Management Control System at Firm Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Management Control System at Firm - Term Paper Example Western Digital Corporation has been a hard disk drive storage manufacturing pioneer. The product line of the company includes external drives for mobile desktops, laptops and other digital home entertainment products Structure (By Decentralization) One of the major features of the overall management control system is the presence of decentralization. Western Digital has understood the importance of the decentralization in the decision making system so that the sub-goals can be set and achieved. In this way each and every decision maker has become responsible for a small portion of the overall organizational objectives. The Do-it-Yourself, or DIY, culture has been intent on home grown tooling and development. Despite of the decentralization, the implementation of MCS ensures that the organizations develop rules to ensure that supervisors are aware of the authority and the subordinates are aware of the tasks to be performed and respective expectations (Ng and Dastmalchian 18). (organi zationstructure.org) Technological, regulatory, political and economic forces are changing the competitive environment (Jensen 1). Hence organizations are looking to use technology in itself to get business insights. WD is also not an exception. However, the application of technology by the organization is quite unique to say the least. The use of a home-grown job scheduling system is one example of it. The company does not use commercial Extract, Transform and Load tools. The DIY culture is not an issue of cost as the company already has expensive business intelligence tools in the form of statistical analysis software. But the internally developed solution of the company has been more responsive. The main objective of the introduction of the decentralization by WD is to tie the subunits of the company together. In order to complement such decentralization, the company has adopted a product or divisional organizational structure. Here it is be added that instead of going for proces s intervention, the organization has decided to go for structural intervention by looking to change organizational design, job design, the performance review system , etc (Sisaye 54). Planning System As far as the planning system is concerned, the company wished to restore the confidence of the employees through informal and formal communication. The organization wishes to develop a plan to incline capability beyond 40 M units. The organization expects to meet the product costs targets that achieve more than 25%; the company is set to support a quality initiative on AFR improvement. The company also has plans to review and overhaul the process control system as needed (Anthony 101). Review and Measurement System When a control system designer undertakes to review and measure the performance of the decentralized process, a number of issues are needed to be considered. The main issue is the involvement of the measurement of the performance with regard to the interdivisional transactio ns and profit. The technique used to review and measure the performance is quite similar to the ROIC performance management. The company uses the ROIC approach to assess the efficiency of capital allocation. In this way, through the return on invested capital, the company gets a sense of how well the company is actually using money to generate returns (Dent 84). However, the performance of

The development of relationships is communication Essay Example for Free

The development of relationships is communication Essay One of the most vital componentsin the development of relationships is communication. It remains as one of the most important factors in people’s relationships, helping them develop in the attainment of their desired objectives as they form their own unique relationships. Similarly, it has been seen as a qualifying factor in the success of many important personalities. Thus, the process in which individuals communicate to one another is a critical process in determining sustenance and improvement in environments. I had always envisioned a borderless world, one where people will not be hindered by boundaries, language and color, without the presence of discrimination and prejudices. Despite the difficulty in tfulfilling this perspective, I know that by understanding and advancing our communication processes, such an instance can be possible. With these views and desires in mind, I would like to express my intention to apply for a communication major at the University of California. Given these facts, I will try to convince the admissions committee on the merits of my application. Given that there is a large number of applicants seeking acceptance in this prestigious learning institution, it is important for me to lay out good reasons how I can contribute and serve the purpose of the University, particularly in my relevant objectives and my short long term goals. All of this corresponds on the idea of what can reciprocate. My first interest in the communication process began in my early years in high school at the East Coast. Being an international student, I was faced with the everyday challenges that I have to deal with. New people, policies, environments, languages and cultures were all alien to me as I adjusted to my new surroundings. It was hard to learn when things just seemed to line up, waiting to be solved by a person who nary knew anything about them. By learning languages and cultures, communicating with people from different countries got easier, and from my first experience in resolving communication situations, the interest in the process of communication grew. I would like to seek admission to further develop my longstanding interest in the realm of communication. I consider it an amazing experience to know people from different cultures and languages. This was my same situation in my stay in the United States, dealing with different nationalities and a foreign language. As an international student living in the United States, a place with different kinds of people, learning their traditional cultures and styles is necessary to communicate with them. My wish is to gain the ability and knowldege to communicate with every single person. In my native Hong Kong, the relationships I had with friends and peers clearly established my intention to further grasp the process of communication, needing to understand the importance of both verbal and non-verbal styles. Similarly, I wanted to see how people’s behavior manifested in their interaction with others. This wide diversity of people’s attitudes and perceptions has given me the initiative in understanding their relationship with each other, kindling my interest in communication. Likewise, the numerous ways people engage with each other fascinates me. This setup, unique only to humans, has been the integral part in the formation of several communication and language theories. All of these are focused on one important goal – promote better understanding. With the development of new technologies, there are various methods and practices that can be exhausted in the process. Chatting, web conferencing, and emails has given the art of dialogue a new direction. Due to this, human beings have become closer amidst the presence of intangible and tangible boundaries. On the other hand, my academic study has given me substantial theoretical anchors essential to my understanding of the subject. Also, the relevant subjects that were facilitated during my academic years have been instrumental in giving me the necessary tools to accomplish my tasks, developing the training and enhancement of my personal capabilities and skills. With this, I can say that my study at Santa Monica Community College has given me the needed exposure to create my own interpretation of communication and dialogue. This understanding of communication has enabled me to create better and harmonious relationship with my peers. My inclination to both volunteer and civic activities clearly became a benchmark for creating my individual interpretation of dialogue. Also, being part of sports related endeavors, I understood the magnitude of communication. The thing about athletics is that it does not only focus on the values of sportsmanship and discipline. As a member of AGS at Santa Monica Community College, I saw the need to seek better opportunities. First of these was the value of service among different cultural and racial backgrounds. Back then, I only had to settle with a few minorities, our type t being the dominant one. Here at Santa Monica, I had the experience of being exposed to a wide array of cultures and beliefs. All these became integral to my overall perception of defining communication. Having said these, I feel that I am qualified to be included in the applicants list. I want to learn the knowledge of acquiring and learning new ideas and concepts. I feel the need to remove barriers within my personality and in others. From my expeience, it is to hard to talk to strangers. People think Im weird when I talk to them. But if given this degree, I can acquire the confidence and self esteem I need to convey my message. In the end, this communication degree is only a stepping stone of what I want to be as part of my goals in attaining my long term plans. Despite the challenges and hurdles that may come, I feel that I am ready and equipped with the necessary values and credentials to withstand everything.

Analysis of Still Life With Peppermint Bottle by Paul Cezanne Essay

Analysis of Still Life With Peppermint Bottle by Paul Cezanne Paul Cezanne is considered one of the greatest and most memorable artists of the Post-Impressionist period. His techniques were admired and greatly influential in the development of Cubism and many other modern art movements. He employed several styles in his works, such as his still life productions. In 1894 he produced a brilliant piece of work entitled â€Å"Still Life with a Peppermint Bottle†. Through this work he used elaborate techniques that most artists had not even discovered during his era. Cezanne mastered the technique of still life. In his paintings he used random objects such as a peppermint bottles and fruit (these examples taken from his painting, ‘Still Life with a Peppermint Bottle’), which symbolized the private part of man’s nature. Jane Roberts supports this idea in stating that, â€Å" †¦ man will gladly surround himself with beloved knick knacks with which he can be isolated with and alone†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Roberts 213). She goes on to say that these objects are contemplative in nature, allowing man to sit and ponder their meaning. When I speak of contemplation, I mean that every object is taken into account and their meaning of existence and placement are reflected upon. The fruit on the table has many other meanings besides being edible or for human use. By observing the fruit, you come to realize that the fruit is not being used for a human purpose, such as for food. It is something to be contempla...

