If I Had Power to Change 3 Things in World

Synapse:| 1. Introduction| 2. Poverty| 3. Terrorism| 4. Accidents and Natural Disasters| 5. Conclusion| INTRODUCTION: â€Å"Nothing is permanent in this world Other than the Change† -is a famous proverb. In this mechanical world all of us are moving towards the pursuit of money having not even single second to spare, to think of world. So I would like to bring to spotlight 3 most prickling things in my mind, which I think, given a power I will surely change, to make the world a better place to live in†¦. 1. POVERTY: Poverty according to my view is a thorn in flesh of the world. Society in India is very sharply divided between ‘Haves’ and ‘Have Nots’. With all the wealth of the country getting so accumulated in a few hands the rest of the population find it difficult to even make 2 ends meet. So obvious reason for poverty is ‘distribution of wealth’ which is too uneven. On one side India is leading gold importer in the world, whereas on other side India has most number of population that cannot even afford for a single meal as stated as follows†¦ â€Å"Rich continues to become richer-and Poor continues to become poorer† Recent news coverage in media focusses fully on Indians and their illegal blackmoney deposited in Swiss and Morocco banks, and a pitiful fact is that most of them having account are politicians of our very own country. Isn’t it a big shame for our nation? Harmful effect of poverty include mitigation of crime activities like theft, robbery, smuggling, kidnapping, cheating which have become a menace to society. Poor people in a pursuit of living, indulge in these kind of activities. All thieves who were caught redhanded state poverty as major reason for their act. If this is situation in India, situation across world is far more worse. Many countries in Africa and Asia are dying because of poverty. A shocking fact is that their total country’s income is not even equal to per capita income of a citizen in a developed country. So basis for all illegal activities is poverty. Owing to greed of wealth recent trend of â€Å"string of kidnapping incidents† happened. Smuggling drugs and other goods were also carried out by poor youth as depicted by Tamil film ‘Ayan’. Hence by solving this poverty problem, world would be a safer place to live upon. So if I had power to change 3 things in world, I would first eliminate poverty so as to make each and every common man feel as if ‘He is the king’. 2. Terrorism: Modern world has become a hotbed of hatred , violence and terrorism. Civilization has not made many people different from brute animals. The law of the jungle is, â€Å"might is right† In these days when nations and men swear by principles of peace and co- existence there are still elements who indulge in violent activities and who feel that solutions to problems can be got only through violence. The worst form of violence is terrorism. In my opinion, terrorism is something which is much worse than a regular war, for, against war all preparations are always ready at hands but these terrorist attacks being unexpected and unwarranted can just not be secured against. What can be done when people are travelling by train, getting ready to board a bus, or watching a cinema, and the terrorists strike. How can any prevention against this be arranged? It is this very uncertainty of time and place that makes terrorist attacks more dangerous than even a regular warfare. Another point that makes these attacks worse than war to some extent is that, these attacks are always against poor innocent people of the public. In a war also no doubt, the public suffers but, they are not the targets, they are given protection till it is possible. With these terrorist activities, today there is a continuous fear of attack and so, danger is always looming large on the horizon. Today terrorism has become a world wide phenomena, it is rampant in the Middle-East, most of the European countries. Some countries help in the development of terrorism in other countries and, since their boys are trained, their level of performance is flawless and absolutely superb. As we have seen in India, in the process of the last one decade or more, our neighbour Pakistan is training, providing sophisticated weapons to spread Terrorism in India. A series of bomb blasts off and on, murders of prominent personalities, all go to show that this process being a continuous and silent war, is very difficult to curb. The killing, maiming and kidnapping of innocent and unconcerned persons in terrorist act, such as recent bomb blasts in Delhi, is just plain crime. United Nations has also now given its seal of authorization to this view. The bomb blasts are in addition to terrorists killing by gunfire and destruction of places of worship. There is no reason for the killings other than, apparently, to create panic and instability in the local administration. Innumerable killings by gunfire or bomb explosions have taken place in Assam, Jammu & Kashmir and in other parts of the north-east, and various other cities. Our whole educational system also needs to be restructured and streamlined. It should use each ounce of energy of youth for constructive purposes so that they may not be induced to adopt violence as their creed and dead. 3. ACCIDENTS AND NATURAL DISASTERS: A life undergoes nearly 10 months of struggle to evolve and enter our beautiful world. But within a blink of eyelashes it gets vanished. So I am going to finally depict the mayhems of accidents and natural disasters with the reason to eliminate them from our world. Many factors can play into accident. Road accident is a global tragedy. Air accident is worst nightmare of every pilot or passenger. We all are aware of the tragic end to ‘Titanic ship’ and to its crew members & passengers. No form of transportation is completely safe and no machine is completely fool-proof. Murphy’s law states that , â€Å"Anything that can go wrong will go wrong† In everyday newspapers we come across numerous incidents of accidents many of which may not be the fault of victim itself, such as a drunken driver vehicle running through a pedestrian or other stationary vehicles along the roadside. Thus road condition, mechanical failure, driver error or simply act of god! may lead to these tragedies. As we all know, our college witnessed a sorrowful incident a week ago, when a 2nd year EEE guy fell prey to jaws of accident, although fault was on his side. Natural disaster is a painful memory for victims that can be caused by nature, such as floods, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunamis, avalanches, lahars, landslides, sinkholes, blizzards, tropical storms, typhoons, tornadoes, wildfire, epidemics caused by bacteria or a biological threat by toxic fungi or locusts. Various disasters like earthquake, landslides, volcanic eruption, flood and cyclones are natural hazards that kill thousands of people and destroys crores of rupees of properties. Everyone knows about flood, but did you ever have been in that situation? Can you imagine how painful the victims feel? Do we think what is the thing we can do to help them or just sitting at home and watching victims suffering from flood? At first natural disasters cause physical damage. Secondly it causes contamination of water. Finally it causes economical hardship by food shortage. CONCLUSION: Just as a coin has 2 sides, our mother earth also has the above mentioned curses at her ugly side. Frankly speaking most of them are created by God’s wonderful creation â€Å"Humans† only! As stated by one of my poem, â€Å"America ambushed by Katrina, Indonesia illtreated by Tsunami, Europe saw eruption of volcanoes, India incurred loss of lives in earthquakes, Acid rains across the earth! World warned by lethal landslides! ‘Aren’t these an awakening call for us to stop Acting against nature? † So if I had power to change these 3 things, I am sure that my changes will benefit entire mankind and start a new chapter in human history. Afterall as we all know, â€Å"Nothing is Impossible Even the word IMPOSSIBLE says, I’m possible† ‘SO OFCOURSE I CAN BRING THESE CHANGES AND MAKE IT HAPPEN! ’

