Ethical Leadership and How to Create a Positive Work Environment Essay

Leadership nowadays has encountered various problems. One of the most common one and which is contaminating the main business environment is that individuals at work are not engaging as they should. We have to ask ourselves, why is this happening and how can we prevent it? Dr. Charmine Hartel commented in the seminar that almost 20% of all the active workers in every organization do not work in favor of it. Instead they engage against the organization in various ways. This is a really big issue, because this means that there is something happening inside the organization and its leadership that is making these counter-productive acts. Recent researches that have been made show us that there are 3 different things that usually happens in the organization that get the workers to engage in a bad way their work as they should. * Work Environment * Negative Work Environment * Stress When the brain is under stress chemicals are released that weakens functions of the brain that gives us a higher level of structure (this is called the prefrontal cortex). When stressed, we are likely to engage inappropriate actions and lack the ability to regulate our emotions. With this in mind, we are encountering serious problems for the organization, because if these workers don’t have the use of their brain area they are not going to be able to engage the work they can and should do. Ethical Leadership The fruits of ethical leadership are Positive Work Environments, also known as PWE’s. PWEÂ ´s exists when the workers see their places as positive, respectful, inclusive and psychologically safe, and when leaders and coworkers are trustworthy and there exist an open diversity characterized in just policies and decision making. The entire above are needed to complete and get a PWE. PWE provides the set of emotional experiences necessary for human flourishing. We know that on average the positive emotional experiences outweigh the negative emotional ones. So, with this in mind, when you see your environment is safeyou have the ability to start being more creative and start being yourself. We should always keep in mind that an emotion is a response of the person when they have a particular event. They can have Destructive or constructive consequences. Organizations are responsible for the work environment they create. This is called the organization culture. When people and how the people interpreted the environment around their workplace. This is about how the organization context shapes the meaning and actions of its members. People management have the need to build resilience, diversity openness and be able to create a support to people trough change. There always exists the need to belong and to be valued for our uniqueness. Servant Leadership Many leadership approaches think about other things and focus their attention on what the followers need and develop things around them. Its an approach around the about the energy and direct it to the best place. With that in mind looking at the person as a whole being, not just as one more worker. One of the key things is that they can understand the core value of the workers and respect them as they deserve. There exist the emotion focus coping and problem focused coping they both have constructive and destructive emotions and impulses. The Giving Voice of Values (GVV) is designed to help individuals learn to recognize, clarify, speak and act on themselves when those conflicts arise. The focus is on how a manager raises this issues in an effective way.

Participation Early Education Essay

Participation in simple terms means to take part in something (Hornby 1995: 844). When referring to children’s rights, the concept is far broader. It is much more than simply asking children for their ideas or opinions. It is about listening to, respecting and understanding children, working in partnership with them, giving children the opportunity to actively make decisions that will result in their ideas becoming reality and their contributions bringing about positive change (Ministry of Social Development 2003). Children’s participation is a right not an optional extra (Participation Works 2012). The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) promotes a rights-based approach to children and states that these rights begin at birth (Alderson 2008: 83). Many of the 54 articles encompass child participation. Articles 6, 7 and 8 refer to a child’s right to life, to a name and to an identity (Unicef n.d). The right to a life, to be a part of society, to participate as a part of the human race make all other rights achievable (Alderson 2008). Article 7 states that every child should have a name and their name should be respected. Giving a child a name and an identity is recognising the child as a unique individual rather than the property of a parent or carer (Alderson 2008: 79). One of the key articles that promote child participation is Article 12: ‘state parties shall assure to the child who is capable of forming his or her own views the right to express those views freely in all matters affecting the child, the views of the child being given due weight in accordance with age and maturity of the child’ (Alderson 2008: 87). Article 12 is about giving children the right to express their views and having them heard. This means actively listening to children by allowing them to communicate their thoughts, feelings or ideas and know that they will be taken on board and respected (Scott et al 2008: 51). There are many whom are critical of this article and are concerned that it may be interpreted in such a way as to manipulate certain situations (Scott et al 2008: 51). The article states that the views of the child will be given due weight in accordance with age and maturity (Alderson 2008: 87). Some feel this may mean that children under a certain age may not be taken seriously nor have their views heard (Scott et al 2008). Alderson believes that babies and very young children are able to express themselves in various ways and get great joy from making choices (2008: 88). The UNCRC outlines child’s rights which protect children and promote welfare (Alderson 2008: 78). These rights illustrate how children and young people can actively participate and contribute to society (Alderson 2008: 78). Adult Roles Childhood has changed significantly and this is primarily due to an alteration in society’s view of children rather than the children themselves (Miller 2003: 14). Children have become the main focus in many households with parents and carers feeling the need to provide for their children in such a way that results in children feeling powerless (Miller 2003: 14). Adults may have a childhood ideal and attempt to enforce this onto their children. This may be an act of love but can do more harm than good (Miller 2003: 14). Adults may make decisions on a child’s behalf to spare them responsibility or by thinking the child is not capable of making those decisions. However this may result in a child feeling as if they have no control over their own life and may remain dependent rather than becoming confident and independent (Miller 2003:14). Decisions that may appear to be insignificant to adults such as what a child wears or what food they can eat, where they go to school or who they are allowed to play with are all extremely important and impact massively on the child’s life (Miller 2003: 15). It is presumed that children are inferior and that adults know better (Miller 2003: 15). Adults may possess more life experience than children but that does not mean that they always know what is right for a child. How a child feels and what they feel is important to them at that moment coupled with adult support is key to establishing a positive outcome that will benefit the child (Miller 2003: 15). Failing to allow child participation can be viewed as control or power. Many adults will use and abuse this power to gain something for themselves (Miller 2003: 15). Some adults may discipline or punish their children in a way that hurts or humiliates the child and will justify their actions as being essential in helping their child develop into a responsible citizen (Miller 2003: 15). In other cases children may be asked for their opinions or views only to have them ridiculed or dismissed. Barriers to Participation Involving children in decision making can be threatening or difficult for adults to achieve. This may be the case with parents/significant others, teachers or with anyone involved in working with children (Miller 2003: 17). Many worry that giving a child a voice and empowering them will lead to family difficulties and disordered classrooms (Alderson 2008: 92). Others find it hard to promote participation amongst younger children without being tokenistic (Scott et al 2008: 47). Some adults are of the opinion that child participation is dangerous and may put children at unnecessary risk (Miller 2003: 17). However if all risks are considered and it is accepted that the child can cope with the risks then the experience would prove beneficial to the child (Miller 2003: 21). If a child is not allowed to take risks within a safe and supported environment they may never experience risk at all (Miller 2003: 21). Allowing children to assess and take risks empowers them and enables them to gain first hand life experience (Scott et al 2008: 49). Handing over complete responsibility and power to a child would not be viable as they would not have the necessary life skills to deal with such an ask (Miller 2003: 21). It is essential to provide support and guidance as well as set boundaries for children in order to protect and nurture whilst empowering (Scott et al 2008: 51). It appears there is an unwillingness to allow children the opportunity to actively participate and this is portrayed well in Professor Roger Hart’s Ladder of Participation. Hart’s ladder was devised as a tool for understanding and portraying different levels of participation. There are eight levels in total on the ladder with each step describing the level of child participation and the adult intervention (Scott et al 2008: 49). The first three steps are manipulation, decoration and tokenism (Scott et al 2008: 49). These refer mostly to adult led activities where children are used or are given a voice but are given very little choice or opportunity for input (Scott et al 2008: 49). As the steps progress the level of adult intervention diminishes and child participation increases. Level 6 is adult initiated and refers to a working partnership between children and adults (Scott et al 2008: 49). Although the activity was initiated by the adult, the children play a part in decision making. The final step is level 8 which is child initiated (Scott et al 2008: 50). This is the step that allows children complete and total participation. They have initiated the project and have actively taken part in the decision making. They have chosen a project or activity that is relevant for them and one in which they feel they will bring about change (Miller 2003: 16 ). The adults take a back seat but are there to fully support and guide the children when necessary (Scott et al 2008: 50). Promoting Participation Child participation should be voluntary; the child should have the right to decide whether or not they want to take part (Miller 2003: 18). In order for children to make that decision they have to be informed about the decision making process and how it works (Miller 2003: 18). This will ensure they understand their own role as well as the roles of others (Miller 2003: 18). It is important for adults to recognise opportunities for child participation and to find ways of encouraging active involvement (Miller 2003: 21). Adults must consider a child’s experience, skills and needs as well as the impact these may have on others. It is important to actively listen to children and to create a safe environment where children are able to express their views and feelings (Scott et al 2008: 51). To promote inclusion it is vital to reach those children and young people who do not readily participate in decision making such as children with disabilities or children with socioeconomic issues (Miller 2003: 19). Adults must identify barriers and try to break these down. Providing an easily accessible environment that is adapted to suit the needs of the children may be one way or providing information and resources in a format that suits the child, i.e. Braille or using sign language (Miller 2003: 19). Information should also be displayed and communicated in a child friendly manner, free from jargon or hidden agenda (Unicef n.d). It is important to support and motivate children during active participation by keeping children informed and up to date (Unicef n.d). Letting children know how their efforts are impacting on a situation will keep them motivated and reassured that their voices are being heard and are making a difference (Unicef n.d). There are many benefits to child participation such as giving children a sense of citizenship; they are using their voices to bring about change (Scott et al 2008: 49). Some other benefits include increased self-esteem and confidence, a sense of being valued and respected, greater responsibility, gaining practical, language and presentation skills and inspiration and motivation (Scott et al 2008: 49). This will in turn impact on the wider society by encouraging citizenship; promote democracy and influence policy (Miller 2003: 17). I feel child participation is vital in ensuring all children are listened to, valued and respected as individuals and as citizens of society. I aim to encourage participation in my workplace setting by actively listening to the children and ensuring I am always available to the children. I will respect the children’s feelings and views and actively acknowledge their feelings in a positive manner. I feel it is important to involve children in decision making and planning. When planning activities I will ensure they are child led and that the children have expressed their interest in the area or topic or have suggested an activity or topic. I will do this by having discussions with the children and asking open questions to ensure children have the opportunity to express their own opinions and thoughts. I believe the area in which children learn should be adapted to suit their needs and should allow for inclusion for all. This may mean ensuring all equipment and resources are easily accessible and are clearly labelled. Children should play an active part in deciding on their snack and I will always encourage children to express their likes and dislikes. Discussing food and children’s opinions on food can empower children to make healthy food choices for themselves. I will endeavour to act in a way which promotes the rights of every child to full participation whilst ensuring their protection and Conclusion It is clear that children’s voices are being heard and that there are opportunities for children to participate in bringing about positive change for the future. However there are still many barriers and hurdles that prevent children from feeling as though they have a choice or that having a choice will actually make a difference. The main barrier may indeed be attitude and the consensus that children simply can’t do what adults can do for them. I feel that children are in fact the teachers and adults can learn a great deal from them if they were only willing to listen. References Alderson P. (2008) Young Children’s Rights; Exploring Beliefs, Principles and Practice. (2nd edition) London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers. Hornby A .S. (1995). Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary. Oxford: Oxford University Press Miller J. (2003). Never Too Young; How Young Children can Take Responsibility and Make Decisions. London: Save the Children. Ministry of Social Development. (2003). Involving Children. New Zealand: Ministry of Social Development. Participation Works Partnership. (2012). What is Participation? [Online]. Available from: http://www.participationworks.org.uk/topics/rights/participation-rights [Accessed 27 November 2012]. Scott F et al. (2008). HNC Early Education & Childcare. Essex: Pearson Education Ltd. Unicef. (n.d). Fact Sheet: A summary of the rights under the convention on the rights of the child. [Online]. Available from: http://www.unicef.org/crc/files/Rights_overview.pdf [Accessed 27 November 2012].

