Foreign Investment During the Recent Global Economic...

Foreign Investment during the recent global economic recession ABSTRACT:- The year 2008 marked the end of a growth cycle in international investment that started in 2004 and saw world foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows reach a historic record of $1.9 trillion in 2007. Since then FDIs have been decreasing. The fall in global FDI in 2008–2009 is the result of two major factors affecting domestic as well as international investment. First, the capability of firms to invest has been reduced by a fall in access to financial resources, both internally – due to a decline in corporate profits – and externally – due to the lower availability and higher cost of finance. Second, the propensity to invest has been affected negatively by†¦show more content†¦The proposed Xstrata takeover of a South African mining conglomerate was put on hold as the financing was harder due to the credit crunch . There are several other examples e.g. in India . In the face of the global economic slowdown (and recession in a number of major economies), tighter credit conditions and falling corporate profits, many companies have announced plans to curtail production, lay off workers and cut capital expenditure, all of which has implications for FDI .However, the impact of the crisis varies widely, depending on region and country, with consequences for the geographic pattern of FDI flows . The current crisis began in the developed world, though it is rapidly spreading to developing and transition economies. Developed countries have thus been directly hit by the financial crisis, while its effects on developing economies have so far been indirect in most cases, with varying degrees of severity among regions and countries. This has direct consequences on the geographical patterns of FDI inflows. There is ample evidence that the global crisis is having a negative impact on international investment. Tighter credit conditions and lower corporate profits have weakened companies’ capability to finance their overseas projects; while the global economic recession and a heightened appreciation of risks have eroded business confidence. Many large TNCs have revised their global expansion plans downward, and divestments have takenShow MoreRelatedIndia Super Growing Economic Power1483 Words   |  6 PagesIndia super growing economic power Submitted by: MUHAMMED FAZAL K Preface India is a new emerging economic power in the world. Though the 21st first decade saw a global level financial crisis, India didn’t wilt under its pressure due to it’s the Government’s progressive policies and full-fledged reforms. Particularly, nationalization and liberalisation were the real saviors of India from the recession. Also, the national sectors and global raid helped to maintain the economy in proper way. 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Introduction†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.2 2. Production Output Performance Analysis†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..4 3. Labour Market Analysis†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..8 4. Price Level Analysis†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.10 5. Conclusion†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.12 1. Introduction Singapore has a highly developed and free-market economy that thrives on an open and corruption-free environment. It is toutedRead MoreBrazil : Embracing Globalization1343 Words   |  6 Pagesstrategy since World War II and about the change of the economic model following the debt crisis of the 1980s. 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The Success Of New Ventures - 1354 Words

I have come across ads, and have seen tag lines such as â€Å"own your own business now† attached to advertisements pushing the sale of franchises or becoming an entrepreneur. It is a fallacy. A franchise owner is not necessarily an entrepreneur. Entrepreneurs are good business people. They are visionaries who take the time to plan, and the time to participate in the day to day activities needed to achieve long term objectives, and who are passionate about an idea; all of these lead to a successful entrepreneur. Research shows the reasons for success in new ventures are attributed to: 1. Positive response to challenges and mistakes, 2. Personal initiative, and 3. Perseverance, all of which a successful entrepreneur embodies. Most necessary is an entrepreneur’s full commitment to his ideas and efforts in order to survive the constant pressures that they face, from the start up stage, to staying alive in business, through the growth stage. 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Big Foot Free Essays

The Mystery of Bigfoot Bigfoot is unquestionably North America’s biggest crypto zoological mystery. The idea of Bigfoot has been around for hundreds of years, its history and possible sightings have been documented for years on end. Throughout history, man has battled the topic of Bigfoot and if this creature really does exists. We will write a custom essay sample on Big Foot or any similar topic only for you Order Now Researchers have found arguable evidence, and numerous sightings have been reported throughout North America. Then again, roughly 70% of sightings reported are a misidentification. Bigfoot supposedly inhabits forests mainly in the Pacific Northwest region of North America. Scientists discount the existence of Bigfoot and consider it to be a combination of  folklore, misidentification, and  hoax, rather than a living animal. So the question remains, is the existence of this creature fact or fiction? So where does the name â€Å"Bigfoot† come anyway? It is said that this Indian-sounding word was coined in the 1920’s by J. W. Burns, a teacher who for fours years collected stories about wild, hairy giants from his Chehalis Indian friends. Burns combined several similar Native Canadians’ names for these creatures and created the word â€Å"Sasquatch†. In recent years, scientists and folklorists looking to bring respectability to the subject but most North Americans still use the name â€Å"Bigfoot†. The first use of the now widely used label did not occur until a construction worker named Jerry Crew appeared at a northern California newspaper office with a cast of the alleged Bigfoot’s foot found in the mud in Bluff Creek Valley. Hundreds of people have reported seeing the Bigfoot or it’s footprints but none have physical evidence to back up their stories. They describe the creature as standing from seven to ten feet tall and weighing more than six hundred pounds. The distinctive footprint shows a track as left by a giant five toed human foot. The average length is fourteen to sixteen inches long. The most controversial evidence of Bigfoot’s existence is the infamous Patterson video. It was filmed in 1967 near Bluff Creek California. By Roger Patterson, an amateur Bigfoot hunter and rodeo cowboy. In the video, which was filmed in a dry creek bed, Bigfoot appears to be walking along the creek bed, and at one point even stared at the camera. The footage has been analyzed many times by scientists, some of which say the footage is realistic while others do not. Many times when people see something like Bigfoot they think that they will be ridiculed by their friends and neighbors, so they keep there encounter secret for many years. Until others tell their stories. The top three questions that come into some ones mind when they hear about Bigfoot are â€Å"is he man, myth or creature? . Many do not believe of such a creature lurking the forests and are uneducated on the topic so they come to the quick conclusion that someone disguised himself in a costume for attention perhaps. The majority believes strongly that Bigfoot is evidently a myth or hoax for the simple logic that there is not enough evidence to prove Bigfoot’s existence. The most arguable evidence are footprints that can be easily replicated to furthermore puzzle scientists. Also, the lack of carcasses and excrements just don’t add up. Lastly, the big question of is it just a creature which means every sighting would have to be a misidentification. Scientists do believe and have partial evidence that Bigfoot could be a relative with an ancient ape named â€Å"Gigantopithecus†. Then again, some footprints have been reported with claw marks, which could be a grizzle bear. Many can speculate the existence of Bigfoot but until a body is scientifically examined, the riddle of Bigfoot will continue as one of cryptozoology’s biggest and most famous enigmas. Even if Bigfoot is just one big hoax, the myth will live on forever. How to cite Big Foot, Essay examples