Human Resources Integration Essay

Hugh McCauley, the Chief Operations Officer of Riordan Manufacturing, has placed a service request, SR-rm-022 to integrate all existing Human Resources tools into a single integrated application across all plant locations. The business would like to take advantage of a more sophisticated, state-of-the-art, information systems technology to replace their current Human Resources Information System or HRIS (Riordan Manufacturing, 2006.) In response to this request, this document will outline the following items. The information-gathering techniques and systems analysis tools proposed for this project. Critical factors to ensure the sucessful gathering of information required for the project. Description of the project scope and the areas of project feasibility, and key stakeholders of which requirements will be collected are also discussed. INFORMATION GATHERINT TECHNIQUES AND SYSTEMS ANALYSIS TOOLS To ensure project success, it is important to gather your key stakeholders together to discuss the system. Key Stakeholders for this project would be key management personnel, IT staff, and users of both the legacy system, and the new system. Your key stakeholders will also be the first level of intelligence gathering performed. Key management personnel such as Hugh McCauley, the COO, who can give the corporate view of the legacy and the new system. HR Director Yvonne McMillian and Payroll/Tax Clerk Anan Richlich can give an exact use case on the HRIS system, and will be the two primary sources of legacy information. Director Yvonne can determine training requirements with the help of the IT department. The IT department can provide information about the legacy system and the capabilities of the current infrastructure of the business. IT can also judge and approve new requirements, privacy structures, and future support needed to maintain the  system. Face-to-face interviews will allow information gathering from these key individuals. Questions, an outline of topics, and a primary agenda will be provided beforehand to maximize the use of available time in hectic schedules. We will also be occasionally meeting to discuss the direction the system is heading, timelines, priorities, and key players’ lists to ensure success of the project. There is another primary source of information which needs addressing, and this is the group of people who handle information we will be adding which did not exist in the legacy system. This group can submit examples of their files, which will determine another part of the scope of the system, and use cases of how that information is gathered. After this information has been collected, documented and studied, the system development process can begin. The system will be designed using the Joint Application Development (JAD) method. JAD is a prototyping method which gathers our key players listed above, along with other designated individuals to collectively refine business requirements while in conference with the design team of the software and the support team from IT. â€Å"The JAD process also includes approaches for enhancing user participation, expediting the development, and improving the quality of specifications. It consists of a workshop where knowledge workers and IT specialists meet, sometimes for several days, to define and review the business requirements for the system.† (Joint Application Design – Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, n.d.) Using this prototyping method ensures that each key factors such as project support and misdirection will not be an issue. This also ensures that the project gets the continued support it will need in the future to succeed. SCOPE AND FEASIBILITY During the Analysis phase of the Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC), several areas of project feasibility come into play. As discussed above, determining fully the system requirements ensures that you are filling the need of the system. â€Å"A preliminary study is then conducted to confirm and evaluate the need. A proposal of how the need may be satisfied is then made.† (Scope of Feasibility Analysis | Bicara Property, n.d.) The necessity of the system, as well as the improvements and requirements of the new system, will all be handled within the JAD process, allowing final project scope and requirements development. These developments can be realized  financially to allow final budgetary requirements determination. All of these determinations hinge upon the proper system scope being defined. During this process, the unique considerations are also shared. In this project, the request was to â€Å"Create a detailed system design and a project implementation plan required to complete the project. The project should be completed in approximately six months allowing new system utilization in the second quarter of next year.† (Riordan Manufacturing, 2006.) This design process includes checks and balances, giving the project the fullest chance of success. During the entire process, oversight will be maintained by corporate leadership. Final approval before entering the next phase of the SLDC allowing equipment purchasing approval from the COO, Hugh McCauley. By following this process, we can ensure this project produces a system which fulfills the requirements, bringing a â€Å"sophisticated, state-of-the-art, information system† to Riordan Manufacturing’s Human Resources Department. (Riordan Manufacturing, 2006.) During the JAD process, two methods were determined to fit the requirements, building a system in-house using programmers’ already on staff or using off the shelf software from a major corporation. To fulfill user testing requirements, a trial version of the BambooHR software was tested by staff and management. The BambooHR software fulfills all the requirements with less downtime for the company, saving valuable resources and eliminating the need for more support staff to be hired. The design process for this system began by gathering relevant data for the current system and by building both requirements for the new system and use cases of the current processes in the Human Resources department. After gathering and sorting the new system requirements using the Joint Application Design process, it is now possible to continue to design both the application architecture and apply the tools of system analysis to describe the information systems. SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE The client/server architecture is one of the most prevalent system architectures used in corporations. With Riordan’s requirements to allow multiple sites access to data and to ensure that data remains secure, the data will be stored on the server, and access routed through a secondary  application server. The application server hosts the applications which access the data, allowing a lower cost local machine, and can allow both intranet access and outside access using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) connection to create a secure encrypted link between the client and the server. This style of client/server architecture is referred to as a three-tiered architecture due to the three tiers involved in accessing the data. Although this method may seem bulky at first, this will allow many different benefits for data security and lower overall cost of the system as requirements are lower for the client computers. The determined requirements for multiple locations to share and modify data leaving with Riordan only required to supply the client systems with no additional support necessary for a data server or application server. Eliminating the current architecture on hand will save maintenance, upgrade and support costs, both in monetary and staff requirements. The chosen software, Bamboo Human Information Resource System (HRIS) follows the same requirements recommended in terms of hardware as those designed using system analysis. ARCHITECTURE DIAGRAM SECURITY CONTROLS Security is the ability to protect the information system from disruption and data loss, whether caused by an international act (e.g., a hacker or a terrorist attack) or a random event (e.g., disk failure, tornado.) according to SYSTEMS TEXTBOOK. In modern corporations, internal threats can become much more dangerous than external threats. To combat both types of threats implementation of the following security protocols will be included in the system: DATA Data must be kept secure and confidential, protected from both internal and external threats at all times. Data encryption and passwords will be used in addition to other security features to protect employees. Data stored externally to the server, such as the outsourced benefits data will be reviewed for security procedures and evaluated annually. Currently the data is decentralized, being stored in different offices and by various methods, creating a security problem that the new system can correct. The first step  to addressing this will be to ensure secure storage of all data. Consolidating data allows secure controls on the access each person has to the secured data by both the application used to access the server, and the access controls given them when they log in. This will also allow multiple applications to access the same data, while leaving greater flexibility to find the best software to fit multiple needs. Each user can add, remove, and manipulate only the data they are given access to, no matter the platform the data is being accessed form. PROCESSES Some legacy processes consolidation will occur as the data is consolidated, and certain processes would benefit from using third party software thereby gaining security certificates and minimizing the amount of knowledge and training required for our Information Technologies department. Many of the software suppliers will assist with training, modification and installation making the transition from the legacy system easier on staff. INTERFACES System interfaces describe how the system shares information with outside sources such as outsourced data, user requests, and internal data sharing. As Intrusion Detection and Identity Management systems will protect the internal data interfaces, as discussed above, the user interface design process needs to be addressed. As many of the users currently only have forms built for their information and no system to store them in, Riordan Manufacturing can evaluate different third party solutions for a web-based system. Using a web-based system, such as Bamboo HRIS allows applications to be placed on a remote server, lowering the cost of the clients used and saving valuable money and resources. Employees accessing the application server via the intranet will use username/password combinations to decrypt data on their local machine, while access from external sources, including employees at a remote site will use a private key encryption system to decrypt their data. This process minimizes the amount of data stored on the individual clients in case of theft or destruction of client resources. NETWORK The network consists of the backbone, data server, application server, firewall, and clients. There are four processes that will be used to protect  the network from unauthorized access: Implementation of Intrusion Detection System – This system conducts real-time monitoring of the network, database, traffic, and user access and activity to find possible intrusion or security risks. Log Management Program – Almost all software produces logs which store information on user access, file management, and data modification to name a few examples. Consolidating these logs into easier to read and understand can help identify potential security risks. Identity Management Systems – Control access to resources and data based on the users identification within the system, i.e. the user’s login credentials.   Training for Security Measures – The best security system will not function to its highest potential unless staff are trained in the use of the system. This training includes proper in-processing and out-processing procedures to protect from unauthorized access. Although the Systems Development Life Cycle is a continuous cycle, the final step for this Human Resources Information System project is the Implementation and Operations phase. This is the most expensive and time-consuming phase due to the amount of personnel, resources, and time involved. According to Valacich, George, and Hoffer (2012), there are seven major activities, coding, testing, installation, documentation, training, support, and maintenance. This document will explore the first six activities, giving a brief description and the plan for implementation at Riordan Manufacturing of the Bamboo Human Resources Information System. It is important to ensure that each of these activities are adequately defined, as many of them are conducted multiple times during the life of the system, and some are carried out on a daily basis. Building proper procedures for staff and support personnel to follow ensures that all upgrade or modification testing is accomplished to the same standards as the original system. CODING Coding is the process by which designs are transferred into the physical form that is computer software. As the selected system requires no coding, this  aspect will not be planned for TESTING Testing is an involved process which begins with the first section of code and continues throughout the life of the system. There are several different methods of testing in use today, some in which the code is run to verify operation and output, and some in which a code error review is conducted without operation. The Inspection method involves a physical inspection of the code, checking for syntax, grammar, or other fundamental errors before running the code while ignoring the purpose of the code. The inspection method usually removes the majority of errors found in the program. A Walkthrough allows testing of the code for functionality and to determine if the code fulfills the design requirements identified by the design team. Desk Checking, another form of checking and verifying code involves running the code with paper and pen to determine the logical validity of the code without running any lines of code. The previous methods of testing are focused on catching issues when writing code and may not apply to the code purchased off the shelf, or in modular form to work within an existing system. With the cost of development for code, especially in smaller companies this may not be a viable option, however even if purchasing prepackaged code, there are tests which should be run to ensure no problems will be found during installation. After the code has been validated by manual means, or for purchased code, it can be processed by a program, such as a compiler, to verify that there are no significant errors by Syntax Checking. Syntax Checking can also be run automatically each time the program saves a file to identify issues which arise causing the system to need maintenance. Code is generally written in modular form in today’s environments, and there are methods of testing which lend themselves well to this. Unit testing is designed to test each individual module or unit to verify operation before the modules are combined together into a system. Testing individual modules may seem to be difficult as many modules share data and information, the way to fix any call errors is by using Stub Testing. During Stub testing, lines of instructions are inserted in the code to emulate a response from an outside source allowing the program to complete without errors. After testing the modules, they are combined and tested again during Integration testing, using a top-down approach to verifying communications and data sharing logic is sound. The final method  to discuss is System Testing, the act of testing the finalized system, using the same top-down approach from the Integration phase. The software chosen for Riordan Manufacturing to satisfy the needs listed is off-the-shelf giving limited testing requirements. Alpha Testing was accomplished during the final steps of the JAD, or Joint Application Design, process and beta testing will commence using key stakeholders in the project once final project approval has been given. INSTALLATION The installation process involves transitioning from the legacy system to the new system and can occur in several different approaches, direct, parallel, single location, and phased. â€Å"Each installation strategy involves converting not only software but also data and (potentially) hardware, documentation, work methods, job descriptions, offices and other facilities, training materials, business forms, and other aspects of the systems† (Dennis, Wixom, & Roth, 2012, ). Each of these different installation methods has their positive and negative aspects, and can be combined to fit the needs of the business requirements. The Direct Approach is a cold turkey shut down of the legacy system with no transition time, which can be dangerous if there are issues with the new system, or if support or training are lacking, however, this can drive the new system as there is no choice but success. In the Parallel installation method, the legacy system is left running allowing a safety net; however, this requires support for both systems causing increased cost to the business. A Single Location approach can allow for adjustments before all sites are brought online, however while the other locations continue to use the legacy system, data must be bridged between the two systems and the same additional costs of the Parallel system are incurred. Finally the Phased approach gradually transitions between the two systems, making transitions easier for the staff, yet limits the newer system to the constraints of the older system as they must share data. For Riordan’s new HRIS, the direct approach will be combined with the phased approach. Currently only the corporate site is using the legacy system, and phasing the other locations onto the system will allow training in phases by location. DOCUMENTATION Documentation of a system comes in several different forms each of utmost  importance. To ensure that the system can be adequately supported and repaired, System documentation is required. To ensure that users properly understand the system, User documentation such as a user’s guide, release description, system administrator’s guide, reference documentation and user acceptance are required. Systems documentation, user’s guide and reference documentation for this system is provided by Bamboo HR after purchase of the system is completed, and acceptance sign-off will be completed as the final step of the installation. TRAINING As systems can only function to the level at which users can operate the system, user training is tantamount to success of an installation. User training can occur in many different forms, classroom led training, literary resources, and online training, all of which are educational tools to heighten productivity and ensure system success. Support staff will also be trained to understand not only how the user accomplishes tasks within the system, but also the how the system performs these tasks if repair or maintenance is to be conducted. Training on the HRIS will be carried out by BambooHR using several different methods for different topics. As the system will be maintained by an outside company, the focus for Riordan will be user training. All staff will be trained using online methods with documentation support for using the new system as all pertinent employee information will be handled through the online system to include benefits, vacation time, and training. Specialist training will be available for the following procedures; benefit tracking, recruitment, employee and management training, employee tracking, login management, payroll activities, report management, change requests and performance reviews by BambooHR. In addition, IT support staff will receive refresher training in application program interface to allow for interactivity and continued development of the system as business needs change. SUPPORT Support of a system is conducted not only on the system itself, in terms of upgrades for the hardware and software, and backups of the data, but also support for the users. With any system, issues occur during use, and an avenue for users to report these quickly and accurately, and receive assistance for problems is required. Tracking these reported problems can  help system analysts and support staff determine if there is a fix for the software or hardware, or if more user training can solve the issues. CONCLUSION Purchasing the Bamboo HRIS program has both tangible and intangible benefits for Riordan Manufacturing. The financial aspect, $16,512 a year ($8 per employee for 172 regular employees) dwarfs the price of purchasing and installing the required hardware to run an on-site system, while removing the current outsourcing which exists for benefits management. Provided training, customer support, security support, data migration, business report design and security upgrades add to the overall corporate value and dispensing of the legacy system releases it support personnel while lowering utility and maintenance bills. Determinations of the proper level of support staffing needed to continue business operations after the legacy system retirement will be conducted to eliminate nonessential personnel. REFERENCES Cutler, T. P. (2015). Internal vs. external threats – Digital locksmiths. Retrieved from http://digitallocksmithsinc.com/2013/03/27/internal-vs-external-threats/#.VQ5XR-HZBww Riordan Manufacturing (2006). Riordan Intranet. Retrieved March 15, 2015 from http://ecampus.phoenix.edu/secure/aapd/cist/libraries/IT Service Requests.htm University of Phoenix 2005-2009 Unified Security Management USM Platform. (2015). Retrieved from https://www.alienvault.com/products?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=CPC&utm_term=%2Balienvault&utm_campaign=SITELINK-ALIENVAULT_USM&gclid=COrosKLUv8QCFRSIfgodGr4AUg Joint application design – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joint_application_design Bicara, Bedes (2009). Bicara Property. Retrieved January 16, 2010 from http://bicaraproperty.wordpress.com/2009/08/19/scope-of-feasibility-analysis BambooHR: Human resources software for small and medium businesses. (2015). Retrieved from http://www.bamboohr.com/ Valacich, J. S., George, J. F., & Hoffer, J. A. (2012). Essentials of Systems Analysis and Design (5th ed.). Retrieved from The University of Phoenix eBook Collection.