Dreams Mice and Men Essay

George and Lennie’s dream is the most commonly mentioned in the novel, they want to live the American dream and have their own land and home. Although Crooks tells them he â€Å"never seen a guy really do it† their determination is beyond that of normal men. They crave the freedom from ordered working life and less responsibility. George desires the relief from the burden of supervising Lennie, on the ranch he constantly has to watch him to ensure he is no danger to himself or others. He talks of how he could â€Å"live so easy† without Lennie and it seems to be a private dream of his to marry and raise a family without the childish weight of Lennie upon him. He has cared for Lennie for a large part of his life and wants happiness for both of them without the strain of rules and the risk of characters such as Curley. Lennie’s only dream at first glance seems to be having his rabbits, however at a closer look the rabbits are his way of relating to their entire dream, he connects all other aspects of free life with them such as growing crops to feed them. He loves hearing the story of â€Å"how its gonna be†, his own dreams are based on what George tells him is good and bad. Candy is desperate to join in with Lennie and George and their dreams have become his. Since his dog died he has nothing left on the ranch to encourage dreams and he seems to have given up, the chance to be part of a reasonably realistic project motivates him again and he is willing to give everything to be part of it, â€Å"I’d make a will an’ leave everything to you guys case I kick off. † All of Candy’s dreams seem to have be worn away by life on the ranch, the loss of his hand also seems to symbolise a large loss mentally for without his hand he cannot realistically dream of working his own land and living alone. For Candy life on the ranch seems to be a reminder of lost dreams rather than hopeful ones and this could explain his eagerness to be part of Lennie and George’s. He is also aware that he is old and becoming closer to the end of his job and possibly his life. â€Å"They’ll can me purty soon. Jus’ as soon as I can’t swamp out no bunk houses they’ll put me on the county. † He dreams of ending his life in happiness and not in poverty and discomfort surrounded by bad memories. Curley’s wife is in many ways like Lennie and George, she tell her dream like its real and could happen at any time to escape the loneliness of the ranch. She tells as many people as she can about her dream as though she wants to make it more real for herself. Her conversation with Lennie reveals her desperation to make this dream come true, she hangs onto the man who could put her in â€Å"pitchers†, so sure he did write to her and someone else ruined her dream. It is these fantasies she uses to escape her life which is heavily restricted by her husband who wants to control her to comply with his own dreams, she wishes to be free to fulfil the life she desires. Her way of telling the story of her dream is almost sad as she clings to any glimpse of it so desperately it is clear how unhappy she is. All the dreams expressed by these characters are what drive them in the novel and can determine how they express their feelings and how they act. Niki Holdsworth Show preview only The above preview is unformatted text This student written piece of work is one of many that can be found in our GCSE John Steinbeck section.

This is a media analysis assessment (report format). The assessment Assignment

This is a media analysis assessment (report format). The assessment topic will be sent by file .pdf - Assignment Example The country produces readily available fresh produce with most of the population residing along areas near or at the coast, such areas posses popular fish and seafood cuisines, in contrast with the other temperate regions of Australia that eat foods according to the season such as rhubarb, zucchini and asparagus commonly eaten during spring. For example Tetsuya restaurant rated as one of Australias best restaurant’s provides a difusion of Asian and western cuisines based on both Japanese and French preparation techniques served in its Japanese garden setting. In addition restaurants like Lagoon Seafood restaurant provide unforgettable seafood dining experienced of fresh sea foods like prawn and Queensland’s crabs. Australia has the third largest fishing zone in the world with plentiful access to seafood’s such as prawn, salmon, lobster and tuna and 60 other species. The Australian cuisine contains seafood varieties such as King George whiting, Jew fish and yabby. Fish and chips consisting of deep fried fish and chips are yet another popular fast food that originated from the United Kingdom and continues to remain popular. On top of seafood cuisines, tourists have the luxury of enjoying aqua marine based sports such as fish sporting of the Barramundi specie and Flathead fish that are popular sports and table fish all over Australia. Australias wine industry ranks as the fourth top global wine exporter contributing 760 million liters’ of wine to the global industry, every state in Australia produces wine mainly in the southern parts of the country like New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia. Famous wine districts like Hunter Valley with producers like Rosemount and Lindemans attracting local and international tourists in addition, beer is also popular with prominent brands like Fosters which is commanding global

B&B Mobile Home Park and Rental business Case Study

B&B Mobile Home Park and Rental business - Case Study Example B&B Mobile Home Park and Rental business is expected to plough back profit as it expects to expand its activities and invest in all positive net present value (NPV) projects such as a game room or install a small above-ground pool. Based on an independently feasibility studies, I have targeted Oklahoma to be used as administrative office, warehousing, and dispatch unit for customers bookings. This area is unique because of its accessibility to other cities, a small community with great potentials for the mobile home business. While the season continues through out the year except a few months in between. Oklahoma is a unique destination for this business. I intend to use one or two local news paper to promote the B&B Mobile Home Park and Rental business brand and thus benefit from ancillary and auxiliary activities. Initial funding for the project is expected to be about $100,000. Of this amount, the principal owner has contributed 13%, that is, $13000 while a bank loan of $87,000 is to be secured to cover the remaining 100% of the funding requirements. The equipments to be purchased outline in the financial plan will serve as collateral. Note the $13000 is to cover for working capital in the first three months. Rental incomes for the first year are expected to amount to about $36,240 and are expected to grow at an annual rate of 10%. Gross profit is expected to be $15840 against which expenses for rents, depreciation of equipment, and salaries, overhead expenses and miscellaneous expenses will be charged. Expenses during the second, third, fourth and fifth year are expected to witness increases as the company plans to increase expenditure on news paper advertisement. Customer loyalty card will be introduced to facilitate online booking and increase sales. Constant growth is expected to come from the unique nature of the business and strategy that will be adopted by the company. The company will also do everything necessary to protect the environment in which it operates such as improving its waste management activities as well as becoming ISO1400 certified. 1.0 Introduction to B&B Mobile Home Park and Rental business B&B Mobile Home Park and Rental business - Oklahoma US is a new business venture. It is an establishment to be based in Oklahoma United States, targeting the local communities and other visitors for Mobile Home Park and the rental business.The business proposal is based on the objective that

Environmental Ethics in Business Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Environmental Ethics in Business - Assignment Example The flora and fauna are getting extinct at a fast pace and the new strains of germs and diseases are spreading around the world. Climate change is demanding new and unhealthy adjustments with nature. The natural resource base is getting narrowed. The options for rural livelihoods are narrowing down. The springs are no more cheerful and life is becoming sad and gloomy. The direct result of this situation is poverty, death, and disease. The whole world on an equitable basis has a right over the wholesome environmental conditions. In order to respectfully live and enjoy in this world, every human being has equal title to the natural resources including clean air, clean water, and clean environment. Infringing on the environmental rights by the USA and its businesses around the world is not acceptable. By not ratifying the Kyoto protocol the President Bush of USA has not admitted the universality of equal human rights around the world. An environment is not at all a country specific. ... All other countries where the USA businesses are located have to ensure compliance with the international and local standards on the environment. Any business concern found not compliant must be penalized properly. Any let up in this connection can further harm the global environment. The 25% share of USA in CO2 emissions is really an alarming proportion. The excuse or the argument of President Bush does not hold good. The unemployment generated in the USA by CO2 reduction by 2015 is not tenable. The industries have to be harnessed. Mere profit-making should not be their main aim. The USA has to look at its meager population as compared to the whole world. Local consumption of goods in the USA does not warrant sustained growth in the USA. Even the oil reserves accumulated from the Iraq war cannot for sure guarantee the sustained GDP growth for the USA. The CO2 emissions from China and India are equally bad. But this argument taken by the USA does not suit the world's largest and most sophisticated technology-based economy of the USA. Japan and Canada have equal responsibility. However, the USA has to take the lead.

