 1789 a fundamental document of the French Revolution and in the history of human rights It defined the individual and the collective rights of all the estates of the realms universal. Influenced by the doctrine of ââ¬Å"natural rightâ⬠, the rights of man are held to be universal: valid at all times and in every place, pertaining to human nature itself. It became the basis for a nation of free individuals protected equally by law.It is included in the preamble of the constitutions of both the Fourth French Republic (1946) and Fifth Republic (1958) and is still current. Inspired in part by the American Revolution, the Declaration was a core statement of the values of the French revolution and had a major impact on the development of liberty an d democracy in Europe and worldwide.Now, let's break your conclusion apart to show the different techniques you used. 3. How did you connect your introduction and your conclusion? (Did you use a similar technique, repetition of a significant word or phrase, etc.?) Explain. I did use some of the techniques but i'm not really sure if they're right but i am sure that i used the signals closure4. Copy and paste the words or sentence that signals closure of your essayà that the Declaration was a core statement of the values of the French revolution and had a major impact on the development of liberty and democracy in Europe and worldwide.5. Copy and paste the sentences that synthesize your ideas. Remember,à synthesis combines the main ideas of your essay AND comments on the significance of those ideas.It is included in the preamble of the constitutions of both the Fourth French Republic (1946) and Fifth Republic (1958) and is still current. 6. Copy and paste the sentences that answer the question from the prompt: What conclusion or implications can you draw? (It is okay if you have these sentences as a part of your synthesis or challenge to your audience. Include them here as well. It is also okay if these sentences are separate from those two elements.)It is included in the preamble of the constitutions of both the Fourth French Republic (1946) and Fifth Republic (1958) and is still current.7. Copy and paste the sentences from your conclusion that challenge your audience to think, feel, or do something. The rights of man are held to be universal: valid at all times and in every place, pertaining to human nature itself. It became the basis for a nation of free individuals protected equally by law
Friday, September 13, 2019
Broken Homes and Developmental Psychology
A paper which explores the effect broken homes have on the emotional, physiological and behavioral development of the children involved. An in-depth study on how children from broken homes are affected emotionally, physiologically and from a behavioral point of view. The paper explores issues such as children with single-parent homes vs. two-parent homes, the benefits of friends and extended families, single parent attitudes towards children, effects on academic education and emotional behavior, socioeconomic effects, step-parents and single fathers. Today, single fathers seem to be more familiar with these roles in home management and childcare than mothers.Furthermore, the tie and connection between single fathers and children as well single mothers and children have now become new focal points for self-direction. Both single parents have set the criteria for organization of more traditional spheres of work and social life such that now single fathers develop close relationships with their children and have a greater appreciation of responsibility in being the primary parent. However, the fact remains that no mater how good mother or a father can be as a single parent, the negative and adverse effects of childrens development proofed through various studies concludes that theres a price to be paid for removing one of the traditional pairs, and the old-fashioned concept and belief that to have a mother and a father is still a pretty good idea.