Do Major Cities Reflect the Most Important Characteristics of a Society Essay

My opinion is that when analyzing the most important characteristics of a society, it is true that one must study its major cities; however focusing only in major cities would generate a biased result. They concentrate an important part of the population of a country and they can represent well the main characteristics of the urban life of a particular society, however they fail in reflecting the rural world, ethnic minorities and local languages. Major cities reflect the characteristics of the best-educated segments of the population, the ones with higher incomes and better job opportunities, on the other hand, small towns and rural communities may have totally different characteristics and probably will have lower quality education, lower income and worse jobs in terms of remuneration. One example is China, if one were to look at major cities like Shanghai, Hong Kong and Beijing and only focusing on those cities, the conclusions would be wrong. One would conclude that China is very industrialized, that its society organizes in crowded, modern and congested cities. The truth about China is that there are two realities, the urban China represented in major cities and the rural one, depicted in its small communities, both with contrasting characteristics. In short, looking at the major cities is extremely important to assess an important group of the society, however we should always keep in mind that a society is composed by different groups and realities and in order to understand it correctly we must look into a representative set of communities whether they are big or small.

Fundamental Perspectives and Techniques of Decision Making Dissertation

Fundamental Perspectives and Techniques of Decision Making - Dissertation Example In the contemporary uncertain business contexts, making a decision which has certainly long-term implications on business requires thorough understanding of all possible future situations and more importantly the managerial ability to balance both controllable and uncontrollable parameters (Bhushan and Rai, 2004, p. 3). Managerial decisions are key factors to influence a firm’s success and failure. Managers need to ensure that their firms are able to continually innovate and get accustomed with changing business environments so that it can maintain a reasonable stance and pace in competitive edge. If managers want their firms to survive in the dynamic and uncertain business conditions, they need to carry out effective decision making processes. ... Creative thinking aims at bringing newer ideas whereas problem solving is directed to find a solution, an answer or a conclusion (Adair, 2010, p. 1). An individual or organizational decision is the end result of much more dynamic processes and a series of activities labeled as ‘decision making’. McGrew, Wilson & Wilson (1982, p. 5) stated that the decision maker, in his decision making process, identifies the problem, clarifies particular goals that are desired, examines various possibilities for achieving the desired goal and finally completes the process by taking a definitive choice of action. Decision is therefore an answer to a specific question or some problems or a choice between two more courses of actions. Ahmad, Hasnain and Venkatesan (2012, p.21) described a five-stage process for decision making. It comprises of identifying all alternatives, valuing these different choices according to preferences and potential outcomes, assembling the information, choosing a mong the preferences and outcomes and finally selecting the most favourable and appropriate choice. Decision that has been taken after careful coordination of information, evaluation of potential outcomes and analyzing of various preferences based on advices, suggestions and help of people involved as members in a group-decision making has been found to be very effective in terms of its appropriateness and positive outcomes. Decision making is a cognitive process that involves logical reasoning and creative thinking about choosing a specific course of action that is supposed to bring the decision maker to a certain result. One of the key challenges in decision making is reducing or eliminating the uncertainty. A better way to avoid uncertainty is to collect relevant information before

Should Gays be allowed to serve in the military Research Paper

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Work Force Diversity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Work Force Diversity - Essay Example Workforce diversity can be defined as the workforce of an organization that is made up of people from different cultural and demographical backgrounds. Diversity can be also on the basis of human qualities. However from the perspective of an individual diversity can be in terms of ethnicity, race, gender, age, or anything related to physical abilities. Although diversity acts as a key competitive advantage to the organizations, sometimes it can act as a concern. For example diversity in the form of working generation is a matter of concern for many organizations. There are four generations that work side by side in an organization, and each group has some different expectations and diversified mindset. Therefore to create an environment where all the groups get fitted is certainly a challenge for the organizations. As human being enters the 21st century, diversity in workforce has become crucial in a business venture. In this age of information technology, the most valuable asset of the organization is its workforce. The increasing globalization has made people to interact more among themselves as well as from the people of different beliefs, locations and cultural backgrounds. People are no longer working in an inward-looking market, but they work in a global market place. There are competitions from almost every part of the world. Hence for this principal reason organizations need diversity in their workforce. It has also become a way to be more innovative and also open to amendments.