How We Change Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

How We Change - Essay Example We have made this world a global village where it is more than just easy to move from one place to other in a matter of hours and communicate with each other in a blink. But, to gain something, we had to lose something and that something we lost to achieve this marvelous world of today is care for each other. Although we have every means of communication and stay connected, we have lost the will and time to say hello to our loved one. Peter Lovenheim in the article ‘wont you be my neighbor’ and William Deresiewicz in article ‘faux friendships’ most beautifully and with complete facts, describe these losses to mankind throughout its evolution and progression. Lovenheim describes our society of today in a way that it makes us all stop for a moment and think that ‘what and where we did something so wrong that we are at a stage of total societal collapse today. Although we have progressed and evolved a lot to provide us with all the facilities and necessities of life, we have no time to be with each other. We have the means as said by Lovenheim like internet, faster travelling routes and cheaper travelling expenses. We st ill find it so hard to meet each other in person and form a strong societal bonding. William Deresiewicz also explains the loss of mankind by stating that we, the men of 21st century are suffering from ‘facebook syndrome’. He states that because of so much advancement in technology, we are now dependent on it to communicate with each other. The author states by giving the example of friendships that we have forgotten to interact with each other on a more personal level. Friendships of today are limited to facebook and twitter etc. and it is the screen of our computers and smart phones that we are friends with rather than being friends with a real person. Both these articles show how the human species has changed over time. We have no time to be with each other and

EARLY US HISTORY Bacons Rebellion Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

EARLY US HISTORY Bacons Rebellion - Assignment Example I have come to understand the changes that major events such as Bacon’s Rebellion have brought to Virginia. The history of this place is very interesting as it will help you understand major events that took place here and appreciate Virginia more. I have come to understand life here in Virginia very differently. In colonial Virginia, people used to suffer from a lot of problems such as high taxes and low prices for tobacco. The colonial times were very difficult for many people in Virginia. Those who got along well with the governor during those years, Sir William Berkeley, got special privileges, which was quite unfair to the rest of the people. These privileges were irregular because they were only accorded to those who were close to the governor. The governor also appeared to have failed in defending the region against the frequent attacks by Native Americans. These attacks led to mass deaths, as well as massive loss of property. The region was characterized by a disorganized political framework. Berkeley did not do enough to deal with the safety of the people he was in charge of protecting. The Bacon’s rebellion was a revolt organized by Nathaniel Bacon in 1976 in colonial Virginia to protest against the problems that were being experienced in Virginia at that time. Bacon was determined to bring the rule of Governor Berkeley to an absolute end. His efforts were aimed at bringing to the attention of the government the fact that all social classes needed to be treated equally and with dignity. Bacon’s rebellion led to a better Virginia that is seen today. The region had serious problems of racism which saw the blacks and whites engaged in constant conflicts. However, during the rebellion, the blacks and whites joined hands to oppose the rule of Governor Berkeley. The ruling class was really threatened by this unity because it was something that had

Inflammatory Bowel Disease Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Inflammatory Bowel Disease - Essay Example Nevertheless, the Crohn sickness normally affects the lower part of the ileum (small intestines), though there is a possibility of it happening anywhere along the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. On the other hand, the ulcerative colitis mainly happens along the interior lining of the colon (McGuire & Beerman, 2013). The two diseases are treated differently. The ulcerative colitis treatment is based on the reduction of chronic and acute swelling that result in respite. The common drugs prescribed include antibiotics, antidiarrheal, and steroids. The patient can also be treated using immunosuppressant for example azathioprine cyclosporine and 6-mercaptopurine (Nelms, Sucher, Lacey & Roth, 2010). The other appropriate medication is anti-inflammatory -5- aminosalicylic acid and infliximab (biological therapies). The Crohn’s disease treatment is founded on the severe condition of the illness. The appropriate drugs include infliximab, steroids, antibiotics, immunosuppressant and in some cases surgery. In the surgery procedure the affected parts are removed that may consist of ileostomy, ileocolic resections, total proctocolectomy and segmental resections. The two diseases have different presentations. In ulcerative colitis the common signs include fever, weight loss, arthritis, ocular manifestations, abdominal or rectal pain, dermatological change and diarrhea with mucus and blood. The complication as a result of the illness comprise of severe bleeding, carcinoma, intolerance to immunosuppression, toxic colitis, strictures, toxic megacolon, perforation and dysplasia (Nelms et al., 2010). The symptoms of Crohn disease include delayed growth in adolescents, weight loss, fever, cramping and abdominal pain, malnutrition, anorexia and a stool that has blood or mucus. The complications that occur as a consequence of the sickness are neoplasia, perennial illness, malabsorption, gallstones, and kidney stones. The patient also suffers from obstruction of the

Project valuation Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Project valuation - Assignment Example whereby a the valuator makes use of the Net Current Value (NCV) and then compounding it at a rate considering various factors and then seeing the possible future value of the company (Ruth and Halperin, 2000). Leverage Buyout/â€Å"Ability to Pay† Analysis (LBO): in this case, the company is valued based on assumptions of company purchase through leveraged buyout. This again utilises the money that were borrowed during the acquisition of the company as well as considering the rates of return (Michael, 2012). Comparable Company Analysis (Public Comps): this is the estimation of the metrics or the terms that the other companies are using I valuing products. This requires a lot of market skimming to be as accurate as possible. In this, the various pricing mechanisms are key in coming up with the right techniques to establish a competitive advantage of the similar companies (Kiplingers Personal Finance, 2006). Precedent Transaction Analysis (M & A Comps): this is the reviewing of the past values and prices that were done by the previous similar companies. This gives room for a company to come up with several value multiples. 1. The paper has therefore chosen to discuss on the 3 companies: A & K Company, Toyland Company and Ramatex Company. One factor that is worth noting in each company is that A & K is the company that negative earnings Toyland company whose earnings or revenues are expected to grow more than 50% over the near future while Ramatex is the non-U.S. company. The factors below can therefore be used for the explanations on the possible reasons why a company can have negative earnings in a financial year or accounting period. They could be temporary or long-term problems (Ruth and Halperin, 2000). The temporary or short term problems in a firm can be as discussed. These could be problems that are either internal or triggered by external forces too. In this context, some of the factors can be strikes that are done by the employees in a firm thereby

In a Dark Time by Theodore Roethke Essay Example for Free

In a Dark Time by Theodore Roethke Essay In the first stanza of the poem â€Å"In a Dark Time†, the reader gets the sense that not only is the author describing himself using â€Å"dark† visuals including â€Å"shadow† and â€Å"shade†, but that he is using natural scenery as well in order to set the audience up for the rest of the poem. The same line that contains those visuals also would seem to impart a certain time of day, dusk. This could also be thought of as a way for the reader to get a sense of where the author is at, reflecting on his own mind. This idea is furthered by the statements of â€Å"meeting his (own) shadow†, and when he hears his own shadow. The second stanza really goes into a faster pace, as the author begins to describe to the reader his inner feelings. By questioning his own definition of madness, and going into despair, he shows the reader that part of his mind is very confused, yet he knows that he is in the middle of whatever is going on. Again he questions, is his place in the â€Å"rocks† a cave or path, and he states that â€Å"The edge is what I have. † which seems like a way for him to again be in the middle of his situation. The third stanza continues with the natural descriptions of being outside in a natural setting during the night, or perhaps during an eclipse. Again, this could be just another way for the author to let his audience know what frame of mind his is in. Referring to the title of the poem, â€Å"In a Dark Time†, it would make sense that this writing is coming from the author during a time in his life in which he was questioning himself. This line of thinking continues to be the main point as he goes on to say, â€Å"A man goes far to find out what he is -, Death of the self in a long, tearless night,†. Whatever has happened to the author, he is unsure of himself and the changes that are occurring in his life at that moment. In the fourth stanza, he still proclaims how confused he his with himself, by the statement â€Å"Which I is I? † The reader is left to contemplate where the authors sense of self lies. The last three lines seem to show that the author has decided to have his mind come together and be one with itself, which leaves the author to be â€Å"free in the tearing wind. †