Information System Changing Business Environment

Questions: 1. What is an Information System?2. Why is the study of Information Systems important?3. What are some of the ways information systems can improve our lives?4. What are some of the benefits organizations seek to achieve through using information systems?5. Define input, processing, output and feedback in relation to a real word example? Answers: 1. Information system can be considered as a collection of hardware and software elements which are able to process data and generates information required for conducting various organizational activities [6]. However trained people are an integral part of information system [5]. Information System is a medium used by organizations to collect and analyze data. Organizations also use information system for controlling business performance parameters and developing business strategies. Applications of information systems which are used generally for business purpose are business intelligence system, transaction processing system (TPS), knowledge management system (KMS), customer relationship systems etc. 2. The current trends of executing business activities indicate that most of the organizations are using information system for improving their performance. Use of information systems enables an organization to make their decision development process more effective. However, organizations also use information systems for measuring business performance parameters. Often growth of a business is restricted by different internal and external factors [10]. These factors require to be controlled for minimizing their impacts on profitability of an organization. Controlling of such parameters is also done by information systems. The current analysis indicates that use of information system is increasing in all levels of companies. Study of information system is not just limited to subjects of computer software and hardware [9]. Information system provides a student to gain knowledge from wide area [12]. Subjects which are needed to learn for gaining knowledge on IS include computer programming and business management. Apart from these subjects, a student of information system also needs to study mathematics and software development. The discussion on area of information system indicates that study of this subject provides a student opportunity of attaining expertise in different interrelated domains which are essential for running a business. Trained employees are an important part of information systems [1]. Organizations which are using IS to execute their business activities always require employees who have in depth knowledge in the subject. However, organizations also tend to train their existing employees for optimizing usefulness of information system infrastructure. As information system is being implemented in all levels of an organization, employees of every department need to posses the knowledge in this subject. It is evident that study on IS will not only enable employees to execute their tasks with efficiency, it will also enable them to get better position in company. As the organizations are using several applications of information systems including TPS, KMS, decision support systems (DSS), knowledge on these techniques will enable the students to do both operational and managerial tasks in an organization with efficiency. Apart from these areas, a student with knowledge of IS can work as system analyst, network engineer, database administrators and information officers [14]. On other hand, applications of information systems are required in a different sectors fro operational activities to management decision making process. Hiring employees with required knowledge is more cost effective than training them. Expertise in the area of IS also increases the chance of getting job in an organization as the companies always prefer to hire such candidates. 3. Use of information system is not only increasing, but it is being applied even in the lower levels of companies [3]. Roles of information systems played in an organization can be broadly classified in three categories. The areas of a business where information system is used extensively include storage of information, analysis of data, executing different processes and tasks in business and decision making. Storing and analyzing information: Due to increase in the availability of software and online storage mediums, most of the organizations prefer to soft copy of information [4]. In an organization data on various topics require to be stored. Organizations also need to ensure that the data can be accessed easily whenever required. On other hand, safe storage of important information is important for smooth execution of business activities. In case of large organizations same data can be used by different departments. It indicates that the stored data needs to be distributed in various locations. Use of information system enables the organizations to gather data from different sources. It also enables companies to develop a well structured database for storing data. Use of databases and KMS can improve the accessibility of information within organization. Implementation of employee management system (EMS) also improves the process of analyzing performance of employees [6]. Applications provide organization with the facility of centralized data storage, data access becomes easier. As the result, chances of interruption in business process reduce and smooth execution of operational activities enhances profitability of the company. Data analysis is also another important task in business. Management can set their present and future activities on basis of the findings obtained from data analysis. However, information system facilitates business entities to analyze data with high accuracy. Supporting operational processes: Profit of a business depends on its efficiency of executing operational activities [8]. As the size of organization increases, the complexity in its operational activities also increases. However, completion of every task manually will require significant time. On other hand in case of manual execution of tasks, chances of getting erroneous result also increases. It reduces the efficiency of overall business process. Execution of operational tasks with high efficiency not only increases revenue, it also impacts on long term business strategies. However, the operational tasks can be executed with high accuracy by using information systems. The current discussion indicates that information systems play an important role in execution of daily activities in business. Use of TPS improves the recording and analyzing process of all transactions within organization [6]. On other hand, use of office automation system enhances productivity of employees [4]. Us e of IS in daily activities increase makes these process more effective for increasing profitability. Supporting decision making system: Organizations always prefer to implement business strategies on basis of their effectiveness to meet business targets [4]. However, decisions are made by managers and these effects of implementing these decisions cannot be effective always. If a business strategy fails to serve its purposes, organizations faces huge financial loss. Information system can be used to judge the suitability of such decisions made by management before implementing in practical field. Use of information system in business strategy implementation not only makes the strategies more effective, it also reduces the risks caused by these strategies. It reflects that use of information system is important to analyze risks. Management of an organization can improve the efficiency of reporting process by using MIS (management information system) [6].On other hand, risks associated with strategies developed by management can be analyzed using DSS (decision Support System) [4]. 4. Use of information system can benefit the organization in various ways. Information system can be used as an essential resource for both long term and short terms strategy planning. Effective strategic planning: Development of strategies using IS can reduce the risks associated with implementation of these decisions. Using IS the management can determine whether the strategy which is going to be implemented will be effective or not. On other hand, the organization can be benefitted by identifying the requirement of any modification in business decisions. Information regarding the modification process of strategies can also be obtained from feedbacks of information system. Daily sales reports collected by electronic terminals are used for forecasting market condition and thus it helps in strategic planning. Efficient market analysis: Information system can benefit organization by providing information regarding trends in market [7]. Analysis of market trend is important for a company to set proper business strategies. On other hand forecasting of market trends is also important to understand future customer requirements. Execution of the tasks related to market trend analysis is generally conducted manually. As a result, it cannot be guaranteed that the findings of market analysis are accurate. Use of information system to analyze market trend can generate accurate results and thus it can make the processes more effective. Large stores and supermarkets use electronic point of sales to store information on sales. Such information is not only useful for ensuring product availability in stores, but it is also used for analyzing market trends. Efficient operational activities: Not only in strategic planning IS can benefit organizations by providing information on proper budget plans. It can also store data regarding supply chain activities and can ensure uninterrupted execution of processes. Findings of data analysis conducted with the help of IS are useful for an organization to make proper marketing and promotional plans. Organizations apply Expert System in biometric recognition modules for storing data on employee attendance. On other hand Transaction processing system (TPS) is used by banks to record information on payments and deposits. 5. All major players in global market use IS as a tool for attaining competitive advantages in business. Although the competition is increasing in every sector, increase in competition among global supermarkets is becoming more prominent. Tesco, a UK based supermarket, is expanding their business all over the world. Apart from UK Tesco have stores European and Asian countries [13]. However, everyday large number of products is sold in Tesco stores. Use of Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS) Information system enables Tesco management to store the information regarding sold items. Each Tesco store possesses POS terminals. Before being delivered to the customer, each product is scanned by the POS. Description and quantity of the product are used as input of POS. Details of club card and gift voucher used by customers are also read by POS. After processing the information, database containing information of product stocks is updated. Output of EPOS system is used to update the database cont aining customer information. After each sale, store management receives information on availability of products as feedback. Conclusion: The current analysis on information system reflects that the need of using information system is increasing in changing business environment. As a result the need for studying information system is also increasing. Information system can be considered as a wide subject. Knowledge on computer software, programming and management .Discussion on current recruitment trends in global market indicates that the organizations prefer to hire employees who have knowledge n information system. However, the organizations are also showing interest on training employees so that they can posses expertise required for using IS infrastructure of business. Information system is being more applicable in all business areas and it can be considered as one of the main reasons behind increasing popularity of this technique. However, use of information system is still limited in case of small business as it requires highly advanced IT infrastructure. References [1]A. Caplinskas, Databases and information systems VII. Amsterdam: IOS Press, 2013. [2]S. Dua, Information systems, technology and management. Berlin: Springer, 2012. [3]W. Abramowicz, J. Domingue and K. Wecel, Business information systems workshops. Berlin: Springer, 2012. [4]M. Romney and P. Steinbart, Accounting information systems. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall, 2012. [5]H. Linger, Building sustainable information systems. New York: Springer, 2013. [6]N. Kim and S. Joo, 'The Exploratory Study on the Method of Information System Introduction in SMEs using Delphi Technique', Journal of the Korea Industrial Information System Society, vol. 18, no. 1, pp. 47-58, 2013. [7] Pilot.oum.edu.my, 'Introduction to Information Systems', 2015. [Online]. Available: https://pilot.oum.edu.my/v3/download/CBAD2103.pdf. [Accessed: 03- Mar- 2015]. [8]Y. Tao, 'Ontology-based Active Repository System', Information Technology J., vol. 12, no. 11, pp. 2138-2145, 2013. [9]Q. Fan, 'Embedded Remote Monitoring System Based on Internet', Information Technology J., vol. 12, no. 8, pp. 1632-1637, 2013. [10]F. Rabe and M. Kohlhase, 'A scalable module system', Information and Computation, vol. 230, pp. 1-54, 2013. [11]'Enchanced growth development through better information system design: the system analyst perspective', imf, 2013. [12]S. Farnel, 'Editorial Board Thoughts: System Requirements', Information Technology and Libraries, vol. 29, no. 4, 2013. [13] Tesco plc, 'Tesco plc', 2015. [Online]. Available: https://www.tescoplc.com/index.asp?pageid=71. [Accessed: 28- Feb- 2015]. [14] Foster.washington.edu, 'Career Options - Information Systems', 2015. [Online]. Available: https://www.foster.washington.edu/undergradcareers/Pages/CareerOptions_InformationSystems.aspx. [Accessed: 03- Mar- 2015].

