Wednesday, December 25, 2019

Personal Statement For Inclusion Communication - 912 Words

For inclusion: Communication is one of the most important tools in any type of relationship and it is a more important factor in the classroom, between teacher and students, teacher with parents, students with teacher and students with students. From the first day of school on, there is a constant struggle for some students. They don’t only worry about the academics, but also they want to fit in. The struggle starts with the groups or â€Å"click† forming. Kids use body language and even hurtful comments to exclude kids and let them know that they don’t belong in their â€Å"group†. As teachers we can see what is going on in our class, we can see how kids are been left out due to physical appearance, disability, the color of the skin or because they don’t speak our language. As teachers we have the responsibility to include kids that are left out with the rest of the group and invite the rest of the group to accept everyone. To accomplish thi s, the teacher can plan activities of inclusion where they talk about themselves and their hobbies or their plans for the future. As teachers our job is to intentionally include and ask alienated students their input in the activity and make them feel welcome By teaching in an inclusive environment, the teacher will give all students access to a fair education. this might not be a big deal for some but it will definitely help a student’s self-esteem, and give them a sense of belonging, boosting his confidence and motivation towards schoolShow MoreRelatedEssay about Inclusive Curriculum in Schools1113 Words   |  5 PagesThrough mandatory acknowledgement (Disability Discrimination Act, 1992) of individuals previously segregated in our education system, the government, who operate on behalf of the people, have publicly proclaimed inclusion for all. When children with disabilities, disadvantage or learning difficulties are incorporated into the regular schooling domain a more realistic version of community is subscribed to. As a consequence, the more we are confronted with difference, the greater our threshold to acceptRead MoreThe Roles, Responsibilities and Boundaries of a Teacher and Establishing Ground Rules Within a Learning En vironment956 Words   |  4 Pagesresponsibilities and boundaries are evolving qualities within the teacher which are assessed and reflected upon using the teaching/training cycle; a cycle of assessment, planning and review. My main role as a teacher is to facilitate the inclusion and communication of all students that will encourage them to enter into a wider debate surrounding the subject area they have chosen. To ensure sessions’ aims and objectives are meaningful and applicable to students the teaching role incorporates ongoingRead MoreThe Principle Of Autonomy, Counseling, Supervision, And / Or Practice As A Counselor1378 Words   |  6 Pagesthese issues: Inclusion, Referral, Best Practice, Limitation as a Counselor, Supervision, and/or Practice as a Counselor Point out the Multicultural dimension of this principle. The principle of autonomy is considering to be the right of the clients on making their own decisions while resolving their own conflicts. The counselor cannot tell them what to do in order to resolve their problems. The counselor encourages the client’s personal growth respecting the client culture, personal values and beliefRead MoreThe Diversity Programs And Development1749 Words   |  7 Pagescountries. â€Å"For more than 35 years, Micron has dedicated itself to collaborating with customers and partners to engineer technology that drives innovation and transforms what’s possible (Home: About: Our Company)†. Micron’s Diversity and Inclusion Statement, â€Å"At Micron our people are our most important resource and a critical driver of our competitive advantage. We believe our best innovation springs from our team members diverse experiences, perspectives and backgrounds. We are passionate aboutRead MoreApple : A Huge Apple Fanatic1322 Words   |   6 Pagesthe details of a form, an interface, and an experience. Apple’s extraordinary attention on the details that might seem irrelevant and unimportant at other companies is what attracts me to its products. Apple’s current mission statement is: â€Å"Apple designs Macs, the best personal computers in the world, along with OS X, iLife, iWork and professional software. Apple leads the digital music revolution with its iPods and iTunes online store. Apple has reinvented the mobile phone with its revolutionary iPhoneRead MoreMarketing Channels1482 Words   |  6 Pagesblend of personal selling, advertising, direct marketing, sales promotion, and public relations a company uses to reach potential customers. (Excellence in Business; Bovà ©e, Thill, Mescon; p.  487) When a company is developing a promotional mix and working with their marketing channels, it is important to understand the five elements of promotion. Excellence in Business (Bovà ©e, Thill, Mescon; p.  487) describes the five elements as: 1. Personal selling which is in-person communication betweenRead MoreThe Act Of Classroom Collaboration1261 Words   |  6 PagesOne of the biggest key concepts for any professional job is to be able to collaborate. As humans we collaborate at multiple levels in our personal and professional lives. The Merriam Webster Dictionary describes collaboration as the ability to work with another person or group in order to achieve or do something. In the text by Carol Kochhar-Bryant, collaboration means to work together. Within the classroom setting it is even more important to understand these basic definitions. At least two peopleRead MoreThe Aspects Of Employment Covered By Law1748 Words   |  7 Pages and below is a explanation of what is required of me , my entitlements , information included are : Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, Permission to work in the UK, Probationary period, which is six months, job title, which is Social Inclusion Worker, place of work, salary, and hours of work, holiday entitlements and sickness absence, pension, disciplinary procedure, grievance, Aurora’s property, Data protection, Equal opportunity and protection of Adults at risk. The last page requiresRead MoreATT Mision Vision and Values Essay1275 Words   |  6 PagesStrategic Overview This document identifies ATT as one of the leader communications holding corporation in the United States and global. Operating worldwide with 307,550 employees, ATT established its global headquarters in Dallas Texas, ATT is known as the worldwide leading provider of IP-based communications services to businesses and the principal U.S. provider of wireless, high speed Internet access, local and long distance voice, directory publishing and advertising services forRead More†¢Individual Education Program (Iep). Each Child’S Iep Must1564 Words   |  7 Pagesis not limited to): - A statement of the child’s present levels of academic achievement and functional performance, including how the child’s disability affects his/her involvement and progress in the general education curriculum. - A statement of measurable annual goals, Including academic and functional goals. - A description of how the child’s progress toward meeting the annual goals will be measured, and when periodic progress reports will be provided. - A statement of the special education

Monday, December 16, 2019

William Shakespeare s Hamlet As A Tragic Hero - 1251 Words

Hamlet is one of Shakespeare’s most famous tragedies. Hamlet himself is commonly known as a tragic hero in the play. He knows he possesses the flaw of indecision but cannot overcome it, and this is a weakness that eventually causes his downfall. Therefore, this paper will discuss his own fate by examining some of his characteristics. Different people have their own understanding towards Hamlet. As a tragic hero, some think he is young, brave and thoughtful; some think he is conscientious, because he loves his country, his father, and his girlfriend; also there are some who think he is a loser. In my point of view, I not only see him as a big hero who can carry on his duty and revenge for his father and his country, but also an imperfect man who is always indecisive. The first soliloquy (Page 127), this paper will discuss, is one of the most famous soliloquies of Hamlet. He said it in the Act III, scene I (64-98), before he met Ophelia. He was walking by himself and thinking about life. â€Å"To be or not to be, that is the question†, this is the first line of his soliloquy. From this line, Hamlet shows the audiences how conflicted he was at that time. The biggest question for him is to live or to die, and all the rest of his soliloquies help him try to find out the answer. Let’s think about his personal development before and after. Before his father died, Hamlet used to be a student who studied in the Wittenberg. And Hamlet, the prince of Denmark, has a happy family. HisShow MoreRelatedWilliam Shakespeare s Hamlet - The Aristotelian Tragic Hero1529 Words   |  7 Pagesplay, Hamlet, centers around Hamlet’s contemplation of killing his uncle in order to avenge his father’s death. Hamlet’s decisions and values come into play in determining his fate. However, Hamlet’s intended action to avenge his father’s death, rather his motivation, falls short due to his moral dilemma. Overall, Hamlet’s actions and values work together to create a connection between Hamlet’s state of mind and the condition of Denmark as well as, epitomize him as an Aristotelian tragic hero. At theRead MoreHamlet As A Tragic Hero850 Words   |  4 Pagesas a hero if they revenge? Well In the novel Hamlet the author, William Shakespeare creates tragic events where his main character Hamlet has to overcome to achieve his goal of kill ing his evil uncle Claudius. â€Å"In life one has to do bad thing in order to be a hero,the hero also has to make sacrifices in order to be successful† (John Barrowman). In Shakespeare Hamlet, should hamlet be considered a tragic hero judging by him following the hero steps. Shakespeare proves that Hamlet was a tragic heroRead More Shakespeares Macbeth and Hamlet as Tragic Heroes Essay893 Words   |  4 PagesMacbeth and Hamlet as Tragic Heroes      Ã‚   William Shakespeare has written many literary works - from his sonnets to his plays, each has its own individual characteristics.   One popular characteristic that comes from his plays is the tragic hero.   The audience can always relate to the tragic hero and the many trials he faces.   Macbeth and Hamlet are just two of Shakespeares plays that involve the tragic hero.   Through their nobility, tragic flaws, and dignity Macbeth and Hamlet prove to beRead MoreWilliam Shakespeare s Hamlet s Revenge1725 Words   |  7 Pages Thesis: Shakespeare s portrayal of Hamlet s revenge is not a worthy journey because he never finds his self worth, distracted between what will exemplify his purpose, and what will make him a failure in the memory of Denmark. Three quotes with analysis explaining thesis: Act 1 Scene 5 Ghost: â€Å" But know, thou noble youth, Hamlet: â€Å"Oh My Prophetic Soul! My uncle?† The serpent that did sting thy father’s life Now wears his crown.† The beginning of the â€Å"call to adventure -JRead More The Tragic Hero of Hamlet Essay1049 Words   |  5 PagesThe Tragic Hero of Hamlet    Shakespeares play, Hamlet illustrates the tragedy of a young princes pursuit to obtain revenge for a corrupt act, the murder of his father.  Ã‚   As the exposition unfolds, we find Prince Hamlet struggling with internal conflict over who and what was behind his fathers death.   His struggle continues as he awaits the mystic appearance of a ghost who is reported to resemble his father.   Suddenly it appears, proclaiming, Pity me not, but lend thy serious hearing / ToRead MoreHamlet : A Tragic Hero995 Words   |  4 PagesHamlet: A Tragic Hero William Shakespeare is known through the ages as a brilliant playwright. He has written several comedies and tragedies that people have loved through decades. Shakespeare’s plays have been interpreted in many different ways and have been debated on which interpretation is correct. Some of these included even the basis of the character’s persona. In the Shakespearean tragedy Hamlet, the main protagonist, Prince Hamlet, is fated by the ghost of his late father that, becauseRead MoreThe Tragic Hero Of Shakespeare s Hamlet 1599 Words   |  7 PagesRachel Conley Mr. David Rasnake English 1020 November 10, 2015 Paper 3~ Tragic Hero What is tragedy? What makes someone or something a tragic hero? A tragedy is â€Å"A serious drama typically describing a conflict between the protagonist and a superior face and having a sorrowful or disastrous conclusion elicits the pity or terror† (Merriam-Webster). Tragedy can be a good or a bad thing in life. Also, depending on what the tragedy is, it should have a powerful impact on our lives. A tragedy can changeRead MoreAct 3 Scene 1 Of William Shakespeare s Hamlet Essay947 Words   |  4 Pages3 scene 1 of William Shakespeare â€Å"Hamlet† the main protagonist, Hamlet, recites a soliloquy â€Å"To be, or not to be.† Throughout his lines Hamlet explains the concept of suicide and why people choose to live long lives instead of ending their suffering. The main point he speaks on is the mystery of one’s afterlife, they never know for sure what happens when they die. For this reason, his speech does a good job highlighting the plays underlying themes of pervasiveness of death, and tragic dilemma, andRead MoreHamlet : Once A M an Of Reason1398 Words   |  6 PagesHamlet: Once a Man of Reason In today’s world, the word hero has been portrayed in many different ways. With each member of our society having their own creative imagination on what qualifies as a hero, the definition has changed immensely. Unfortunately, no matter how impeccable a hero may present himself, every fictional hero is indeed human. With that being said, the two share the same deficiencies as every human such as physical disabilities, internal ailments, and mental impairments. SocietyRead MoreDoes Othello Meet The Standards Of A Tragic Hero?2171 Words   |  9 PagesOthello Meet the Standards of a Tragic Hero? William Shakespeare is considered one of the greatest play writers who ever lived. Students throughout the United States continue to read his sonnets and plays today. His style of writing and his use of metaphors are what truly make him a great writer. Shakespeare wrote many comedies such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Much Ado about Nothing, and The Taming of the Shrew. Shakespeare also wrote many tragedies such as Macbeth, Hamlet, and Romeo and Juliet. Many