The Awakening Essay Example for Free

The Awakening Essay In Kate Chopins The Awakening, the author frames the notions of freedom and responsibility by contrasting them within an opposing dichotomy portrayed through the main character, Edna Pontellier, and through her subconscious denial of Creole responsibility while attaining freedom for her body, mind, and soul. Within this dichotomy the notions change inversely: the more freedom that is exercised by Edna because of unknown, and undisclosed, subconscious analysis deep in her mind, her sense of Creole responsibilities ebb proportionately. As these opposing forces ebb and flow, Chopin shows freedom in its basic and natural light—as being instinctive and as the normal state of a human being, evidenced by Edna Pontelliers actions flowing smoothly as proscribed deeds in spite of Creole social norms. Creole responsibility is shown as an unquestioning, requisite, often repressive duty, an iron mandate: that of the mother-woman, a steel parasol under which Edna must function. This is the cultural norm in the society in which Edna Pontellier is trapped, which translates for her into an abnormal state of being. Chopin uses Ednas growing subconscious self-awareness as the vehicle in which to portray the push-pull of these concepts of freedom and responsibility. As Edna is imbued with a nascent subconscious knowledge of personal freedom, her compliant response to her tormenting role of a staid, responsible Creole wife and mother-woman in a static society lessens as her freedom grows. Her apparent sense of responsibility wanes proportionately, encouraged by Chopins portrayal of Creole Society as the catalyst. The author shows Edna growing warmer to the idea of her own personal freedoms with a corresponding coolness toward her responsibilities as a wife and mother, concomitant with her increasingly physical self-awareness, need for personal space, and her longing for Robert. In keeping with the instinctual nature of acquiring her freedom, she does not actively seek Robert out in the beginning. The concept of Robert as a lover gradually grows in her from within, when, after Mademoiselle Reiszs spine-tingling piano performance, Chopin says, â€Å"Perhaps it was the first time she was ready, perhaps the first time her being was tempered to take an impress of the abiding truth† (Kindle location 491-505). The â€Å"abiding truth† was the onset of the knowledge and understanding of her personal freedom. Following Mademoiselle Reiszs piano recital, as the small audience was walking to the beach for a midnight swim, Robert willfully lagged behind. Chopin writes, â€Å"She missed him the days when some pretext served to take him away from her, just as one misses the sun on a cloudy day without having thought much about the sun when it was shining† (Kindle location 505-19). There is no conscious act to have Robert for her own; it happens as a consequence of her growing subconscious self-awareness, which takes place out of sight of the reader and makes itself known by Ednas deeds which just seem to flow from her naturally. Chopin contrasts this nascence of freedom through Ednas portrayal of a gradual release from within herself of her old persona, instead of the overt shedding of it through forced open rebellion. Indeed, at times Edna simply drifts into freedom as her natural state of being. Although hidden from the reader, one can safely assume her instincts of right and wrong, what is fair and unfair, grow in her subconscious mind to a point in which they overcome and displace the artificial, imbedded notions of Creole society and the Victorian world at large, as seen in the metaphorical exchange with Robert, â€Å"  Will you get my white shawl which I left on the window-sill over at the house? † â€Å" When he returned with the shawl she took it and kept it in her hand. She did not put it around her† (Kindle location 560-70). One possible metaphor here is that the white shawl represents her supra-marital chastity which she now holds in her hand, eschewing its use. Change will be inevitable. Freedom often comes through rebellion in some part, however, and Edna has a small share, albeit mostly she gains her freedom through the effects of her inner turmoil and subconscious awakening of her true self and acting on it. But oddly, Chopin does not present this contrast of rebellion as a juxtaposition of the concepts of responsibility versus irresponsibility; instead, she lets defiance take its place, as seen here when Leonce perceives Ednas violation of a social norm: â€Å"This is more than folly,† he blurted out. â€Å"I cant permit you to stay out here all night. You must come in the house instantly. † [Leonce](Kindle location 584-600). In the paragraph which follows, she turns the tables neatly: †With a writhing motion she settled herself more securely in the hammock. She perceived that her will had blazed up, stubborn and resistant. She could not at that moment have done other than denied and resisted. She wondered if her husband had ever spoken to her like that before, and if she had submitted to his command. Of course she had; she remembered that she had. But she could not realize why or how she could have yielded, feeling as she did then†(Kindle location 588). Immediately, she says, â€Å"Leonce, go to bed, I mean to stay out here. I dont wish to go in, and I dont intend to. Dont speak to me like that again; I shall not answer you† [Edna] (Kindle location 589). It is here that she anchors her freedom. Her role as an obedient Creole wife has ended. The totality of her transformation to a whole individual also involves a sexual counterpart with respect to her desire for Robert and a coming alive of her physical body in a sensual sense; however, her desire for Robert as a lover is not fulfilled by the end of the novel, thereby inferring an asexual nature to that part of her journey. Although Edna wishes for a tryst with Robert, it is not he who ushers in the springtime of her physical awakening; it is Alcee Arobin, showing for the most part the asexual nature of her quest and an objectivity in their consummation which gives the lie to calling it lovemaking. It is simply an event in her journey, one which does not cause the earth to move. Arobin is not a usurper; he is merely a sex object. In contrast, Chopin describes real love in no uncertain terms: â€Å"The lovers were just entering the grounds of the pension. They were leaning toward each other as the wateroaks bent from the sea. There was not a particle of earth beneath their feet. Their heads might have been turned upside-down, so absolutely did they tread upon blue ether† (Kindle location 407-21). Edna seeks complete freedom, including that of a sexual act, to validate becoming a confident, singular, and unified individual human being. She wishes to be in control and in possession of—her own body and actions, in spite of her repressive upbringing and learned puppet-dance of Creole society. Chopin frames this tryst as an expression of Ednas independence and as the ownership of her own body—to do with as she wishes. Although it is Robert whom she loves, it is Alcee with whom she shares herself, not with romantic passion but as a liberating release of the stultifying social morality which binds her. This takes place in an out-of-wedlock setting where she may express her love and curiosity freely and selfishly without the duty-bound responses she might have in her marriage bed with Leonce. Indeed, this craving for a lovers tryst is concurrent with a gradual and proportional shedding of her wifely responsibilities and ebbing of motherly duties as this liaison draws closer. It is significant to note that although Edna interacts less and less with her children, her love does not in any way decrease for them. Another dichotomy exists here, too, in that Edna is shielding them from her personal storm by placing them in the lee of anothers guardianship because of the instinctively felt but not-as-yet consciously perceived destruction to come. From a mothers standpoint, she was, in essence, instinctively giving them away—something a loving mother might feel she had to do to protect her children—but an act that contradicts being a responsible mother-woman in Creole society. The push-pull of freedom vis-a-vis Creole responsibility is shown dramatically, in the following: She was fond of her children in an uneven, impulsive way. She would sometimes gather them passionately to her heart; she would sometimes forget them. The year before, they had spent part of the summer with their grandmother Pontellier in Iberville. Feeling secure regarding their happiness and welfare, she did not miss them except with an occasional intense longing. Their absence was a sort of relief, though she did not admit this, even to herself. It seemed to free her of a responsibility which she had blindly assumed and for which Fate had not fitted her† (Kindle location 369). Once again, Ednas subconscious is pulling her away from the responsibilities so incontrovertibly linked to the Creole way to allow her the freedom she yearns for—mind, body, and soul. Chopin confirms that child-rearing is not what Edna wants or is prepared for. Ednas end, when it comes, shows the dichotomy: Edna sheds her clothing, free at last, and defies her Creole responsibilities with one final swim, naked. On the one hand, she has fulfilled her quest for freedom of her mind, body and soul; on the other hand, Edna is eternally empty of all Creole responsibility.