Neuro Lab Report Essay Example

Neuro Lab Report Paper We no longer observed an increase in peak of action potential trace at the 3. 5 Voltage. Activity 2-4: 1. What did you observe when the glass rod contacted the nerve? The glass rod contacted the nerve there was an instant deflection of the line. There was action potential on the oscilloscope. When 1. How does this tracing compare with the other tracings you have generated? The tracing was the exact same outcome as the other tracings except there was no added voltage only the addition of the glass rod. 3. What did you observe when the heated glass rod contacted the nerve? There was an instant deflection of the line similar to the line caused by the heated glass rod. Non- 4. How does this trace compare to the trace that we generated with the unheated glass rod? The tracing of the heated glass rod on the nerve was slightly a bit higher at tracing of its maximum peak and slightly lower at the lowest peak than the of the non heated glass rod. Acid 5. What did you observe when you added sodium chloride and hydrochloric solutions to the nerve? Once sodium chloride and hydrochloric acid solutions were added to the nerve there was a deflection of the line and caused action potential. Summarize your experimental results: What kinds of stimuli can elicit an action potential? Any stimuli that can reach above the 3 Voltage can elicit an action potential . Activity 5: 1. What are the effects of ether on the nerve? The effects of the ether on the nerve is that it causes the nerve to have no action potential. 1. How long did it take for the nerve to return to normal ? It took the nerve 6 minutes to return back to normal. Activity 6: 1. What effect did adding curare have on the action potential? Effect of adding curare was that it created action potential to the nerve. 1. We will write a custom essay sample on Neuro Lab Report specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Neuro Lab Report specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Neuro Lab Report specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Explain this effect. The It The effect of curare is paralyzing the action potential of the nerve. Interferes with the neuromuscular junction, it interferes with the Acetic Cooling and it depilatories it. 1. What do you think would be the overall effect of curare on the organism The overall effect of the curare on the organism is that it prevents the flow neuron impulses from neuron to neuron. Activity 7: 1. Does adding loading to the nerve generate an action potential? Adding loading does not generate action potential. 1. Explain why loading has this effect on nerve fiber transmission.

All Quiet on the Western Front3 essays

All Quiet on the Western Front3 essays All Quiet on the Western Front is a thought-provoking work of fiction by Erich Maria Remarque. This novel is the testament of Paul Bumer, a German boy convinced to enlist in the German Army and his subsequent experiences in World War I. After enlisting with the rest of his class, Paul learns to live a life of war. Initially he, like his classmates, was full of enthusiasm. Over a period of several years, however, Paul comes to see the world differently. He witnesses the suffering and horrors of war. In the trenches of the front line, he learns how war ruins and destroys the mind. In the beginning Paul belonged to a group of eight friends within his company; he is the last to survive. After suffering through their pain, Paul is wounded as well, and sees the suffering of those in the hospital. As he learns the nature of war, he is deeply saddened, especially for his own generation. The generations older than his had lives they left before the war, and will return to if they survive. The generations younger than his own will never know the war, and will live their lives peaceably. His generation has known nothing of life but death, and those who survive the war will be ruined men. Even as he realizes this tragedy, Pau l himself becomes a ruined man, and in the moving ending he is shot down. Remarque has mastered language and bent it to his will; he was very successful in presenting his ideas. He has represented well the conflict of a young man living and eventually dying in a desperate situation. As a result of Remarques mastery of language, the book packs a good deal of power. One example of this is the final paragraph: He had fallen forward and lay on the earth as though sleeping. Turning him over one saw that he could not have suffered long; his face had an expression of calm, as though almost glad the end had come. In addition to his lingual artistic abilities, Remarque also has a rather differ...

Final Project Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 2

Final Project - Research Paper Example By 1969, Wal-Mart had moved from a small business enterprise to an incorporated company Wal-Mart Stores Inc (Clemers, 1993). This paper will analyze Wal-Mart Stores and make recommendations to better align Human Resource practices to the vital business initiatives of the organization. First, I will examine Wal-Mart’s history and market position then describe and analyze the recent and targeted work procedures, as well as the respective skills, knowledge and abilities needed for Wal-Mart to achieve its objectives. I will also show the technology used by Wal-Mart to achieve work output in line with the company’s goals and provide a set of HRM recommendations suitable for Wal-Mart. The 1970s saw Wal-Mart emerge as one of the leading companies with a significant economic growth (Andersen & Narus, 1999). It acquired the Hutcheson Shoe Company and started a section of pharmaceuticals called Wal-Mart pharmacy. There was an increase in both the workforce and turnover. Wal-Mart rose to become a huge retail company with 276 stores, 21,000 employees and a turnover of over US$ 1.248 billion after a decade. The 1980s and the 1990s saw it rise from a huge national retail chain of stores into an international business. Within this period, Sam’s club was opened and a super center was launched becoming a conventional shop in several regions and countries worldwide (Dreher & Dougherty, 2001). By this time, it had one thousand four hundred and two stores, one hundred and twenty three Sam’s clubs, and it sales were over US$ 26 billion. From humble beginnings, Walton’s brain child has become one of the organizations that have contributed immensely to the world (Weinswig & Tang, 2010). The retail shops, discount stores and super centers have had a great impact on shops and consumers in the world today. To date, the organization has a workforce of over 2.2 million (Dreher & Dougherty, 2001). The company also gives its services to 176 million consume rs all over the world. Credit goes to Sam Walton and Wal-Mart for setting precedence to the world by upholding principles and running an immeasurable successful organization. In this paper’s analysis, I saw the need for the company to be more responsive to customers by improving their current and target work processes so as to ensure urgent and precise actions are taken in responding to their customers’ needs. The three key objectives they should focus on in order to achieve this are fulfilling specific customer requirements, achieving high levels of customer satisfaction and trying to adapt to the needs of business and market environments that change every day. Wal-Mart is capable of achieving these objectives while still maintaining and improving profitability and market share. This work processes can be met by linking workgroups and their processes in the internal customer and supplier chains. Once this is achieved, this linked functional work processes will become the major cross functional processes by which Wal-Mart’s externally focused business objectives will be met (Weinswig & Tang, 2010). These key cross functional business processes will be highly dependent on the way in which the management at Wal-Mart will structure their work processes (Dreher & Dougherty, 2001). They can do it in two ways; through the delivery work processes, which refers to the customer facing processes, and the support work processes, which are those that are required to sustain the delivery functions.

Forms of Business Organisations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Forms of Business Organisations - Essay Example Thus, â€Å"every partner in a firm other than an incorporated limited partnership is liable jointly with the partner’s co-partners, and also severally, for everything for which the firm becomes liable under section 10 or 11.†Ã‚  Ã‚   Joint and several liability means, within the partnership context, that the claimant may bring a claim against all of the partners or choose to recover the entire amount of damages from only one or some of the partners, leaving the partner/s whom the claimant has/have successfully recovered from to go after other partners for the latter’s proportionate contribution to the claim. Applying the above principles, it can be concluded that Stacey can go after both Bertha and Sam or either Bertha and Sam for the recovery of damages caused to his spine due to the wrongful practices of the firm, regardless of whether only one of the partners is at fault or both. In a joint and several liability, the partners will be left to determine for the mselves their exact liability and recover from each other the amount of the other’s liability. Therefore, Besa Constructions should seriously consider accepting liability for the injury of Stacey after validating the reports of the insurers. Since the firm is not a separate entity from its owners, this means that Bertha or Sam or both should pay the claim, in accordance to the extent of their individual participation in the wrongful company practices. Moreover, they should initiate a change in its existing working practices to prevent the same problem from occurring again in the future.  