Exercises BYP10-1 and BYP11-10 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Exercises BYP10-1 and BYP11-10 - Essay Example ‘Write the press release convincing the stockholders that the stock dividend is just as good as a cash dividend’, he orders. ‘Just watch our stock rise when we announce the stock dividend; it must be a good thing if that happens.’ There is nothing unethical about President Mailor’s actions, as declaring dividends are at the sole discretion of the company. Moreover, Greenwood has paid out cash dividends for over 15 years, when the company was doing better in terms of cash as well as earnings. At the time of crisis, where there is only enough liquid assets to take care of day - to – day operational activities, the decision taken by President Mailor is very reasonable. When stock dividends are declared, the stockholders are given additional stocks based on the number of stocks originally held by them. If this involves, adding new shares to the company, then the total number of stocks are increased; however the value of the stock is reduced, so that the total stockholders’ equity remains the same. Hence a stock dividend increases the number of stocks whereas the total value of stockholder equity is unchanged. As a stockholder, a cash dividend is preferred, as it is paid out immediately and adds value to the stockholder. However a stock dividend is of lesser value to the stockholder, as it just increases the number of stocks held and does not add value immediately. The stock dividend appreciates only when the value of the company goes up in the future. But there is also a possibility of the company’s value going down. Hence a cash dividend is more preferred by the

Analysis of Body Language Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Analysis of Body Language - Article Example For example, nod when saying no, and shake your head when saying yes. In his article, ‘What You Don’t Know about Body Language - but Should’, Nick Morgan asserts that one given gesture may have meaning, and may be interpreted differently (Morgan, 2012). Even so, there are widely accepted meanings to various gestures. For instance, wide-open eyes imply interest. According to the author, effective communication encompasses both verbal and nonverbal communication. When communicating, it is important to pay attention not only to the spoken words but also to the body language. It is argued that body language is more truthful as compared with the spoken word. The human needs, feelings, emotions, intentions, and thoughts are thought to be controlled by the limbic system in the brain. This part tends to react to the world in real times and this is shown by the way the body reacts through the various gestures. These gestures have evolved in people globally. An extensive analysis of President Barrack Obama’s body language has exposed that his body language tends to change from location to location as well as form speech to speech. Also, his body language cues tend to differ in debates and interviews that they are in speeches. Nonverbally, President Obama is an emotional man. A more explicit example is his Tuesday, January 24, 2012 State of the Union Address, whose nonverbal communication with regards to the use of body language was excellent. One eminent gesture throughout the speech was his smile. The smile on his face made him appear genuine. The human brain tends to prefer happy faces as opposed to those faces with negative expressions. His verbal and nonverbal alignments during the speech were on point. His body language supported his message such that it could easily make people believe that he really meant what he said. He looked comfortable and composed. He walked with ease, stood with ease, and all his gestures were fluid and flowing. Â  

Theology Marriage in the 20th Century Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Theology Marriage in the 20th Century - Essay Example Duncan thinks that perhaps knowing how to fight will help his son survive as a man in a man's world, just as he thinks this skill helped himself and his brothers cope with life: "Over time, physical combat begot intellectual combat, and our competitiveness and discipline allowed us to be fairly successful in the world" (Duncan 2009, 1). Mr. Duncan wants to be a just parent, as he worries about "failing [his] children" (Duncan 2009, 1). What he means to be the implications of failing his children, one is not exactly sure. Would his children become effeminate if they didn't learn how to fight Would they not have material success in the world if they didn't learn how to fight Duncan says the conflict between pacifism and fighting "creates a kind of parental dissonance, a discomfort that [he feels] slightly embarrassed to talk about in polite company" (Duncan 2009, 1). Duncan wonders if he is being a good father by not teaching his son to fight-just as his own father seemed to have been an effective father by teaching his sons how to fight, and also carry on the legacy of his grandfather. Duncan seems to be indebted to his father but conflicted by the social message of the Catholic teaching he grew up with: "My father would tell me that my son should learn to fight. My church tells me he should learn to love. Am I a bad father for teaching him one, and not the other I hope not" (Duncan 2009, 1). In some ways, Duncan feels a call to lead a "countercultural" sort of lifestyle. He says he is "a Catholic who takes the call to be a peacemaker much more seriously than [his] own parents did. Though [he] is not a pacifist[he has] great admiration and respect for the kind fo courage pacifism entails[my own] paradox" (Duncan 2009, 1). Some advice for Mr. Duncan is in order. First of all, Mr. Duncan must realize that there are certain unwritten codes which we all follow according to the gender roles which society dictates. In a study of ads, "Goffman's models seem to follow one body of tacit social rules about gender, not two or three, or some mix[a sort of] code" (Hochschild 2003, 46). Mr. Duncan's child is young. It is normal for a child to question at that age who he is. "So, at this point [in a boy's life], [he's] asking [himself], Who and what am I Is this my identity" (Cahill 2006, 146) A good relationship with his father is guaranteed to help his son have success in life, not learning how to fight necessarily. Gathered from the "clinical experience of many psychiatrists and therapists doesstemfrom problematic relationships with parents. The basic idea is that each individual in some sense has to 'achieve' his gender identity by going through a developmental process" (Cahill 2006, 153). This solves the issue of gender roles. Now, Duncan is worried if he is being a just parent. "[W]here the ordinary relationships with parents are disrupted [in this process of achieving gender identity]this process is short-circuited" (Cahill 2006, 153). Clearly Duncan does not have problems here. He may perceive he is being a bad parent if he does not clearly define gender roles-ultra-masculinity being demonstrated by the fact that his son would know how to fight. "Ultra-femininity, like ultra-masculinity, may mask the underlying

Space, the amazing universe Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Space, the amazing universe - Essay Example The universe is a phenomenon made up of various forces that combine to ensure the existence of life. There are four major forces that support the existence of life on earth. The earth is believed to be spherical. As a result, the earth’s state of motion is important as it promotes a balance in energy distribution and light (Phelan, 33). Human beings need the sun for survival. The sun is steadily positioned thus the need for the earth to rotate in order for all sections of the globe to receive sunlight. The sun is important in life existence as it is a key element in the manufacture of food for plants thus passing the energy down to human beings and animals. According to scientific principles, the four inertial forces of the earth work together to support life and an increase or deduction of forces might distort the normal life operations. The earth is spherical and exists in a state of motion. Therefore, living things on earth require forces in order to remain intact and move freely on earth (Phelan, 54). Albert Einstein’s principle of equivalence explains the relationship between the four forces and the sustenance of life. The four forces act in equal magnitude I order to maintain balance of the globe. This can be related to Newton’s concept of a moving car and a passenger. In order for a passenger to stay in an accelerating car, forces must be applied on him or her. In the same way, in order for the earth to remain in its shape as well as its rotation on its axis.

The last supper by leonardo da vinci Essay Example for Free

The last supper by leonardo da vinci Essay In human history, it is hard to find another so gifted person, as Leonardo da Vinci was. He serves as a symbol of Renaissance person, an ideal of harmoniously developed human. His heritage consists of works of art, sculptures, works on mechanics, physics and natural science. Leonardo da Vinci is, undoubtedly, the most prominent representative of Renaissance art period of Italy. This paper is to examine only one of his outstanding masterpieces – The Last Supper. This work of art is made in a form of a huge fresco, performed by order of Louis Moro for refectory of the church Santa Maria della Grazie in Milan in 1495-1497. It began to acquire its unique reputation immediately after it was finished in 1498 and its prestige has never diminished. Despite the many changes in tastes, artistic styles, and rapid physical deterioration of the painting itself, the paintings status as an extraordinary creation has never been questioned nor doubted. It’s fortune is dramatic. The paints started chalking already during Leonardo’s life. In XVII century a door was made in the wall of refectory, which partially ruined the composition, and in XVIII century the room was turned into grain warehouse. Later the fresco was damaged by poor reconstructions. In 1908 certain jobs on cleaning and consolidation of the painting were made. During WWII the ceiling and southern wall of the refectory were ruined by a bomb. Restoration in 1945 saved the fresco from further destruction, however, now we can see only the general shapes of Leonardo’s masterpiece. Much of the detail can be learned from a copy, made with oil and canvas by unknown artist of the XVI century . A huge fresco, which is about 15 feet high and 29 feet long, covers the entire back wall of the refectory. The perfection of this work lies not only in the artistic merits of the painting, but also in Leonardos expressive mastery. Leonardos Last Supper is an ideal pictorial representation of the most important event in the Christian doctrine of salvation the institution of the Eucharist . Leonardo painted The Last Supper on a dry wall rather than on wet plaster, so it is not a true fresco. Because a fresco cannot be modified as the artist works, Leonardo instead chose to seal the stone wall with a layer of pitch, gesso and mastic, then paint onto the sealing layer with tempera. Because of the method used, the piece has not withstood time very well – within several years of completion it already began showing signs of deterioration . Master’s idea was to create an illusion, that the room, where the Last Supper takes place is a part of the refectory itself, and thus to turn a spectator into a participant of one of the most important events in the history of Christianity. Leonardo depicted the dramatic culmination of the Supper, the very moment that Jesus has said to his disciples: â€Å"Now when the even was come, he sat down with the twelve. And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me. And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I? And he answered and said, He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish, the same shall betray me. Matthew 26† Jesus words inspire a number of feelings in His adepts: anger, fear, despair, some of them stand up from their places and gesticulate. In order not to create an impression of a clutter, Leonardo united the characters into four groups with three persons in each of them, symmetrically placed around the Savior. The first group consists of Bartholomew, James the Lesser and Andrew, all of them appearing surprised. Andrew holds both of his hand up in front of him in a frightened gesture. The second group: Judah Iscariot, Simon Peter and John. Judah is holding a bag of silver in his right hand, while reaching for a piece of bread with his left. Simon Peter is leaning over the shoulder of John, a knife held in his right hand, symbolizing his zealous defence of Jesus. John appears to be swooning. In contrast to traditional depiction of Judah opposite to Christ, Leonardo placed him near God the Son, however, the traitor can be easily recognized with his pulled back figure, convulsive gesture of his hand, fastening a purse and dark profile. Da Vinci presented a realistic explanation of Christs prophetic words that the first man to share bread with him would also be the betrayer: Jesus and Judas are shown reaching for the same piece of bread, although everybodys attention is riveted elsewhere. The third group is made of Thomas, James the Great and Phillip. These three appear in different degrees of shock; Thomas, with his hand raised, and Phillip seem to be requesting some sort of explanation, while James the Great, between them, appears to be recoiling from Jesus in horror. The last group of three is formed by Matthew, Jude Thaddeus and Simon the Zealot and theyappear to be discussing the matter with each other, in a rendition of Luke 22:23: They began to question among themselves which of them it might be who would do this. The figure of Christ is not only spacial, but also a spiritual centre of the painting. He is alone in his wise eupathy and acceptance of fate. His figure seems to be the only stable element of the painting, symbolizing the sanctity of faith and imminence of His mission. References 1. Pietro C. Marani. â€Å"Leonardo Da Vinci: The Complete Paintings†, Harry N. Abrams, 2000 2. David A. Brown â€Å"Leonardo da Vinci: Origins of a Genius†. Yale University Press, 1998 3. Roderick C. Morris â€Å"Shock Waves of Leonardos Last Supper†, International Herald Tribune, May 26, 2001.