Sunday, December 8, 2019

Animal Farm By George Orwell (1518 words) Essay Example For Students

Animal Farm By George Orwell (1518 words) Essay Animal Farm by George OrwellCharacters, items, and events found in George Orwells book, Animal Farm, can be compared to similar characters, items, and events found in Marxism and the 1917 Russian Revolution. This comparison will be shown by using the symbolism that is in the book with similarities found in the Russian Revolution. Old Major was a prized-boar that belonged to Farmer Jones. The fact that Old Major is himself a boar was to signify that radical change and revolution are, themselves, boring in the eyes of the proletariat (represented by the other barnyard animals), who are more prone to worrying about work and survival in their everyday life. Old Major gave many speeches to the farm animals about hope and the future. He is the main animal who got the rebellion started even though he died before it actually began. Old Majors role compares to Lenin and Marx whose ideas were to lead to the communist revolution. Animal Farm is a criticism of Karl Marx, as well as a novel perpe tuating his convictions of democratic Socialism. (Zwerdling, 20). Lenin became leader and teacher of the working class in Russia, and their determination to struggle against capitalism. Like Old Major, Lenin and Marx wrote essays and gave speeches to the working class poor. The working class in Russia, as compared with the barnyard animals in Animal Farm, were a laboring class of people that received low wages for their work. Like the animals in the farm yard, the people is Russia thought there would be no oppression in a new society because the working class people (or animals) would own all the riches and hold all the power. (Golubeva and Gellerstein 168). Another character represented in the book is Farmer Jones. He represents the symbol of the Czar Nicholas in Russia who treated his people like Farmer Jones treated his animals. The animal rebellion on the farm was started because Farmer Jones was a drunk who never took care of the animals and who came home one night, left the ga te open and the animals rebelled. Czar Nicholas was a very weak man who treated his people similar to how Farmer Jones treated his animals. The Czar made his working class people very mad with the way he wielded his authority and preached all the time, and the people suffered and finally demanded reform by rebelling. The Czar said ?The law will henceforward be respected and obeyed not only by the nation but also the authority that rules it and that the law would stand above the changing views of the individual instruments of the supreme power.? (Pares 420). The animal Napoleon can be compared as a character representing Stalin in Russia. Both were very mean looking, didnt talk very much but always got what they wanted through force. In one part of the book Napoleon charged the dogs on Snowball, another animal. Stalin became the Soviet Leader after the death of Lenin. He was underestimated by his opponents who always became his victims, and he had one of the most ruthless, regimes i n history. In was not till very many years later that the world found out about the many deaths that Stalin created in Russia during the Revolution. For almost 50 years the world thought that the Nazis had done the killing in Russia, when in fact it was Stalin. (Imse 2). The last characters that are symbolic of each other are the animal Snowball with the Russian leader Trotsky. Snowball was very enthusiastic and was a leader who organized the defense of the farm. He gave speeches and instructions but was not very beneficial. All the other animals liked him, but he was outsmarted by Napoleon. Trotsky and Stalins relationship was very much like Snowballs and Napoleons. Trotsky organized the Red Army and gave speeches and everyone in Russia thought he would win power over Stalin. After Lenins death Trotsky lost all his power to Stalin and was expelled from the communist party. He was at one time considered the second most powerful man in Russia. (Trotsky? Comptons 290). Besides charact ers there are many items that can be compared as symbols in the book and in Russia. The whip that Napoleon used in the farmyard to wield power can be compared to the power that Stalin used on the Russians. Napoleon carried a whip in his trotter. Stalin used his power to starve the Russian people and to have Lenin arrested. Stalins main goal was to maximize his personal power. (?Stalin,? Britannia 576). Stalin ?whipped? his people into shape by collectivizing agriculture, by police terror, and by destroying remnants of individual prosperity. He also led the Soviet Union into the nuclear age (Clarkson 442). Propaganda is another item that was used in the Russian revolution. It can be compared to Squealer in Animal Farm. Squealer brainwashed (a form of propaganda) the barnyard animals into believing that they did not like apples and milk, while he and Napoleon were stealing the food for themselves. In Russia, the Bolsheviks carried out propaganda on the people by passing out leaflets a nd putting stories in the newspapers that were not true. They told workers, soldiers, and peasants to not trust their own hands and to take away land from the landowners. (Golubeva and Gellerstein 80). Another item that is similar in both Animal Farm and Russia are the dogs and the secret police. Napoleon trained his dogs when they were puppies to guard him and to obey his every command. They chased Snowball away. Stalin trained his secret police to do his bidding whenever he issued an order. Stalin had his secret police kill between 60,000 to 70,000 people. These police were called the Checka and the graves filled with bodies stacked upon each other with bullets in each skull were found many years later. (Imse, C2). Another symbolism that exists in the book and in Russia is a similarity to events that took place. The windmill that is present in Animal Farm can be compared with the growth of industry in Russia or the Industrial Revolution. Snowball first introduced the windmill conc ept to the farm but Napoleon disagreed with him and had the dogs chase him away. Napoleon then presented the windmill as a good idea and the animals were presented with hope that things would get better on the farm. When it blew down, Napoleon blamed it on Snowball. Napoleon thought that if he could keep the barnyard animals busy all the time replacing the windmill that they would not realize how bad their living conditions were, and he could blame the destruction all the time on Snowball. The windmill is the only thing that was holding the animals together as a unit. In Russia the growth of factory and industry was very depressing but depended on the obligatory labor of serfs. Russia hoped that by keeping the serfs working all the time and promising them a better world that they would not realize how bad their living conditions were. The Industrialists were pressing their own constitutional demands. (Clarkson 352). None of the social classes were fighting each other because there w ere no classes left. What Russia got working was to make the people think that the prospect of loss of potential improvements in conditions of life of the here and now, could only be attained by stimulating labor to unprecedented efforts. The last event that was similar in the book and in Russia was the animal rebellion on the farm and the Russian Revolution of 1917. Farmer Jones was drunk a lot and would forget to feed the animals on the farm. The withholding of this food is what finally forced the animals on the farm to rebel against Farmer Jones. In Russia, there were many food shortages which caused the people to demonstrate and then the Russian soldiers refused to suppress them and the leaders demanded that Nicholas transfer his power to parliamentary government because everything was getting out of control. Soviet workers and soldiers formed a special committee and established a government. The same day the emperor abdicated. (?Russian Revolution,? Grolier npa). This actually backfired in Russia and the war continued and the people still starved. Many lessons can be learned by reading Animal Farm that can help countries and governments around the world from making mistakes in wielding their power against their people. If a population is suppressed and not allowed to accumulate things for themselves then an overthrow of the government that is suppressing them will be the result. WORKS CITEDClarkson, Jesse. A History of Russia. New York: Random House, 1969. Golubeva, T. and L. Gellerstein. Early Russia The Russie. Moscos, Press Agency Publishing House, 1976. Imse, Ann. Mass Grave Seen as Evidence of Massecure by Stalins Police. ?Hunstsville Times, 13, August. 1990. Orwell, George. Animal Farm. Signet 50th Anniversary Edition, Harcourt Brace Company, 1996. Pares, Sir Bernard. The Fall of the Russian Monarchy. New York: A division of Random House, 1939. ?Russian Revolution of 1917.? Grolier Electronic Publishing, Inc. 1992 ed. ?Stalin, Joseph.? Encyclopedi a Britannica. 1917 ed. .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e , .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e .postImageUrl , .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e , .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e:hover , .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e:visited , .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e:active { border:0!important; } .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e:active , .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u52bc1d4ec12d65e198092bda1c47197e:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Psychology Clocks by Coldplay Essay