Globalization and how business is redefined

Globalization and how business is redefined PART 1 Project objectives and overall research approach 1.1. The reasons for choosing project topic area and choosing the particular organisation as a focus of research work 1.1.1. Reasons for choosing the project topic A phenomenal development in the concept of globalisation has been observed over the last couple of decades. Globalisation can be explained as a multidimensional concept that is expressed through several ways by many theorists. The significance of globalisation cannot be denied hence it has increasingly gained ever- growing supremacy that in the modern businesses today. Due to the increasing significance, need and requirement of globalisation to be adapted by organisations / and businesses, the author of this report is particularly interested in further exploring the concept of globalisation in context to financial institution such as Barclays Bank plc. The author also understands that globalisation had been explained with various perceptions where as parameters of the concept are hard to define because of several factors influencing the conceptualisation of globalisation. For example, the political, environmental, social, technological, legal etc. factors influence how firms globalis e and operate their businesses. Therefore, this research study is also interested in identifying a valid explanation of globalisation that must be adapted along with the subsequent practices. In addition, it has also been observed that globalisation brings in new challenges and transformations that must be adapted by businesses in context to new risks and opportunities at the same time. Therefore an important question that emerges here is that how does globalisation influence on an organisational capacity of defining its business. In order to explore and examine these questions pertaining to and dimensions of the concept of globalisation, the author chooses the subject of globalisation to be explored in context of UK financial sector. 1.1.2. Reasons for choosing Barclays Plc. Due to the global economic recession, the most affected business sector has been the financial sector. As evident, the recent economic recession claims high influence on the banking sector of the world. The after effects are established leaving the stakeholders of the global banking industry with high concerns such as whether or not the returns on their investments made into the financial sector and specifically financial institutions will be returned. Secondly, stakeholders are also equally concerned with business challenges faced by financial institutions such as Barclays plc. These challenges have been observed as loss of customers, high employee redundancy, loss of market share, loss of global supremacy of the bank in the global financial sector and so on. It has been further observed by analysts that these challenges are a result of misconduct of US Federal reserves (Protchard, 2008). According to the bank these challenges are likely to result in increasing inflation affecting t he financial assets of the bank and financial sector. The increasing challenges thus claims immeasurable influence with an increasing deteriorating circumstances leading the stakeholders in a grey area concerning the future of the bank and investments made by the stakeholders in the bank. Summing up the challenges, this research study aims to explore and identify the effect of globalisation on the bank in context to the challenges while redefining its business. The particular reason for choosing Barclays Bank plc is that it is one of the leading banks across the globe that has been successfully adapting globalisation long before other businesses had realised the opportunities to globalise their business operations. Secondly it is also intended to assess that how does a global giant redefines its business in order to address the challenges posed by globalisation. This particular bank has also been chosen because it operates in the global financial sector that has been immensely affected by the global economic recession. 1.1.2.1. Introduction to Barclays Plc. Barclays Bank plc is one of the major global banks that have been providing financial products and services in commercial, and investment banking and retail banking for over a period of 300 years. It is listed on New York and London stock market, whilst operating in 50 countries across the globe including United States, Asia, Africa and Europe. Employing 156,000 people across the globe and serving 48 million customers, the bank has developed its to business clusters that are: a) Commercial Banking and Global Retail and b) Investment Management and Investment Banking. These business clusters are made up of world-class financial and businesses brand portfolio. During the worst period of recession i.e. 2008, the bank announced a profit of  £ 6.1 billion before tax (Barclays plc Sustainability Review report, 2008). The bank is headquartered in the UK and is called as Group Centre facilitating functional operations (Group.Barclays.Com, 2009). 1.2. Research objectives and research questions This paper aims to discuss tasks of defining an organisation mission influenced by globalisation. The objectives of this study are: 1.2.1. To identify globalisation influencing on how firm redefine its business. 1.2.2. With in the same context, what remains compelling now and what must be adapted and 1.2.3. Why redefining business mission and subsequent practices is significant and must be adapted. 1.2.4. To make recommendations. The research questions are: 1.2.5. What is globalisation and how does it affect the businesses in redefining their business? 1.2.6. What factors are influential upon managements decision on redefining businesses due to globalisation? 1.3. Overall research approach and research framework developed to address the project objectives and research questions The overall research approach (Walsh and Wigens, 2003) that has been adapted by this study is explained as: a) identify research subject, b) obtain and review contextual / background information of the subject, c) identify research questions, d) define research strategy, e) identify the process and techniques of collecting data, f) carry out pilot study, g) analyse and interpret data, and h) draft research report. The data sources used for the purpose of this study are primary and secondary, where as the research strategy is the case study and survey strategy. Deductive approach of logical reasoning has also been implied along with using qualitative data analysis techniques. The research study has been underpinned by appropriate theories. PART 2 Information gathering and business techniques The data and information that has been collected concerns the subject of globalisation and its impact on the business operations of Barclays bank plc. The primary and secondary data sources enabled the researcher to collect information regarding impact of globalisation on business operations of the bank. The researcher also concentrates on evaluating current business operations of the bank by means of using three business research tools, which are Porters value chain analysis model (Katisioludes, 2006), Porters five forces analysis model (Ahlstrom and Bruton, 2009), and Porters model for competitive advantage (Porter, 1998). Utilization of these business tools directed the research study towards making analysis and evaluation of the current business global practices adapted by Barclays bank plc. Once the process of analysis and evaluation is completed, the generated information was drawn to identify those factors that influence business operations in context of globalisation as well as impact of globalisation on the bank. This information has been further used to recognize and determine the need to redefine the business mission and subsequent strategies and practices. The last step was to make recommendations through which the bank can possibly address to the changing needs of the global market specifically customers and stakeholders. 2.1. The chosen business techniques 2.1.1. Sources of information The research data has been obtained from primary and secondary sources. Primary data source is formed of survey research study that has been carried out for the purpose of this specific study. In addition to primary research data surces, secondary data sources are formed of academic books, research journal articles, online newspapers, company published reports, independent reports published by organisations such as Datamonitor etc. 2.1.2. Description of the methods used to collect information, including online access 2.1.2.1. The data has been collected through implying two research tools i.e. a) survey research questionnaires and b) using and reviewing secondary sources to obtain background information regarding the context of subject of globalisation and Barclays Bank plc. The survey questionnaires are designed as open-ended and semi- structured in order to draw in-depth analysis concerning the participants experiences, viewpoints and opinions along with addressing the research questions. The strength of survey questionnaires lies in drawing out perceptive responses, exceptional characteristic and contradictory (if any) views of the participants. Secondly survey research method also draws out interpretive standpoint of the survey participants (Mack and Woodsong, 2005; Marshall and Rossman, 2006). This technique of primary data collection is cost-effective and efficient. The primary data was collected through a self-administered e-mail platform and the survey participants were randomly selected. An estimated number of hundred employees of Barclays Bank plc were contacted and invited through e-mails to participate in the survey research study. The purpose, objectives and outcomes of the survey research were explained. Only 35 of these contacted employees replied positively, demonstrating their interest and commitment in participating in the survey research. A pilot study was first conducted through inviting 10 respondents. The comments and feedback (explaining the validity and viability of questions, ease of understanding the questions, possible interpretations of the questions by the participants etc.) of these respondents were valuable in reforming the final survey questionnaire. Once the final questionnaire was designed, it was sent to all survey participants through e-mail. The respondents were provided with a period of four weeks to fill in the questionnaires and return it to the researchers provided e-mail address. 2.1.2.2. The secondary data was collected through reviewing research journal articles accessible through databases such as Emerald, Sage Journals, Informaworld, ScienceDirect, Willey Science, Datamonitor etc. Secondary data was also collected through reviewing reports published by Barclays Bank plc, along with reviewing online newspapers. The data was reviewed and analysed to extract valuable information concerning the subject. 2.1.3. Research limitations while gathering information While collecting the information certain limitations have been encountered by the researcher such as possibility of biased reviews regarding the organisational performance of the bank that is likely to mislead the researcher while forming opinions. Secondly while carrying out the primary research, it is expected that the survey participants may be influenced by certain factors that can affect the quality and validity of their replies. Lastly the researcher aimed to contact at least 75 employees in order to draw significant research findings, however due to limited survey population it is expected that the research findings and analysis may not be viable due to the fact that sample population may not represent the actual population. Drawing on these limitations, it is expected that the data validity can be challenged. 2.1.4. Identification of any ethical issues that arose during information gathering and how such issues are resolved While carrying out the primary research, researcher was particularly focused towards maintaining the integrity of the collected data. This means that all the data and information collected as a result of primary research must be protected against any misuse of information. For example the research explained the survey participants that the collected data will only be used for the identified purpose and objectives. In order to maintain the researchers claim, it is crucial that the data stays with the researcher where as the name, contact details such as email addresses etc. of survey participants are kept confidential. The data integrity has also been maintained which means that data has been interpreted and analyzed through avoiding any biased views of the researcher towards the studied organisation and collected data. Secondly, while referring to the secondary data collected for the purpose of this study, the researcher was particularly focused towards ensuring that all the previous research studies used for this study are appropriately and sufficiently referenced, credited and acknowledged. For this reason, the researcher ensured that all the data provided by previous researchers have been appropriately referred and acknowledged. For that reason, this report is free of plagiarism, where as all the previous research studies have been appropriately referenced and credited. 2.1.5. An explanation of business techniques that have been used, including a discussion of their limitations. The business research techniques that have been used for this research study are case study and survey strategies, qualitative data analysis techniques and deductive approach of logical reasoning. 2.1.5.1. The case study strategy is explained as strategy of carrying out research including practical examination and analysis of a specific contemporary phenomenon as explained within its real-life business scenarios through implication of multiple sources of data validation (Robson, 2002). The limitation of this strategy is to draw perceptive meaning out of the collected data that can vary from researcher to researcher. The perception of the data can also be influenced by the context of the research subject (Yin, 2004). The survey research strategy is explained as carrying out survey research by means of involving a sample of population to answer provided questions. The limitation of this strategy is that the researcher is solely dependent upon the data provided by the survey participants, hence the research findings and analysis is a result of data provided by the participants that may not be validated if required. 