Edible History Of Humanity By Tom Standage History Essay

Edible History Of Humanity By Tom Standage History Essay Book report on an edible history of humanity by Tom Standage. Tom Standages book regarding edible history of humanity gives us numerous pictures of looking at the past. The book approaches history in a different way altogether: as a sequence of changes caused, influenced or enabled by food. Throughout history, food has not only provided sustenance but has also acted as the catalyst of societal organization, social change, economic expansion, military conflict, geopolitical competition and industrial development. Since the time of prehistory to present, the stories of these changes form a story that encompasses the entire human history. The foods first transformative role was the basis for entire civilizations. The taking in of agriculture enabled new settled lifestyle and put mankind on the path to the modern world. However, the staple crops that aided the first civilizations hardly and the wheat in the near east, rice and millet in Russia, potatoes and maize in America were not simply revealed by chance. Instead, they came out through a multifaceted process of co-evolution because preferred traits were chosen and propagated by the early farmers. These crops are in effect, development; intentionally cultivated technologies that existed only as a result of human intervention. Adoption of agriculture as a story is the narration of how early genetic engineers came up with powerful and new tools that made progress itself possible. In the process man changed plants and eventually the same plants in turn transformed people. By offering the platform through which civilizations could be founded, food then acted as a social organization tool, helping to structure and shape complex societies that came up later. The religious, political and economic structures of the early society, right from hunter-gatherers to the very first civilizations were based on systems of food production and allocation. The production of agricultural food surpluses as well as the coming up of irrigation systems and communal food storage fostered political centralization with agricultural fertility rituals developing into state religions and food becoming a medium of taxation and payment; feasts were used in garnering influence and show status; food handouts were used in defining and refining power structures. Allover the ancient world before money was invented, food was a sign of wealth and ability to control food was power. With the emergence of civilizations in various parts of the world, food aided to connect them together. Food-trade routes acted as inter-boundary communication networks that improved not just commercial exchange but religious and cultural exchange as well. Spice routes that spanned the ancient world resulted in cross cultural fertilization in fields which were diverse just like the field of architecture, religion and science. The first geographers began to take interest in people and customs from far places and compiled the first efforts at world maps. By far the biggest change caused by food trade was as a result of European need to avoid the Arab spice domination. The result of this was the revelation of a new world, establishment of first colonial outposts by the European nations and opening of maritime trade routes between Asia, Europe and America. As European nations tried to build global empires, the next big shift in human history was aided by food, a flow in economic development during industrialization. Potatoes and sugar just like the steam engine underpinned the process of industrial revolution. Sugar production on plantation on the West Indies was considered the first prototype of the industrial process that mainly relied on slave labor. Meanwhile potatoes overcame the first suspicion among the European as a staple food that yielded more calories than cereals from a given area of land. Together, potatoes and sugar offered cheap sustenainace for the workers who worked in new factories in the industrial era. In Britain for instance where the process first started, the upsetting question whether the future of the country lies in industry or agriculture was decisively and unexpectedly resolved by the Irish potato famine of the mid 19th century. Using food as war weapon is timeless; however large scale military wars of the 18th and 19th centuries elevated it to a new level. Food played a vital role in determining the consequences of the two conflicts that defined the USA, revolutionary war of 18th and 19th centuries as well as the civil war of 1860s. Meanwhile, the rise and fall of Napoleon closely connected his capacity to feed his large population of armies. The 20th century mechanization of warfare gave the impression that for the first time in history, feeding machines with ammunition and fuel became an important factor than feeding soldiers. However, food took a new twist, as an ideological weapon during the era of cold war between communism and capitalism, and finally helped to determine the result of the conflict. In the modern society food has become a battle filed for other issues, including globalization, development and trade. During the twentieth century the application of industrial and scientific to agriculture brought about dramatic increase in food supply and the corresponding increase in the world population. The green revolution led to social as well as environmental problems. However, without it there would have been a lot of famine in much of the developing world in 1970s. By making sure that food supply grows rapidly than the population, the green revolution opened the way for the amazingly rapid industrialization in Asia as the century came to an end. Because people in industrial societies consider having a smaller number of children compared to those in the agricultural societies, this in turn the peak of the human population near the end of the 21st century is now on sight. The tales of many personal foodstuffs, traditions and food related customs and the coming up of a particular nation cuisines, have already been narrated. Less focus has been given to the question of foods world-historical significance. This responsibility does not assert that any single has the key to understanding history; nor does it try to give a brief account of the whole history of food or the whole worlds history. It rather draws on a range of disciplines that include genetics, anthropology, genetics, economics, ethno botany and archaeology. It focuses especially on intersections between world history food histories. Asking a simple question; which foods have offered the most in terms of shaping the modern world and in which way? By taking a long term historical dimension also gives a new way to shed light on modern debates about food, like the argument surrounding the genetically modified organisms. The link between poverty and food, coming up of local food movements, use of p lants to make biofuels, effectiveness of food as a tool of mobilizing political support for a number of causes, and the widely accepted way of reducing the environmental impact of modern agricultural methods.