Sunday, December 1, 2019

Liberty University Chhi 302 History of the Christian Church free essay sample

Soon it became strong and dominate. It is easy to see that the influence of Contemporary Christianity comes from the roots in Roman Catholicism. Contemporary Christian missionary work from America to Central India began in 1872 when Rev. Clark, along with some fellow Christians that had learned a village language, began to preach the gospel. Today that work shows for 2. 3 percent of the population claiming Christianity as a religion. India, to its credit, in the early 1900’s, took the lead in promoting Christian Unity. India holds the largest number of poor, and the 4th largest number of millionaires. This makes India the country with the greatest disparity between the rich and the poor. Many Christian Missionaries take this as an open door to help build hospitals and orphan homes. According to the Christian mission company WorldVenture, India has 266 million children that suffer from some form of oppression, be it abuse, trafficking, abandonment, or slavery. We will write a custom essay sample on Liberty University Chhi 302 History of the Christian Church or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Contemporary Christianity sees the need in India and uses that need to reach the people that are rapped, sometimes quite literally, in the religion of their government and bring them to Jesus through that. One of the biggest opposition to Christianity would be that of the religion of Islam. The Muslim movements are strong and sweeping throughout the entirety of the Middle East. Their message is not one of love and mercy, but of dominance and fear. To one caught in the middle, the safer choice would be to side with that of Islam. This presents a problem to Contemporary Christianity as missionaries and local Christians try to reach their neighbors for the cause of Christ. Hinduism is ubiquitous, and is still obviously the predominant faith,† Woodburne says. He also states that, â€Å"religious toleration which hitherto has been a pretty theory, posited alike by Hindu philosophy and the Christian government, is becoming more and more an accomplished fact. † This should giv e Contemporary Christianity hope in the mission of the conversion of India. As the country evolves, so does the understanding and sympathy of most of the people. India has always been a country proud of her spirituality. Returning to Woodburne on the topic, he states also that â€Å"Hindus are increasingly discontented to allow the study and ritual practice of religion to be confined to the priestly class, for religion is the common property of all. † The reality of the Indian culture becoming fused with the teachings of Jesus at its source is another major obstacle. It could be argued easily that the reason Hindus are not converting to Contemporary Christianity is because the teachings of Jesus – the foundation of Christianity – has teachings rooted deeply in the Hindu religion. As the Hindu teaching becomes more permeated by the teaching of Jesus, the need for separation between the two becomes blurred. This country hold’s the world’s largest democracy by far. This presents a problem in the form of Anti-Conversional laws. These laws in place in India’s government not only place limits on Contemporary Christianity, but they encourage the violent attacks on Christians, especially clergy. The most intense form of oppression on Contemporary Christianity in India would be that of the Caste System. â€Å"India’s notorious Caste System has been abolished by law, yet such traditions die hard. Being that most Christians in the country of India fall into the â€Å"Dalits† classification, this presents a massive problem in reaching upwards. Because Dalits are the lowest of society, they receive the most oppression. By default, Christian Dalits are seen as even lower than Dalits in general. According to Marshall, the 2001 Indian Gove rnment Census severely underestimated the Christian population by limiting the religions Dalits were allowed to claim. The Indian Government also limits educational and job opportunities for Christian Dalits. The Oppression in Modern India on Contemporary Christianity is not a new concept, however. Christianity is a religion that has been persecuted since the death of its foundation – Jesus Christ. Perhaps the most important piece in this puzzle is known to all as Gandhi, or Mahatma, meaning â€Å"great soul. † â€Å"Mr. Ghandi professes to find his greatest inspiration from a study of the teachings of Jesus, which teaching he tries to put into effect literally. He does not call himself a Christian, but rebukes the Christians with the charge of failing to observe the teachings of their own Master. † India is a vast and empty nation when it comes to the subject of Contemporary Christianity. Yohannan, an Indian missionary to his own people says if his time on the mission field, â€Å"the northern Indian state is known as the graveyard of missions. We were driven out of the cities and stoned for preaching the gospel. † The Christian situation in India is dangerous, and yet still it grows. In conclusion, it can be summed up that while the oppression of Contemporary Christianity has tried to stomp out the flame, it still burns and grows. It is easy to look at the numbers of growing oppression, yet it is most important to look at the numbers of the growth in Contemporary Christianity. Despite all efforts to decrease it, the number slowly, but steadily rises. As Paul says to the church of Corinth in 1 Corinthians 15:58, â€Å"Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. † The labor of Contemporary Christianity in India is not in vain. BIBLIOGRAPHY Eaton, Richard Maxwell. Religious Conversion in Modern India. Journal of World History. Vol 8 No 2. 1997. Pp 243-271. University of Hawaii Press Gonzales, Justo. The Story of Christianity. HarperCollins. 2010. Marshall, P. Gilbert, L. Shea, N. Persecuted: The Global Assault on Christians. Thomas Nelson. 2013. Schermerhorn, W. D. Syncretism in the Early Christian Period and in Present-Day India. The Journal of Religion. Vol 4 No 5. 1924. The University of Chicago Press. Stable URL: http://www. jstor. org/stable/1195557 . Woodburne, Angus Stewart. The Present Religious Situation in India. The Journal of Religion. Vol 3, No 4. 1923. Pp 387-397. The University of Chicago Press Stable URL: http://www. jstor. org/stable/1195078 . WorldVenture. India/Asia. http://www. worldventure. com/India (retrieved May 5,2013) Yohannan, K. P. Revolution in World Missions. Gfa books. 1986.

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

Parse a Delimited String Into a String List (Delphi)

Parse a Delimited String Into a String List (Delphi) There are many times when you need to split a string into an array of strings by using a character as a separator. For example, a CSV (comma separated) file might have a line like Zarko;Gajic;;DelphiGuide and you want this line to be parsed into 4 lines (strings) Zarko, Gajic, (empty string) and DelphiGuide using the semi-colon character ; as a delimiter. Delphi provides several methods to parse a string, but you might find that neither one does exactly what you need. For example, the ExtractStrings RTL method always uses quote characters (single or double) for delimiters. Another approach is to use the ​Delimiter and ​DelimitedText properties of the TStrings class- but unfortunately, there is a bug in the implementation (inside Delphi) where the space character is always used as a delimiter. The only solution to parsing a delimited string is to write a method of your own: Delimited String Example ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~procedure ParseDelimited(const sl : TStrings; const value : string; const delimiter : string) ;vardx : integer;ns : string;txt : string;delta : integer;begindelta : Length(delimiter) ;txt : value delimiter;sl.BeginUpdate;sl.Clear;trywhile Length(txt) 0 dobegindx : Pos(delimiter, txt) ;ns : Copy(txt,0,dx-1) ;sl.Add(ns) ;txt : Copy(txt,dxdelta,MaxInt) ;end;finallysl.EndUpdate;end;end;~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Usage (fills in Memo1) :ParseDelimited(Memo1.lines,Zarko;Gajic;;DelphiGuide,;)

Friday, November 22, 2019

Understanding Typed Constants in Delphi

Understanding Typed Constants in Delphi When Delphi invokes an event handler, the old values of local variables are wiped out. What if we want to keep track of how many times a button has been clicked? We could have the values persist by using a unit-level variable, but it is generally a good idea to reserve unit-level variables only for sharing information. What we need are usually called static variables or typed constants in Delphi. Variable or Constant Typed constants can be compared to initialized variables-variables whose values are defined on entry to their block (usually event handler). Such a variable is initialized only when the program starts running. After that, the value of a typed constant persists between successive calls to their procedures. Using typed constants is a very clean way of implementing automatically initialized variables. To implement these variables without typed constants, well need to create an initialization section that sets the value of each initialized variable. Variable Typed Constants Although we declare typed constants in the const section of a procedure, it is important to remember that they are not constants. At any point in your application, if you have access to the identifier for a typed constant youll be able to modify its value. To see typed constants at work, put a button on a blank form, and assign the following code to the OnClick event handler: procedure TForm1.Button1Click(Sender: TObject) ; const   Ã‚   clicks : Integer 1; //not a true constant begin    Form1.Caption : IntToStr(clicks) ;    clicks : clicks 1; end; Notice that every time you click on the button, forms caption increments steadily.Now try the following code: procedure TForm1.Button1Click(Sender: TObject) ; var   Ã‚   clicks : Integer; begin    Form1.Caption : IntToStr(clicks) ;    clicks : clicks 1; end; We are now using an uninitialized variable for the clicks counter. Notice that weird value in the forms caption after you click on the button. Constant Typed Constants You have to agree that idea of modifiable constants sounds a bit strange. In 32 bit versions of Delphi Borland decided to discourage their use, but support them for Delphi 1 legacy code. We can enable or disable Assignable typed constants on the Compiler page of the Project Options dialog box. If youve disabled Assignable typed constants for a given project, when you attempt to compile previous code Delphi will give you Left side cannot be assigned to error upon compilation. You can, however, create assignable typed constant by declaring: {$J} const clicks : Integer 1; {$J-} Therefore, the first example code looks like: procedure TForm1.Button1Click(Sender: TObject) ; const {$J}   Ã‚   clicks : Integer 1; //not a true constant {$J-} begin    Form1.Caption : IntToStr(clicks) ;    clicks : clicks 1; end; Conclusion Its up to you to decide whether you want typed constants to be assignable or not. The important thing here is that besides ideal for counters, typed constants are ideal for making components alternately visible or invisible, or we can use them for switching between any Boolean properties. Typed constants can also be used inside TTimers event handler to keep track of how many times even has been triggered.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Response Connections to Current Events Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Response Connections to Current Events - Essay Example Zakaria goes on to say that, "The Bill of Rights, after all, is a list of things that the government may not do, regardless of the wishes of the majority. Of America's three branches of government, The Supreme Court is headed by nine unelected men and women with life tenure." Zakaria has a point that the men and women in charge of one of America's highest offices must be elected. It is too much to expect the elected representatives to handle offices of the land that count among the best not only in the United States but among the best in the world. At least the election process of these gentlemen and ladies in the United States' Supreme Court must be more broad based that what it is today. Fareed Zakaria quotes specific instances and relates them to the illiberal way they are handled in democratic setup. His favorite democratic setups are the United States and Western Europe. His arguments have their due weight. Too much democracy becomes a punishment rather than a remedy. If democracy has to operate in a liberal environment, then it must per se allow its populace the maximum liberty which also provides security and choice. But Zakaria has said that "the tension between constitutional liberalism and democracy centers on the scope of governmental authority. Constitutional liberalism is about the limitation of power, democracy is about its accumulation and use." The contradiction is clear. Just like there is no such thing like a free lunch, there is such an issue begging notice that democracy is not the glittering gold that it is being offered as. Even in times of election the party offering maximum benefits quite often wins the show. The process of democracy is a tragedy being played out day in and out, and nobody is there to attempt to correct, modify or stop the show. If the process of democracy cannot work in places like Pakistan and Afghanistan, it is a telling commentary about the frailty of democracy as a system (US, UK express concern over terror safe haven in Pak, Afghanistan). Zakaria may not have offered feasible remedies to the malaise. However, he has pointed out anomalies that exist in the most democratic societies in the world. What's more He has pointed out that ironically democracy exists because of these anomalies. Evidence to support my argument First of all, let me make it clear I am not making common cause with Fareed Zakaria. I wish democracy all the best and hope it prospers wherever it exists. But just take a look at what is happening in some of the best democratic countries in the world. Let us take a look at the United States. President Obama and Vice President Biden have the issues of combating employment discrimination, expand hate crimes statutes, end deceptive voting practices, end racial profiling, reduce crime recidivism by providing ex-offender support, eliminate sentencing disparities, and expand use of drug courts (Civil Rights). I do not wish to denigrate the United States.