New Jersey Pine Barrens :: essays research papers

Plants make up most of the Pine Barrens. For instance, pine trees such as the short needles, pitch pines, jack pines, long needles, yellow pines, and many others make up most of the pine forest in the Pinelands. Other trees include the pine oaks and the cedar trees. Due to the roots of these cedar trees, water in the Pine Barrens appears a brownish red color. This happens because the roots emit pigments of red color into the soil which then runs into the water. Even though the amount of red pigment released is very little, due to the large amount of cedar trees in the Pine forests, the water is affected. The main crops of the Pine Barrens include blueberries and cranberries. There are also many rare plants that can be found in the Pinelands. One of these is the pitcher plant which is related to the Venus Fly Trap. Plants such as these have an influence on how nitrogen is depleted in the Pine Barrens and also on how the Pine â€Å"Barrens† got there name, nothing like vegetables grow there. The pitcher plant helps prevent pollution from entering the lakes as well as help in preventing flooding. The lakes in the Pine forest are home to the tree frog. These forests are also home to many other animals like cranes, water snakes, turtles, salamanders, and other frogs. There are many dangers facing the Pine Barrens today. The most dangerous is the effect industrialization has on it. Many industries contribute to the mass pollution of water, land, and air. This greatly impacts the ecosystem of the Pinelands and the animals that live in it. Industrialization also leads to the building of more houses that are detrimental to the Pinelands because the Pinelands are being destroyed little by little every day. This ecosystem is too precious to waste, it needs to be preserved. Pollution has caused over forty species of birds to become endangered. Acid rain also causes the extinction of many species. Acid rain is the term used to describe the chemicals that are deposited through the rain. These chemicals travel through the soil and affect many plants and animals. Acid rain is a world-wide problem that concerns all ecosystems; acid rain needs to controlled by limiting the amount of pollution let out into the air. Another major issue affecting the Pine Barren s is forest fires. There are as many as four hundred forest fires per year. New Jersey Pine Barrens :: essays research papers Plants make up most of the Pine Barrens. For instance, pine trees such as the short needles, pitch pines, jack pines, long needles, yellow pines, and many others make up most of the pine forest in the Pinelands. Other trees include the pine oaks and the cedar trees. Due to the roots of these cedar trees, water in the Pine Barrens appears a brownish red color. This happens because the roots emit pigments of red color into the soil which then runs into the water. Even though the amount of red pigment released is very little, due to the large amount of cedar trees in the Pine forests, the water is affected. The main crops of the Pine Barrens include blueberries and cranberries. There are also many rare plants that can be found in the Pinelands. One of these is the pitcher plant which is related to the Venus Fly Trap. Plants such as these have an influence on how nitrogen is depleted in the Pine Barrens and also on how the Pine â€Å"Barrens† got there name, nothing like vegetables grow there. The pitcher plant helps prevent pollution from entering the lakes as well as help in preventing flooding. The lakes in the Pine forest are home to the tree frog. These forests are also home to many other animals like cranes, water snakes, turtles, salamanders, and other frogs. There are many dangers facing the Pine Barrens today. The most dangerous is the effect industrialization has on it. Many industries contribute to the mass pollution of water, land, and air. This greatly impacts the ecosystem of the Pinelands and the animals that live in it. Industrialization also leads to the building of more houses that are detrimental to the Pinelands because the Pinelands are being destroyed little by little every day. This ecosystem is too precious to waste, it needs to be preserved. Pollution has caused over forty species of birds to become endangered. Acid rain also causes the extinction of many species. Acid rain is the term used to describe the chemicals that are deposited through the rain. These chemicals travel through the soil and affect many plants and animals. Acid rain is a world-wide problem that concerns all ecosystems; acid rain needs to controlled by limiting the amount of pollution let out into the air. Another major issue affecting the Pine Barren s is forest fires. There are as many as four hundred forest fires per year.

Impact of Nursing Unit Turnover on Patient Outcomes Essay

The problem addressed by the article is the impact of nursing turnover on patient care.   It has been assumed that patient care is affected by turnover but there has not been a good understanding of the relationship between turnover and quality of care. Most research has simply shown that there is a direct relationship between the two without exploring the underlying mechanisms. Study purpose The study aims at describing the underlying mechanisms in the relationship between nursing turnover and quality of care of patients. The objective of the study was to find out how turnover in nursing units affects processes among key work groups and how the impact of these processes affects outcomes of patients. Study variables The study variables are nursing unit turnover, workgroup processes, patient outcomes, control variables and education level.   The independent variables was nursing unit turnover while the dependent variable was patient outcomes which included patient satisfaction, average length of stay, medication errors and patient falls. Workgroup cohesion, relational coordination and workgroup learning were the process variables. Other variables included in the article were control variables which included work complexity, teaching status, technological sophistication, hospital size and unit size as well as nurse characteristics such as RN hours, unit tenure, education level and patient characteristics (health status, patient age and previous hospitalizations). Conceptual framework The conceptual framework applied was modeled around the IPO framework (input-process-outcome) which assesses workgroup behavior and performance effectiveness. It is incorporated in most models of workgroup effectiveness. Workgroup processes are those mechanisms which inhibit or encourage members of a team to combine their abilities and behavior (Kozlowski et al, 2003). These include workgroup cohesion, workgroup learning and relational coordination. The unit level patient outcomes include patient satisfaction, length of stay, patient falls and medication errors. In the conceptual framework, the hospital, nurse and patient characteristics as well as the nursing unit were identified as control variables. Literature Review The literature review supports a need for the study as it identifies the fact that there has been research that establishes that there truly is an effect of nursing turnover on patient outcomes. However there is very little information that describes the actual relationship between nursing turnover and patient outcomes. The literature review identifies some of the effects of turnover as detachment, a disruption in communication flow and a disruption of established relationships (Sung-Heui et al, 2010). A nursing unit with high turnover requires more time for new staff to adjust while the staff that remain have to be more careful when supervising the new staff. This has the overall effect of lowering relational coordination. The article also identifies that work learning is does not occur well when there is no stability as is the case in units with high turnover (Sung-Heui et al, 2010). Learning needs both change and stability thus units with very high or very low turnover may not hav e much cognitive growth. When there is greater cohesion among staff members there is also greater motivation for the employees to provide better service which leads to better patient satisfaction (Sung-Heui et al, 2010). Other patient outcomes addressed by the article include length of stay which measures how efficient the hospital is, which in turn is an indication of the efficiency in communication between healthcare providers. If a workgroup is well coordinated then there outcomes are of higher quality and they outcomes are achieved more efficiently. The article also focuses on patient falls and medication errors as an indicator that there is work group coordination and workgroup learning. When errors occur there is opportunity for learning however if there is too high turnover, then learning does not occur and there is likelihood for errors to be repeated. Study design The study design was a non-experimental longitudinal study causal modeling study. This design was appropriate for the study since it tries to establish a relationship between two variables that is whether one causes the other. Some of the threats to internal validity that the study may have include history which means that as more time elapses between measurements there is a likelihood that time may contribute to differences in results in the variables. Testing is also a possible threat to internal validity in a longitudinal study as it requires the participants to take certain tests on several occasions (Barry, 2005) Attrition is a threat to the longitudinal study design; when participants drop out of the study before all the data is collected is likely to distort the accuracy of results (Barry, 2005). Sample and setting The sample consisted of 268 nursing units from 141 hospitals. This sample size was adequate to ensure generalizability of the research findings. Additionally using nursing units from various hospitals served to increase the generalizability of the findings. The sample was derived from the medical-surgical units and nursing units of acute care facilities of various hospitals, settings that again provided a good representation of all the hospitals and helped to increase the external validity of the study. Identification and control of extraneous variables Some of the identified extraneous variables included environmental uncertainty such as volumes, types of patients which increased the complexity in work processes and group dynamics among nurses. Work complexity was measured using a 7-item scale developed to measure environmental uncertainty. The scale measured work complexity by identifying frequent interruptions or unanticipated events. Technological sophistication was also measured using the Saidin Index which provided a weighted sum of the number of technologies and services that were available in the hospital. Study instruments/tools Both primary and secondary data were collected in this study. Secondary data was obtained from secondary data collected from the Outcomes Research in Nursing Administration Project (II) (ORNA II). Nursing units provided turnover rates for six months and nurses also completed questionnaires which measured various workgroup processes. The patient data collected was also from the ORNA II project. The use of such data collection methods was appropriate as it provided a rich data source. Additionally, the use of data from the ORNA project provided a reliable source of good quality data. Data analysis procedures The unit of analysis in the study was the nursing unit. The variables relational coordination, work group learning, patient satisfaction, workgroup cohesion, patient satisfaction and work complexity were measured at the individual level and were then aggregated to the unit level. The study used linear and count models to determine the distribution of the outcome and process variables. The average LOS was estimated using a model of random effects while the medication errors and patient falls were analyzed using a Poisson regression model that was adjusted for dispersion. The Poisson regression is appropriate for rate data such as the one collected in this study. The use of the linear counts is also appropriate as it allows for a relation between the linear model and the response variable. Strengths/limitations The strength of the study lies in the use of the IPO framework. Using this framework allows for the underlying mechanisms such as workgroup processes to be evaluated and considered as variables. Thus the study looks at input variables, process variables and output variables providing adequate data with which to describe the underlying mechanisms and relationship between nursing turnover and patient outcomes. Some of the limitations of the study include the model which assumes that the turnover affects relational coordination a few months after it has occurred. The time period of two months may not have been sufficient to assess true variation of the turnover levels. Another limitation was the missing variables that have an effect on turnover, patient outcomes and workgroup processes. Some of these include the support of managers, supervision and organizational effectiveness which also have an impact on whether a nurse stays or not. Implications The results of the study make it necessary that there be further research on the effect of nursing turnover on patient outcomes and workgroup processes. The findings of the study support a need to increase work group coordination and cohesion so as to improve patient satisfaction. These findings are consistent with previous research findings. The research findings also show that the in nursing units where there was higher workgroup learning there were fewer errors in giving medications. This supports empirical evidence for the development and sustenance of processes where nurses are supported in discussing and learning from their errors.