2.1.5.2. The data analysis technique adapted by this research study is qualitative data analysis technique. The qualitative technique enables the researcher to determine information that is extracted according to the constructivist perspective or participatory perspective or even both. Constructivist perspective has been explained as research built upon several interpretations of various understandings collected by the researcher with an ambition of establishing a theory or research pattern. On the other hand, participatory perspective has been explained as constructing upon issue- related, change oriented or combined perspectives (Creswell, 2003). This research study adapts the constructivist perspective of data analysis technique. The limitations of this technique experienced by the researcher are a) difficulty in making structured comparisons while analyzing and interpreting data, b) process of data analysis is dependent upon the skills of the researcher, c) time-consuming process and d) relatively less easy to generalise the data. 2.1.5.3. In addition to above technique, deductive approach of logical reasoning has been implied by this study. This approach is directly associated with research environment. Deductive approach of logical reasoning has been utilised by means of using following pattern: a) making observations, b) observing research patterns, c) testing hypothesis and d) testing the theory involved (Miles and Huberman, 1994; Cooper and Schindler, 2006). The limitation of this approach as experienced by the researcher is that conclusions are made based on assumptions drawn through empirical evidences that can be different within the context of different research environments. PART 3 Results, analysis, conclusions and recommendations 3.1. A description of the results that have obtained and any limitations This section of the report aims to present all the collected data and information, based upon which, analysis and research findings have been presented in the following section. This section identifies global challenges faced by the bank while operating globally. Upon identifying these challenges, the adapted practices of the bank are examined in redefining its global business mission resulting in subsequent strategies and practices. The limitations faced during the data collection and data analysis process are same as identified in the previous section of this report. 3.1.1. Challenges faced by Barclays Bank plc as a result of globalisation Globalisation has been explained as a multi- faceted phenomenon carrying different viewpoints as has been realised by the review of the literature (e.g. Rapley, 2004; Meffert and Bloch, 1991). This means that the dynamic nature of the phenomenon is likely to raise challenges such as global warming, carrying out ethical business, addressing social responsibility issues, paying back to the communities where the business operates and so on. These challenges were not known about 50 years ago before the advent of globalisation. Similarly, even though Barclays Bank plc has been increasingly expanding its global business, nevertheless the aforementioned issues increasingly and continually keep challenge the bank. In addition, other economical challenges such as poverty and taking strategic steps to combat poverty require competent economic policies to be adapted that supports the business policies at the same time (Fischer, 2003). Therefore, Barclays is increasingly challenged to not only d eliver business performance excellence but it is also challenged to serve back the communities by means of addressing issues such as fighting poverty with in the communities where it is operating. Secondly the economic challenge faced by the bank is addressing to the issues of credit crunch. The recessed economy restricts economic development of countries where it is currently operation. As a result of which, management has to take decisions such as job redundancies. For that reason it is argued that despite of the fact that globalisation fosters equality, the results of integration of global economy, and the consequences of flow of capital across national boundaries is likely to threaten the global financial structure of the economies (Fischer 2003; Lloyd and Demos 2001; Baldwin and Winters 2004). Another issue that is faced by the bank is technological advancement, which is considered to be a dominant driver for the changes experienced by the bank in the due course of process of globalisation (Mulgan, 2007). The same researcher states that those organisations which were household names with in last 20 years time of time period, are now web- based organisations with established and fundamental fears that Internet could further advance into more commercialised and develop in to inaccessible commodity then it can be realised today (Mulgan, 2007). Upon identifying these challenges, the researcher now aims to examine the business operations of the bank in context to creating its value chain and competitive advantage. This identification leads the researcher towards assessing how the effect of global age, and globalisation resulted in defining the business mission and subsequent strategies and practices by Barclays Bank plc. In context with the above challenges faced by the bank due to adaption of globalisation as a fundamental business need, the research study now aims to analyse and evaluate current value chain of the bank and industrial competitive forces in order to identify how these challenges influence the redefinition of business mission and subsequent strategic practices of the bank. 3.1.2. Implying the value chain analysis as proposed by Porter (Katsioloudes, 2006), following findings and analysis has been presented. The data of Barclays Bank has been extracted from Barclays Bank PLC Sustainability Review (2008) and primary data collected through survey research questionnaires (see appendix 1). 3.1.2.1. Inbound logistics Suppliers of the bank are required to attend to challenges such as supply chain risks, business integrity, human rights and environmental issues so that a sustainable supply chain steering group can be established that will be accountable to improve business processes, tools and techniques along with addressing training and development needs of its employees as well as supply chain partners in order to operate successfully in the global market. 3.1.2.2. Operations The UK and the European business operations of the bank equalized operational carbon emissions as well as reduced energy consumption per employee by a rate of 2.1 per cent. The same carbon operations had been executed and practiced across the global operations by the end of year 2009. Secondly the bank demonstrates its commitment to stabilize economies those extending beyond its own operations and procurement strategies so that a distinguished role of the bank can be recognised in developing long-term relationship with its customers and stakeholders. 3.1.2.3. Outbound logistics The bank capitalizes on the advantages laid by new regulations on the banking and financial sector to secure a handful of distributors. Previously, the bank was connected to one provider and regulated by the legislative requirements, however today it is tied to 6 distributors such as fund managers, life insurance and so forth. 3.1.2.4. Marketing and sales The bank has been observed and reported to be supporting small and medium enterprises in the UK even though the local economy had been under financial distress that resulted in an increment of 6 per cent in its lending to the small and medium enterprises. In context of its global operations, the bank also announced and executed a debt repair line for South African customers who were facing financial difficulties. Further on with an ambition of attending to the changing customer needs and demands, the bank has been increasingly observed and reported to be developing its customer relationship along with investing in innovation and technologically enabled and advance services and products. Customer relationship have been improved through implying customer relationship management practices, however drawing on the collected data, such practices needs to be further developed and improved. 3.1.2.5. Services Due to innovative products and services offered by the bank during the recessed economic situation, the bank reported an improvement in its financial records. For example during the year 2008, more than 57,000 employees of the bank were engaged in volunteering and fundraising activities with a purpose of serving the community such as collecting donations for charitable causes. In addition to this, the market share of the banks mortgage lending also increased from 8 per cent to 36 per cent, whereas the income rate of the bank also increased up to  £ 23.1 billion by the end of year 2008. As suggested by the value chain analysis model, the above strategic system obtains further support through business infrastructure of the bank that has been assessed below: (Data source: Group.Barclays.com, 2009; Primary research see appendix 1) 3.1.2.6. The infrastructure The bank has also been reported to form partnerships and alliances with micro-finance firms, technical providers, local charities and government so that the needs and demands of its customers and stakeholders can be addressed. The bank also cultivates a performance- base management system supported by organisational culture that regulates and facilitates target- oriented performances to be delivered by the employees and subsequently the bank. 3.1.2.7. Human Resource Management The bank also practices diversity (cultural, ethnical and gender- based) while recruiting employees across the globe, solely based upon their talents. Secondly, the hard efforts and good performances of employees are rewarded and recognised. Most importantly the bank reports that women fill 25 per cent of senior managerial positions. This proportion has increased from 2 per cent from year 2007 up to 25 per cent during the financial year 2008. An estimated number of hundred and fifty three thousand employees are employed by the bank across the globe. Most importantly the bank claims to practice work- based diversity. 3.1.2.8. Technological development The bank employs technology- based equipment in order to generate clean energy, reducing gas and carbon emissions along with reducing use of electricity and water. In order to further reduce the consumption of paper, it offers mobile banking services in India, UK etc. In South Africa, the bank offers services and products that help government welfare beneficiaries to obtain inclusion in the financial system. 3.1.2.9. Procurement Barclays Bank plc also adapts to industrial best practices in supply chain monitoring in order to evaluate supply chain verification along with deploying tools and techniques that are aligned with adapted business strategies. The supply chain stretches across 50 countries where the bank operates. The strategic intent is to employ competent supply chain management practices so that the strategic and long-term business benefits can be obtained. 3.1.3. Upon assessing the value chain of the bank, their researcher and now aims to examine five competitive forces responsible for redefining business strategies. In order to do so Porters (1998) tool of assessing five competitive forces have been implied: 3.1.3.1. The force of threats of new entrants has been evaluated at a moderate level because the bank obtains its increased share of 36 per cent mortgage market in 2008, which is an increase from just 8 per cent market share in the financial year 2007. The bank had also obtained higher customer satisfaction rate in the UK raising from 64 per cent in 2007 to 67 per cent in 2008. Nevertheless, the bank also demonstrates increasing potential to bring this force to minimum because of the strategic practices it has adapted such as business diversity, employee diversity, environmental consumption, inclusive banking and strategic supply chain management initiatives. 3.1.3.2. The industrial force of bargaining power of suppliers has been evaluated to be low due to the banks policy of development and deployment of supply chain through carrying out strict screening policies so that the business vision of the suppliers are in line with the business vision of the bank. It has also been observed that because of its dominant market presence, strategic market positioning along with banks investments made into developing its supply chain, Barclays is privileged to be the first choice of suppliers thus making this force low. 3.1.3.3. The bargaining power of buyers has been evaluated to be at a modest level because buyers have other substitutes (banks, and financial institutions etc.) to attend to their banking needs. These needs can also be addressed by the competitors such as ABN Amro, Lloyds TSB, Royal Bank of Scotland, Standard Chartered and so on. It has also been assessed that this force can be lowered through banks continued commitment towards addressing customer demands and conducting ethical business. 3.1.3.4. The threats of substitutes have been evaluated as low because of the distressed economic situation that makes it intricate for the substitutes entering into new markets that are regulated by cash starved economy. On the other hand, emerging economic nations such as Brazil, Russia, China and India could be a potential market for substitutes that are likely to promise positive results. This can induce competition for the bank with in the emerging / and developing economies. 3.1.3.5. The industrial force of market rivalry among the financial organisations has been evaluated as extremely high because of the volatile banking sector resulting from mergers and business acquisitions, business alliances etc. that had been recently experienced by banking giants such as HBOS and Lehman Bros. In addition to this, the global economic distressed situation increases rivalry among financial institutions, services and products that are offered in the market since they are closely associated with economic conditions and interest rates, governed by the individual governments. 3.2. A critical analysis / evaluation of results including an explanation of significant research findings 3.2.1. Competitive advantage of Barclays Bank plc as a result of redefined business mission, strategies and practices Utilisation of competitive advantage model as proposed by Porter (table 3.1) while evaluating the banks competitive advantage demonstrates that the bank keeps an ambition of producing innovative and unique products and services by means of using innovative and technologically enabled organisational resources. In addition the organisation resources and subsequent competitive advantage that has been achieved by the bank adds value to the business by means of the adapted practices of supply chain management (section 3.1.2). Along with, the bank also provides inclusive banking services and products. Inclusive banking has been explained as â€Å"helping those who are excluded from the financial system to join and benefit from it† through opening 1.77 million accounts for low-income customers (Barclays Bank PLC Sustainability Review 2008, p12). The bank also concentrates to exercise ‘sustainability strategy by means of demonstrating its commitment towards stabilizing and devel oping those economies where the bank operates. In addition the bank also concentrates on carrying out ethical business (such as reducing water gas and electricity usage, lowering down carbon emission, making communal investments, practicing diversity at work etc.). In particular the bank has also been observed as developing relationships with its stakeholders (employees, customers, shareholders, supply chain partners, business creditors and investors, community etc.) Conclusively the competitive advantage of the bank has been assessed as to differentiation and focused according to the Porters model of competitive advantage as illustrated in the table below. Table 3. 1. Porters model for competitive advantage Competitive advantage Low cost Differentiation Competitive scope Broad target Cost leadership Differentiation Competitive scope Narrow target Cost focus Differentiation focus 3.2.2.   Drawing on the above analysis and evaluation, following factors have been identified that influences the redefinition of business mission and subsequent strategies and practices: 3.2.2.1. The globa