Three Major Types Of Buying Situation Commerce Essay

Three Major Types Of Buying Situation Commerce Essay Consumer behaviour is the study of individuals, groups, or organizations and the processes they use to choose, expend, and dispose of products, services, experiences, or ideas to satisfy their needs and the impacts that these processes have on the consumer and society (Noel, 2009). Consumer behaviour mixes elements from psychology, sociology, social anthropology and economics and it also intends to understand the buyer decision making process, both in individual and in groups (Noel, 2009). There are various elements which can influence consumer behaviour, recent research implies that it may vary depending on the buying situation. This essay is going to define the main types of buying situations, outline the characteristics of them and explain factors which are likely to impact customer involvement in each situation. In general, there are three major types of buying situations (BE, 2005). †¢ The new task is a business buying situation in which the buyer purchases a product or service for the first time. †¢ The modified rebuy is defined as a business buying situation in which the buyer wants to modify product specifications, prices, terms, or suppliers. †¢ Straight rebuy is a buying situation in which the buyer routinely reorders something without any modifications. The three types of buying situations could be significantly different. Various factors may work in different situations. Every time when the buyer is to take a purchase decision, buying situation can be different, it may or may not be the same as the previous one. The differentiation between the two buying situations may be caused by the absence of any or all of the following factors (LME, 2006). †¢ Awareness about competing brands in a product group. †¢ Customer has a decision criterion. †¢ Customer is able to evaluate and decide on his choice. According to the factors above, the three major types of buying situation could be obviously different. The new task could also be defined as extensive problem solving  situation (LME, 2006). In this situation, the buyer has no past experience for products and he is totally new to buy the products which require some and extensive efforts for a buyer to decide about the product purchase. It may take customers longer time to make a decision because it could have a greater risk or cost and take more time in getting know of the new products. Modified rebuy could also be called as limited problem solving situation in which supplies a change and gives the customer with new experience and new preference (CM, 2005). It gives a chance to the customer to try something new. If the introduction of a new brand or a product shows many advantages to the customer, it could require a change in the customers decision criterion. For example, a housewife decides to buy a soap and she sees a new liquid toilet soap which promises to keep her skin soft and moisturized, the brand also promises to give vitamin E, which the manufacturer claims is required in temperate conditions. The liquid toilet soap brand is available in four fragrances .The pack can be refilled every time the soap gets fully consumed .Now this introduction is likely to change her decision and may be the choice criterion. If she spends some time in evaluating the liquid toilet soap against the normal bar soap and then decides to try it, we conclude that for her it was a li mited problem solving situation (CM, 2005). As can be seen, modified rebuy might often lead to a trial purchase. The customer may even decide to continue with her current product choice. Generally it has been admitted that brand extension strategy helps the customer to reduce the elements of newness in the purchase decision. Straight rebuy is also known as extensive problem solving situation  and it is characterized by the presence of all three criterion for differentiation (CM, 2005). In other words, customers are aware of his or her choices, they know what they are searching for, as his or her choice, what exactly his need is and which is based on personal experience of either self or others might be relatives, friends or the customers have heard about it that is known to be called as good messages. Generally, the customers spend little or no time choosing alternatives of the product and the substitutes of the product .Brand loyalty is relatively higher here. Moreover, this is a buying situation where a customer perceives a low risk in buying the product and/or the brand. For example, a housewife goes to the shop or a supermarket and spends much less time in choosing her toiletries, drinks like tea or coffee and other food products. For each time she goes to buy the things for family requirements and needs, she generally finishes up buying the same brand. As it is shown above, the three factors which make the differentiations between the buying situations appear different in each situation. Thus, there could be different factors which affect customer involvement in each situation. In general, there are four of them (Song, J.H. and Adams, C.R., 1993): †¢Capacity: What it does for a buyer; †¢Quality: How well or poorly it does the specified functions; †¢Price: The amount paid by the buyer; †¢Effort: The time and energy expended by the buyer. These four factors are most likely to affect customers to make the decision when they are doing a purchase, which could participate differently in the three buying situations. In the new task buying situation, because customer has no experience for the products, it may have more factors affecting the customer involvement. The customers could consider all the factors: capacity, quality, price and also brand, it could take the customers more time than other buying situations. It could be the buying situation which is most likely to affect customer involvement. The firms have to set all the factors right if they want to attract new customers or they want to develop a new product. In the modified rebuy situation, customers may contrast the previous products with the new ones. As the customers understand what they need and what the products can do, the factors like quality and price are important to affect the customer involvement. Sometimes, a good introduction of the capacity is important as well. In this situation, the brand loyalty could also act as an important factor of affecting the customer involvement. It also may take customers quite a long time befor e making a decision. In the straight rebuy situation, the customers know exactly what they need, they have already know the information about the products they want. Therefore, the most likely factors which could affect the customer involvement are the capacity and the quality. Once the firms have done well on the quality of their products and also make a good introduction of the capacity of products, it could make customers spending less time on making a decision. It may let customers feel easy to be involved in the consuming. In conclusion, there are three major types of buying situations, which are new task, modified rebuy and straight rebuy. Three factors make the buying situations be different from the others, customers may face different problems in these situations. Thus, there are four main factors which are likely to affect customer involvement. Each situation could also have different types of factors which effect the customer involvement. All of the above suggests that consumer behaviour do vary depending on the buying situation. More research could be done on what firms can do to improve the customer involvement while choosing their products.

How God turned My Life Around :: Religion Christianity Essays

How God turned My Life Around â€Å"Jesus loves me; this I know.† These lyrics sound through the halls of churches almost every Sunday morning. â€Å"Jesus Loves Me,† the familiar tune which reassures children that Jesus does love them no matter what color they are. Why? â€Å"The Bible tells me so.† I have sung this song myself. I grew up on it’s lyrics. Despite the reassurance that my Savior loved me, I compartmentalized such love into the â€Å"Christian life† alone. â€Å"The Christian life,† for so long, was something that took place only when I was thinking about Christ and reading the bible and praying. I did not follow Christ all the time, so did Jesus still love me? I’m going to show you now how God used a man named Randy Turner to turn my life around—taking an inferior boy and showing him the grace of God. I remember the day well. There was a disturbance of some sort in the house of which I had taken part. I am not sure whether I was the malefactor or was the beneficiary, probably a quarrel with my brothers, but I do remember what happened thereafter. After my rebuke, I walked through the back door and proceeded to the garage. In those days, and even now, the garage was not meant for cars but for storage, so there were boxes upon boxes of stored junk. Upon entering, I moved a few boxes away, found a familiar hole where my brothers and I used to go and hide, bellied myself on the dusty flour, and crawled about three and one half feet under stored chairs and one desk to my destination—a hidden spot in the far corner of garage. None would find me there! Immediately I began to cry. â€Å"No one loves me!† and â€Å"Everybody hates me!† were the phrases that I would say. Tears flowing, I would condemn the world for its hatred and console myself with the words I knew to o well, â€Å"It’s okay. You can survive though no one understands you.† How hopeless words can console is a mystery—but truth switches places with lies when you’re deceived. The truth was that I grew up in a Christian home and was extremely loved. My family showed no favoritism. My brothers and I were treated equally and we loved each other. We had our brushes with each other’s bad side often, but brothers do that.

Dominicans And Afro-americans Essays -- essays research papers

In America today, there is a large and diverse African-American population. Within this population, there are several ethnic groups. The other ethnic group similar to Afro-Americans is Dominicans. Not only are they both minorities, but they also look similar as well. Both Dominicans and Afro-Americans are originally from Africa, but their slave masters separated them into two different cultures. African-Americans was African slaves of Americans, and Dominicans were African slaves of the Spanish. Hevesi of the New York Times says, "Dominican and Afro-Americans culture was formed from one ethnicity, Africans" (Hevesi 86). As a person of these two ethnic groups, I have two perceptions of my dual ethnicity. Among Afro-Americans’ and Dominicans’ culture, language, history and values, there are large differences, but there are also several similarities. I will compare and contrast these two ethnic groups which are within me. Dominicans and African-Americans are similar in their African origin, but they are different â€Å"in their newfound slavery-induced cultures.† Dominicans were Africans mixed with Spanish culture. Through slave settlements, Dominicans were settled in Hispanola. In Hispanola, Dominicans were influenced between two ethnic groups. As a new ethnic group formed, their African traits were mixed with Spanish traits (Saillant-Torres 131). African America history was African culture mixed with American culture. As a group, slave masters made their voyage to Africa, took slaves, and formed a group called Afro-Americans. African culture was integrated into Western civilization. Most Africans were slaves in the Southern part of North America. Arnold Rose points out; "Negro’s are not accepted in America" (94). Some Dominicans were settled in America. Many live in New York in a city called Spanish Harlem. Today, over 100 million Dominicans live there. The histories of these two ethnic groups have very little similarity, but the African influence is one unifying force. The languages of these two ethnic groups are completely different. Dominicans speak Spanish and Afro-Americans speak English. Dominicans don't speak casual Castillan Spanish. They speak Spanish with a twist of African influences. Gleijeses says, "Dominicans don't speak true Spanish, so they are not treated as Spanish† (7). African-Americans speak English with a diffe... ...ning their ethnic identity and becoming part of American culture. I view Dominicans and Afro-Americans similarly because I am a person of these two ethnic groups. Most of the time people perceive me as Black and other time’s people call me Puerto Rican. I know I shouldn’t get angry, but I feel like others don’t respect me and are trying to label me. My mother is Black and my father is Dominican. Most Dominicans think that it is an odd mixture, but they don’t realize that they have the same origins from Africa. In a way it is hard to be a part of two ethnic groups, but it is very interesting. In my life, I had a lot of criticism from both sides of my family. My mother doesn’t like my father’s family and the feeling is mutual. So, I have many problems with my race, but I am still very proud. I always try to unite my family to become equal. In America today, I feel every ethnic group should see themselves as equal. Regardless of their heritage, they are still Americans. So, I feel any racism between Americans is very ignorant. In conclusion, I think difference is good, but similarities are better, because you find out the things that you share and how you can relate to one another.