A Definition of Liberal Media Bias

A Definition of Liberal Media Bias A  Gallup poll found that just 40% of Americans trust the media to fairly and accurately report the news. Much of this has to do with the liberal tilt of news coverage and stories. In politics, conservatives often deal with an overwhelming liberal bias within the mainstream media, which includes the news divisions of major broadcast networks and major newspapers. This is typically just referred to as media bias. Media bias does not refer to the political punditry class as political affiliations are usually known and the commentary is intended as opinion-oriented. Media bias does not refer to media figures such as Rachel Maddow, Bill OReilly, and Al Sharpton who are expected to give political viewpoints. What Is Media Bias?   Media bias refers to the allegedly objective journalists in print and media who intentionally - and sometimes unintentionally - report or cover stories in a way favorable to Democrats and liberals and unfavorable to Republicans and conservatives. Journalists such as Dan Rather, Bob Schieffer, and Wolf Blitzer who portray themselves as pure newsmen could have their biases exposed by delivering one-sided news stories. Dan Rathers attempted takedown of George W. Bush comes to mind. Examples of Media Bias Barack Obama received free passes in both the 2008 and 2012 presidential races as the media was primarily interested in highlighting the historic nature of Obamas campaign. While Sarah Palin was heavily criticized by the media as lacking the experience to be Vice-President, the question was never a major issue with the decidedly less-experienced Obama. In 2012, the media turned every statement by Mitt Romney (dogs on vacation!) into stories that lasted weeks, while at the same time refusing to cover the Fast and Furious scandal or the Benghazi attacks with seriousness. And CNNs Candy Crowley infamously interrupted a debate exchange between Romney and Obama by debating Romney herself on Benghazi. (She was wrong, but the ramifications were huge.) While VP Joe Biden could barely take the stage without making a hysterical gaffe during his tenure, his sanity or competence was never questioned in the way that Dan Quayles was for once adding an e at the end of potato during a spelling bee. That the card was given to Quayle by the school with the incorrect spelling and that Quayle had questioned the spelling on the card is the part of the story the media always enjoys ignoring. While Democrats regularly get softball question and answer sessions from serious journalists, conservatives are usually left answering absurd questions based on absurd assumptions. When a deranged gunman shot Congresswoman Gabby Giffords of Arizona, the media had absolutely no problem claiming Sarah Palin was to blame because she once had a map on her website that had used a target on it to imply that it was going to be a competitive congressional race. Unbiased, Fair and Objective   The problem with media bias is that the journalist and media personalities are claiming to be unbiased, fair, and objective but typically end up delivering one-sided viewpoints disguised as fact. Many Americans will not look deeper into every issue presented by the media, instead of taking the stories at face value. Any information that might dispel the media bias myths has to be actively sought. Pronunciation: me-di-a bÄ «Ã‰â„¢s Also Known As: Mainstream Media; Lamestream media (Sarah Palin); Dinosaur Media (Laura Ingraham) Alternate Spellings: none Common Misspellings: none Examples In a free country, people depend on the media for their information about government and other powerful institutions. If the press sounds the alarm about some danger, people have to pay attention. But if they have lost confidence in the press – because of its biases – then there’s a good chance we’ll ignore the warning. And that could be dangerous. - Bernard Goldberg on Media Bias 60 Minutes used to be synonymous with gotcha, and it certainly was when it broke the Abu Ghraib story to hurt Bush in 2004, and when Dan Rather flaunted fake Texas Air National Guard documents to hurt Bush months later. In the 2008 election cycle, â€Å"60 Minutes† asked John McCain why he would let the Wall Street executives sail away on their yachts and leave this [bailout] on the American taxpayer? They hammered Romney about avoiding military service – and his five sons avoiding military service. Kroft has never asked Obama about his failure to serve in the military, and he certainly never asked about whether he had premarital sex with his wife – which Mike Wallace threw at Romney. - Brent Bozell

How to Write an Academic Case Study

How to Write an Academic Case Study How to Write an Academic Case Study A case study is a research design or method of analysis that seeks to investigate an individual, group, or phenomenon. It lays out key themes and results to understand past and future trends, and aims to explain a problem with more clarity. Often, a case study examines in detail a single subject to arrive at a clear understanding of the matter. It can include a comparative investigation to show relationships between two or more subjects. Before you begin to write your case study, read this guide to help you prepare and understand how to do it properly and effectively. Step 1: Determine the topic of your study. Identify what you would like to investigate. What issues have you discussed in class? Is there something currently trending on social media or in the news that is of interest to you? Once you decide upon a subject, do further research and interviews to narrow down your focus. Look for information in books, magazines, newspapers, and online journals. Remember to take as many notes as you can as you go along and keep a list of all your resource materials. (You will need this list when citing your references at the end of your study.) Determine whether anyone has done the same study in the past; this will allow you to refine your work or find a different angle. Reviewing similar studies will provide style and investigative ideas that you might like to try on your own. Step 2: Choose your study type. There are four types of case studies, depending on your goal and purpose. These include: Illustrative An illustrative (or descriptive) study uses one or two instances of an event or phenomenon to give readers a clearer overall picture. It aims to give readers a common language and understanding about the given topic. Exploratory Exploratory (or pilot) case studies aim to find patterns in the data gathered and create a model for easier visualization of that data. They rely on a pre-existing collection of information from which to make an interpretation. The main goal of an exploratory study is to identify questions and select methods of measurement prior to the main investigation. Cumulative A cumulative study combines information from several sources gathered at different times for greater generalization. This reduces costs and time spent on repetitive studies. Critical instance The purpose of this study is to examine one or more situations to scrutinize a generalized or universal assumption. Critical instance case studies are typically used in cause and effect situations. Step 3: Have a clear structure and style. A case study seeks to discover new understandings about a particular issue. It can also contribute to an existing body of knowledge. Therefore, your work should have a clear and organized structure and writing style. Here are some key elements to take note of as you begin writing your study: Introduction The introduction captures the scope and purpose of your idea; it addresses why and how the case will address the chosen topic. When writing your introduction, try to answer these four questions: What am I studying? Describe the subject of analysis. Briefly explain what elements of the case will help broaden knowledge about it. Why is it important to investigate this topic? Explain the significance of your research issue. Describe why you believe your study design and subject of analysis are essential in understanding the chosen topic. What was presently known before this study was conducted? Give your readers the background information they need to understand why you are writing this study. Describe how your case will prove useful in exploring new knowledge about the topic at hand. How will this study advance further knowledge? Describe why your case study will provide new ways of understanding your topic and how it will expand currently documented knowledge. These questions should be answered in a few paragraphs. (If you are addressing a complex problem, more elaborate background information is required.) Literature Review A literature review includes a historical interpretation of your subject. Background information included here should be well-organized to help your readers better understand the issue. Here are some tips for writing a solid literature review: Cite and summarize studies that used a similar subject of analysis to tackle a research problem. Include a description of any recent work that supports your analysis and the questions you are asking. Explain how it introduces new ideas that can pave the way for future research, or how it provides a new understanding. Synthesize or combine any literature that pertains to unanswered questions and unresolved concerns about the topic. Describe how your subject of analysis will help address these concerns. Method In this section, explain your reasons for selecting the topic and the strategy used in answering research questions. Descriptions of the method can vary according to the type of analysis in which your case study is framed. The four subjects of analysis and how to describe your method according to each subject are: Incident/event The incident looks at a rare happening in order to find new ways of thinking about the broader problem or to test a hypothesis. For a case study about a critical incident, describe the method used to highlight the event. Explain how you determined the validity of the case to discover broader perspectives or new findings with respect to the research. Person Describe why you chose to focus on this individual. What experience does he or she have that provides an opportunity to promote new knowledge? Include the person’s background information; this will help readers understand the importance of his/her experiences to your study. (When mentioning more than one person, clearly differentiate them from others and explain how they are useful to your research.) Place Describe the essential attributes of the place or arena in which the topic exists (physical, social, economic, cultural, political, etc.). Explain the method used for choosing this place and how it sheds light on new knowledge. Clearly establish why it has been chosen as the topic. Phenomenon Any fact or circumstance that can be observed or studied but is not clearly understood can be a phenomenon. In social and behavioral sciences, this may focus on human interaction within a complex social, economic, cultural, or physical setting. Discussion The discussion section should focus on interpreting and drawing conclusions about the significant findings you’ve gathered. This section should have the following objectives: State the major findings Restate why you focused on the research problem or subject of analysis. In a declarative, straightforward, and succinct statement, describe your findings. Emphasize unexpected data and present it clearly. Explain the essence of the findings Describe the meaning of your findings and why they are significant. Start with the most important or unexpected findings and review each one. Link the findings to similar existing studies Acknowledge the relationship of your findings to that of prior studies, especially if your subject of analysis was inspired by others. Comparing and contrasting helps to establish the importance of your results and differentiates your analysis from previous research. Identify the limitations of your study Explain the limitations of your study as well as any unanswered questions that could not be addressed (or why they are not significant). Suggest areas for future research Lead the way for future research on your topic. There may be additional questions related to the topic that can lend themselves to further investigation. Conclusion Using direct, simple language, summarize your conclusion and highlight how your results differ from or strengthen the conclusion of previous studies. Synthesize the key findings and clearly state how they answer the research questions. Writing a case study requires time and a great deal of research. If you are unsure of how to get started, consider hiring a writing professional. The experts at can help you craft a well-thought-out and articulate academic case study. We provide academic essay writing assistance in Toronto 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Ella Baker, the Grassroots Civil Rights Organizer