The Welfare State Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words
The Welfare State - Essay Example The government realized that the stateââ¬â¢s duty is to look after its citizens from birth to death. After its implementation, the government tried to facilitate whatever conditions favourable for the citizens. The present essay tries to analyse the meaning of welfare state in Britain. Further the essay shows how the government had tried to eliminate the ââ¬Ëfive giantsââ¬â¢, as stated by Beveridge, for the development of welfare state. Moreover an evaluation is made on the strengths and weaknesses of the welfare state in Britain. Thus the essay is an attempt to throw light on the various aspects of the welfare state in the United Kingdom. The meaning of welfare state in UK: The idea of welfare state began in the year 1942. William Beveridge proposed the suggestions for making the country a welfare state. The Clement Attlee government was favourable for implementing the project of William Beveridge. The period of the government from 1945-1951 witnessed many of the welfare pr ogrammes for the people. It aimed to reduce the social inequalities and bring up social justice to all in the British society. The Attlee government was in support of the common people and so the implementation of welfare state made many people friendly programmes for the total developments of the people. ... 2-3). As stated above the nation has a great role to play for the wellbeing of the people. It should make programmes for the security and future of the citizens. It is the duty of the state to provide maximum programmes for child developments and health care. The educational requirements of the citizens are the duty of a welfare government. The concept of welfare state in relied upon the report of Beveridge. The report demands the destruction of five giants. Ken Browne in his Introduction to Sociology pinpoints that the development of welfare services aimed at the destruction of the five giants-ââ¬Å"of Want (poverty), Disease (ill-health and lack of healthcare), Squalor (poor housing), Ignorance (lack of educational opportunity) and Idleness (unemployment), and the creation of a society in which each individual would have the right to be cared by the state from womb to tombâ⬠(Browne 2011, p.383). When these five giants are reduced by the government to the lowest level, the so ciety is said to be in favour of the people. In analysing the implementation of the welfare state, it can be seen that the government had tried its level best to eliminate these five giants from the land. Thus in the history of Britain anyone can understand that the government is worth enough to be called a welfare state. UK as a welfare state and the analysis of five giants: To analyse the welfare state in Great Britain, it is worthwhile to make an evaluation of the five giants and the governmental policies to eradicate the giants from the society. In the UK, the government headed by the Labour party was ready to implement some of the suggestions of Beveridge and implemented a series of laws to protect it. It had many up and downs. It remained up to Margaret
Thursday, September 12, 2019
Critical Assessment of Morrisons Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words
Critical Assessment of Morrisons - Essay Example Thus, there are many challenges which the present groceries are facing in the UK market. Hence, in the present business scenario, organisations need more sustainable and effective tools to gain advantage in this competitive environment. Looking at the current crisis which the company is facing, powerful strategic operations and new market diversifications are crucial for profitability and sustainable growth in the future. The current operations of the retail giant include convenience stores and supermarket chains. The company follows a vertical integration strategy for the current distribution system. The supermarket chain of Morrison is currently distributed into six major areas of United Kingdom. Except for its petrol stations, the company does not provide any loyalty schemes. Apart from that, the company does not provide any online shopping service, a strategy which they are looking seriously now. At present the company has three distribution centres based in UK. Other smaller ope rations of the organisations include kidscare, an online website selling wines and a clothing brand. The logistics and supply chain processes are monitored by the company itself. The biggest advantage of implementing this model is the cost advantage to the company. The company does not require middle men in their operations and thus they are able to provide their products and services at a lower price compared to their competitors. The company can also respond to any change in trends of customers purchasing. The organisation is family owned and works in a closed loop. Thus, ownership is an important aspect of their business. The current business scenario of the company is suffering because of volatility in the fresh foods market.... The current business scenario of the company is suffering because of volatility in the fresh foods market. The food and grocery market has seen a dramatic change, as a result of the change in strategies and logistics of the overall industry. Morrisonââ¬â¢s have reported a continuous loss in sales for a period of six weeks from November till December 2012. According to this report from telegraph, though the industry saw an overall decrease in sales, the loss incurred by Morrison was more compared to its competitors from the industry. Reports suggested two possible causes for the deep loss. Lack of sufficient number of convenient stores and no online presence unlike its competitors were considered as major contributors of the loss. So far, the company has established only 12 convenient stores in the nation. Looking at the increasing popularity and acceptance of convenience stores it can be said that the organisation is losing out a large chunk of sales on this format. Apart from thi s, the market penetration of the retail chain is scattered, with major stores based out of town. The organisation also lacks proper penetration in affluent and popular grocery places in London.