Dillard and Thoreau Comparison :: Essays Papers

Dillard and Thoreau Comparison From the lone hiker on the Appalachian Trail to the environmental lobby groups in Washington D.C., nature evokes strong feelings in each and every one of us. We often struggle with and are ultimately shaped by our relationship with nature. The relationship we forge with nature reflects our fundamental beliefs about ourselves and the world around us. The works of timeless authors, including Henry David Thoreau and Annie Dillard, are centered around their relationship to nature. The love for nature is one that is formed when young. Thoreau shows evidence of early development of a lifelong love for nature that he would carry with him in everything that he did. As a young boy of ten he was fond of walking deep into the woods that surrounded his home in Concord in search of solitude (Salt 18). Thoreau expressed an interest in living at Walden Pond at the age of ten (Salt 19). His love of nature can largely be credited to qualities inherited from his mother (Salt 22). It would rightfully be his love of nature that he would be remembered for. Thoreau after graduating from Harvard College began to keep a journal that he filled with the many thoughts and observations that came to him on his daily walks about Concord (Richardson 7). These Journals would spawn into the many books that he wrote, the most prominent being Walden. Thoreau was a self-taught naturalist, who spent much of his time systematically studying the natural phenomena almost exclusively around Concord (Witherell and Dubrulle). His Journal contains these careful observations, such as the cycles of plants, of local water levels, and many other natural phenomena (Witherell and Dubrulle). These Journals help to impress the love that he held for nature. It is this feeling that has propelled him to be considered by many to be the leader of the environmental movement (Buell 171). Thoreau himself cared little for group activities, religious or political, and even avoided organized reform movements (Gougeon 195). The abolitionist movement did however bring Thoreau out and into the public forum (Salt 140). As he became further involved with his Journal and his examination of nature he began to develop into an environmentalist and natural historian (Buell 172). This is evident by his views represented in Walden regarding the progress that was taking place in Concord at the time (Witherell and Dubrulle).

Peter Paul Rubens :: essays research papers

Peter Paul Rubens was the painter of the first part of the 17th Century in Catholic Europe. How he became so is an interesting story.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Rubens was educated to be a humanist but like all great artists choose his profession for himself. The combination of first-rate classical education with an innate visual genius made for an unprecedented combination in an artist.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   It has been said that no artist has ever been as well educated as Rubens. After training with three minor artists in Antwerp. Rubens set off for Italy to complete his education; a position at the court of the Duke of Mantua was quickly accepted and he stayed in Italy for eight years. His job was to travel to all the major artistic collections, especially Rome and Venice painting copies of famous works of art, especially paintings of beautiful women, for the Duke's collection. He was also sent to Spain where he had an opportunity to study the enormous collection of Titian masterworks in the Royal Collection in Madrid. Copying the masterpieces of the Italian Renaissance especially and the recently unearthed sculptures of classical antiquity, Rubens sketched and painted and encompassed all that was best in Italian and Classical art. Rubens combined the lessons of Antique Sculpture with the vaunting ambition of the High Renaissance giants in an unprecedented way. He used the plastic less ons of sculpture as a composition model but insisted that flesh should look like flesh in a painting thus developing his breakthrough approach to the naked body. In this he never forgot the earthy luminous realism of the old Netherlandish tradition of the 15th and 16th century (Van Eyck, Van Weyden, Breughel). You won't appreciate Rubens the master of the female nude until you consider that he was the greatest influence on French painting from the 18th to the 20th century: Watteau, Fragonard, Delacroix, and Renoir were his among his loyal followers.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Rubens was to develop a phenomenal ability to analyze the different styles of painting and sculpture and then synthesis them into whatever his clients wanted. His clients included just about every Catholic monarch, as well as Catholic leaning Protestants like King Charles I of England, and every major religious order in Western Europe. Not to mention every wealthy connoisseur of painting. To satisfy an ever growing demand Rubens opened the largest art workshop Europe has ever seen: he would paint an small initial oil sketch which when approved and contracted for would be given over to one or more of his students to paint the full length canvas, finally Rubens would add the finishing touches and sign it.

Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual Issues - Same-sex Marriage, Two Moms or Two Dads :: Argumentative Persuasive Essays

Two Moms or Two Dads    Over the pas couple of decades American society has undergone some vast changes. The concept of the family has been greatly altered. No longer is such emphasis put on the "traditional" family. A majority of children are being raised in single parent households. Single parent adoption rights have been granted. Now an entirely new sort of family is being disputed. Should gays and lesbians be granted the right to adopt a child? Today's view of gays and lesbians is drastically differen t than it was in the past. As more people "come out of the closet" gays and lesbians are becoming more socially accepted. They currently are battling for equality in a variety of areas. In Hawaii gays and lesbians can be granted marriage righ ts, which was a huge victory until DOMA was passed. The Defense of Marriage Act, otherwise known as DOMA, was a bill proposed by conservative Congressmen and Senator Bob Dole. Dole says, "DOMA defines marriage as between one man and one woman for a ll fede ral purposes (taxes, Social Security, veterans' benefits, etc.) and says that states don't have to pay attention to the Constitution if they don't want to recognize same-sex marriages that are legal in any other state" (Winters 1). President Bill Clinton, who openly expresses his opposition to same-sex marriages, signed the bill making it a law. Gays and lesbians continue to fight. Recently the fights have been centered on adoption. This new dilemma has created quite a stir in society.    It is estimated that the number of children being raised by gay or lesbian parents is between 2 and 6 million. It is extremely hard to get an accurate estimation due to the fact that many gays and lesbias are not open about their family structure. These people do not want to be surveyed for fear of losing their children. In a population where roughly 10% or 25 million people are reported to be homosexual the numbers of those raising children are outstanding (Collum 1).    There are three main ways that gays and lesbians are raising children and acquiring families without the courts becoming involved. The first way, which is also the most common way, is when heterosexual marriages dissolve after one parent apparentl y "comes out. Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual Issues - Same-sex Marriage, Two Moms or Two Dads :: Argumentative Persuasive Essays Two Moms or Two Dads    Over the pas couple of decades American society has undergone some vast changes. The concept of the family has been greatly altered. No longer is such emphasis put on the "traditional" family. A majority of children are being raised in single parent households. Single parent adoption rights have been granted. Now an entirely new sort of family is being disputed. Should gays and lesbians be granted the right to adopt a child? Today's view of gays and lesbians is drastically differen t than it was in the past. As more people "come out of the closet" gays and lesbians are becoming more socially accepted. They currently are battling for equality in a variety of areas. In Hawaii gays and lesbians can be granted marriage righ ts, which was a huge victory until DOMA was passed. The Defense of Marriage Act, otherwise known as DOMA, was a bill proposed by conservative Congressmen and Senator Bob Dole. Dole says, "DOMA defines marriage as between one man and one woman for a ll fede ral purposes (taxes, Social Security, veterans' benefits, etc.) and says that states don't have to pay attention to the Constitution if they don't want to recognize same-sex marriages that are legal in any other state" (Winters 1). President Bill Clinton, who openly expresses his opposition to same-sex marriages, signed the bill making it a law. Gays and lesbians continue to fight. Recently the fights have been centered on adoption. This new dilemma has created quite a stir in society.    It is estimated that the number of children being raised by gay or lesbian parents is between 2 and 6 million. It is extremely hard to get an accurate estimation due to the fact that many gays and lesbias are not open about their family structure. These people do not want to be surveyed for fear of losing their children. In a population where roughly 10% or 25 million people are reported to be homosexual the numbers of those raising children are outstanding (Collum 1).    There are three main ways that gays and lesbians are raising children and acquiring families without the courts becoming involved. The first way, which is also the most common way, is when heterosexual marriages dissolve after one parent apparentl y "comes out.