Ella Baker, the Grassroots Civil Rights Organizer Ella Baker was a tireless fighter for the social equality of African-Americans. Whether Baker was supporting local branches of the NAACP, working behind the scenes to establish the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) with Martin Luther King Jr.,  or  mentoring college students through the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), she was always working to push the agenda of the Civil Rights Movement forward.   One of her most famous quotes encapsulates the meaning of her work as a professional grassroots organizer, This may only be a dream of mine, but I think it can be made real. Early Life and Education Born on December 13, 1903, in Norfolk, Va., Ella Jo Baker grew up listening to stories about her grandmothers experiences as a former slave. Bakers grandmother vividly described how slaves rebelled against their owners. These stories laid the foundation for Bakers desire to be a social activist.   Baker attended Shaw University. While attending Shaw University, she began challenging policies established by the school administration. This was Bakers first taste of activism. She graduated in 1927 as valedictorian.   New York City Following her college graduation, Baker moved to New York City. Baker joined the editorial staff of the American West Indian News and later the Negro National News. Baker became a member of the Young Negroes Cooperative League (YNCL). Writer George Schuyler established the YNCL. Baker would serve as the organizations national director, helping African-Americans build economic and political solidarity. Throughout the 1930s, Baker worked for the Workers Education Project, an agency under the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Baker taught classes concerning labor history, African history, and consumer education. She also dedicated her time to actively protesting against social injustices such as Italys invasion of Ethiopia and the Scottsboro Boys case in Alabama. Organizer of the Civil Rights Movement In 1940, Baker began working with local chapters of the NAACP. For fifteen years Baker served as a field secretary and later as director of branches. In 1955, Baker was influenced greatly by the Montgomery Bus Boycott and established In Friendship, an organization that raised funds to fight Jim Crow Laws. Two years later, Baker moved to Atlanta to help Martin Luther King Jr. organize the SCLC. Baker continued her focus on grassroots organizing by running Crusade for Citizenship, a voter registration campaign. By 1960, Baker was assisting young African-American college students in their growth as activists. Inspired by students from North Carolina A T who refused to get up from a Woolworth lunch counter, Baker returned to Shaw University in April 1960. Once at Shaw, Baker helped students participate in the sit-ins. Out of Bakers mentorship, SNCC was established. Partnering with members of the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE), SNCC helped organize the 1961 Freedom Rides. By 1964, with the assistance of Baker, SNCC and CORE organized Freedom Summer to register African-Americans to vote in Mississippi and also, to expose the racism existing in the state. Baker also helped establish  the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party (MFDP). MFDP was a mixed raced organization that gave people not represented in the Mississippi Democratic Party an opportunity to have their voices heard. Although the MFDP was never given a chance to sit at the Democratic Convention, the work of this organization helped to revise a rule allowing women and people of color to sit as delegates at the Democratic Convention. Retirement and Death Up until her death in 1986, Baker remained an activist- fighting for social and political justice not only in the United States but the world.

Psychology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Psychology - Essay Example A child will not survive without the care and support of others. He learns about life and living not only by his own discoveries but with interactions with people around him and within the environment he lives in. Piaget’s Stages of Cognitive Development outlines how a child develops his learning abilities that equip him to survive life’s challenges. Initially, he discovers the world using his senses, and as he grows, learns to form associations and conclusions. With a healthy attachment to significant adults, the child develops a sense of security enabling him to venture into more learning about his world. â€Å"Piaget believed that children create knowledge through interactions with the environment. Children are not passive receivers of knowledge; rather, they actively work at organizing their experience into more and more complex mental structures.† (Brewer, 2001, p.6). He insists that children need to use all their cognitive functions. These theories were designed to form minds which can be critical, can verify, and not accept everything they are offered. Such beliefs reflect his respect for children’s thinking. Vygotsky (1978) believed that children’s intellectual development is influenced more by social context than by individual experiences. His theory places a great deal of emphasis on effective social interaction. Learning ensues in social interactions. A person ingrained in a particular cultural group automatically adapts to its socio-history and socio-cultural ways. Learning about one’s culture comes easy if the individual is totally immersed in it. A perfect example is how Reggio Emilia schools in Italy are run. There, the whole community is involved in rearing the children. â€Å"Reggio Emilia educators repeatedly emphasize that "no one has a monopoly" on what children need and, as noted above, invite parents to become

Operation managment exam(singapore airline case study) Essay

Operation managment exam(singapore airline case study) - Essay Example Singapore Airlines take both the complaints and the compliments seriously. The Vice President is entrusted with the responsibility to address customer feedbacks. Every article, coming from the passengers, is given due importance and is followed up with proper investigation. The lessons learnt from the complaints are properly executed to remove the loopholes and to enhance the service. The complaint management cell ensures that the problems are properly identified and corrected, and ascertains that such situations are not repeated (Johnston, 2001). Singapore Airlines brings into view the problems and the mistakes so that they are not repeated by the same person, not even by others working within the organisation. This action stems from the realisation that operational process progresses at a faster rate when one learns from others mistakes rather than restricting oneself to his/ her own mistakes. Not only the complaints, but the compliments are also taken seriously. The organisation e nsures that the success too is equally shared among the employees. This not only keeps the employees motivated but also helps other people to learn from the successful incidents. These incidents help the organisation to excel in its service. Improving processes, redesigning jobs, improving quality, increasing staff are some of tasks that the management performs to enhance the entire feel of the services offered. However, many organisations are of the opinion that such services result in high cost, on the contrary such processes minimise the total cost thereby enhancing the total revenue. Researches show that good complaint management processes has led to the enhancement of the financial performance (Johnston, 2001). Another significant effort that requires special mention is its endeavour to offer immediate attention to the arising issues. In Singapore Airlines, if any problem occurs on board, the crew present tries to

Modelling of optical parameters for optimum collection of concentrated Dissertation

Modelling of optical parameters for optimum collection of concentrated solar radiation for photovoltaic devices - Dissertation Example Much has been utilized from our important ecosystems such as the forests, fisheries, wetland, fresh water resources, and that we have to move fast and change our course of actions to save the environment and the planet as a whole. The world’s program of action has not improved these past decades because we still depend on fossil fuel; specifically eighty per cent of energy comes from fossil fuels. The threat posed by climate change and global warming is pushing mother Earth to its near end. Industrialisation, consumerism in America and globalisation, among other drivers of change, have pushed and motivated scientists to find ways to address environmental problems which have continued to plague humanity. Constructions of buildings, new inventions and new technologies, have become a race for supremacy among big international organisations. Environmental problems of the world today have been worsened by technology. But we can use technology to save the environment. Fossil fuels a nd coal can be depleted. There will come a time that we’ll lack resources for these forms of energy source. In other words, there must be a way to produce a substitute for fossil fuels and coal, something that is not harmful to the ozone layers and the environment as a whole. Solar energy and other forms of environmentally friendly energy using the wind, the tidal waves, hydro, and other similar forms, must be tapped. The DESERTEC website says that a few hours the earth receives power from the sun is equivalent to a year it can use for its requirements to run factories, industries, businesses, homes, and offices. The deserts of Africa and Arabia can absorb much heat from the sun using mirrors to heat water to produce steam and convert this into energy. With this technology, solar energy is convertible into High Voltage DC current; the technology uses AC current converted into Direct Current using gargantuan transformers and components that store electric currents like capacit ors. (Desertec Foundation, 2009) This paper aims to provide studies and research on solar radiation and how to ‘catch’ the rays of the sun to provide electricity. With this, we focus on what seems to be an emerging, but is quite becoming popular, technology – photovoltaic concentrator

Literature Review to prove that Housing the Homeless is Cheaper than Essay

Literature Review to prove that Housing the Homeless is Cheaper than Leaving Them on The Streets - Essay Example However, counties and cities affiliated with a campaign identified as the 100,000 Homes movement have so far succeeded to take 80,000 of the families off the streets. Regional governments and NGOs do most of the job. (Portal.hud.gov, 2014)The money they use is mostly gotten from existing private donations and federal programs, and there is proof that this method saves taxpayer funds. A former prison in Colorado was recently converted into a homeless shelter. This move is not only benefit to the homeless but also to the taxpayer, as well. (Portal.hud.gov, 2014) In southeastern Colorado, the Fort Lyon Correctional Facility had housed prisoners until it was closed down in 2011 due to budget cuts. (Affairs, 2014) It stayed dormant for two years as the lawmakers debated on how the building was to be used (Portal.hud.gov, 2014). They decided on the creation of a $3.9 million project to reopen the Facility as a homeless shelter that would house 200 people majority of who were veterans. Although many conservatives may balk at the cost an urban-focused media outlet, Next City, makes and excellent and valid point. Even when not considering factors such as humane treatment and dignity, it is by far cheaper for taxpayers to shelter homeless people than to leave them out on the streets. Approximately 60% of the homeless people are drug and alcohol addicts while about 30% suf fer from very serious medical conditions. (Portal.hud.gov, 2014)Due to these increased medical conditions it is evident that leaving them in the streets is more dangerous as chances of contracting diseases is higher compared to them being in a shelter. (Cbsnews.com, 2014) More evidence to support this theory comes from the county of Los Angeles. Researchers concluded a comprehensive evaluation of a years-long campaign to shelter members of Los Angeles’ chronic homeless population dubbed Project 50. (Cbsnews.com, 2014) The program cost

Business Environment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5000 words