HACCP(Hazard analysis and critical control points) Essay - 1

HACCP(Hazard analysis and critical control points) - Essay Example The HACCP system is applicable at all stages of food processing and preparation procedures such as packaging and distribution. Application of HACCP is a voluntary aspect in the food industries. HACCP is deemed to have originated from the monitoring of production processes which were used during the Second World War. It became fully operational in 1960s in the United States of America when the Space Administration requested Pillsbury to produce foods specifically for the space flights. Thus, from that period up to date, HACCP is recognized globally as one of the logical frameworks that have adapted the traditional methods of inspection to a contemporary science-based safety system. Therefore, as per its risk evaluation, HACCP give room for both the government and food industries to appropriately allocate available resources in order to establish and maintain safety in food practices. Moreover, HACCP is not only applied in food industries, but in pharmaceuticals and cosmetic industries. Thus, it is a method which seeks to eradicate unsafe practices in industries by using quality control procedures which always control or rather prevent occurrence of hazards in production processes as they identify these faults at every final stage of a given production process. However, its major focus is on the safety and healthy aspects and not the product’s quality. Therefore, the principles of HACCP form the basis of most quality and safety of food products assurance. HACCP identifies the probable safety hazards and determines the relevant preventive measures alongside a perfect plan that can be implemented in controlling of these hazards. Thus, this principles views a safety hazard related to food as any physical, chemical or biological feature that might make food to be unhealthy or unsafe for consumption. A CCP is deemed to be a point, procedure or step in any food production process at which total control of

Total Quality Management Within The UK Service Industry Management Essay

Total Quality Management Within The UK Service Industry Management Essay Total Quality Management is an approach that has been used over the years to improve quality and customer satisfaction. The implementation of TQM involves each member of an organisation from the top management to the entire workforce. The approach was first implemented in the manufacturing industry but it was later embraced in the service industry. The UK service industry which contributes greatly to the countrys economy is among the different industries that have been using TQM to improve its performance. Sectors such as banking, transport and communication, hotel and tourism are among some of the sectors that have implemented the approach in every transaction, process and service delivered to customers. However a critical analysis of the approach used within the UK service industry portrays the inadequacy of most companies to effectively implement the approach to gain maximally from its benefits. The concept of quality in project management has been in existence for a long time though its meaning has been evolving over time. In the early part of the 20th century, quality management was viewed as the inspection of products to ascertain that they met certain standards (Reid Sanders, 2005). Later in the 1960s quality was viewed to involve the entire organisation. All functions started being held responsible for the quality of the products and services. In the 1970s competition quality came to be with companies focusing on improving quality in order for them to be competitive. Companies that were not able to meet the quality standards set did not survive the competition. The concept of total quality management was later developed and it has led companies to build on quality of their products and processes. The efforts of the members within these organisations help improve the processes, culture, products and services in order to attain the quality standards expected. The concept was first developed in the manufacturing industry but it has spread to other industries such as the services sector (Pandian, 2007). In this sector total quality management focuses more on customer services and improving their satisfaction as they are considered to be very important in the sector. Companies that are considered to be in the service industry include hospitality and tourism companies, banking, insurance and financial companies, as well as telecommunication companies among others. Satisfying the customer is the main aim of these companies. The major challenge that these companies face while trying to attain this objective is the inability to establish smooth relations between them and the customers in order to retain them for future business. The total quality management approach helps these businesses to connect with their customers at every stage of the business process and in every transaction undertaken (Pandian, 2007). This paper undertakes a study of the total quality management approach that is used in the UK services sector and provides a critical analysis of the appropriateness of the approach in comparison to the academic models. The UK Services Industry The UK services sector is comprised of trades both wholesale and retail, restaurants and hotels, the financial services, transport and communication, real estate, government services, computing and IT among other business activities and services. The industry currently dominates the UK economy and remains a vital component of the economy. In the year 2000, the industry accounted for over 70% of the gross domestic product with the private part of the industry accounting for 50% (Skipper, 2000). The industry draws a lot of attention both locally and internationally in a bid to strengthen it and develop it further. During the year 2010, the industry experienced high growth and helped to improve the recovery process of the UK economy. According to BBC News (2010) the growth of the industry helped reduce job losses and grow the economy by 0.3%. The improved performance of the industry gave most companies confidence to increase their output in order to offset some of the challenges that the industry was facing such as the high fuel prices and VAT charges. The UK government has been putting pressure on most of the industries to improve on quality to enhance performance. Some of the industries have taken this up very seriously such as the service and manufacturing industries. In the service industry the health services, financial, hotel and tourism are among some of the sectors that have embraced the TQM approach. The concepts of quality, high standards and professionalism to improve customer satisfaction have been emphasised in these sectors to enhance competition. In the early 1980s the management of the UK financial services sector focussed mainly on administrative practises and personnel control rather than focussing on the customers (Hopwood Chapman, 2008 ). However with the deregulation of the banks the sector became similar to other industries such as manufacturing. The front office and back office services were formed and these led to the management now focussing on consultant services and pure administrative functions. Various techniques and approaches of management started being introduced and implemented such as the TQM, business process reengineering and activity based costing. Increased competition and lower interest rates started to define the banks as they engaged in marketing financial products to remain profitable (Hopwood Chapman, 2008 ). Interest in non financial performance measures engaged the banks in activities and processes that increased customer satisfaction, product quality, employee morale and job satisfaction, efficiency and productivity in order to improve market share. The management has now been focussing on the front line personnel who deal directly with the customers and influenced the service quality and delivery. They rely on the customer satisfaction and loyalty to maintain their market share and profitability. The banking industry which is the largest sector in the service industry in the UK benefits a lot from the TQM approach (Domingo, 2006). However the main issue that hinders the implementation of the approach is the lack of training in customer service. Most of the people in this sector are financial people who have little or no training on how to deal with customers. The TQM approach puts the customers at the centre and focuses on improving quality in order to satisfy them. A lot of planning and management is undertaken to ensure that the service quality is continually improved. All the people in the organisation need to be involved in the TQM approach for it to succeed and quality to be improved. Bankers and other employees in the financial sectors tend to concentrate more on the money issues and neglect the customers and quality (Frick, 1997). For this reason, the organisations in the financial sectors are not able to learn and apply the valuable lessons in customer service and people management to produce world class quality services. Presently the financial sector is ranked in terms of the financial resources and other quantitative measures such as asset base, number of transactions, depositors, loans released and other performance measures (Domingo, 2006). A lot of managerial focus is put on asset management, financial ratio analysis, cash flow and spread management among others. Most of the institutions use these measures to create satisfied customers. They ensure that their objectives, measurements and systems achieve this in order to improve the satisfaction levels of their customers. Empowerment of the workers in the service industry is one of the decisions that affect the implementation of the TQM approach. Workers need to be empowered for them to make decisions that regard quality of products and services and the satisfaction of customers. Employees also need to be involved and good communication channels set up for the approach to work. In this way each and every person in the organisation is involved in the total quality management programme and they improve in the way that they undertake their jobs in order to meet the objectives set. In most of the service industries in the UK, quality tends to be measured in terms of quantitative measures rather than qualitative. Companies simply use the approach that is used by the manufacturing companies which involve quantitative measures to determine the quality standards and the levels of customer satisfaction. However in the service industry, though it is difficult to quantify the customer satisfaction levels through their smiles and reviews, companies still continue to rely on quantitative measures. They focus on how quickly the customer got the service rather than focussing on whether the service that was delivered was good and in accordance to standards set. In order to gauge their quality standards and customer satisfaction, companies in the service industry focus on the customer complaints to provide a way of reviewing themselves (Hollins Shinkins, 2006). In the UK however studies have shown that most of the customers tend to accept the poor services offered and do not complain. They however move on to look for better services elsewhere. As part of the TQM approach noting and handling complaints is considered as a starting point of dealing with poor quality standards. Management should instead be more engaged in moving on to seeking the issues that lead to the complaints and handling them before the complaints are heard from the customers (Hollins Shinkins, 2006). This will help improve the image of the organisation since the UK dissatisfied customers who do not complain tend to tell others of their dissatisfaction with the services offered. The TQM approach used by the service providers should also focus on performing beyond the customers expectations. They should go a little further and attempt to satisfy the customers in more ways. The use of mystery shoppers has been used in the UK service sectors by companies like London Underground who used mystery shoppers to determine their quality performance (Hollins Shinkins, 2006). The shoppers were given booklets which had questions which required qualitative and quantitative answers. The quantitative questions required the mystery shoppers to give scores on standards such as cleanliness while the qualitative questions required the mystery shoppers to provide their own judgement. In order for the shoppers to provide some consistency in their answers to the qualitative questions, they were provided with some training on standards to that they could make sound judgements. In the UK transport sector, the government introduced contracts which allowed the local authorities and private bus operators to form partnerships that would help improve quality (House of Commons, 2006). This arrangement allows the bus operators to engage in high quality services, improve staff training and other facilities in order to improve customer satisfaction. Efforts have also been made by the operators to improve passenger information including how the buses are run to enhance service quality. The UK domestic and international tourism markets which are worth over  £17 billion every year have been attracting visitors from all over the world (Kandampully, Mok, Sparks, 2001). The service providers have been using the TQM approach to attract and retain most of these visitors for them to compete and increase their market share globally. They have been continuously improving their services and processes as per the TQM approach while also remaining efficient and effective. One of the principles that are commonly used by these companies is the establishment of plans and targets to improve the quality of the services they offer. Innovation and service delivery is also emphasised and encouraged. The standards that the customers demand are used as objectives in the plans set as a way of improving customer satisfaction. In the sport and leisure services, a quality management initiative was established in 1996 that brought together the private and public sector professionals (Kandampully, Mok, Sparks, 2001). The initiative was formed to enhance quality improvement, share knowledge and the best practises that can be used in these services. Managers were encouraged to involve the views of the customers in their operations. To improve service performance, self evaluations and assessments were introduced as part of the initiative to allow the companies to compare themselves with the industry standards. Customer relations, facility operations, staffing, service development and reviews were improved and encouraged as part of the management issues that can help improve customer satisfaction and service quality. Total Quality Management Total Quality Management has been defined by the International Standard ISO 9000 as the management approach that is focussed on quality through the participation of all the members of an organisation (Ramasamy, 2005). The approach aims for long term success and customer satisfaction as well as additional benefits to all members of an organisation and the society at large. The approach seeks to continually improve the quality standards and process by making sure that each and every member of the organisation understands and practises their role in a way that leads to the attainment of the goals set under the approach. The benefits of this approach are numerous and include higher profits, increased customer and employee satisfaction, more business and increased amounts of goodwill from the society towards the organisations (Ramasamy, 2005). The managerial and leadership styles are also made stronger and persistent among the top level management. Training of all employees helps in developing their skills and abilities and increases their morale. The organisations also become more efficient and effective with their material and human resources as they attain their objectives. Several concepts are used in this quality management approach. The major concept involves the focus on the customer (Naidu, Babu, Rajendra, 2006). Every task, decision and process is carried out with the customer in mind. According to the approach a company needs to continually check on the attitudes of the customers. It is also part of the approach for the management and employees to do everything right at the first time in order to reduce the complaints and levels of defective work. Continuous improvement is also emphasised to allow the company to get better. Under this approach management is advised to continually improve each and every part of the organisation rather than improving all sectors by 100% at once. The workforce should also be involved in the approach through transforming the culture of the organisation to embrace quality (Chapman Hall, 1994). This will help change the attitude of everyone in the organisation and enhance excellence rather than mediocrity. Training and frequently communicating with the workforce is also encouraged in this quality management approach. Enlarging the skills of the employees allows them to handle different tasks and also do them better (Pereira, 1994). Performance measurement is emphasised in the TQM approach as it helps the company to make decisions based on the results and maintain standards as well as keeping the processes at a certain standard. Top management need to be involved in the entire process for the approach to be successful. Employees can also be given the power to make some of the decisions that are needed on the spot to improve quality and customer satisfactions. Teamwork between the management and the employees can help reduce some of the issues, conflicts and provide a balanced working environment, improve employee morale as well as reduce the roles and responsibilities between the management and the employees (Ramasamy, 2005). Analysis The total quality management approach that is used in the UK service industry has helped improve the standards of quality and customer satisfaction within the various sectors. Some of the sectors have gained profits and larger market shares with the implementation of the approach in their processes and service delivery. However most of the sectors need to implement the approach further in all of their activities while involving the employees for the successful implementation and improvement of the benefits to be attained. Companies in the service industry need to undertake proper training of their workforce and improve communication channels in order to involve each and every member of the organisation in the delivery of services and improved quality standards. The top management need to frequently interact with the customers to listen to their views and opinions which should be integrated within the company. These views should help improve the decision making process and the objectives and goals to be achieved. The welfare of the employees also needs to be looked into for the approach to work. The needs of the employees need be taken care of and their issues addressed for them to be in a position to improve their attitudes towards quality and offer their best services to the customers and to the company. Empowering the employees can also boost their morale and confidence in undertaking their roles and responsibilities. Some of the decision making should be left on the employees to improve efficiency and make the employees feel like they are part of the organisation and improve their responsibilities. The companies in the service industry should shift from quantitative performance measurement techniques and instead use qualitative measures to determine their overall performance levels. The use of customer complaints should be avoided as it is a reactive measure. The companies should focus on proactive measures to determine their performance levels and improve their services and quality standards. With these techniques the service sector in the UK will perform much better than it is doing currently and continue dominating the economy. Conclusion The service industry in the UK has been dominating the economy of the country and providing a huge GDP. The government has been emphasising on the need for the industry to improve the quality of the services in order to allow the industry to compete effectively in the international market. Some of the sectors have adopted the TQM approach in their activities and process to help them improve their quality levels as well as improve customer satisfactions. The TQM approach has brought in different benefits for the companies in the sector. However a careful analysis of the approach used in these companies highlights the hindrances that have affected the implementation of the approach. The management of these companies need to embrace this approach fully in the service industry in order to gain maximally from the benefits of TQM. Bibliography BBC News. (2010, March 3). Service Sector Growth Hits Three-Year High. Retrieved January 6, 2011, from BBC News: Chapman, Hall. (1994). Total Quality Management: the key to business improvement. London: Springer. Domingo, R. T. (2006, March 4). TQM in Banking. Retrieved January 6, 2011, from RTD Online: Edraw Max. (n.d). TQM Diagram Software. Retrieved January 08, 2011, from Edraw Max: Frick, R. A. (1997). The Application of Total Quality Management on Service Quality in Banking. The Journal of Bank Cost Management Accounting , 10. Hollins, B., Shinkins, S. (2006). Managing Service Operations: Design and Implementation. London: SAGE Publications. Hopwood, A. G., Chapman, C. S. (2008 ). Handbook of Management Accounting Research. Oxford: Elsevier. House of Commons. (2006). Bus Service Accross the UK. London: The Stationery Office. Kandampully, J., Mok, C., Sparks, B. A. (2001). Service Quality Management in Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure. London: Routledge. Naidu, N., Babu, K. M., Rajendra, G. (2006). Total Quality Management. New Delhi: New Age International. Pandian, T. K. (2007, June 26). Importance of TQM for Services Sector. Retrieved January 6, 2011, from The Hindu Business Line: Pereira, J. (1994, October). Total Quality Continous Improvement. Management Services , 38. Ramasamy, S. (2005). Total Quality Management. New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill. Reid, R. D., Sanders, R. N. (2005). Total Quality Management. New Jersey: John Wiley Sons. Skipper, H. (2000, December). The UK Service Sector. Retrieved January 6, 2011, from Office for National Statistics:

Free Richard III Essays: The Power of Seduction :: Richard II Richard III Essays

Richard III: The Power of Seduction The word "seduce" according to Webster's Dictionary means to "tempt and draw away from proper conduct." This is exactly what Richard, Duke of Gloucester/King Richard III accomplishes in Richard III. In Richard's life he does not only move from deformed "hedgehog" to husband, but from "beast" to King. One may ask how such deeds were performed. However, a second look may make the deeds look simple. Richard demonstrated a strong power of seduction throughout the play that not only seduced Lady Anne, but many others. Richard's first conquest by seduction was Lady Anne. In the passage where Anne accused Gloucter of being the cause of her husband's death (I.ii.120-21), Gloucter replies not denying that he was the agent that caused the death. However, he follows by saying to Anne, "Your beauty was the cause of that effect" (I.ii.121). He continues using the excuse that her beauty caused everything. Finally, he actually admits that he killed Anne's husband, but in the same breath he says she caused it. "I did kill King Henry--/[b]ut 'twas thy beauty that provoked me" (I.ii.179-80). This seemingly sick and twisted style of persuasion works in seducing the spitting Lady Anne into becoming his wife. Obviously, by Anne taking the same hand in marriage that killed her former husband; one can see that she was "drawn away from proper conduct." Rhe citizens were also seduced by Richard. However, in Act III.vii. his wits alone did not work the persuasion. He had help from the Bishops, props and Buchingham. The Mayor exclaims to the citizens,"See where his Grace stands, 'tween two clergymen!" (III.vii.95). This is all part of Richard's goodly act. He wants to win the people by being a noble and good man. He wants them to believe that he is not only a moral man, but a modest one. Buchingham proceeds in supporting Richard in this attempt. Buchingham observes Richard and states to the people: Two props of virtue for a Christian prince, To stay him from the fall o vanity; And see, a book of prayer in his hands- True ornaments to know a holy man. (III.vii.96-99). Richard sways the citizens much differently than he persuaded Anne. He persuaded Anne by reminding her that his fault was caused by her beauty. One may say he was playing with her emotions.