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

EMBA 560 Executive position week 1 discussion 1 Essay

EMBA 560 Executive position week 1 discussion 1 - Essay Example Not too long afterward, traditional consensus shifted from the belief of a predestined leader to the idea that there were natural-born leaders – that is, individuals who have the natural traits that are associated with good leaders. The concept of ‘leadership’ shifted at this point, from the view that leaders were great people who defended their people during wartime, to the concept of leaders who competently acted as stewards of their people. Leaders were thought to be virtuous, gifted, and had a charismatic appeal that won over people’s loyalty and adulation. The problem with the leadership traits theory is that the good leader eventually was though to possess all the possible positive qualities (and none of the negative qualities), which is an impossible proposition (Ledlow & Coppola, 2010). With the coming of scientific management, it became generally accepted that leaders can be trained and developed. This is the skills approach, indicating that people who are trained at leadership skills (technical, human relations, and conceptual) can become good leaders. Simultaneous with this is the leadership style theory, which categorizes a leader as autocratic, democratic, charismatic, bureaucratic, laissez-faire, and a host of other styles. While leadership skills are the capabilities with which an individual functions in the duties of leadership, leadership styles pertains to how the leader relates to his followers. Insofar as ‘skills’ are viewed as talents, then it may be said that talents help make a leader, although not to the exclusion of other factors. More recently, leadership has been viewed as falling into two general categories – transactional and transformational. A transactional leader deals with followers on a transaction basis, that is, if the follower does what is expected, he gets a reward. A transformational leader, though, brings lasting change to his followers so that they are motivated to perform a ccording to expectation. References: Bass, B M & Bass, R (2009) The Bass Handbook of Leadership: Theory, Research, and Managerial Applications, Fourth edition. New York, NY: Free Press, Simon & Schuster, Inc. Ledlow, G R & Coppola, M N (2010) Leadership for Health Professionals: Theory, Skills and Applications. Sudbury, MA: Jones and Bartlett Publishers, Inc Waite, M R (2008) Fire Service Leadership: Theories and Practices. International Association of Fire Chiefs. Sudbury, MA: Jones and Bartlett Publishers, Inc. 2. In your opinion and experience, what do you believe to be the most important role / duty of an executive. Off the cuff, I (and many others, I would imagine) would feel that the most important role of an executive would be to reach the goal (of the organization) and to maintain the peace. Ultimately, that is the goal of all leaders, particularly in the matter of attaining the objective. That would be fine in the case of short-term projects, where there is a singular objec tive, a definite start and end, and a fixed lifespan. In a continuing undertaking, however, the objective is recurring and people in the organization are made to work together over a long – theoretically an infinite – period of time. In this case, leadership takes on a more profound role, that of motivator for his many followers. From my experience, the best way for a leader to motivate his/her followers is not only to articulate a goal for them, but to provide them with a vision that they can assimilate in their

Sunday, November 17, 2019

Evaluate the Possible Ways to Market a New Business Essay Example for Free

Evaluate the Possible Ways to Market a New Business Essay For my business studies coursework, my new business will be a Junior Tennis Academy for talented tennis players aged 3-18. Its name will be named after where it is based, at St Georges College, Weybridge. Therefore its name will be The Weybridge Tennis Academy. It will provide top coaching for young talent, as well as providing state of the art facilities which include four indoor tennis courts, three artificial clay, eight acrylic and three grass courts, as well as a gym where the players can train to help get fitter and stronger to help give them that physical edge over their competitors. We offer these services because tournaments are played on many different surfaces and we need to train our players to the highest possible standard. We also offer a re-stringing service at extremely competitive prices as well as official Weybridge Tennis Academy merchandise supplied by a top sports company, which is available for purchase at a discounted price. These facilities will help the business because Tennis Parents will see that our company has better facilities for their child than another tennis academy down the road. Tennis is a very expensive sport, so therefore our business is not only aimed at the players playing, but also the parents paying. Tennis parents are notoriously pushy people and they are usually quite well off, so therefore the more facilities we can offer, the more likely they will come to us. Usually, when money isnt a factor, people go for the best product, and by offering so many facilities, we have that competitive advantage over our competitors. With our location being in Weybridge, we automatically have good transport links, such as the M25 and Addlestone and Weybridge train stations. This will target all people living in and around London. London is the biggest city in Britain, so therefore we have many more potential customers compared to a tennis academy in for example Northumberland. My business aim is to fill a gap in the market. It will meet a demand for a Tennis academy open to all standards, rather than one where you have to be invited to join. For example the National Tennis Centre at Roehampton, a 32 million pound facility is only open to players who have been invited. The Weybridge Tennis Academy is open to young players of all standards but with the same facilities as the National Tennis Centre. Therefore many more players will pass through the doors of my academy because it is open to a wider range of players. This will then lead to my business making a profit because there is not any other competition in the local area. During this coursework I will need to investigate the potential market and location to enable me to situate my business in the best possible location to help make as much profit as possible. I will also have to research the local competition to identify my main competitors and the buying habits of the local consumers to see what they look for most when investing in a product. The importance of Marketing Marketing is selling the right product, at the right place, at the right time and at the right place. The marketing mix, sometimes known as the four Ps is used to describe the key elements that a consumer wants and needs when buying a new product. I will need to find out what a consumer looks for, and make sure I find the right elements to help make my business successful. My business has to offer the customer a better thing than the local competition otherwise my business will fail. This means that my business will have to offer the customer something that no other tennis academy offers in the local area. This is because obviously if every academy offered the same thing as my business my business would have no competitive edge which will lead to failure. The Weybridge Tennis Academy needs to offer the customer what they want and need. This will then identify the first stage of the marketing mix which is product. The second stage of the, marketing mix is place. Place means how the customers are going to access my academy. There are many factors affecting this decision. It has to be in a place where customers can easily get to, as well as somewhere where there are many potential customers. My business will be situated in St Georges College, Weybridge (hence the name of the business). By being in Weybridge, there are many convenient transport links, such as the M25 or Weybridge or Addlestone train station. Addlestone train station is in fact situated less than a mile away from the centre, which means that there are many good transport links. This will then draw customers in from all around London and the South East. The third section of the Marketing Mix is Price. The Price is how much the product is being sold for. The price is very important to any business because it is normally one of the first things to be looked at when a consumer is considering buying a product. The customer has to think that the business is good value for money, and by comparing the prices of local competition, I will come up with an appropriate pricing method for my business. It is important that I take into account how much the business has cost to build because obviously if the expenditure is higher than the income, I will have made a loss rather than a profit There are many pricing strategies available to me, for instance cost plus pricing, which means setting a price by adding a fixed amount or percentage to the cost of making the product. This means that however much I spend on my Tennis Academy; I will add a percentage of money to this amount and charge the customers that amount. By doing this, I will always make a profit because I will be getting my money back on the expenditure, plus an added amount. The second pricing strategy I could use is to set a price based on competitors pricing. This means that I would look at the price of my competitors product and I would make that cheaper or better value to help make customers buy into my product. The fourth and final section of the Marketing Mix is the promotion. Promotion means how your product is shown to the customer, obviously if the customer does not know the business is there they cannot buy it. One example of this is advertising. There are many ways of promoting a business; it could be through a newspaper, television, internet and radio. These are examples of advertising through the media. Another way of promoting your business is through merchandising. This is a crucial way that I plan to promote my business through players buying official Weybridge Tennis Academy Merchandise, wearing it to tournaments and promoting the company through people seeing the companies name or logo on a back of a players shirt. Most players at my academy will be competing against players from other academies. This is a way of promoting because other players will see the companys logo and the tennis parents may well look into the possibility of sending their child to my academy. However ways such as sales promotion, which could include special offers, price discounts or free gifts, would not be appropriate because my business is looking for long term customer rather than short term customers. To get the best results I will conduct numerous experiments and research which will help me to find what the customers want and need. I will conduct questionnaires, surveys and interviews with other people finding out what they look for in investing in a tennis academy. I will also research statistics such as the number of competing juniors in the south east and also the amount of tennis academies in that area. This will then help me gain a competitive advantage over my competitors. Market Research Market Research is used by a business to try and find out what people want and also what competitors and doing and planning. Market Research helps find out who the customers are, whether they will like the product, how the business can be promoted, how much the customers willing to pay, what type of customer will be interested, how the profile of the customers can be built, whether the business is in the right location and how the products will be distributed. There are two main ways of conducting research. Field/Primary research is used to find out new information, and Desk/Secondary research is useful for looking at an entire market, and analysing trends for future reference. I will use both to research how my business can best achieve its goals and how it can beat competitors to getting customers. Field/Primary research is the process of manually entering the population and asking first hand questions. The advantage of using this method is that it is specific to my business, meaning that it is up to date and relevant. This means that I can ask any questions on any subject, and receive answers that are highly relevant and suitable for my research. There are many techniques which can be used, such as surveys, questionnaires and interviews. I believe that by conducting the research in the area where my business will be situated, I will achieve the most relevant and suitable results. However, to ensure that the data is accurate you need to use large field samples which can be expensive and very time consuming. Desk research is useful for looking at an entire market, whilst analysing past trends for future reference. For example I would have to look at the trends of tennis academies across Britain. Desk research has already been researched and accessed by other companies, so it therefore already exists and therefore it takes no time to conduct or find the data you want. The data can be accessed through the internet, newspapers, government records and market research. Desk research is good because it is easy to obtain and it is cheap. The disadvantage is that it is not specific or relevant to your business. It can also be biased or out of date which severely affects the reliability. I will try and collect Qualitative data so I can then see exactly what people want, as well as their thoughts and feelings. This will then help me know what customers want which will help me gain an edge over the competitors. I will do this by interviewing a select amount of people and finding out what they look for in a tennis academy. The questions asked will be based on how much people will pay, how the location will affect their decision and once again what they look for when investing in a tennis academy. After I have found out the information, I will access it and make it relevant to my business. By knowing what customers look for in a company, I will know what to include when I am trying to promote my business. For instance if a lot of people want indoor courts to make sure that it can never be cancelled or so that there child can play all year round, I will make sure that the fact that my academy has indoor courts is highly publicised. Also, by knowing what customers want, I will have an advantage over my competitors. Evaluation Number of Competing Juniors: Berkshire-149 Essex-343 Hampshire-274 Kent-338 Middlesex-450 Surrey-536 Total number of competing juniors in the south east-2090 Information obtained from www.lta.org.uk Juniors includes all players born in 1990 Tennis academies in the south east: Clive Asprey Tennis Academy-Aldershot Sutton Junior Tennis Centre The National Tennis Centre-Roehampton Win Tennis-Bisham Abbey Esporta-Croydon Westway-London These are all TENNIS ACADEMIES this does not include any LAWN TENNIS CLUBS. Lawn tennis clubs are open to any people and are therefore not relevant to my business. These academies are my main competitors because it is invitational only. There are roughly 2000 competing juniors in the South East and there are six tennis academies (not including my academy) in this area. Therefore on average there are around 300 children to every academy. Obviously this would not be the case in reality but it gives a good idea of the Academy/Player Ratio. INFORMATION OBTAINED BY WWW.YELL.COM 1st Interview 1) What are the 3 main things that you look for in a tennis academy? The three main things I look for are the ability for the academy to get my child to its full potential, therefore I know that I am paying for excellence and I know my moneys being put to good use. The ability to play all year round is very important because I therefore know that sessions can never be cancelled due to weather and my child can therefore train all year round. Lastly the coaches have to be highly qualified and I would like to know a bit about them so I know that they can emphasize with players when they are going through tough times. 2) How would the location affect your decision of where to send your child? There would have to be good roads such as motorways because obviously I dont want to be travelling all the time. Also if my child is of an age that he could travel on his own, I would like there to be easy to access buses and trains for him/her to use. 3) How important is the cost of the tennis academy? I wouldnt mind paying a lot of money as long as the results were shown. Also if I had a younger child, I would want to pay less at first until I see that he/she was improving and that he was committed. As he/she improves I would be more inclined to pay more. 2nd Interview 1) What are the three main things you look for in a tennis academy? I would firstly look at the academys credentials, for instance its results of members, and the proof of its results. It would also have to be good value for money, so therefore I would need to be seeing an improvement in my childs progress. Also the location is important because I dont wish to be travelling all the time. 2) Why is the location an important factor in choosing where to send your child? I have got a busy life and I dont wish to be travelling all across the countryside after Ive had a long day at work. It has to be easy to attend so therefore good transport links are vital. 3) How important is the cost of the tennis academy? Obviously there is the factor of whether it can be afforded but the price is not important. I would have to see that my money is being put to good use so therefore the investment has to match the progress. 3rd Interview 1) What are the three main things you look for in a tennis academy? I look at the facilities of the academy, for instance whether it has indoor courts. I would also like to know the standard of the players that attend the academy and the background of the coaches. The attitude and the atmosphere of the academy are crucial because I have to know where I am sending my child. 2) Is the location an important factor in choosing where to send your child? Obviously I dont want to be travelling too much and it has to be reasonably local otherwise well spend more time travelling than actually playing. Also I dont want to be paying a fortune for the transport fees, for instance petrol or train/bus fares on top of the price of attending the academy. 3) Is the cost important? The cost is obviously very important otherwise our whole life would be being run by tennis. I would prefer to pay less at the start and once I have seen an improvement or a commitment start to increase the price. Evaluation of Questionnaires: I have found out that what most people want is value for money. This means that however much they put in, they want out. This therefore means that the more they pay, the bigger the improvement in their childs ability they would expect to see. Therefore I think I will give special offers to new customers, such as they get the first term half price so that they know that it is what their child wants to do and also if they do not see an improvement they have the opportunity to pull out. This was suggested to the people that I interviewed and it seemed a popular idea. Secondly, they found the factor of indoor courts crucial as that meant they could play all year round. As my academy would have this facility, this is a good thing, however many other academies have indoor courts and this therefore does not separate us from our competitors. Many people thought that the location was an important factor. Many parents have busy lives and they do not wish to be travelling all over the place. My academy is situated in a place with good public transport links, there are two train stations within two miles of the academy, and it is situated two miles from the M25. This was once again explained to the interviewees and they seemed to be in favour of the placement of my academy. Many people didnt mind about the cost of the academy, as long as they saw the results. This was touched upon earlier and I will use a penetration pricing method, which means that I will make the price quite low at the start to try and draw customers in and then increase it as they see an improvement. This was a major aspect that the people that I interviewed would look for in tennis academy and this will help me gain that competitive advantage. Overall the research I conducted was extremely useful as it told me what customers wanted and needed, as well as giving me statistics that would help me gain a bit more knowledge in this type of business. I found out the amount of competing juniors in the south east, as well as the number of academies. It also told me how customers felt, for instance about the price and location of the academy. The information I have found out will help me in making the decisions about the academy, such as the pricing, structure and promotion of the business. Conclusion/Judgement Overall I believe that my tennis academy will work. There are six full time academies in the South East, not including my one, and there are over two thousand regularly competing juniors in the same area. This means that the ratio of Academies/Players is 6:300. Obviously in reality some academies have more players than others because of reputation, facilities, transport and cost. My academy has state of the art facilities, as explained earlier. It is also situated in a place where there are good channels of distribution and good transport links. This means that customers will be attracted because it is easy to get to. The cost will be determined by a Penetration Pricing Method. This means that my prices will be low for new customers, so that parents then know that their child is improving, or enjoying the experience. Most parents interviewed wanted their money to be payed back through improvement of their childs development. Therefore if I charge low prices at the start, for instance half price for your first term, and the child makes a big improvement, the parent is more likely to want to pay more from then on. If the child does not improve, the parent will then be giving the option of continuing with the programme. This will then help company/customer relations. This will then help my academies reputation, which will then attract more customers. As my academies reputation builds, more profit will come in and we can start charging higher prices. To help promote my academy, I will seek sponsorship from sports companies such as NIKE, Adidas, Wilson, Babolat, Prince, Head, Dunlop, TTK and Lacoste. I will also sell official Academy merchandise such as training kit, match play kit, and tracksuits which will be worn to tournaments by players and other players will see them. This is a way of free advertising as the children/parents would be paying for the kit and wearing it around showing it off to other players and parents. I will also look to gain funding from the Lawn Tennis Association who gives funding to academies that have regularly competing juniors. These are called Satellite Clubs and they are given funding which helps pay for the costs of balls, rackets and other training equipment. As my academy builds in reputation, I will look to gain more funding which will help me make more profit. Overall there is a lot of potential in this product. I believe that people will be attracted to my product because of the facilities, meaning the product itself; the price, meaning that I will make it cheaper at the start to draw customers in; the promotion, for instance the official merchandise that will be seen in tournaments; and finally the place; meaning the channels of distribution. This will attract customers because of where it situated, meaning that it is easy to get to. However my tennis academy does have a lot of competition, which means that I will have to use the knowledge that I found out through the market research to help gain the competitive advantage over my rivals.