Business Environment - Essay Example Although the organization is well capitalized and enjoys a global presence, its reputation has constantly been at stake following several fines related to environmental pollution and inadequate maintenance of equipment and facilities. The company has also been accused of ranking poorly in terms of upholding human rights according to some quarters. In view of the company’s business environment, it may well be concluded that the company has a bright future although it needs to make certain adjustments to continue achieving astronomical growth. The research and findings of this report are based on information drawn from a range of reputable secondary sources including the company’s website. BP Oil Limited, formerly known as British Petroleum Incorporates, is a private limited company whose country of origin is the United Kingdom (British Petroleum, n.d). Incorporation on 20th December, 1947, the company has been in existence for close to 63 years and has achieved significant growth economically and in terms of global presence. With its headquarters located in St James’s, London, BP Oil Ltd ranks among the largest privately owned energy corporations globally. In fact, the company is among the six â€Å"supermajors† as it deals in natural gas, oil exploration, and marketing of petroleum products. The multinational organization is currently listed on the London Stock Exchange and features among the 100 most highly capitalized companies in the United Kingdom (FTSE 100) (British Petroleum, n.d). Its capitalization was approximated at 119,039 million Euros as of October, 2009. As a result of the merger between BP Plc and Amaco in 1998, the company has continued to sell Amoco brands in the United States to-date. This is primarily due to the fact that Amoco gasoline brands have been rated by consumers as among the best in the market for close to 16

Literature Review to prove that Housing the Homeless is Cheaper than Essay

Literature Review to prove that Housing the Homeless is Cheaper than Leaving Them on The Streets - Essay Example However, counties and cities affiliated with a campaign identified as the 100,000 Homes movement have so far succeeded to take 80,000 of the families off the streets. Regional governments and NGOs do most of the job. (Portal.hud.gov, 2014)The money they use is mostly gotten from existing private donations and federal programs, and there is proof that this method saves taxpayer funds. A former prison in Colorado was recently converted into a homeless shelter. This move is not only benefit to the homeless but also to the taxpayer, as well. (Portal.hud.gov, 2014) In southeastern Colorado, the Fort Lyon Correctional Facility had housed prisoners until it was closed down in 2011 due to budget cuts. (Affairs, 2014) It stayed dormant for two years as the lawmakers debated on how the building was to be used (Portal.hud.gov, 2014). They decided on the creation of a $3.9 million project to reopen the Facility as a homeless shelter that would house 200 people majority of who were veterans. Although many conservatives may balk at the cost an urban-focused media outlet, Next City, makes and excellent and valid point. Even when not considering factors such as humane treatment and dignity, it is by far cheaper for taxpayers to shelter homeless people than to leave them out on the streets. Approximately 60% of the homeless people are drug and alcohol addicts while about 30% suf fer from very serious medical conditions. (Portal.hud.gov, 2014)Due to these increased medical conditions it is evident that leaving them in the streets is more dangerous as chances of contracting diseases is higher compared to them being in a shelter. (Cbsnews.com, 2014) More evidence to support this theory comes from the county of Los Angeles. Researchers concluded a comprehensive evaluation of a years-long campaign to shelter members of Los Angeles’ chronic homeless population dubbed Project 50. (Cbsnews.com, 2014) The program cost

Organizational Culture and Leadership Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Organizational Culture and Leadership - Essay Example Trader Joe’s focuses upon certain significant aspects which include great quality and prices of food. In this regard, the company strongly believes that by maintaining the aforesaid features, it can attain considerable value of the customers. The official headquarter of the company is positioned in California, U.S. The vision of the company is to provide superior quality products to its customers through engaging skilled and committed employees. Moreover, the mission of the company is to raise the satisfaction level of the customers by offering best quality food as well as beverages with cheap prices and also to deliver relevant product related information to the customers in order to take effective buying decisions. It has been apparently observed that there are more than 2,000 unique grocery items in its stores which are offered to the customers regularly (Trader Joe's., 2012). B. Description Of The Problem At present, Trader Joe’s faces certain crucial problems regar ding the expansion of its existing customer base and the maintenance of competiveness with the new business market entrants similar to its industry such as Whole Foods, Fresh & Easy and Sprouts. These companies are considered to be the main rivalries or the major business market competitors which sell similar kinds of products in the same geographical provinces. All these competitors maintain a unique culture like Trader Joe’s and also intends to invest substantially for increasing productivity as well as profitability by a considerable level. By taking into consideration the aforementioned problems, certain important questions may arise. The questions include â€Å"Is Trader Joe’s unique culture is strong enough to survive and tackle with these newly emerged competitive threat?† or â€Å"How Trader Joe’s product act as a substitute as compared to the product of its rivalries†? Moreover, another important question may also arise i.e. â€Å"What ne cessary activities or strategies should adopt by Trader Joe’s in order to maintain its competitiveness and to accomplish significant competitive position over its chief business market competitors†? II. Assessment of the Problem Using Class Concepts A. Problem from Standpoint of Organizational Culture Trader Joe’s is regarded to be one of the most sophisticated retail grocery chain stores in the world. The imperative activities such as the execution of enhanced operational procedures through implementing effective business models and the maintenance of a unique organizational culture ultimately supports the company to attain its predetermined busies objectives. Moreover, the factors also assist the company to provide excellent services as well as better quality products to its customers (Madu, 2012). Generally, in order to build a competent organizational culture; companies always prefer to hire â€Å"Crew Members† for improving the operational performance of the employees. The companies employ the â€Å" Crew Members† in order to deliver effective training programs to their employees concerning various topic which include teamwork, product knowledge and leadership skills. It has been apparently observed that more than 70% of the part-time employees of Traders Joe’s operate their functions under the supervision of the â€Å"Crew Members†. The role of these â€Å"Crew Members† is to provide detail report regarding the sale of products to the Assistant Store Manager of the

Investigating electric potential Essay Example for Free

Investigating electric potential Essay A graph of V against 1/d gives a straight line with positive slope from x=0. 05m. It shows that the electric potential measured by the probe is inversely proportional to the distance of the probe from the surface of the sphere. Discussion:   A voltmeter or a CRO cannot be used to measure the electric potential at a point in the air because both instruments draw a small current to produce a deflection and this will disturb the electric field.   With no flame, the probe may acquire an induced charge and thus affect the field around it, altering the potential at the needle. Therefore, a flame probe is used. It produces positive and negative ions which discharge the needle so that the needle becomes uncharged due to neutralization. Since the needle is now neutralized, its potential is the same as the original potential. Sources of error: When measuring the distance of the probe from the centre of the sphere, a piece of string with a mass attached was dropped from the sphere for locating the zero mark of the meter ruler. This may not be accurate as the sting may not be vertically below the centre of the sphere   Precautions: 1. The wire which connects the needle and the electroscope cannot touch the bench or any other earthed conductor. This is to prevent charge leakage. 2. The charged sphere must be well away from the walls and the bench top as the induced charges on these objects will upset electric field. Conclusion:   Between two parallel plates: the electric potential remains constant at constant distance from the metal plates the electric potential is proportionally to the distance from the earthed plates   Around a charged sphere: the electric potential remains constant at constant distance from the centre of sphere the electric potential is inversely proportionally to the distance from the surface of sphere