Creative play writing – Monologue

Rob is a thirty-five year old man, married to Lucy and has one child named Luke aged three. The monologue is set with him sitting in a chair at home holding his sons teddy, reflecting on his life. However it wasn't always like this†¦. Pause Waste of money these are (picking up Luke's teddy). Luke never plays with it! At least he has a roof over his head and a nice loving family. It wasn't like this for me when I was a child. I was never loved or properly cared for, I never used to get what the other kids did for Christmas and my birthday. That's why I left home when I was seventeen, went on the streets looking for work and that's when I got in to the habit. I just couldn't stop. I made frequent visits to Tom, the alcohol related doctor about my drink problem. The one that stands out the most was when I was about twenty and it was my birthday. I went to the pub, like usual with whatever money I could find or steal to pay for the drink. I don't remember much of the night except for the landlord telling me I had had too much and that the drink I was drinking was my last one. He had told me time and time again to get out because the pub had been closed for half an hour. I don't remember anything else but waking up in the alcohol unit at the local hospital feeling very ill with awful pain in my throat and chest. Yes, my stomach had been pumped out†¦again. â€Å"Not you again ROB!† Tom had said annoyingly. I could tell Tom had had enough of my visits and this time was going to do something about it. † No more drink Rob, how many times, you cant live this way anymore† I clearly remember him saying. At the time I didn't agree with any of this but in hindsight he was totally right, although I was young and foolish at the time. Tom tried his very best to help me by giving social services a call, who came and spoke to me about my alcohol addiction and accommodation. They said they would help move me out of the â€Å"rough area of Birmingham†. I bluntly refused saying things like â€Å"I'm fine† and â€Å"I don't need any help†, when quite plainly I did! Pause A few days later a got a job in a local cafà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½. I was on three pound fifty an hour as well, which of course all went on booze. As I didn't know many people I often felt depressed and very lonely. The only thing that kept me going was that one day things would be different, things would change. How lucky I turned out to be†¦. Pause I lost the job in the cafà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½, due to not turning up in the mornings, on several occasions, due to hangovers. Life wasn't good, I just couldn't help myself drinking, I just couldn't stop. As I had no money to buy the drink with I went a few days without it. I became very ill, and had no money to even get some medicine or pills. I tried committing suicide several times, although thankfully unsuccessfully, and was found by this oldish woman, about sixty or so, lying on a park bench dying. Oli Lee 4P She took me by the hand saying â€Å"I'll help you son†, and I gratefully followed her. We walked back to her car (which I immediately thought of stealing, but I couldn't drive) and got in. As left the park, back to her house I thought that I should give her a chance and not steal anything and see where it got me. When we did eventually get back to her house Madge, which I later found out was her name and was married to Pete who was at the time out on business, quickly got me inside and fed me. â€Å"Come on eat this†, she said encouragingly, offering me a roast dinner. I accepted and ate it all very quickly. It was the nicest meal I have ever tasted and still remember it to this day. I had some medicine to help my desperation for alcohol which I had mentioned to her and then had a bath and went to bed. Pause I clearly remember waking up to the large silhouette of a man leaning over the bed staring at me. â€Å"Hello son†, he had said. â€Å"Madge has told me all about you. Says she's seen you regularly in the park looking for food and shelter. Says you might need help?† I said nothing. Who did he think he was, how did they â€Å"know† me? How does HE know I need help? I kept all these thoughts to myself though which proved a very good decision. My gut reaction was to steal what I could and get out of there, but they had taken me in so I didn't follow the reaction. It turned out that Pete was the manager of a large computer group, Packard Bell. He was looking for a new receptionist type person for his company's warehouse. When he asked me to do this, I accepted without any questions. This was a major turning point in my life. Madge and Pete were extremely kind, and I worked as the receptionist there for about three years. I knew that I had outstayed my welcome with Madge and Pete so I bought a house, just down the road, with the money I had saved and bonuses Pete had given me. Pause Scene is set in his living room with his wife Lucy sitting next to him. Life was great, a far cry from when I was an alcoholic living on the streets. I had even met a woman named Lucy to whom I am now married. We have a son called Luke who is just starting Nursery school. I could never have dreamt this would happen and it is all down to Madge and Pete. I have also been reunited with my own family who are very proud of me for changing my life and finding happiness now.

Operations Management Cds

Not only new machines gave high radioactivity, it allowed production costs to be low and CDC targeted smaller molding companies. New large multi-cavity molding machines used I Small injection molding machines meant small variety of products could only be materiality of products can be made at short notice Variety of products can be made at short notice Although production becomes flexible, the drawback of this Is the complexity of changing moulds on large machines that leads to a prolonged process.Trading Is stable and production process becomes more of routine work. I Variation is high as they have same contracts to take orders so they know what's products was good and distribution channels were excellent. Distribution channels re good but cost has incurred in express delivery made by CDC instead of customer. Distribution channels are good but cost has incurred in express delivery made by CDC instead of customer.I Having problems of getting use to sub-contracting and recognizing on what ‘standards of quality there should be in their products I According to the ‘Four Vs.' analysis and Hayes and Wheelwright's four stages of operational contribution (shown in appendix 1), CDC have moved from ‘stage 2' that is Externally Neutral to ‘stage 3' of being Internally supportive by implementing a new strategy from moving from focus products to concept products. CDC were already popular with focus products so their previous operations were giving a fair contribution to the organization.The Volume' in the four Vs.' analysis has increased operational capabilities but to a certain extent as there still is a drawback of no planning in sale forecasts and production time wasted in changing moulds. Each area in the ‘Four Vs. analysis is what actually contributed in CDC to implement a new strategy. Operations taking place at CDC allow CDC to build upon their ‘stage 2' strategy according to Hayes and Wheelwrights four stages (see appendix 1). Po sitive factors such as increase in productivity and wide variety of products leads to more outputs and results in increase in profit margins.Without the operation strategic change their productivity would not be ‘600%' higher. According to Hayes and Wheelwright CDC are trying to ‘implement' the best practice they can find by keeping production costs to a minimal but also producing large volumes efficiently. CDC should to this extent stay on the ‘stage 3' strategy as they have to be also wary of the external operations taking place such as the competitors in the market. There has o be an understanding with where the market is going and assess its operation performance objectives at a regular level internally and externally.

Should Alcohol Drinking Age Be Decreased of Increased?

Should alcohol drinking age be decreased of increased? In my opinion it should be decreased because if we are classified as an adult and we are allowed to get married and etc. Why are we not allowed to drink. Lowering the drinking age would teach kids how to be more responsible at a younger age. If kids are just cut off from things, they are just going to find a way around it anyway. Kids just need to learn to do things in moderation. Because unfortunate, adults aren't responsible with alcohol either.Maybe if they were not taught that drinking was a â€Å"rebel† thing at a young age we wouldn't have so many alcoholics or so many kids over doing it at parties. People use alcohol for numerous reasons; peer pressure, celebration, anxiety, sadness, boredom, rebellion and insomnia are just a few. Teens fall under the category of â€Å"people†. The legal drinking age is currently twenty-one, but illegally drinking age is as low as zero. Why? Is the main question asked? I can assure you the underage drinking age percentage would drop if the age is lowered.Few reasons for teens drinking are: peer pressure, enjoyment, etc. But the main reason for doing so is â€Å"breaking the law†. 87 percent of high school seniors have used alcohol. That means that a large quantity of teens under the age of seventeen to eighteen have used alcohol before. We all know why teens drink, I mean is common since. Just the feel that they get of breaking the law is huge. Being rebel and not following the rules is an important role of a teen’s life.Consequences are the one that change them, but we don’t want them to experience the consequences of being under the influence of alcohol because we know them and they are fatal. Dying in a car accident and killing others is a mess that we don’t want to clean. Despite the fact that is illegal for young teens to purchase it, they are able to get it through their parent’s own liquor cabinets, unscrupulous store clerks, or older friends who purchase it for them. As we all see, is not hard for teens to obtain alcohol. Why not lower the drinking age then?I mean any way you put it, they are getting it. We have all heard of the famous saying â€Å"we want you to join the military and protect your country. † Well, you are telling me that I can legally kill someone at the age of eighteen, while I sign up with the military and go to war but I can’t have a sip of alcohol. Due to this none senseless situation, age should be equaled. In other words, if voting and military sign up is eighteen, then drinking should also be eighteen. Besides at the age of eighteen you are legally an adult.Why can’t we drink then? Drinking age in Australia is eighteen, and in UK is as low as sixteen in restaurants. Studies have showed that those teens/adults are perfectly fine. In fact, Dr. Ruth Engs; professor of Applied Health Sciences at Indiana University in Bloomington, uses this examples to propose the following: â€Å"†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦the drinking age be lowered to about 18 or 19 and permit those of legal age to consume in socially controlled environment such as restaurants and official school and university functions† (direct quote from Dr.Engs). Drinking age should be lowered, and I know that by lowering it we can drop the percentage of reckless teen alcohol abusers. It is worth trying it , and if everything goes the opposite then change the law once more which is done lots of times, for dumb reasons and raise the drinking age back to twenty-one. Changes are always good most of the times, and I know this one in particular is an excellent one.