Mexican Experience from a Danish Firm: “Changing” Mexican Culture Essay

i.Introduction Nowadays is common to hear that the trend of business world is located in Emerging Markets, therefore most of the biggest and important companies in the world are startin to enter to those undeveloped economies that have a great potential. Develop assertive HRM practices in those new markets are key issues in order to achieve the expected success. The international human resource management models developed in the last decade pursues a contextual analysis of the standardization (global integration) of multinational parent companies’ human resource management policies and practices and localization (local differentiation) of host countries practices.(Stevens, 2012) In order to have effective results within the Human Resources in the new market, the design and development of the HRM strategies (of local units) must incorporate some aspects of local practices. The main challenge for the companies (and the ideal context) is to find a balance between the practices of the business culture in the host country and with the one of the home country. Novo Nordisk a Danish practices which started operations in Mexico in 2004, it is an interesting case that provides a clear example about how to get that ideal equilibrium between standardization and localization. ii.Questions and anwers 1.Given the Mexican and Danish business cultures, what are the most important HRM challenges faced by Novo Nordisk Mexico? What does the company need to do to succeed? Novo Nordisk faces a pretty different cultural context between the Mexico and the Company ´s philosophy (influenced by the Danish culture), the big dilemma is how to balance those several differences and find out the way to design HRM practice and policies that are efficient and effective. Regarding the HRM practices in Mexico, â€Å"despite the implementation of â€Å"modern† HRM policies, Mexico present particularities in the HRM practices deeply rooted in the Mexican law, which reflects consequences of an historical unfair system to the workers. After the time of the â€Å"hacendados† Mexican law were focused to protect both rights from employees and employers but it was most aimed to pursue and ensure the dignity and well sake of the workers, in order to avoid abuses from the  Ã¢â‚¬Å"bosses†. Despite this historical background, nowadays there are still some contradictions in the law, that enhamce some discrimination. In order to describe briefly the main differences between the two cultures, its necessary to take into account two of the five cultural dimensions of Hofstede: Power Distance and Individualism vs collectivism provide a clear framework to understand the discrepancies. Mexican culture has a Strong hierarchy and high power distance which is reflected in a paternalistic/Autocratic management style. Employees are used to demonstrate â€Å"loyalty, submission and respect† and they practice boss workship â€Å"culto al jefe†. In contrast the Danish company has a flat structure in the organization and they expect an open communications creativity and high participation in the decision making process. Source image: (Hofstede, 2012) In the other hand, Mexican culture is collectivist and it is reflected in the fact that they see the company as an extension of their family, â€Å"Employer / employee relationships are perceived in moral terms (like a family link)†, they respect the boss as it would be the paternal figure and therefore, they expect to receive protection, and that the company cover their basic needs, (they pay back with obedience loyalty and submission) Novo Nordisk is a company that looks for employees with a high level of commitment in order to apply their own slogan â€Å"â€Å"Changing the world of diabetes: Employees make a difference for people with diabetes worldwide†, then is hard to reach this objective in Mexico, where there are some many differences in the culture that doesn’t enhance high communication, participation and creativity. They need happy employees that have enough self confidence to contribute and that are motivated to give their best. In other words, the main challenge of Novo Nordisk in order to succeed is combine the â€Å"modern-value-based management with traditional control† (Ramirez & Zapata Cantà º, 2009). They need to find a way to operate company respecting and following the Novo Nordisk’s core corporate values, but at the same time they must recognize they key cultural differences between Mexico and Denmark. Meaning that, they need to change the way of thinking of Mexicans workers, they have to enhance the participation, create self-confidence in their decisions (with training) and make them to get used to openness and freedom, while at the same time they keep rules to achieve goals and provide the economic security and  rewards that keep the employees motivated and loya to the company as they are used to. 2.What is the ‘right’ HR strategy for Novo Nordisk Mexico – hybrid or centralized? Why? Evaluate the different options (pros and cons). As we have mentioned before, due to the important differences between both cultures and all the factors around them, it would be more assertive if the company design a unique strategy that balances the main features of both cultures, taking into account the circumstances of the environment. â€Å"Best HRM practices† may not always transfer across countries due to cultural and institutional differences Regarding MNC subsidiaries, argued that organizations try to balance the need to standardize best HRM practice across national boundaries with the need to adapt to local practices and customs†. (Zhang, 2003). In other words and clearly speaking, that means that an hybrid strategy would work better, because it would combine and balance the best aspects of both cultures. Also the hybrid system would allow to both cultures learn from each other and increase the expertise for Novo Nordisk. The cons ad pros for each option are explained below. Hybrid strategy ProsCons Better reaction to the local environment Could be more expensive. The company can attract the best talent available.Hard to accomplish internal consistency. Novo Nordisk can gain a good reputation between Mexicans.Is not that easy, find the ideal balance. Combining the best aspects (according with the circumtances), Novo Nordik could get the best performance of their employees, because they would get what is coerced by law and also they will be treated as they are not used to (having better conditions, enhacing communication, trustability and wellness)The process to get used to, and make work the company, would be slow and complex A unique system, specially designed for this conditions, could provide competitive advantages over the competence (even when they are famous already) Centralized strategy ProsCons Easy and fast to applyMexicans could abuse from the â€Å"nice conditions† (could  be hard to control them because they are not used to , to freedom), and in the other hand if they apply the traditional system totally they would break with their own philosophy and they also could get negative outcomes. It won ´t need high investment Would be hard to attract best talent It would match perfect with the company philosophyIt wouldn’t provide competitive advantages. 3.What are the key strengths of Novo Nordisk in implementing its NNWoM in Mexico? How did the firm leverage these advantages given the history and current state of HRM in Mexico? As it is explained in the case, historically , everything about HRM in Mexico, is about being fired or hired, in the last years it has changed a bit, but this is still the common condition in the Mexican business environment. Thus, due to the hard labor conditions (law, lack of insurance and other basic benefits), employees are used to just receive a decent wage that allow them to live and to keep their work. Meaning that, Novo Nordisk has several strengths in its NNWoM, since it offers much more than Mexicans are used to receive from a company in terms of training, compensation, appraisal and rewards, communication systems etc. In that way, the company is higly attractive to the Mexican workforce and it gets a strong positive reputation that becomes in a core competence of it. 4.You are an external consultant to Novo Nordisk Mexico. What area(s) within the HR department must be developed to enhance its visibility in Mexico? Novo Nordisk is doing great designing an effective HRM strategy for the Mexican environment, the only area that they could work on more would be, promoting their philosophy of a healthy life style and routine within their employees, extending the messages and practices to the families of their employees, participating as sponsorships of sports events or challenges to reach the ideal weight or design the best diet etc. Novo Nordisk could also use this kind of events and practices as an important marketing tool, since the best spokesmen and messengers of their slogans are their emloyees with a high commitment with the company and with its objectives. iii.Conclusion Novo Nordisk is a clear example of how a company, in order to succeed with efficient and effective HRM practices, when managing subsidiaries, should  analyze deeply and carefully the internal and external factors and based on that design the HRM system that can fit the need of the new market. It is evident that cultures are extremely different in all around, so it cannot be expected that what works in one place work in everywhere, then it is better to adapt and being flexible in order to get positive results. Novo Nordisk Novo Nordisk is doing a good job in implementing good HRM practices through their hybrid strategy: â€Å"Novo Way of Management is a system that combines modern-value-based management with traditional control† iv.Bibliography (s.f.). Hofstede. (2012). Hofstede centre. Retrieved from http://geert-hofstede.com/national-culture.html Ramirez, J., & Zapata Cantà º, L. (2009). Mexican Experiences from a Danish Firm:†Changing† Mexican Cuture. 368-381. Stevens. (2012). Standardization and localization of HRM practices. Obtenido de http://www.transtutors.com/homework-help/human-resource-management/international-hrm/hrm-practices-standardization-localization/ Zhang, M. (2003). Transferring human resource management across national boundaries: The case of Chinese multinational companies in the UK. . 613–627.

Discuss Research Into Effects of Workplace Stress Essay

A research for workplace stress was conducted by both Marmot and Johnson and Hall. Marmot researched effects for low control and whether it was linked to more stress. Johnson and Hall researched high workload to stress. Marmot conducted an investigation with participants from London – based government civil servants, and the studies are therefore referred to as the Whitehall studies. Civil employees in London were asked to volunteer to take part in the study. High grade employees were compared to Low grade civil servants. Marmot found that workers with less control were four times likely to die of heart attack than their colleagues with more control. In addition they were more likely to suffer from other stress related illnesses such as cancers, ulcers, stomach disorders and strokes. The conclusion was obvious, that lack of control seemed to be associated with illness and they recommended that employers gave their staff more autonomy and control. The study showed to be correlational. This is because it can only be said that there appears to be an association with low control and stress-related illness. It cannot be assumed that law control is causing illness. It could be that workers with poor health are likely to achieve the higher grade jobs with more control. For all the more reasons to weaken the findings. Also the research is said to be self-reported. This is because workers filled in their own questionnaire which is inaccurate and eligible for participant reactivity. Also if the workers found out what the researchers are looking to find then the results would be biased and so they may answer the questions accordingly. For this reason the findings of the research may be inaccurate and so will not be reliable. The investigation that Johnson and Hall did was done on a large scale and they investigated with 14000 male and female Swedish workers. They used self-report questionnaires. They compared sawmill workers high job demand and low control with maintenance workers who had low job demand and high control. Sawyers in Swedish sawmill had more illnesses and higher levels of adrenaline in urine than lower risks groups. This shows that high demand and workload is associated with stress related illness. The study relies heavily on self-report techniques making them less reliable. A person perception of their workload may not be entirely accurate or unbiased. Also cause and effect is hard to establish and high demand/low control jobs may be linked to social class. Furthermore the study doesn’t take into account of individual differences. Lazarus, another psychologist, claims that it is the perception of work overload that is the important factor rather than the number of hours/the actual amount of work. In this sense, work overload is a perception held by a worker that they are required to work too long and/or too hard. Those who have high hardiness may see demand as a challenge rather than a threat; this therefore weakens Johnsons’ overall assumption of workplace stress affecting individuals in the same way. The research on workplace stress has a good significance on its stressors as it affects productivity, motivation and time off work with health problems. Therefore occupational psychologists are brought into the workplace to reduce the workplace stress. The study also has practical applications and so many employers now take stress in the workplace very seriously. Stress is bad for business as it is seen to cause ill health, absenteeism, high staff turnover and low job performance all of which costs the company money. The research also has extraneous variables. This is because despite the link between lack of job control and stress related illness found in many studies.