what an overall research methodology is

what an overall research methodology is This section discussed what an overall research methodology is and why and what research tools and methods has been adopted to gain and analyze results. The chapter begins with the research purpose which is followed through the research philosophy, research approach then research strategy and data collection method. There is a fixed aim and objectives in this research which have to be response hence it is really important to categorize approaches and procedures which is used by a researcher for the research accomplishment. 3.2 Research purpose According to Burns, R. (2000) researches are methodical and organize investigation to solve problem. Saunders, M. et al., (2003) stated that studies can be classified by purpose or an employed strategy and Yin, R. (2003), Neuman, W. Kreugar, L. (2003) distinguished research purpose as exploratory (explore a new topic), descriptive (describe a social phenomena) and explanatory (explain why something happen). Saunders, M. et al., (2003) add that it is likely to have more than one purpose and approach for research intentions and that purpose possibly change in the course of an investigation. In the view of Cooper, D. Schindler, P. (2003) researches are dissimilar to theories because research techniques could not be correct or wrong but they may be more or lesser valuable in research procedure. The Literature has been establish in relation to knowledge management such as knowledge hierarchy, what is knowledge, types of knowledge, SECI model, elements of knowledge management and its barriers, thus the study have attempted to explain this social phenomenon primarily in a descriptive manner also this study is partly exploratory and explanatory because it explored new review and defined the problems within the research area, by revealing how knowledge is transfer and managed and why components of knowledge management becomes barriers to particular organization. Furthermore compared to developed countries, the term knowledge management is relatively fresh to the third world countries like Pakistan therefore it is sited as exploratory. Saunders, M. et al., (2003) described the focal point in gathering data, rests in the heart of research onion which is encircled by diverse layers (see below figure 3.1) Figure 3.1 Saunders, M. et al., (2003, 2007) 3.3 Research Philosophy Saunders, M. et al., (2007), explained key research philosophy; first positivist approach n which researchers prefer to use current theories to build up hypothesis. Research is undertaken as value free way that means researcher cannot do alter the substance of data collection. It is also distressed with facts not impressions. Second realism, it is part of epistemology, alike to positivism and believes a scientific approach to the development of knowledge. The core of realism is that what the senses prove us as reality in truth. Saunders, M. et al., (2007) believed that realism is relevant for business and management research. And third interpretive approach, conducts research amongst people rather than objects. As the research topic itself greatly complex in nature and cover social aspects therefore it is not possible to answer research question by only yes or no responses. Therefore this research adopted interpretive approach where researcher interpreted the social roles of individual and concerned with middle and senior managers initiatives of knowledge management which boost performance of individual and group. The underpins of interpretive approach is gathering of data and then understanding of these data which is influenced by societal forces, individuals behavior and attitude. 3.4 Research Approach Different approaches can be use for research for instance; deductive or inductive. Deductive research begins with existing theories, concepts and formulates hypothesis that are later tested and confirmed (Gummesson, E. 2000, Saunders, M. et al., 2003). An inductive research begins with the real world data, it deals with anthology of data and then theory is erected from it (Gummesson, E. 2000, Saunders, M. et al., 2003). According to Blumberg, B. et al., (2005) we can never be confident in an inductive approach because it cannot be considered as faultless. This research adopt a deductive approach as the research will progress from the general theories to a more precise observation of the research topic and question. That means overall end result of this research cannot be generalized because observation is totally stand on specific organization and in specific period of time also deductive approach offering opportunity to confirming validity and reliability of facts. Deductive approach = Theory > Observations/findings Inductive approach = Observations/findings > Theory 3.5 Research Strategies Saunders, M. et al., (2007) described various research strategies which are useful to apply when gathering and analyzing empirical facts such as; experimentation, survey, case study, grounded theory, ethnography and action research. Which research strategy should apply depends on the nature, central point, scope, admittance, restrictions and existing sources for research, however Yin, R. (2003) provides three conditions to be relevant in order to choose which strategy to employ for research purpose: The kinds of research question asked. To what extent researcher has control over actual behavioral affairs or events. The degree of focus on contemporary, as apposed to historical, events. 3.6 Case study The appropriate strategy for this research is case study because the kind of research questions being asked how (they were implemented), why (they were taken) with what (results) forms, although what and how questions tend to be more the distress of the survey strategy. The case study strategy is mainly a lot used in explanatory and exploratory, and this research has already claimed it in the research purpose (see section 3.2) (Saunders, M. et al., 2007). The case study strategy, as acknowledged by Robson, C. (2002) preferable because researcher do not have control over events and it permits researcher to achieve strong viewpoint surrounding the research area and its development, it also occupies an empirical analysis of a particular phenomenon within its actual life context by several sources of evidence. Sauder, M. et al., (2007) suggested that if you are employing case study strategy you are probably need to use and triangulate several sources of data. Triangulation refers to the use of diverse data collection methods within one study such as interviews, observations, documentary analysis, questionnaires etc. in sequence to make certain that the data are telling you what you think they are telling you. In this research the qualitative data collected by using semi-structure interviews which is precious way of triangulating quantitative data collected by other means such as a questionnaire (details of data collection techniques discussed in section 3.8). According to Neuman, W. Kreugar, L. (2003) the majority of case studies entail qualitative data and nearly all qualitative research seeks to build illustrations based on it depth, detailed knowledge of cases, the qualitative and quantitative research approach discussed in the section 3.8.1 and 3.8.2 3.7 Time horizons Time scopes to research design are independent of which research strategy and method follow. Saunders, M. et al., (2007) proposed that while planning your research it is vital to know that whether the research is to be a cross-sectional (complete at a specific time) or longitudinal (complete in a prolong time period). Due to the time constrain this study has helped researcher to assemble questionnaire results and conduct interviews at once and these cannot be repeated, so the information collected by this manner will correspond to declaration of research over that time period which means that this research is Cross-sectional or completed on specific time. 3.8 Research method Research method or research design refers to organized, determined and rationally accumulation of data not only for analyzing purpose but for attaining information to resolve research questions. The preference of methods depends upon research problem and purpose and those methods cannot be worded as more suitable or appropriate. There are two fashionable methods: qualitative and quantitative. In the view of Ghauri, P. Gronhaug, K. (2005) the differentiation between qualitative and quantitative research has nothing to do with quality but it is related to procedure. 3.8.1 Qualitative method Qualitative research is one in which researcher frequently formulates knowledge claims based on constructivist perspective i.e. various meaning of individual experiences and measuring socially. Densombe, M. (2003) emphasized that qualitative research mostly focus on description, it employs words or experience as unit of analysis and when the study connected with small scale studies. Often the analysis phrase does not begin, although not always begins as soon as data collection starts. Strauss, A. Corbin, J. (1990) defined key elements of qualitative research are: Data gather by interviews. logical practices to conceptualize and assess data toward conclude findings Report written by researcher. According to Cooper, D. Schindler, P. (2003) qualitative data perceive as rich, complete, earthly, holistic and genuine, their face validity looks perfect and it also offers far more accurate method to assess. The drawbacks of qualitative data include; they are irrelevant to wider population and not statistically checked. 3.8.2 Quantitative method The nature of the quantitative approach is objective and focus on determining phenomenon (Hussey, J. Hussey, R. 1997). Questionnaires and surveys constitute quantitative research in which all questions are laid down in arrangement of Yes or No or likert scale and then assessed by statistical methods. Naude, P. et al., (1991) stated that quantitative methods are mathematical and statistical form, relates to numerous variable and their relationship. In quantitative research it is possible to analyze data when the data collection has been finished. The key advantage of quantitative approach; it is produces quantifiable and reliable data which is by and large relevant for vast population. It is more applicable for carrying out needs evaluation or for estimations contrasting conclusions with baseline records. The main cons of quantitative method; it is expensive and time consuming procedure but according to Robson, (C. 2002) softwares developed in modern world have made analysis of compl ex calculations easy to perform. 3.8.3 Mix Method In this research, researcher adopted both qualitative and quantitative methods because the research accumulated both types of data, that is minimized the limitations of each other. Data were collected from the questionnaires and interviews. It is crucial to have questionnaire in this research to explore individual working pattern in organization and their approaches to knowledge management. An additional positive characteristic of questionnaire; it is supported researcher in studying how individual employs theory into practice. Denscombe, M. (2003) declared that the combination of methods permit superior understanding of research problem as it helps retrieval of quantitative results from questionnaires which followed qualitative stuff like semi-structured interviews of senior managements which further revealed organizational and individual behavior and social functions. 3.9 Data collection methods In this research, the overall data collection process began from collecting secondary data in the form of literature review to the primary data which was gathered by researcher via survey questionnaires and taken interviews. Secondary data searched in the University of Glamorgan, Learning Resources Centre by typing the keyword; knowledge economy, knowledge management, barriers to knowledge management and components of knowledge management etc. These secondary data mostly reflects from textbooks, journal articles, magazines and websites to facilitate research objectives. As compare to primary data the most important benefit of exploiting secondary data is the gigantic saving in time and money resources (Ghauri, P. Gronhaug, K. 2005). 3.9.1 Questionnaire Questionnaire is one of the data collection methods where all respondents are required to respond similar questions in a specific order provided to them furthermore Saunders, M. et al., (2007) declared that questionnaire supports to analyze of individual responses more comprehensively. The key purpose of designing questionnaire in this research was to get substance of knowledge management approaches and current circumstances of knowledge management in the organization. The questionnaire was based on particular subject matters such as knowledge management with its basic components (People, Process, Technology and Culture) and barriers to knowledge management. According to Dillman, D.A. (2000) three kinds of data variable collected via questionnaire. Opinion Behavior Attribute First the way the research questionnaire was design in this research, is to get opinion what respondents feel about something or what they think or believe is true or false, second to record respondents behavior and experiences by what they did, do and will do through their attribute. Attribute include data about the respondents characteristics. Saunders, M. et al., (2007), classified two way of administer research questionnaire: (i) Interviewer-administered (the responses are recorded by researcher for e.g. market research). (ii) Self-administered (usually completed by respondents). This research employed self-administered questionnaire because the researcher has less amount of contact with the respondents and questionnaires simply filled by respondents. These questionnaires were administered via electronic web application (www.surveymethods.com). Various advantages have been experienced by using electronic web survey tools such as; ease of automatic data entry, set occasional reminders for respondents, easy to analyze data through pie chart, line or bar chart etc. moreover respondents can complete questionnaires by multiple sitting or save their unfinished response. Yin, R. (2003) suggested that questionnaires diminish bias due to uniform question, even researchers own opinions does not influence respondent to answer questions in a certain manner which turn into actual facts. Although there are number of disadvantages associate to questionnaire as well for e.g. it take immense time to prepare questions, questionnaire possibly opt out or partially submit, it mig ht redirect to subordinates or fellow employees to fill out. Particularly in this research there is no opportunity for researcher to reword the phrases or further explain once the survey launched. The entire respondents were given guaranteed of anonymity (Easterby-Smith, M. et al., 2008). Respondents were given 20 days time to complete questionnaire and on an average it took 10-15 minutes to fill one questionnaire. Each questionnaire contains 25 questions including three different forms of questions; (i) agree disagree statement, (ii) multiple ticks and (iii) open end questions. 3.9.2 Interviews An interview is an intentional dialogue between two or more people. In the view of Saunders et al., (2007) interviews may be highly structured (based on predetermined and identical set of questions which is often called interviewer-administered questionnaire) or unstructured (informal and in depth-interview to explore a general idea) or semi-structured. Another types of interviews described by Healey, M. Rawlinson, M. (1993) standardized interview which is subject to quantitative analysis and non-standardized interviews that is subject to qualitative analysis. 3.9.2.1 Semi-Structure Interviews For this research, semi-structure interviews used as a device for exploring and collecting qualitative data in which interviewer ask questions to interviewee to draw self-reports of their opinions, attitudes, or behaviors in relation to knowledge management. Three interviews were taken from different departments with managerial position. All interviews were recorded with the consent of respondents. Key themes were note down by the researcher as interviews were being conducted and the same questions asked to all interviewees in slightly different packaging, although the overall essence of questions did not change. The researcher conducted all the interviews by himself and further amplification provided during an interview when respondents misunderstand the questions. This clarification was necessary to bring respondents on right track for exploring research topic and research question. The duration of the interview was set up-to maximum 30 minuets. The telephone interviews were employed which is appropriate specifically in this research because of the geological distance and limited time. Also there are no sensitive matters involved which need to discuss via only face-to-face. Various other advantages such as good physical appearance of the interviewer is not require, however Babbie, E. (1995) suggested that interview can be successful if the interviewer is pleasant and kind during an interview. Simultaneously there are several disadvantages associated to telephone interview for example interviewees may lie and hide information. Visual cues and body languages become more difficult to observe. 3.10 Pilot work The reason behind piloting is to spot imperfections in research questions and then rectify it. Before launching questionnaire to real respondent, these questionnaires were initially piloted by sending web link to three classmates. Two problems were identified apart from questionnaire structure and the language used in questionnaire. First respondents got e-mail in their junk or trash folder instead of standard inbox folder which might lead less response rate and second the option to go on next page (next button) does not appear on actual screen which may result in partial response, however at last researcher has been successful to solve these issues by making some setting configurations on web application. 3.11 Sampling In the view of Bell, J. (1987) we do not need to engage each person in relation to study about population. Whereas Gill, J. (1991), described sampling as the population of interest that have been choose for study. Research usually required of those individual who are willing to provide information and these set of individuals known as sample. In this research the research question(s), its objectives, chosen research methodology (quantitative and qualitative) and research strategy (case study) dictate itself to select non-probability samples. Neuman, W. Kreugar, L. (2003) suggested that the majority of qualitative researches likely to employ non probability samples which means that researchers rarely decide the sample size in advance and they have partial awareness about population from which the sample is taken. Saunders et al., (2003) supported that non-probability sample widely used in case study research with small size samples. This sample would provide rich information of case study in which research question is explored. This research has been conducted on Pakistani company; the Company employs almost 150 staffs on several places. It was determined to use Company head office as sample size in this research where nearly 70 employees working on various position including management. Easterby-Smith, M. et al., (2008) stated that the sample selected may possibly bias which might be imitated on end results. To curtail bias and produce true result from this research, altogether fifty questionnaires were launch for employees working on head office irrespective of their age, genders, experiences and departments. Furthermore researcher conducted three interviews with different departmental managers, two of them are male and one is a female. 3.12 Validity Reliability According to McNeill, P. Chapman, S. (2005) validity refers to the dilemma of whether the information gathered is accurate of what is being studied. Denscombe, M. (2003) clarified that validity in a research signify that the mandatory information is studied and not anything more. Validity is when a theory, model and concept explain reality as it shows and it refers to the accuracy in the case study. This research employed both quantitative and qualitative methods which bring a practical, honest and unbiased account of social life from the point of view of someone who lives it each day (Neuman, W. Kreugar, L. (2003). Yin, R. (2003) and Denscombe, M. (2003) point out that reliability in a research reflects on the reality that the study is accomplished consistently and correctly. They suggested that identical conclusions could be attained, if carried out by other observers or under the same conditions. In this research questionnaire and follow up interviews were used to record and analyze data consistently. As the researcher employed telephone interviews which Saunders et al., (2007) believes that take longer time to construct trust between the interviewer and interviewees, visual prompts and non-verbal behavior may also influence the progress of the interview. In the view of Yin, R. (2003) case study strategy enhances the reliability of the research because it enables other researchers to follow the facts or data directly and not be constrained to the printed reports. Furthermore the sample section and methodological in this study may possibly be copied by other investigators to get same results. All the interviewees were consent to record interviews which further interprets our result and conclusion as trustworthy. At last, overall, the following steps were obtained to certify the reliability and validity of this research: The researcher used continuous guidelines from the supervisor for making survey and interview questions in an order to get most acceptable outcomes. All respondents were informed in advance as regards to take part for accomplishing this research. Questionnaires were completed within 20 days and the interviews were taken within 7 days, during these periods of time no key incident happen or changed with the related subject. Data were collected through web based application (www.surveymethods.com). The researcher has no control over the modification of any answers provided by respondents. After finishing interviews, a brief summary of conversations sent to each interviewee by e-mail to make sure that what exactly they want to say and what the researcher understood. Also interviewees were asked if they find any thing which is differing from the point of view of researcher then they can correct it and reply back via e-mail. 3.13 Research ethics Blumberg, et al., (2005) viewed ethics as moral rules and principles, norms, standards or sets of behavior, that lead our relationships with others. Research ethics then narrates to questions about how research topic is plan and elucidate, how data is collected, process and store, how data is analyze and research findings are write up in a moral and responsible way. In this research, number of ethical considerations has been taken into account specially when gathering data through questionnaires and interviews. First the purpose of the study plus respondents participation was clearly explained. Second none of the respondents was intimidated to take part in research process and those who agreed to take part their verbal consent was attained. According to Bell, J. (1987), human rights protections for instance; autonomy from physical and mental hurt, privacy and confidentiality should maintain throughout research. To retain confidentiality no names were connected to data, however the researcher can recognizes which data belongs to whom and the persons name, who interviewed in this research were not displayed.