Wednesday, September 11, 2019
The Role of a Modern Industrial Manager Literature review
The Role of a Modern Industrial Manager - Literature review Example According to Zhong-Ming &, Takao (1994), modern management thinkers assert that leadership must be more facilitative, participative and empowering in how visions and goals of the organizations are carried out. Industrial management is concerned with the design, improvement, and implementation of integrated systems of people, material, information, equipment and energy (McGregor & Cutcher 2006). According to McGregor & Cutcher (2006), industrial management is a broad concept. Today, industrial management is also known as industrial engineering, operations management now encompasses services though initially applied to manufacture. By definition, industrial management draws upon specialized knowledge and skills in the mathematical, physical and social sciences not leaving out the principles and methods of engineering analysis. Greenberg and Baron (2003), define leadership as the process whereby one individual influences other group members toward the attainment of defined group or organizational goals. The leadership process primarily involves influence whereby one individual can influence or change the actions of several group members or subordinates. There are many techniques for exerting such influence ranging from relatively coercive wherein the recipient has little choice but to do what is requested, to relative non-coercive ones, wherein the recipient can choose to reject or accept the influence offered. In general, leadership refers to the use of non-coercive influence techniques. It is important to distinguish a leader from a dictator. Whereas dictators get others to do what they want by using physical coercion or by threats of physical force, leaders do not (Greenberg and Baron, 2003: pp 471). According to Darwish (1998) leadership represents an important factor in the determination of the success or failure of organizations. Darwish indicated that effective leadership is to be associated with improved organizational performance.Ã
Tuesday, September 10, 2019
Global Leader Carlos Slim Helu - Telecom Research Paper
Global Leader Carlos Slim Helu - Telecom - Research Paper Example How did such a young boy with no substantial wealth become the richest person in the whole world? Business men intend to be sharp and ruthless which he was but what made him so special that he remained the worldââ¬â¢s richest person for three years even with the likes of Bill Gates breathing down his necks? Here we will try to analyze his approach to business and his worth ethics and strategies that have driven his tremendous success (forbes, n.p.). From an early age Carlos Slim showed exceptional ability in business related matters so his father who was an entrepreneur himself groomed him from an early stage. His father had fled Lebanon along with his brothers to make a living in Mexico and he survived the competitive streets while making a name in business. Carlos Slim was also raised to be in the same mould of competitive behavior and as time showed that appeared to be his main attribute in achieving success. At the tender age of 12, he was handed his fatherââ¬â¢s real estat e business which he co handed and did extraordinary work but his thoughts were focused on other things so he gained an engineering degree and became a stockbroker and worked his magic in the stock business for some while with huge profits so much that by the age of 26, his net worth was forty million dollars. But due to his nature, he never wanted to be in the stock business for good rather he wanted to become a real business man with permanent interests in the leading industries of the world. His phenomenal rise by trading stocks and later in all the leading businesses that he started commanding benefited from his outrageous talent of organizing and mastery of discrete mathematics. His level in the mastery of numbers and linear programming (even though it had tedious application back in the 1960s) was considered unparalleled and unique. It enabled him to understand the worth and the potential of several fields that were not so profitable in the early days of their conception like t he now trillion dollar industries of telecom, tobacco and oil. After doing considerable research and numerical study, he decided to buy the second largest tobacco company Cigatem in Mexico back in 1981 which made Marlboro brand of cigarettes (Rubin, 99). With expansion and modernization, he transformed the company into huge profits which he used to buy into more companies and gain control. Until now, Slim wasnââ¬â¢t in the elite circle of businessmen but from now onwards he began the real climb towards success. In 1982, the oil prices went downhill due to the expansion of the Middle East oil well business which affected the Mexican economy so the businesses began to tumble and he took advantage of the situation and made ridiculously good bargains. He also invested in the Mexican businesses in USA like Hershey Corporation and Reynolds Aluminum and earned mighty profits. He also invested in the Mexican financial services. He was a true ruthless businessman and from now onwards he s tarted making total monopolies and drove competitors away with relative ease. His monopoly of the communication industry is also evident of this fact with Telmex and Movil his primary concerns nowadays which he purchased dirt cheap and helped transform them into the largest telecom operators in the region just because of the insight he possessed. In the later part of eighties, he purchased more large companies that had major futures in Aluminum, copper and chemicals and expanded his business.
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