How Is Science Combating Food Shortages in Africa Essay

Africa has been fighting a constant battle against starvation for decades. What with an uncontrollably growing population and harsh dry climate, its no wonder that not only Africa, but the world could be in for a big crisis: the lack of food. With over 7 billion people in this world to feed, one billion in Africa, its a wonder that our planet can support this mass population, and the situation is going to get much worse unless there is a solution as to how the shortage of food can be fixed. Since the 1970’s, scientists have experimented with Genetically Modified foods (GM foods). That means that they’ve changed the organisms, and the DNA, in order to enhance some aspects of the food or fix any possible faults. So far, GM organisms have proved to increase food production, which is a relevant and effective solution. This solution has indeed raised arguments, creating economical, ethical and societal implications. Genetically modified foods could be the solution to save Africa from the endless starvation and malnourishment. It offers something completely new; it is a biotechnical solution that is different to any other option considered to aid those suffering from the lack of food in Africa. GM crops grow faster, produce much more, need less time and less labor. It would be a permanent solution. Unlike transferring food across the oceans in order to give aid, GM foods would be able to be produced in the countries that actually will need and use them, instead of relying on other wealthier nations to bring it to them. This would also teach these less developed countries how to manage on their own, and not being supported or aided by the more economically developed countries. Even more positive aspects of this solution are, that these GM crops have longer shelf-life, meaning that they do not have to be consumed immediately, but they can be stored for longer. Furthermore; they don’t require as many natural resources and materials as normal crops, which is good cause Africa itself doesn’t offer that many, which is one of the reasons as to why it’s in the situation that it is in right now. This would give an exceptional amount of aid and hope to the people of Africa as it would fix one major issue that has been developing throughout the years, and help them defeat other problems that their nations are facing. However, there are always downsides to these new inventions. Firstly, GM foods haven’t been in the know for long enough to know if they have any side affects that humans should be concerned of. Many people resist the idea of genetical modification because of this uncertainty. The foods and crops could always trigger allergic reactions, which might be fatal in nations that offer poor medical aid, or any health impacts for humans and even animals. However, the certainty that these problems exist is only an assumption. For as far we know, there might be no bad consequences or effects that GMO’s might bring. Another issue is how this will work in the nations of Africa. The leaders of the nations might decide that this is an uncertain and doubtful solution, that might only bring harm to their countries. Or some nations might fear change, even if it could help the starvation issues that they’re struggling with. The only thing that the developed nations could do in this case, would be to try and negotiate as to how this solution can help them, not only temporarily but in the long run as well. Also, it will be a very cheap solution, which will be a major attraction to many nation as their economical situations aren’t that great. Furthermore, the annual cost of individuals having to purchase the genetically modified seeds will be an issue, as the continent is generally very poor. The effect of growing and consuming genetically modified crops is still unknown, however many possible and realistic assumptions have been made. A possible dilemma is the harm that these organisms could cause to other organisms in the nature. For an example, the mortality rate of monarch butterfly caterpillars has gone up recently, due to the wind blowing pollen from genetically modified B.t corn to milkweed plants, that the caterpillars consume. A nature study was held in order to find out whether this was true or not, and the results were in fact pointing towards the pollen being the cause of death. There are also countless other victims of genetic engineering, however they cannot be prevented as the toxins that kill the pests are also harmful to other insects. Unfortunately, in order to grow healthy crops without a financial loss, the use of these B.t toxins is essential. Another issue that could arise from this is cross-breeding of these herbicide tolerant crops and the weeds themselves, resulting in a ‘superweed’ that would be immune to these toxins. That could cause in mass destruction of crops and a great financial loss to the farmers, as well as an unnatural new specie. An issue that could arise within the use of GM crops is the strain on the economies of the nations using them. It would be quite expensive to transport the GM foods across the globe, and it would also take some time. Also, the cost of these seeds can be expected to rise due to the technology used to create them. A more developed country and farm could possibly afford the annual cost of these crops, however a less economically developed country cannot. A solution for this problem could be funding the production and research of GM foods. An example of such a funder is the Rockefeller Foundation, who has founded the research and production of genetically modified rice. GM rice would be a very costly process but with the help of funders and other wealthy companies the cost of expense can be reduced. Since the population of already 7 billion is estimated to almost double in the upcoming 50 years, the worlds biggest dilemma at the moment is to find a solution as to how to feed all these people and how our natural resources won’t be all used up. GM crops is one of the many solutions thought to solve this problem, however, like the rest of them, it comes with many different positive and negative aspects. Furthermore, since it is such a new invention, and not a lot of research has been done yet, the effects and consequences are unknown. If the massive population growth could be stalled for a few decades, say by introducing a one-child-policy, then the development of solutions such as GM crops could be completed meanwhile. This would be a really effective way to provide food aid to the peoples of the world, especially Africa, in order to defeat hunger and starvation, and it would also slow down the growth of the population, maybe even declining it.