Voltaires Affect on Modern Western Society Essay -- Fracois Marie Aro

â€Å"I do not agree with what you have to say, but I’ll defend to death your right to say it,† were the famous words of Fracois Marie Arouet, more commonly known under the pen name of Voltaire. He was known for being very outspoken and rebellious, which got him into trouble with the authorities for most of his life. Voltaire advocated the French bourgeoisie as being ineffective, the aristocracy as being corrupt, and the commoners as being too superstitious. Voltaire’s beliefs on freedom and reason is what ultimately led to the French Revolution, the United States Bill of Rights, and the decrease in the power of the Catholic Church, which have all affected modern western society. The French Revolution was a period of upheaval in France, during which the French governmental structure and Catholic clergy underwent a large change due to Enlightenment ideas. The commoners of France began to revolt after hearing the ideas of famous philosophes like Voltaire. Voltaire was a deist who believed that the Catholic Church and its doctrines were not to be trusted since they used propoganda to get followers rather than the actual religion. He believed it was unfair that there wasn’t any religious freedom since you were expected to be a Catholic. He spoke openly about this, which of course got him into a lot of trouble. Nevertheless, the French commoners took his word into thought and decided to act upon what he said by revolting against the church. Voltaire’s ideas also critized royal absolutism because they had, in his opinion, too much power. He favored an elightened absolutist, which is an absolutist who adopts Enlightenment ideas. Once again, the French commoners took this to heart and agreed with Voltaire that the French government was too ... ... to make you commit injustices.† Voltaire studied natural sciences and reason because he was against supestition. Although he advocated religious tolerance, he believed that any one church should not have absolute power. By the time he was executed, he had already brought about the end of the power and right of the church to torture France. People in France still are not as faithful to the Catholic Church as they had been before Voltaire had introduced them to the idea of â€Å"reasoning†. The Enlightenment is held to be the source of many modern ideas, such as the primary values of freedom and reason. The views of philosophers such as Voltaire are considered to be the source of many essential changes in countries such as America and France. His views on religion, government, and freedom are what people remember most because they have not died out in today’s society. Voltaire's Affect on Modern Western Society Essay -- Fracois Marie Aro â€Å"I do not agree with what you have to say, but I’ll defend to death your right to say it,† were the famous words of Fracois Marie Arouet, more commonly known under the pen name of Voltaire. He was known for being very outspoken and rebellious, which got him into trouble with the authorities for most of his life. Voltaire advocated the French bourgeoisie as being ineffective, the aristocracy as being corrupt, and the commoners as being too superstitious. Voltaire’s beliefs on freedom and reason is what ultimately led to the French Revolution, the United States Bill of Rights, and the decrease in the power of the Catholic Church, which have all affected modern western society. The French Revolution was a period of upheaval in France, during which the French governmental structure and Catholic clergy underwent a large change due to Enlightenment ideas. The commoners of France began to revolt after hearing the ideas of famous philosophes like Voltaire. Voltaire was a deist who believed that the Catholic Church and its doctrines were not to be trusted since they used propoganda to get followers rather than the actual religion. He believed it was unfair that there wasn’t any religious freedom since you were expected to be a Catholic. He spoke openly about this, which of course got him into a lot of trouble. Nevertheless, the French commoners took his word into thought and decided to act upon what he said by revolting against the church. Voltaire’s ideas also critized royal absolutism because they had, in his opinion, too much power. He favored an elightened absolutist, which is an absolutist who adopts Enlightenment ideas. Once again, the French commoners took this to heart and agreed with Voltaire that the French government was too ... ... to make you commit injustices.† Voltaire studied natural sciences and reason because he was against supestition. Although he advocated religious tolerance, he believed that any one church should not have absolute power. By the time he was executed, he had already brought about the end of the power and right of the church to torture France. People in France still are not as faithful to the Catholic Church as they had been before Voltaire had introduced them to the idea of â€Å"reasoning†. The Enlightenment is held to be the source of many modern ideas, such as the primary values of freedom and reason. The views of philosophers such as Voltaire are considered to be the source of many essential changes in countries such as America and France. His views on religion, government, and freedom are what people remember most because they have not died out in today’s society.