Google Glass Essay

Google Glass should be prohibited to be public for the world. In consequence of technological advances, we have changed our society and have been convenient for few decades. Thanks to advanced technology, we eventually became possible to do anything we want with electronic devices from modern technology. At this point, Eric Schmidt, who is a current Google’s executive chairman, announced that Google will commercialize Google Glass by the end of 2013. Google Glass is a wearable computer with a head mounted display by Google in the Project Glass, research and development. Google glass displays information in a smartphone-like hands-free format that can interact with the internet via voice commands. Briefly, it’s going to be like a smart phone wearing on our eyes. It is believed that modern technology has brought many benefits to us, we should be aware that it’s possible to use for our society. Firstly, the public would be threatened by Google Glass seriously. Inverters of Google Glass say that Google Glass will be equipped with an intellectual camera that can take clear pictures at anytime, anywhere. It means that taking picture with a Google Glass can lead to an invasion of portrait right. Furthermore, it doesn’t have any speakers to let other people know that users are in the process of recording. For instance, cell phones and camcorders have speakers exceeding a background noise level of 60~70dB. Instead of loud speakers, it has bone-conduction headphones near frames. But it mustn’t be a function as alert sound. Secondly, Google Glass will absolutely affect our body badly. What would happen if we wear Google Glass for very long time? Every electronic device has electromagnetic waves as always. According to Interphone Study Group in France (ISG), 2 billion people will have brain cancer by 2020 from cell phones. Unfortunately, Google Glass has the same critical influence as the cell phones have. If we wear Google Glass, we might as well face a terrible situation like ISG said. Moreover, they are saying that a new psychological disease called â€Å"nomophonia’, which makes us feel nervous because of not holding own our device, will occur at the moment. I’m sure that it would be a disaster for us as well as our next generations. At last, I’d say that there will be liability problems by being obsessed with Google Glass. People will wear Google Glass while driving in spite of definite warnings not to do. After that, they will clash with the elderly or any pedestrians and somebody will get hurt seriously. The medical insurance may not be possible to cover the medical care because money can be critical. If Google Glass is commercialized, we will have to take up a liability insurance to use it. It means the we need to add cost of an insurance policy to Google Glass bill. Of course, Using Google Glass will make our life slightly more comfortable and convenient. On the other hand, we should deeply think it has so many side effects that can badly effect to our society. Therefore, I hold very strongly that organizations in charge of license of selling electronic devices shouldn’t allow to release into the world.

Directing the movie called Essay

My name is Ahsan Mojumder . I am directing the movie called â€Å"Romeo Juliet†. My movie is basically written based on William Shakespeare’s mind blowing Romeo and Juliet. As a modern director I think Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is old fashioned. The language, communication system, characters everything has changed according to new era, as a director I am thinking why should the story line up remain the same. We can use the themes from Romeo and Juliet. Under these circumstances decided to make it contemporary upgraded version of Romeo and Juliet brief description of my upgraded story of immortal love is given below: Characters Romeo: 19 years old Vincent: Romeo’s father Mrs. Vincent: Romeo’s mother Juliet: 18 years old Bill: Juliet’s father Mrs. Bill: Juliet’s mother Morcutio: Juliet’s brother and Romeo’s best friend. Britney: Juliet’s friend Charle: Britney’s Father Mrs. Charle: Britney’s mother The story is about a couple of lover, who wanted to get together but the social status was not letting it happen. Vincent is rich merchant. He has massive business. Andrew is his one and only son. Andrew is a university student. He is studying in Computing and business. Morcutio is his best friend in university. Morcutio’s dad Bill is a clerk in an office. Mr. Vincent loves his son and daughter like every dad in this world. But his son and daughter are far away for him because he is always busy in his Business. That’s why he can’t give them enough time. Romeo loves Juliet . Who is his best friend Morcutios’s sister. That’s how they know each other. Both of the families don’t know anything about the relationship between them. But Juliet’s mother starts to understand it nowadays. As days passing by love is becoming more and more dense. They are having a good time. But suddenly something start to happen in their life. Romeo’s mum and dad arranged their son’s marriage with their friend Charle’s daughter named Britney. Romeo and Juliet become resourceless. They can’t think about what to do. Should they run away from the society or they should sucide? They decided to ask Morcutio’s to help them. Morcutio talked with his parents but they said if Romeo’s family agree they haven’t got any problem about this relationship. Now it’s Romeo’s turn to ask his parents. But he hasn’t got enough influence to talk to them. For Juliet sake he decided to tell them the truth. Romeo’s parents said no way because of her dad. Juliet talked with Britney to give them few more times. Britney said she would try her best. Britney did know that they love each other but she can’t help it. Because this is her parent and Romeo’s parents wish. If they said something they said†¦. which can’t be changed. That’s why Britney doesn’t want to talk to them. Juliet’s family is keep saying about the social difference economically. Andrew and Juliet are sitting together on Juliet’s home balcony. They are thinking how to stop this marriage and how to get together. They have decided they will leave this unscrupulous unverified society. They made a plan and went away from them. Their parents informed the police. But police says that they can’t do anything in this case. Because they are young enough to make their own decisions. They gave the same statement to Police. They got married and lived happily ever after†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ From the story I am going to direct the balcony scene where they decided to split up from their families. Each of the character has developed in my story rather than Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Settings: Location: A simple balcony. Shouldn’t be luxurious to make a difference between Romeo’s home balcony. Than the audience can feel the social difference between two communities. Dress up: contemporary dresses and suits. Background music: Romantic. They both are sitting on chair and facing each other. They are discussing what to do. The script has been attached below- Romeo: â€Å"I decide we are going to go far away from here. We will go somewhere else where nobody will try to split us. We will start a new life together. Do you agree with me love? † Juliet: â€Å"Whatever you say my Romeo. I gave you my heart, my soul, my mind and now you are asking for my opinion! I agree with you my Romeo. † Romeo: â€Å"You have saved me. If you would say no, I would suicide my love. † Juliet: â€Å"Never ever say that what you have just said. You can’t die without me. If you have to tell me I would like to die with you. † Romeo: (Holding her hands as they dance): â€Å"I love holding your hands; may I kiss it? † Juliet: (amused, cautious): â€Å"You are being a little too bold in wanting to kiss me. If you are really a pilgrim, you should greet me only with your hand, as ‘palmers’ do. † Romeo: â€Å"Hey, even holy pilgrim are human, they have got lips. Please let me kiss you. Stand still while I kiss you. † (He kisses her lips) Juliet: (Thrilled and amused at the same time): â€Å"you don’t really need all this artificial argumentation to justify kissing me, you know. Let’s get serious. † As I said my story is a contemporary and upgraded version of William Shakespeare’s â€Å"Romeo and Juliet† I used regular pattern of English as script. William Shakespeare â€Å"Romeo and Juliet was written in 1595. Actually Romeo and Juliet was written as a play . The story is of course about a pair of star crossed lovers. Two teenagers pursue their love for each other despite the fact that their families have been at odds with each other for decades. In Verona (Italy) in the late 1500’s two powerful families the Montague and the Capulet have been feuding with each other for years. But two people from two different communities get together and falled in love. When they realised they are resource less about their love and life they choose a different way to get together. But for a bit misunderstanding they lead their life to death. The script used for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet was basically in a special kind of poetic device called â€Å"Sonnet†. Which was also invented by great William Shakespeare. The main characteristics of this poetic device are- 1. 16 lines 2. Fixed rhymes pattern Italian cities were infamous for their long lasting deadly feuds between prominent families. Think the play was written as a part of his contribution with others to say â€Å"no† against such conflicts. The greatest theme in Romeo and Juliet is Love. As I said it’s a contemporary version of Romeo and Juliet so I tried my best to keep the vital theme of the play. But in this modern society everything has been changing rather than Shakespeare’s era. Such a fact like communication system could change the theme in Romeo and Juliet. I think if Internet would available on that time they might alive until they meet each other. So I have to change the theme slightly as a modern director of Romeo and Juliet. And I also have changed the characters line up in order to give you something different. I haven’t involved any violence in my story because nowadays violence is not a rear, so people don’t want to see any violence between love and lovers. I mentioned earlier about use of language in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. As you have seen my script, which is written in regular pattern of English, so people can understand it easily and also the people of other countries can enjoy the movie. Ahsan Mojumder English Assignment #4 Name: Ahsan Mojumder Lecturer: Diana May.