Whats Actually Tested on the ACT Reading section Skills You Need

What's Actually Tested on the ACT Reading section Skills You Need SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips Just like the ACT has four different sections, the ACT Reading section has four different types of passages for you to read. This article breaksdown exactly what's on this section of the ACT so you can plan your best approach. First, let's consider how the ACT Reading section is formatted. Format of the ACT Reading The ACT Reading section asks 40 questions in 35 minutes. There are three single passages and one set of paired passages (usually either in the Prose Fiction or Humanities subject areas). Since there are four different categories of passage, this means 10 questions after each one. Each of these questions has four answer choices, A, B, C, and D. Since there are more questions than there are minutes, this leaves you with about 52 seconds per question. Actually, it will be considerably less since you'll be spending a portion of your time reading. This is a doable task, but you'll want to spend some time working on the best waysto manage your time. In terms of the entire test, the Reading section is the third section you do, right after you have a break. This can be really good timing, as the first two sections get you warmed up and then you have a quick break to refresh and refocus. Just like the order of sections, the Reading is consistent in what kinds of passages it presents toyou. Let's take a look at thesubject areas from which the passages are taken. Types of Passages The five passages on the Reading section always come from these four topic areas: humanities, social studies, natural sciences, and literary fiction. You're not expected to have any pre-existing knowledge about any of the passage topics. Everything you need to know to answer the questions will be there in the text. Since these topics can cover a largenumber of subtopics, this chart breaks it down a little more specifically, along with some examples of passage sources from sample ACT Reading questions that introduce passages and help you put them into context. As you can see with the Natural Sciences passage, the blurb might define any subject-specific words that you might need to know to understand the text. A typical social studies passage might be taken from a textbook, a natural sciences passage from an article, a literary narrative direct from a book, and a humanities passage from an essay or memoir. Passage Subject Subtopics Sample ACT Passage Introductions Social Studies anthropology, archaeology, biography, business, economics, education, geography, history, political science, psychology, and sociology. This passage is adapted from the chapter â€Å"Personality Disorders† in Introduction to Psychology, edited by Rita L. Atkinson and Richard C. Atkinson (1981). Natural Sciences anatomy, astronomy, biology, botany, chemistry, ecology, geology, medicine, meteorology, microbiology, natural history, physiology, physics, technology, and zoology. This passage is adapted from the article â€Å"How to Build a Baby’s Brain† by Sharon Begley (1997 by Newsweek, Inc.). In this selection, the term neuron refers to a specialized cell of the nervous system, and tomography refers to a method of producing three-dimensional images of internal structures. Literary short stories, excerpts from novels, memoirs, or personal essays This passage is adapted from the novel The Men of Brewster Place by Gloria Naylor (1998). Humanities architecture, art, dance, ethics, film, language, literary criticism, music, philosophy, radio, television, and theater. This passage is adapted from â€Å"A Poem of One’s Own,† an essay by Mary Jo Salter in which she discusses feminist literary critics’ recent reappraisal of women’s writing. The essay was taken from Audiences and Intentions: A Book of Arguments (1994). If you feel much more confident about reading about the natural sciences, for example, than about social studies, you might choose to locate that passage in your Reading section and do that one first. Some students skip around so they can answer questions about their favoritesubjects first. The questions are not ordered by difficulty, so it's fineto choose your own order, as long as you're not wasting valuable time trying to choose where to start. Now that you have a sense of what kind of passages you'll encounter, let's talk about the skills tested on the ACT Reading section. You'll need some different skills for the ACT Reading. Skills Tested on ACT Reading What skills do you need to bring to the table to understand and answer questions about these passages? According to the ACT, you must use referring and reasoning skills to accomplish the following: Understand main ideas Locate details within a passage and interpret them Interpret sequence of events and flow of ideas Make comparisons Understand cause-effect relationships Determine the meaning of words, phrases, and statements in context (these are usually straightforward, but may be used in an unusual or significant way in context) Draw generalizations Analyze the author's or narrator's tone and purpose These are all skills that you develop and improve upon in your English classes. You can further hone your skills by reading widely and often. The ACT asks 5 main types of questions in order to test these skills. I'll break down these 5 question types and give examples below so you know exactly what to expect and how you can prepare. Types of ACT Reading Questions The 5 main types of questions on the ACT Reading test these skills of understanding main ideas, locating details, and interpreting purpose and voice. Not only will you keep a close eye on what's directly stated, you'll also be called upon to interpret and analyze implied meanings. There's not huge leeway for interpretation, though - even seemingly subjective questions will only ever have one 100% unambiguously correct answer. Without further ado,the 5 types of questions on the ACT Reading: 1. Main Idea These questions ask you about the main point or theme of the passage. For example: The main point of this passage is to: A. illustrate the importance of genetics in the formation of a baby's brain.B. illustrate the importance of stimulation and experience in the formation of a baby's brain.C. indicate the great need for conducting further research on babies' brains.D. compare the latest research on babies' brains with similar research conducted fifteen years ago. 2. Detail These questions will often refer you to a specific line in the text and ask what it means. For example: The fourth paragraph (lines 31-37) establishes all of the following EXCEPT: A. that Abshu had foster brothersB. that the Masons maintained a clean house.C. how Mother Mason felt about the location of their house.D. what Abshu remembered most about his years with the Masons. 3. Vocabulary These questions will point you to a specific word or phrase and ask what it means or how it functions in context. These questions often point to a common word or phrase that might be being used in an unusual way. For example: As it is used in line 65, the termthe edge refers to a place where Abshu felt: A. most aliveB. unfulfilledC. defeatedD. most competitive 4. Function Development These questions ask you to describe the effect of a phrase, sentence, or paragraph in the context of an entire passage. Function questions tend to be about smaller amounts of text: For example: The narrator’s statement â€Å"I am looking at the MOON, I told myself, I am looking at the MOON† (lines 60–62) is most nearly meant to: F. reflect the excitement of the astronauts as they prepare to land.G. illustrate the narrator’s disappointment with the moon’s barren appearance.H. express the narrator’s irritation at having to wait for Apollo to land.J. convey the narrator’s awe at the event that is being broadcast. Development questions, on the other hand, will as you to think about larger ideas. How are ideas arranged within the passage? Does the passage introduce its thesis right away, or eventually build up to its main point? Does it offer countering opinions, or does each paragraph expand on the previous? For example: The last paragraph of Passage A (lines 37-49) marks a shift in the passage from: A. a description of events leading up to a sudden action by the narrator to a reflection on the intentions and meanings behind that action.B. an overview of a family dilemma to an explanation of how the narrator solved that dilemma.C. an example of the narrator's typical response to family events to an analysis of the narrator's personality.D. a chronology of a historical event to a summary of the narrator's circumstances at the time. 5. Implied Ideas These are inference questions. What does a line, paragraph, or the whole passage imply? For example: It can reasonably be inferred from the passage that which of the following is a cherished dream that Abshu expects to make a reality in his lifetime? A. Establishing himself financially so as to be able to bring his original family back under one roofB. Seeing the children at the community center shift their interest from sports to the dramatic artsC. Building on the success of the community center by opening other centers like it throughout the stateD. Expanding for some, if not all, of the children the vision they have of themselves and their futures These examples illustrate the question types, but if you want to see the passages they refer to and understand them in context, you can read them them here, as well as try theremaining questions. To equip yourself with the tools you need to tackle these questions, you should study up on the literary terms you've learned in your English classes. Don't just study their definitions, but actively apply them to texts that you read, as you'll have to do on the ACT Reading. There's a big difference between knowing that tone refers to the attitude a work takes towards its subjects or audience, whether it be formal, playful, or condescending,and actually determining the tone of a given text. Let's touch on some other approaches and strategies you need toknow to excelon the ACT Reading. Tips and Strategies for the ACT Reading By knowing how the test works, you're already taking an informed approach to the ACT Reading and eliminating the chance of unexpected surprises on test day. You also want to plan your approach for reading the passages and balancing your time between reading and answering questions. Is it better to read the passage or the questions first? Should you read thoroughly or skim? You can learn more about the best approaches for ensuring your reading comprehension while making good time here. Your mindset plays an important role in your reading comprehension, too. If you can try to make yourself really interested in the passages and intrigued by the random information you're about to learn, you'll actually be able to read faster and retain more. Read this article for more tips on the best way to practice ACT Reading. The ACT tests your ability to recall information quickly and use evidence to back up your answers. The best way to practice these skills is through ACT Reading test prep with high quality questions and simply through reading extensively in and out of school. While this approach is more difficult to measure, frequent reading will make you a sharper and better reader over time. For more strategies for conquering the ACT Reading section, you can read alltheimportant tips from this perfect 36 scorer. Again, knowing exactly what's on the test is the first step in your preparation, so you're already making progressin your quest to conquer the ACT Reading. What's Next? The best way to prep for the ACT is with official ACT practice questions. Check out these 5 official printable ACT Tests, along with 6 strategies to get the most out of your studying. Are you aiming for perfection on the ACT, one section at a time? This full scorer explains how he got a 36 on the ACT and how his strategies can work for you, too. What ACT scores are you aiming for? Rather than just seeing what happens, you can take control by determining your target scores and following the test prep plan you need to achieve them. Read all about how to set your target ACT scores here. Want to improve your ACT score by 4+ points? Download our free guide to the top 5 strategies you need in your prep to improve your ACT score dramatically.

Highlights of Late 19th Century Womens Labor Organizing

Highlights of Late 19th Century Women's Labor Organizing Some highlights of American womens labor organizing in the late 19th century: In 1863, a committee in New York City, organized by the editor of the New York Sun, began to help women collect wages due them that had not been paid. This organization continued for fifty years. Also in 1863, women in Troy, New York, organized the Collar Laundry Union. These women worked in laundries making and laundering the detachable collars stylish on mens shirts. They went on strike, and as a result won an increase in wages. In 1866, their strike fund was used to aid the Iron Molders Union, building a lasting relationship with that mens union. The leader of the laundryworkers union, Kate Mullaney, went on to become assistant secretary of the National Labor Union. The Collar Laundry Union dissolved July 31, 1869, in the the middle of another strike, faced with the threat of paper collars and the likely loss of their jobs. The National Labor Union was organized in 1866; while not exclusively focusing on womens issues, it did take a stand for the rights of working women. The first two national unions to admit women were the Cigarmakers (1867) and the Printers (1869). Susan B. Anthony used her paper, The Revolution, to help working women organize in their own interests. One such organization formed in 1868, and became known as the Working Womens Association. Active in this organization was Augusta Lewis, a typographer who kept the organization focused on representing the women on pay and working conditions, and kept the organization out of political issues such as woman suffrage. Miss Lewis became the president of the Womens Typographical Union No. 1 which grew out of the Working Womens Association. In 1869, this local union applied for membership in the national Typographers Union, and Miss Lewis was made corresponding secretary of the union. She married Alexander Troup, the unions secretary-treasurer, in 1874, and retired from the union, though not from other reform work. Womens Local 1 did not long survive the loss of its organizing leader, and dissolved in 1878. After that time, the Typographers admitted women on an equal basis to men, instead of organizing separate womens locals. In 1869, a group of women shoestitchers in Lynn, Massachusetts, organized the Daughters of St. Crispin, a national womens labor organization modeled on and supported by the Knights of St. Crispin, the national shoe workers union, which also went on record supporting equal pay for equal work. The Daughters of St. Crispin is recognized as the first national union of women. The first president of the Daughters of St. Crispin was Carrie Wilson. When the Daughters of St. Crispin went on strike in Baltimore in 1871, the Knights of St. Crispin successfully demanded that the women strikers be rehired. The depression in the 1870s led to the demise of the Daughters of St. Crispin in 1876. The Knights of Labor, organized in 1869, began admitting women in 1881. In 1885, the Knights of Labor established the Womens Work Department. Leonora Barry was hired as a full time organizer and investigator. The Womens Work Department was dissolved in 1890. Alzina Parsons Stevens, a typographer and, at one time, Hull House resident, organized the Working Womans Union No. 1 in 1877. In 1890, she was elected district master workman, District Assembly 72, Knights of Labor, in Toledo, Ohio. Mary Kimball Kehew joined the Womens Educational and Industrial Union in 1886, becoming a director in 1890 and president in 1892. With Mary Kenney OSullivan, she organized the Union for Industrial Progress, whose purpose was to help women organize craft unions. This was a forerunner of the Womens Trade Union League, founded in the early 20th century. Mary Kenney OSullivan was the first woman hired by the American Federation of Labor (AFL) as an organizer. She had earlier organized women bookbinders in Chicago into the AFL and had been elected a delegate to the Chicago Trades and Labor Assembly. In 1890, Josephine Shaw Lowell organized the Consumers League of New York. In 1899, the New York organization helped found the National Consumers League to protect both workers and consumers. Florence Kelley led this organization, which worked mainly through educational effort. Text copyright  © Jone Johnson Lewis . Image:  left to right, (front row): Miss Felice Louria, executive secretary of the New York City Consumers League; and Miss Helen Hall, director of the Henry Street Settlement in New York and chairman of the Consumers National Federation. (Back row) Robert S. Lynd, head of Department of Sociology, Columbia University; F.B. McLaurin, Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters and Michael Quill, N.Y. City Councilman and president of Transportation Workers Union.