Thursday, November 14, 2019

The Ending of Franz Kafkas Metamorphosis :: Metamorphosis essays

The Ending of Franz Kafka's Metamorphosis At first glance, the final four pages of Franz Kafka's novel The Metamorphosis seem to be meaningless. This assumption, however, is anything but the truth. The final four pages, although seeming to be of no importance, serve to show the reader how the Samsa family changes as a result of the main character's, Gregor Samsa's, death. The family's changes are best exemplified in two different scenes: the scene at the kitchen table, and the scene on the trolley. During the scene at the kitchen table, there is a common change among the family members: their new willingness to do things independently. Their bold act of writing "letters of excuse" is a clear example of their new independence. Prior to Gregor's death, the family relied completely on Gregor's financial support and had little in terms of responsibilities. Kafka explains this lack of work when he writes, "they [Gregor's parents] had formed the conviction that Gregor was set for life in his firm . . . they were so preoccupied with their immediate troubles that they had lost all consideration for the future,"(17). By taking the initiative and writing to their employers, Gregor's family proves that they no longer depend on Gregor. The scene at the kitchen table proves revealing once again when Mr. Samsa announces that he will fire the cleaning lady (17). By doing so, Mr. Samsa demonstrates that he has changed and can take responsibility. Grete (Gregor's sister) and Mrs. Samsa also show that they have changed by not contesting Mr. Samsa's decision to fire the cleaning lady. In retrospect, firing the cleaning lady is an additional step towards change from the past. The second revealing scene is the scene on the trolley. In this scene, Kafka reveals the family's plans for the future, as well as the significant changes in Grete. He also emphasizes that leaving the apartment together is "something they [the family] had not done in months"(58). Demonstrating again their change to independence. Similarly, the family's plan to buy a "smaller and cheaper apartment" (58) further proves that they have become independent. Kafka's remarks pertaining to Grete reveal a different kind of change. During all of the turmoil involving Gregor, Grete matured both physically and mentally.

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

“Me Talk Pretty One Day” by David Sedaris Essay

Write an essay (900-1200 words) in which you analyse and comment on David Sedaris’ essay â€Å"Me Talk Pretty One Day†. Part of your essay must focus on the writer’s tone and on the attitude to learning foreign languages that is explored in the text. Text â€Å"Me Talk Pretty One Day†, an essay by David Sedaris, 2005. The essay â€Å"Me Talk Pretty One Day† is an essay about a guy learning a foreign language, written by David Sedaris. The main character(David) moved from New York to France, to learn the language. As he first moved to France, he was excited. He would not mind talking to people and having a conversation with them on French, but that changed after he had his first class. The writer’s tone is calm. He does not seem as a guy who has any injustice towards anyone, basically he seems like a decent guy. But as he turns up at his first class, his appearance changes and so does his reflections. He does certainly not like his teacher. He mentions; â€Å"The teacher killed some time accusing the Yugoslavian girl of masterminding a program of genocide, and I jotted frantic notes in the margins of my pad.† The sentence â€Å"The teacher killed some time accusing the Yugoslavian girl† says something about his thoughts about her. By saying that she was killing some time of accusing a girl of something, he shows a negative side about her. He does not mention any good-related thing about her at all. He definitely dislikes his teacher, and he comments her ways of teaching, in his own mind. He explains how ignorant she is. He mentions that she accidentally poked a girl in the eye with a pen, but according to the teacher, it was the girls own fault. David, the writer does not want to be humiliated by her. As she â€Å"kills† time humiliating the other students. David wants to prepare himself for the worst case scenario, so that he might get the opportunity to not be humiliated and stepped on, in front of his new class-mates, and especially his new teacher. Ex; â€Å"I took to spending four hours a night on my homework, putting in even more time whenever we were assigned an essay. I suppose I could have gotten by with less, but I was determined to create some sort of identity for myself: David the hard worker.† He wanted to create a new identity for himself. He mentions the â€Å"hard worker†.

Saturday, November 9, 2019

American influence to world war

The First World War or the Great War was primarily a global conflict that was fought in Europe from 1914 to 1918. Some nations were actively involved in this war and among them were Britain and France. All this long America had not being involved in this war . They sought to remain neutral. They had the intentions of being silent both in deeds and thoughts . As a matter of fact, in December 1916 the then president of America Woodrow Wilson had offered himself as a mediator in this European conflict. This idea of being neutral did not go for long following a series of events that were going on between 1915 and 1917.The Americans lost their lives when German submarine warfare declared the â€Å"sinking of ships tradition†. The most hurting was the attack on May 7, 1915 against Lusitanian ship when 128 Americans perished. This broke the relationship between the Americans and Germans. One of the factors that led to joining in this war was President Wilson’s idealism. He per suaded the congress to declare war on Germany . He argued that western civilization could be destroyed or hampered thus his announcement â€Å"war to end wars† This was taken to mean that his intention was to create a ground for peace building and prevention of catastrophic future wars.According to Wilson, the way out to resolving these disputes could only be attributed to issues like ,general association by nations that would form international associations of nations to preach peace for example the league of nations, The Turkish People of Ottoman empire were to become a sovereign. He also looked forward to seeing integrity being granted to Romania, Montenegro, Serbia and Balkan states at the same time Serbia to be given the freedom to use the Adriatic Sea. He wanted the freedom to the seas and free trade. The Italian borders were to be redrawn on lines of nationality.Wilson wanted the abolishment of secret treaties . Another key factor for joining the war was the economic i nterests. As these conflicts went on, the Americans were eying on it. It was becoming clear that the British-French alliance was at the verge of loosing the war to the Germans. Their anxiety was attributed to the fact that the Americans were fully involved in financing them. As observed earlier, the turning point for waging war on the Germans was when they declared the â€Å"unrestricted warfare on submarines† in January 1917. The trading business ties between the Americans and other central powers had a negative impact.It was at this point that Americans declared war but there was nothing to do with naval policy as perceived to be. It was about the safe guarding of their economic investment and trade rather than protecting the poor Americans. In another perspective, due to Americans neutral stand, their businessmen were in a position to trade with both sides and got large profits. They were trading with both the Germans and other super powers like the British and French. (Vi ncent Joseph 2003) As the war went on and continued the private European business and the British government and its allies bought more and more American weapons and non-military goods.To pay for them, they had to borrow money from American financiers since they had exhausted their resources. This made them earn lots of wealth. Before the World War 1, majority of the American exports went overseas in foreign ships. Unfortunatery when British entered into war, the British navy blocked German ships from conducting and engaging in international trade. The German Navy also halted the British and allied from shipping. This resulted to decrease in the number of ships available for freight and consequently increase in cost of shipping goods.This made American exporters find it difficult to conduct their business as usual . They reiterated by joining the war with an aim of ending this stalemate. (Allan R Millet2001) America was also influenced to join the war against the Germans by pressure from domestic propaganda campaigns. This was executed by a committee on public information. These propagandas were being conducted by many government committee community leaders who were giving pro-war speeches in many public gatherings. There were private and government vigilante groups that were involved like; the American Protective League.There was a general harassment and repression on those opposed to Americans joining the war. There were also other forms and means of propagating propaganda and among them were; large print posters, photos, newsreels, magazines and newspapers among other methods. Americans were also influenced to join in the war due to the issue of German Naval policy. In 1917 Germany returned to the policy of unrestricted warfare on submarine. This policy was first introduced in 1915. This naval policy declared the area in the British Isles a war zone.This meant that the ships trading along these waters and those of neutral states would be attacked by the nav al. There were chains of attacks on ships that led to the sinking of the British ship,Lusitania by a German U_boat. Despite the fact that this ship was carrying military equipment and was rather meant for passengers only did not hider the then president of America Woodrow Wilson to declare war on Germany in 1917(Allan R Millet ,2001) In conclusion, the German Naval policy stipulated that, whenever an American ship was found on the Atlantic Ocean and be suspected to be providing military equipment to the British would be destroyed.The economic interest of the American was to open the trade-links especially in Europe. However, this could not happen because the German U-boats were destroying ships including the Lusitanian which made America join the war. Work cited Allan R Millet, Military effectiveness in First World War, Oxford University Press. (2001) Albert Edward, McKinley World War I McKinley Publishers, London (2002) Vincent Joseph, A concise History of World War I, Oxford Unive rsity Press, London, (2003).