Homo Mensura-Philosophie: Analepse gegen Paralipse La Mettrie und die griechische Medizinphilosophi :: German Essays

Homo Mensura-Philosophie: Analepse gegen Paralipse La Mettrie und die griechische Medizinphilosophie (iatros philosophos isotheos) ABSTRACT: Philosophische Anthropologie teilt sich in Europa seit der Zeit der alten Griechen in zwei Richtungen: die theologische (deus mensura) und die anthropologisch-medizinische (homo mensura)-Platon und Demokrit, Kant und La Mettrie. Fà ¼r beide Richtungen steht Paideia (Lernen, Formen, Bilden, Kultur, Humanità ¤t) in Zentrum der Philosophie. Fà ¼r homo-mensura-Philosophie entscheidend ist Analepse (ungefiltertes Aufnehmen) im Gegensatz zur Paralipse (filterndes Auslassen). La Mettrie ist ein wichtiger Vertreter der homo-mensura-Philosopphie (l'homme machine-l'homme mesure). Als 'Darwinist' (100 Jahre vor Darwin), fà ¼r den das Gehirn die mabsetzende lebendige 'Maschine' ist, ist er Vorlà ¤ufer einer evolutionà ¤ren Philosophie. Homo-mensura-Philosophie ist (wie Thukydides, einer ihrer Vertreter, sagt) ein ‘Besitz fà ¼r immer.' In der europà ¤ischen Philosophie gibt es seit der Zeit der alten Griechen 2 Richtungen (Seiten , Schulen , Parteien, Traditionen ) : die theologische und die (medizinisch-) anthropologische - Platon und Demokrit. In dem Satz iatros philosophos isotheos / "ein philosophischer Arzt ist gottgleich" (corpus Hippocraticum) ist die theologische Seite zugunsten der anthropologischen aufgehoben ; isotheos heißt , dass man einen Gott nicht braucht . Klassisch hat dies Demokrit ausgedrà ¼ckt : "Gesundheit erbitten fà ¼r sich die Menschen in Gebeten von den Gà ¶ttern ; dass sie aber die Macht à ¼ber sie in sich selbst haben , wissen sie nicht ." (234) (Paideia : Sie mà ¼ssen es lernen . ) Genau dasselbe bedeutet 2000 Jahre spà ¤ter das Motto des Philosophenarztes Paracelsus : Alterius non sit , qui suus esse potest . / "Eines anderen (Sklave) sei nicht , wer sein eigener (Herr) sein kann ." Das Stichwort fà ¼r diese Richtung ist HOMO MENSURA (Maß m, Maßstab , Metrum , Dimension ) . [Im Bereich der anthropologischen Philosophie ist "Eklektizismus" ein gegenstandsloser Vorwurf . Im Gegensatz zum gà ¶ttlichen ÃÅ"bermaß ist menschliches Maß nachweisbar ; wer in welchem Zusammenhang den Nachweis fà ¼hrt , ist nebensà ¤chlich . Es geht um die Sache , nicht um Personen . Es geht um Philosophie , nicht um Philosophiegeschichte .] Homo mensura (individuell und kollektiv) bedeutet , dass "sich die Gegenstà ¤nde nach unserer Erkenntnis richten mà ¼ssen" . Kants vielgerà ¼hmter "Kopernikus" ist von Anfang an Grundlage der anthropologischen Philosophie . Das Maß ist das menschliche Gehirn , von La Mettrie "Maschine" genannt . (Ein 6./7./... Sinn ergà ¤be eine andere Welt , eine 4./5./... Dimension.) Epiktet : "Nicht die Dinge beeinflussen die Menschen , sondern die Vorstellung von den Dingen." Was uner"meß"lich ist , ist dem Menschen nicht zugà ¤nglich , so z.

Opinion of Christopher Columbus

Opinions of Christopher Columbus Christopher Columbus has always been revered as the man who discovered America, but as people look back over time, other ideas of Columbus have formed. Did he actually discover America? Or did he just encounter it? As other Native Americans had already been living in America, who were soon colonized/conquered, it is hard to say whether or not Columbus was a legendary man. Christopher Columbus, in all respect, did change the course of history greatly, the only question is whether or not he should honored or scorned for it.In 1492, Columbus happened upon the Americas. Columbus believed these people, the Native Americans, easily conquerable, and showed that. He did a number of injustices to the Native American people, women and children included. He also believed them to have no religion of their own, and tried to force christianity upon the Native Americans. Although Columbus was the first major sailor to reach the Americas, his actions did not represen t an honorable man.Although, at this time, Columbus had made a great change affecting the course of history. The Americas had been largely cut off from the rest of the world, and Columbus' interactions with the Native Americans had opened the Americas to trade thereout. It is arguable that the Americas would have been exposed to the rest of the world at some time, but Columbus had been the first. He, essentially, was the man who had the idea to sail west and created that to be a reality.Yet his actions were not the best, he did have the first major encounter in the Americas. I believe Columbus should be respected as the man who did have the first effective encounter in the Americas, though not honored. He had committed great sins against the Native Americans, and should not be considered a hero. Heroes have ethic morals they follow before and after they had made their accomplishments. Columbus did not show this. Columbus was a navigator who had happened to, instead of Asia, come acr oss a continent unknown to the world.

Federal express

FedEx will not be treated by Delta airlines because FedEx itself had their own experience and established more than a decade. They have the world largest airfreight fleet, including McDonnell-Douglas MD-I Is, Airbus A-300 and A-310s. The plans itself have a total daily lift capacity of more than 26. 5 million pounds. From networking aspects, FedEx has established the strong networking services across world by door to door service, had employee more than 50 thousand employee around the world.It also growing fast performance with 13% increase in revenue to 9 Billion and serve covering more than 200 cities within China, FedEx had only drop- off locations domestically as of 2008. Compare to Delta airlines it Just give 2. 5% of its revenue from cargo and it has a passengers airlines which has many airplane to serve the passenger. Meanwhile FedEx is the cargo airline that around the world knows their service very fast and cheap, from aspect of service FedEx has their own strategies and mar ket, and it had almost 100 years experienced in this industry.On the other hand, Delta is a passenger airline that took a cargo business and merge with Northwest and Western airlines, from our group view Delta annot make the service better than FedEx did because FedEx has already establish and the hub itself for distribution of cargo has many in word include Asia and Europe. QUESTION 2 Firstly, Federal Express may maintain the capacity in order to keep up with China's growth by implement the customer relationship management strategy (CRM). This is because each of the customers has different type of requirements and demands.Federal Express should expand their forwarding capability, expand the services territory and also improving the cycle times. Federal Express also can provide shipment information to the customers in China. Not only that, Federal Express also should be more progressive in providing advance services to the customers so that can help to improve the customers loyalty and also able to attract a new customers. Secondly, Federal Express can hire local managers. This is because by hiring local managers, they are more understand the local culture of the local areas in order to avoid disturbing inherent values and practices.Every different country has a different culture and procedures, by having a person that more familiar with the culture it will help Federal Express in determining the sensitiveness of China citizens. Thirdly, Federal Express also need to choose an airport for the expanding their business environment of the Pearl River Delta which serves 40% of the China's export volume. By concurring all the airports in China, it will allow Federal Express to increase the capacity of the business. This is showed by China has been making substantially investment in their infrastructure include the port facilities, airports and cargo terminals.Lastly, Federal Express should more understanding the different set of values and demands in each country. T he marketing also play an important ole on advertising the services that provided by the Federal Express. Federal Express should examine the major player or competitors and changes in the China industries, by examine this it able to improve the services that had been provided by Federal Express. By improving the quality of services it will help in attracting a new customer and also earn their confidence in using all the services of Federal Express.Federal Express having a quality problem because the subcontracting companies are more motivated by profits. Usually, contract in the fixed price, so in order increasing their profit they will cut off their expenses. This will give an effect to the Federal Express because they still need to pay according to the contract. Additionally, Subcontracting often give a negative impacts to the service quality and also may affect the satisfaction of their customers. This is because Federal Express subcontractor not wears the same standard of unifor ms with their general employees' appearance.Secondly, Federal Express also will lose their management control because when they sign the contract with another company, the management and controlling right is belong to that company. Sometime, the subcontracting company does not apply he standards and mission of the company because for them the profits are more important than the services provided. Thirdly, when Federal Express performed subcontracting, they will face a lot hidden cost. This is showed by when Federal Express signing a contract, the contract will cover a lot of details regarding the services provided.If there is an important content that does not included in the contract, the additional charges like legal fees and professional fees will be charged to the Federal Express. Lastly, Federal Express also wills facing threat that relate to their security and onfidentiality. This is showed by all the confidential information will be transmitted to the subcontracting company b ecause they need all this detail to more understand the company and also easy to them in making transaction.