Assignment 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 2

Assignment 2 - Essay Example It is important for nurses to learn of the ethical principle of autonomy and how to implement it in the nursing situation (Midgley 2006). The right to autonomy is one of any patient’s ethical rights in a situation where they are under the care of medical personnel (Somerville and Keeling 2004). In this case, the registered nurses had the responsibility of overseeing or supervising the work of their mentees while also ensuring that their professional responsibilities were fulfilled. Another ethically based nursing principle, beneficence, holds that nurses should act with kindness, charity, and mercy towards their patients (Myrick and Yonge 2005). This basically means that nurses should not bring additional harm to their patients. A third ethical principle, nonmaleficence, has to do with avoiding a situation where a patient is caused unintentional harm (Curtin 2005). Another ethical principle in nursing practice is veracity (Dalton 2005). Veracity basically refers to truth telli ng in all situations. As far as the ethical principle of advocacy is concerned, it would appear that not all student nurses were satisfied with the skills and relations given to them by their mentors. The principle of confidentiality basically has to do with respecting a patient's right to privacy. This is particularly important for patients who have illnesses that carry social stigma such as A.I.D.S (Cuevas 2008). WERE THERE ANY ETHICAL CONFLICTS? Autonomy According to Brammer, there are different ways in which the student nurses and mentors may interpret what it means to function in a supervisory role (Brammer, 2008). This may bring different problems in cases where nursing students are expected to ease the burden of the mentor by indicating that the mentor was present during the examination of a patient or in writing notes on the physical conditions of patients that they might not have personally examined as a favor to their overworked mentors. This also breaches the ethical prin cipal of autonomy. Another situation that brings into focus issues concerning with autonomy has to do with the ministrations of student nurses towards their patients (Jansson, Pilhammar, and Forsberg 2009). Beneficence From the reactions of some of the student nurses in this case study, not all the mentors were diligent in practicing the ethical principle of beneficence in their dealings with their mentees. It is not uncommon for training nurses to claim that they do not feel respected by their supervisors or seniors. This does not merely have to do with being ignored, but also the allocation of extra work with little supervision. Given that the registered nurses function as ‘gate keepers’ who wield enormous power over the future careers of their mentees, it can become quite disheartening for their mentees when they are not treated with the charity and kindness that are part of the ethical principal of beneficience (Yildirim, Ozkahraman, and Karabudak 2011). Nonmalefice nce For student nurses, it is very important for them to have enough time with their mentors when looking after patients. Moreover, it would appear from this case that the student nurses recognized that their mentors could perform important tasks faster than they

Article summary Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Article summary - Assignment Example The solution to this problem was found in the adoption of Jive software to provide the stakeholders with a virtual community where they can share ideas, information, and data and discuss other business opportunities. This community was not only helpful for the discussions but was also proved to be a successful marketing tool. Information about new products and offers could easily be shared to the community members and other interested people. This step by NetApp owners helped in developing a stronger brand image and increased the participation of its members. NetApp has acquired the benefit of improving its services and satisfying its customers by receiving feedbacks on the site. It has also become possible for the administration of NetApp to gain knowledge about it’s stakeholders desires and expectations via discussion boards, blogs and wikis. In conclusion, we can say that this article illustrates the increased opportunity for NetApp’s business expansion and also prov es the efficiency of Jive’s software. This case study involves much information about the use of Jive’s software and its success as experienced by NetApp. However, this case study fails to explain the background information about NetApp and hence does not provide full information about the activities and services of NetApp. For a reader who is not aware of Netapp’s services, this case study provides insufficient information to understand how Jive Software helped NetApp. The case study is written in a direct manner. It does not involve too much explanation but instead provides information that is necessary to prove the success of jive software in NetApp’s business. The bullet points, headings and structure of the paper is quite useful and easily comprehensible. The sub-headings and bulleted points make it easier for the reader to grasp and memorize the key points. However,

Business Plan on The Fitness Club Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Business Plan on The Fitness Club - Essay Example The paper tells that the Fitness Club will provide workout and various fitness routines. It will also help develop individual diet plans for its members. Health clubs and gyms business is booming all over the world and UK is no exception. People are getting interested in losing weight and eating healthy. Staying in shape and looking ‘good’ is the new trend and people are willing to invest money in their health plans and the Fitness Club is here to help them. What sets this club apart from other health clubs is the variety it offers at a very low cost. It can be afforded by people from all walks of life. They not only get the place to get in shape but coaches customize their diet plans and encourage them to keep up with the schedule. The coaches and nutritionists at this club are highly qualified and experienced in their respective fields. They have helped so many people achieve their dream body figure. Other than the fitness trend, the fact that a huge market area is til l untapped justifies this business plan. People are also joining health clubs to stay away from obesity and its related diseases. According to a survey, 17% of boys and 16% of the girls in UK between ages 12-15, have some form of obesity (BBC, 2012). That is why it is a great opportunity to cash in this factor and get people motivated to achieve a healthy life style and this club exactly does that. Competitors in the health and fitness industry mostly ignore low income people and a perception has started to develop that health and fitness clubs are only for rich people. ... This perception is completely wrong and needs to be taken off the market. Even though the fitness market is extremely competitive but there is a lot of room for growth. Health awareness and fashion clothing are the main contributors towards motivating people to join health clubs. State of the art equipment will be available for all members of The Fitness Club. Financial Highlights Start-up Costs Expected Growth in Revenue Expected Growth in Profit Company Description 1.1 Company Overview The Fitness Club will start its central office in Bicester Oxon, UK this June 2012. Later on, more branches will be opened throughout UK starting from Edinburg. The company is also looking forward to opening health centres in areas of UK that haven’t been tapped by fitness industry. The Fitness club is planning to provide great quality fitness services at extremely competitive costs. The objective is to appeal to the affordability of the customers so that people from all walks of life could jo in in. 1.2 Mission & Vision Vision: To create sentience among people about healthy lifestyle. Mission: To provide custom made exercises and meal plans for the mass market. 1.3 Strengths and Competencies State of the art fitness equipment available to use at the lowest price Highly qualified and experienced trainers and nutritionists Dedicated staff that actually inspires and motivates people 1.4 Challenges Despite of having the advantage of highly qualified coaches and nutritionists, there are few competitors that can cause neck to neck competition. The Fitness Club will have to plan its strategy of promotion and marketing by keeping an eye on ‘The Fitness Company’, which operates exactly in the same area where the central office will be built