Thursday, November 7, 2019

Open University Malaysia †Graduate School Essay

Open University Malaysia – Graduate School Essay Free Online Research Papers I was born in Tawau, Sabah in 1972. I attended my primary and secondary school in Tawau, Sabah before continuing my education at Kolej Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kuala Lumpur in 1991. Upon graduation in 1996, I joined American International Assurance Company Ltd (AIA), Kuala Lumpur and was assigned to the Group Management Department as an Administration Executive. I have been working with AIA until June1999 and decided to left Kuala Lumpur after secured a job as Administrator in Expojuta Trading Sdn Bhd in Kota Kinabalu. In March 2002, I left Expojuta Trading Sdn Bhd and formed Bluetech Sdn Bhd, a company dealing with telecommunication products and services. In 2004, I bought over Pinnacle Communications Sdn Bhd and it become 100% fully own subsidiary of Bluetech Sdn Bhd. I was too concentrated and focus on my career at that time until I didn’t complete my full course under the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators. I was married in 2002 and had a child at the age of five now. During my semester break, I always strive to improve myself by taking various part time jobs in Kuala Lumpur as I believe that working experience gained from corporate world would be able to keep me in touch with the latest business trends and movements so as not to lag behind. In addition, I took up a correspondence course from Chung Hwa Correspondence School in Taiwan in 1994 and completed four subjects at their Department of Commerce. I was a student in The Institute of Chartered Secretaries Administrators since 1993 and completed 16 subjects. I take an active role in various societies in Kolej Tunku Abdul Rahman. I was elected as Vice Chairman in Sabah Sarawak Students Society in 1991/92. I provide many assistance to students especially those who are from Sabah and Sarawak in term of accommodation and transportation arrangement. I was a member of The Fund Raising Sub-Committee in Business Management Society in 1994/95. As a member of the Fund Raising Team, I learned how to work as a team and different method of fund raising. Being a young entrepreneur in order to stay competitive and responsive in today’s changing business world, I need to continually enhance my managerial skills and update my industrial knowledge. After well-thought out, I decided to pursue Master Of Business Administration programme (MBA) offer by Open University Malaysia. In order to gain entrance to the said programme through open entry, I was required to prepare a Portfolio Assessment. I believe that learning is a life long process and should not end after leaving school. After several years working in managerial level, I realized and concluded that I need integrating skills in my personality as well as in the work I do. I am confident that I can gain business decision making skills and turning my business concepts into realities through MBA programme. As the programme is flexible, I can study at my own pace without having to put my business or career on hold. I believe my working experience and former education do qualify me for the programme. I am self discipline, innovative, proactive and able to manage my time well. I proud myself as few local operators who providing encrypted two way radio communications network to users in Sabah since 2004. I plan to complete this programme in two years. I would like to see myself be more professional competence after two years. 2.0 CAREER AND ACADEMIC GOAL After graduation, I have been working with American International Assurance (AIA), the most trusted insurance company in Malaysia according to the survey conduct by Time and Fortune magazines. I have been assigned to lead Billing Section and supervise a team of five clerical staffs. I learned how to manage departmental backlog, administrative procedures and to ensure day to day operation of the Billing Section are productive and efficient. In 1997, I was awarded a special salary adjustment in recognition to my positive contributions to the Company. After returned to Sabah in July 1999, I worked as Administrator in a trading company where I can see a better picture of managing business as a whole. I learned marketing strategies, account and administration procedures as well as policy making. Being an Administrator, I worked with my team to complete four years company account within three months and get it ready for audit. I further introduced and implement computerize credit control s ystem in order to enhance debtors control and minimize bad debts. I always wanted to start my own business in technology related industries. After acquiring necessary business network, management and marketing skills, in 2001, I formed Bluetech Sdn Bhd, a company specialize in providing telecommunication products and services. I acquired Pinnacle Communications Sdn Bhd in 2004 as both Bluetech and Pinnacle Communications offering similar services in Sabah. I have three staffs work together with me to manage the company. I provide two way radio and walkie-talkie services to users in Sabah. I found that Global System for Mobile (GSM) network coverage in Sabah generally is still very limited especially in the remote area for example in Kuamut ,Pinangah and Tongod. As such, two way radio communication networks will able to close this gap and providing alternative way of communication to the users. I planned to further improve my existing two way radio communication network in Sabah to become multisite roaming in late 2008 in order to enhance network flexibility. As for oversea expansion program, I planned to set up a repeater station at Philiphine in year 2009 as we are geographically near to each other and necessary resources are readily available. Further more, the demand for alternative way of communication is huge and the market is still untap. I decided to take up Master Of Business Administration offer by OUM as I believe this programme will be able to enhance my strategic decision making skill and reinforce my organizational skills. With this programme, it will give me the competitive edge to go far in my future business development. I am confident that I will be able to complete this programme within two years. Research Papers on Open University Malaysia - Graduate School EssayAnalysis of Ebay Expanding into AsiaStandardized TestingLifes What IfsDefinition of Export QuotasTrailblazing by Eric AndersonInfluences of Socio-Economic Status of Married MalesThe Project Managment Office SystemRiordan Manufacturing Production PlanPersonal Experience with Teen PregnancyTwilight of the UAW

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

Sarah Parker Remond, African American Abolitionist

Sarah Parker Remond, African American Abolitionist Known for: African American abolitionist, women’s rights advocate Dates: June 6, 1826 – December 13, 1894 About Sarah Parker Remond Sarah Parker Remond was born in 1826 in Salem, Massachusetts.   Her maternal grandfather, Cornelius Lenox, fought in the American Revolution. Sarah Remond’s mother, Nancy Lenox Remond, was a baker who married John Remond.   John was a Curaà §aon immigrant and hairdresser who became a citizen of the United States in 1811, and he became active in the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society in the 1830s.   Nancy and John Remond had at least eight children. Family Activism Sarah Remond had six sisters. Her older brother, Charles Lenox Remond, became an antislavery lecturer, and influenced Nancy, Caroline and Sarah, among the sisters, to become active in anti-slavery work.   They belonged to the Salem Female Anti-Slavery Society, founded by black women including Sarah’s mother in 1832. The Society hosted prominent abolitionist speakers, including William Lloyd Garrison and Wendell Williams. The Remond children attended public schools in Salem, and experienced discrimination because of their color.   Sarah was refused admission to Salem’s high school. The family moved to Newport, Rhode Island, where the daughters attended a private school for African American children. In 1841, the family returned to Salem. Sarah’s much-older brother Charles attended the 1840 World Anti-Slavery Convention in London with others including William Lloyd Garrison, and was among the American delegates who sat in the gallery to protest the refusal of the convention to seat women delegates including Lucretia Mott and Elizabeth Cady Stanton.   Charles lectured in England and Ireland, and in 1842, when Sarah was sixteen, she lectured with her brother in Groton, Massachusetts. Sarahs Activism When Sarah attended a performance of the opera Don Pasquale at the Howard Athenaeum in Boston in 1853 with some friends, they refused to leave a section reserved for whites only.   A policeman came to eject her, and she fell down some stairs.   She then sued in a civil suit, winning five hundred dollars and an end to segregated seating at the hall. Sarah Remond met Charlotte Forten in 1854 when Charlotte’s family sent her to Salem where the schools had become integrated. In 1856, Sarah was thirty, and was appointed an agent touring New York to lecture on behalf of the American Anti-Slavery Society with Charles Remond, Abby Kelley and her husband Stephen Foster, Wendell Phillips, Aaron Powell, and Susan B. Anthony. Living in England In 1859 she was in Liverpool, England, lecturing in Scotland, England and Ireland for two years.   Her lectures were quite popular. She included in her lectures references to the sexual oppression of women who were enslaved, and how such behavior was in the economic interest of the enslavers. She visited William and Ellen Craft while in London. When she tried to get a visa from the American legate to visit France, he claimed that under the Dred Scott decision, she was not a citizen and thus he could not grant her a visa. The next year, she enrolled in college in London, continuing her lectures during school holidays. She remained in England during the American Civil War, participating in efforts to persuade the British not to support the Confederacy.   Great Britain was officially neutral, but many feared that their connection to the cotton trade would mean they’d support the Confederate insurrection. She supported the blockade that the United States put up to prevent goods reaching or leaving the rebelling states. She became active in the Ladies’ London Emancipation Society. At the end of the war, she raised funds in Great Britain to support the Freedman’s Aid Association in the United States. As the Civil War was ending, Great Britain faced a rebellion in Jamaica, and Remond wrote in opposition to British harsh measures to end the rebellion, and accused the British of acting like the United States. Return to the United States Remond returned to the United States, where she joined with the American Equal Rights Association to work for equal suffrage for women and African Americans. Europe and Her Later Life She returned to England in 1867, and from there traveled to Switzerland and then moved to Florence, Italy.   Not much is known of her life in Italy.   She married in 1877; her husband was Lorenzo Pintor, an Italian man, but the marriage apparently did not last long. She may have studied medicine. Frederick Douglass refers to a visit with the Remonds, probably including Sarah and two of her sisters, Caroline and Maritche, who also moved to Italy in 1885.   She died in Rome in 1894 and was buried there in the Protestant cemetery.

Sunday, November 3, 2019

Change On Management Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Change On Management - Research Paper Example The biggest challenge of every leading organization in the world is to manage and overcome the speed of change. This research paper will analyze and discuss about the optimum implementation of approach method to overcome and manage resistance to change. The change in every organization has become a vital and inevitable factor. The integral component of successful organization is adaptation to the change in the technology, new processes and eventually managing the change. Coca-Cola is one of the most popular and global leader in beverage industry. The competition of Coca-Cola Company is with PepsiCo. The market completion of Coca-Cola Company is both nationally and internationally. The resistance towards change in organization has become pivotal factor and main reason for failure of many organizations. A survey conducted states that employee resistance towards change in organization affected 60% of the reengineering projects. The change management implemented by Coca-Cola Company is to motivate the employees. Intrinsic values and motivational factor provided to employees is also known as the employee engagement. The focal point of Coca-Cola Company is to create brand relationship with every employee and bring efficiency in every sec tor. The area of improvement in Coca-Cola Company is done through the employee engagement surveys. The survey is done twice a year to know the implementation and actions required for the improvement in organization (Burke, 418). The implementation of employee engagement in Coca-Cola Company is to create more committed workforce, provides clear idea to the employees about the level of expectance and the performance of employees can be increased with the aligned of organization objectives. The aligned of company goals provided to any employee can help in waste elimination. Change management is also

Thursday, October 31, 2019

Buyers Behavior and Analsis Literature review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Buyers Behavior and Analsis - Literature review Example Several constructs initiate, maintain and prolong the consumer-product relationship. Consumer Brand Relations The relationship between consumers and brands is one of the most influential forces in marketing. This explains the vast literature on the importance, concepts and nature of the consumer brand relationship. This review of literature explains the conceptualization and significance of consumer brand relationship, as envisioned by different authors. According to Patterson and O’Malley (2006), the relationship that exists between brands and consumers emanates from the acceptance of various ideals that brands posses and that are beneficial to the consumers. The concept of consumer relationship with particular brands emanates from the intrinsic satisfaction that consumers’ gain and the fulfillment of self. There is a notable increase in literature on brand-consumer relationship over the past decade as noted by Patterson and O’Malley (2006, p.10). The high numbe r of publications on brand-consumer relationship reiterates the considerable importance of the concept of relationship in branding. In the view of Patterson and O’Malley (2006, p.10), the concept of consumer behavior can well be understood through the exploration of brand consumer relations. Brand management is among the main considerations in promoting relationship marketing that depends on stable consumer relationships. Patterson and O’Malley (2006, p.12) explains the concept of brand relationship to surpass the mere identification of a brand with a producing company but the attachment of trusts, by consumers, to a brand. Regarding the relationship, the role of brand personality is invaluable in developing the trust that consumers have towards a brand. The existence of the relationship is a factor that is dependent on the extent of the growth of the brand, itself, and the increasing level of attractiveness associated with the brand. The concept of the relationship is that it develops overtime through improvement in features that brands bear and their appeal to consumers. There are diverse types and levels of the relationship between brands and consumers, as Patterson and O’Malley (2006, p.12) outlines. They explain the explicit interrelatedness between interpersonal relations and the concept of relationship between brands and loyalty of consumers. Such relations include the characters as love and passion that individuals attach to interpersonal relations and brand loyalty. The expression of self-connection with a brand and the extent of its initiation of satisfaction constitute one of the determinants of strong consumer brand relations, according to Patterson and O’Malley (2006, p.13). Interdependence that consumers perceive to gain from a brand is among the major determinants of strong brand consumer relations. Patterson and O’Malley (2006, p.13) identify intimacy as one of the greatest constructs related to strong consume r brand relations. This refers to the extent of knowledge that consumers have on the functionality of a brand. Another construct of a strong relationship between consumers and brands is the brand partner quality that entails the attribute that consumers attribute to their preferred brands. Brand personality is

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Economic Growth Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Economic Growth - Essay Example However, the United States still displays the highest growth rate in this period as shown in the left panel of Figure 2. The rest of the world also displayed increasing growth rate, but at a much slower pace than the seven biggest economies which resulted to a wider gap between the real GDP per person among these countries as shown in the right panel of Figure 2. The rest of Asia, on the other hand, as represented by Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan South Korea, and China also showed tremendous gains in their economies as shown by their real GDP per person growth depicted in Figure 3. China, the world's newest economic superpower, showed an exponential growth in its real GDP. A question, prompted by the above, is what are the underlying causes of economic growth' Furthermore, why is it that some countries grow faster than others' Is trade a major engine of economic growth' Or is it foreign direct investments' A major goal of this paper is to debate the effectiveness foreign direct investments and trade in fostering economic growth, and in the end answer the question on whether 'developing countries are right to increasingly shift resources towards attracting foreign direct investment rather than promoting trade in their objective to achieve economic growth'' Admittedly, these questions must be answered amidst ... The shift in economic policies is often on the reallocation of economic resources to finance activities geared toward attracting foreign direct investments rather than the other needs of those nations. Figure 3 Economic Growth in Asia Source: See Figure 2 Economic theories postulate that, for economic growth to be persistent economies must pursue three activities - these activities generate ongoing economic growth: saving and investment in new capital, investment in human capital, and discovery of new technologies. From these three activities emerged different economic growth theories, however, these theories are not the topic of this reading, but rather foreign direct investments and trade. International trade promotes the development of comparative advantage in the global economy, allows for the trade of similar goods - for example, United States imports automobiles and at the same time exports other types of automobiles, the diversity of taste of people is given an outlet, and economies of scale is enhanced. Trade has a very important role in promoting and sustaining long term economic growth that foreign direct investment doesn't (Kurgman and Obsfeld; Marrewijk, Ottens and Schueller). Nonetheless, the role of foreign direct investment in the development process can not be underscored either. Hence, developing countries had shifted a considerable amount of their resources into attracting foreign direct investments or FDIs. For example, in the Sub-Saharan Africa, governments have shifted policies to attract FDIs. Fiscal holidays and tax holidays are awarded generously to investors. Moreover, investors often require that the country improve its property rights in favor of the FDI and improve

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Strategic Planning For An Information Systems Business Essay

Strategic Planning For An Information Systems Business Essay Over the past decade, the growth of information system has been tremendous. However, business organisations need to be cautious in adopting any form of technology so as to reap the benefits. They have to carefully study and decide which one is appropriate for an organisation to use. Thereby, enable any organisation to achieve its goal. Currently information systems are essential in any organisation unlike decades before. There are different types of information systems. Any company should have a clear understanding on the appropriate ones for the specific usage. Thereby, essential to have information technology experts or managers who will advice the company on what systems to use to be able to minimise costs and add value to a business organisation. More so, managers and staff would know how to accept the changes brought about by the information systems positively to enable them to work properly towards achieving the pre determined goals. The article gives an explanation as to what information system entails as pertaining to a business organisation or company and how it should be used hand in hand with the strategic planning to ensure the smooth running of any organisation and its success. It further entails and gives example of two companies and how they operate with regards to information systems and the strategic plans of a business. It is only limited to the technological aspect and the foreseen targets for the operation efficiency of an organisation, it does not incorporate other factors that enhance efficient management. Only two companies found in the UK were used to show case the study at hand. The article entails an evaluatory research of information systems and the strategic planning of two companies; Company A and Company B.Thereby, giving a basis of how the companies should use the two concurrently. It is also descriptive in the sense that it gives a clear picture on the application of eight tenets. The research in the article is interpretative in the sense that it the reader enlightens the reader on what is needed or expected to ensure efficiency on the management of information systems alongside with the strategic plans of the organisation. IMPORTANCE OF THE STUDY Strategic planning is a tool used in any business organisation to show where the organisation wants to be or achieve in future. Most strategies are either short term or long term depending on the organisation itself. However, the business world is not as it used to be due to the technological changes and advancements. In some business organisations, departments have been done away with while others have newly emerged due to computerisation. Customers are able to deal with suppliers or producers directly thus eliminating the use intermediaries as was before. Furthermore; the internet has greatly changed the business scene. It is apparent that any organisation has to do modifications so as to keep up with the ever-changing and rising demand for technology. An organisation has to be abreast with its information system so that it can know its existing competitors in the current business situation. Basically, have an overview of the current situational needs and changes of an organisation resulting into identifying the strengths and weaknesses both internally and externally and if need be correct to ensure maximum success. The article clearly emphasizes on the need of both information system and strategic planning for the operational efficiency. It clearly shows the difficulties of managing the former since planning is systematic whilst technology is not. Some companies incorporate the two differently and are still successful while others do not. All this depends on the type, size and location of the business organisation. Much as both information system and strategic planning are instilled, an organisation needs to exploit the opportunities and threats to ensure its survival and success. This study is meant to provide a framework for the use of information systems in an organisation such that it will enhance effectiveness and efficiency. In view of this, good operational efficiency does not only entail strategic planning but also involves other factors like effective management as well, so as to enhance the success of any organisation. Other factors that need to be considered to ensure the smooth running of any organisation include good employer/employee relationship, good communication among staff and so on. DEGREE OF CONTRIBUTION AND ORIGINALITY In the 80s and 90s, as a result of infrastructure development of organizational capabilities there has become a necessity to expand the concept of information systems which have strategic importance in any business organisation. Later, with the expansion of efficacy of any type of computer system led to the strategic planning of information systems to become an important issue. The priorities in a plan of the development of systems need to be identified into specific projects planned for the future. For any company, it is very important to have a business plan in the capacity of a flexible and constant development of organizational capabilities which leads not only to profit and expansion of the company, but also it is one of the foundations of stable competitive advantage. Various authors who have made a big contribution into the development of Strategic Information Systems Planning such as John Ward, Joe Peppard, Martin J., Earl MJ, and George Philip. Moreover, an important contribution in this area has been made by authors or researchers such as Samandra Pant and Cheng Hsu. They presented their work on an international conference, which was a prerequisite for the large development Strategic Information Systems Planning. Consequently, a set of different theoretical and practical researches are seen. If a parallel is drawn between the two researches, most of the fore mentioned authors rely on the theoretical basis. However, among the listed authors only George Philip uses an academic theory in practice. The importance of his work lies in the fact that he is trying to reduce the distance between the theoretical approach to business processes and application to the two companies. George Philip has made research based on related literature on Strategic Information Systems Planning thus on basis of eight tenets by showing an example of two companies in the different areas of development. In analyzing the article it can be said that the level of the research was evaluated to give a clear meaning on the usage of information systems and strategic planning concurrently. The generated work by the author shows that there was summarization of the related sources in the area and created a new direction for any business organisation to forge ahead in the ever-changing technological world. While it is very difficult to describe that the approach is original it still creates a good overview of the information and creates awareness that in information systems more or new research has to be done always to keep up with the changes in business scene to match up with technology. THEORETICAL ARGUMENT As seen 8 tenets were used to show the utilization of both the strategic plans and information systems for the success of any business organisation. The researcher tries to create a perfect model of business development on how any business organisation can be successful by use of the tenets. However, any business organisation can still be successful without following the models. Various methodologies have been put forward towards the rationale of strategic planning and information systems. Thereby, any business organisation can choose any methodology to develop their business based on their capabilities and targets. The use of eight tenets and methodologies used is a clear indication of a grounded theory whereby the underlying belief is that the data holds the clue to the explanation. In this case, the eight tenets and that the explanations are meaningful to those whose actions are being studied. (Denscombe, 2003, pg124). This is not appropriate because little scope is given to other factors that also affect the performance of a business organisation like the economic factors and social factors. RESEARCH METHODS ADOPTED There are two methodologies information systems that is impact and align methodologies (Lee and Gough, 1993; Booth and Philip, 2005). The importance of impact methodology is to achieve competitive advantage through the usage of information technology whilst the main purpose of the align methodologies is to a establish symbiosis relationship between information system strategy and objectives of the business itself. (Reich and Benbasat, 2000). It is apparent that the most prevailing planning methods are the one that take a top-down business-led approach (Premkumar and King 1994), and are designed to bring about contribution between the information systems strategy and the business strategy. Align methodology includes the exploitation strategy, which generally goes through two main stages: Top-down analysis for clarifying business needs and identifying Information System requirements. Bottom-up evaluation of already existing Information System for evaluation their effectiveness. Impact methodology includes the exploration strategy which aims to provide the strategic or competitive advantage for the business. The research analysis used in the article was qualitative method. The method, in contrast to the quantitative method which focuses on the statistical measurements, relied on the understanding, explanation and interpretation of empirical data and the sources of the formation of hypotheses and productive ideas. In simple terms, qualitative method does not respond to the questions of How much? What? How? and why?. Furthermore, in qualitative method, researches widely use projective and enabling techniques. By exposing some facts from the article, it is evident to know the applicability of the method of research used. Various authors used for research case study, questionnaires, scientific articles, text, observation , documents and thereafter, resulted into 8 tenets for information systems planning, this shows that the qualitative research method was mostly used appropriately in the research of information systems. (Orlikowski and Baroudi, 1991; Alavi and Carlson, 1992).In addition the above said confirmed the following expression that: using the case study, as a problem-solving technique, which is seldom undertaken in organisations since case studies dealing with problems similar to the one experienced by a particular organisation of a particular size and in a particular type of setting are difficult to find. More to that, Secaran (2000) suggested that the data collection methods like personal interviews within various groups in the organisation (primary data), examination of companys reports, data, academic and industry reports (secondary data) were used as an example of the qualitative research methods. The basis of research was proposed by the two strategies: exploitation strategy and exploration strategy. In the article we have used primary sources (researches); Text and empirical data for interpretation. (http://wire.rutgers.edu/research_assignments_pri_second.html) and secondary sources (researches)-Research based on the work of others. Literature that interpret or comment upon the primary sources (http://wire.rutgers.edu/research_assignments_pri_second.html). There are always two types of validity which are internal validity and external validity. The former of this was an output made by the author after the study, or the result obtained on the basis of the study. In this article, it is seen on the use of two types of strategies and review of 8 tenets for successful information systems planning. The latter refers to generalization. External validity was seen as a conclusion made by the author after the cross comparison of the case study of the two companies. It is not clear enough whether to talk on the internal and external actions of the case, although the primary and secondary sources of data are available. The article does include any new methods. As seen, that the author used a more qualitative methods, with all its attendant properties. Thereby making the study based on the two strategies and the reviewing of eight tenets. KEY FINDINGS AND IMPLICATIONS Currently, the world is in the technological era. People and business organisations are using information systems to make life easier. In the article, there are some strategies used to have a very strategic information systems plan and making sure that those companies reach their goal. The discussion based on the study was on the exploitation and exploration strategies. According to the Galliers, (2001) the companys information systems strategy should employ the two strategies. The exploitation strategy, is mainly focused on how to improve the operational efficiency of a company whilst in exploration strategy, it is usually used to make any business organisation have a competitive advantage. (Philip, 2007) The case study emphasized the need for operational efficiency in any business organisation. Operational efficiency is when the company uses the right combination of people and technology to enhance the productivity of the business operation while making sure that they are still in the budget. (Ensynch, 2009) Companies must ensure that they have the right technology and people to be efficient in the effective running of any business organisation. However, companies are facing difficulties in obtaining qualified employees who have technological skills and knowledge. They always need to ascertain whether the employees have the right qualifications. (Ensynch, 2009). It dwelled on the Eight Tenets in having a successful Information system planning in order to be efficient when it comes to the operations of any business organisation. They are as follows: (Philip, 2007) Developing a Business and Information System Strategy concurrently. Using Top-Down and Bottom-Up Listening and Communication Developing a High-Level plan with broad principles, not specific actions. Should have the support of the Top-Management Using Opportunistic Methods. Mandate Proactive Implementation Build in a Frequent Review Process and Contingency Planning Information Technology Leaders are technology scouts and interpreters Developing a business and information system strategy concurrently, is when we ascertain that the business plan and the information system plan go hand in hand. The process involves the entire executive team with the Chief Information Officer. Communication is one factor that makes the plan successful. Taking to the employees would help them in their planning. The company needs to know what the employees think about a certain situation and also, those employees would help them to generate some ideas to make sure that the plan made would be successful. Getting feedback regarding the performance of the systems is also important so the company would know whether the system is doing fine or not and whether it needs improvement or not. Making sure that the plan made is high-level enough; meaning the plan should allow some changes when implementing the program without rewriting the whole plan. By doing this, they could focus on making a solution when they overcome a problem rather than making the plan again. Support from the top management is crucial in having a successful plan. The senior executives must be active and makes sure that they have the correct materials to make the plan. They should also take an immediate action when they faced a problem regarding the plan. The company should make sure that their plan is put into practice proactively in order to maximize the benefits of the plan. They should make sure that the implemented strategy is to be effective to avoid any problems or inconveniences when the plan is implemented. Reviewing the plan is also crucial. Normally, the company reviews their plan at least twice a year and managers and information technology personnel usually review the plan. The reviewing of plan help the Chief Information Officer to know if they are still on budget or not. Also, they would know whether the plan is doing great; whether they are reaching their goal or not. Lastly, the Chief Information Officer should have the knowledge when it comes to the development of the information systems plan. The Chief Information Officer acts like a technology scout in an organization. They should make sure that the technology used incorporates with the mission and vision of the company. The Chief Information Officer should also be aware of the latest technologies in the market. He/she should know the right time of investing a new technology. They should make sure that when they buy a new technology, it still fits within the organisations budget. The Chief Information Officer should know the business language and the technology language for proper interpretation and usage of both technological and business terms. LIMITATIONS Case studies have become extremely widespread in research. When researchers dwell on a case study they look into a set of related ideas and preferences thus when combined give the approach its distinctive character. However they are not unique in the sense that the basis of investing has always been done already. (Denscombe, 2003, pg 31). The article is clearly a case study on use and applicability of information systems and strategic planning for the operational efficiency of any business organisation. Various authors have put forward their opinions whilst theories written for justification purposes. However, no solid generalisations can be made; in the sense that it would depend on ones advantageous view point of the whole scenario and understanding as pertaining to any business organisation. A manager would chose to adopt whatever benefits the company. There is no exact formula or specific way of managing the two concurrently to achieve the organisations pre-determined goals. The other issue is that information represented in the case possibly is not fully reliable and accurate. There is always risk that case can contain errors and inaccuracy. Apparently, the article based the research work on a qualitative approach. However, two methods of approach should have been used, that is the qualitative approach and the quantitative approach, to produce an unbiased end result. In the former, it is always natural for the researcher view not to be eliminated in the process. The other limitation as clearly seen in the article is whereby only two companies from the UK have been used in the research work. This is not adequate. It should have involved more companies since planning and use of information systems is vital to any organisation. There was also a variation in the way he provided and collected the data in that the companies are internationally based but only sited the UK one. However, different approaches or theories may apply differently to different nationalities due to technological factors, cultural barriers, political barriers and so forth. Furthermore, the comparison made on the two articles lacked equality. The dates of the research analysis done were different, In company A it was dated 2003 whilst in Company B it was dated 2004.Since the author rated the performance of each companion on the technological basis, it was not appropriate because how a company performs depends also on other factors like inflation rate, the countrys fiscal year and perhaps the national income for 2003 may not have been the same as for 2004. It is logic for plans and the way information systems are handled to change from time to time in the sense of recent information. Information systems and plans of any article also provide recent information to be used but the research obtained dates back 5 years or 6 years or so. The article did not present how all these statements should change in the fast growing and developing business environments thus no exact description of how all this eight tenets can be effective. More so, the researcher should have used real life current situations to assert his reasoning and conclusions. Other theoretical findings should have been included to give a thorough and more precise understanding of the research at hand. Other limitations in the researchers article included the failure to discuss the possible effects that would happen to both companies given the tenets and that Company A did not follow most of the tenets but still remained successful. SUGGESTIONS In this current technological era, companies are using technology to make work easier and gain competitive advantage in any business world. However, there are some companies who are not using the full capacity of technology in terms of being competitive in the market. Companies are not enthusiastic in employing the Strategic Information Systems Planning due to the fact it is expensive and it will not help in the attainment of long term objectives. In addition, other companies do not use information system and strategic planning due to lack of proper knowledge of the technological factors or others may be due to ignorance. However, to be competitive in the market, Strategic Information System Planning needs to be incorporated to enhance the performance of the business and aid in the normal operations of a company thus ensuring efficiency. Other companies should have been used in the research process. It should not only be based on this two companies when using the eight tenets since every company is different on how they approach activities carried out in any business organisation. The researcher should have explained more on the eight tenets. It is not stated in the article on the effects of the eight tenets and the usefulness of the tenets on any business organisation. The researcher should also have emphasized more on the eight tenets and how it can affect the fast moving and developing companies. Companies should not only use the eight tenets just to make an information systems strategy, but try to look for ways on how to have an efficient operating system. CONCLUSSION Strategic planning and information systems are vital components in any companys goal in achieving operational efficiency and in giving assistance in the companys decision-making activities. However, prudency is needed when incorporating the two for the business to earn maximum benefits. In doing so, the researcher tried to explain on the relevance of information system and strategic planning, in the article, by the introduction of eight tenets acting as guidelines. Thereby, any business organisation would be able to decide the best ways on how to handle the two for operational efficiency of the organizations. Apart from the framework given, further explanations and an exhaustive research should have been brought to attention so as to make clear generalisations thereafter, thus make applicability in any business organisation easier to comprehend and follow. All in all, the message was still passed across by the researcher on the comparisons and differentiation on how different companies, in this case, Company A and Company B, apply the 8 tenets for successful information systems and the strategic planning for operational efficiency. Thereby, enabling an analysis to be done on such a case study.