Operations Management †Hayes and Wheelwright Essay

The Hayes and Wheelwright model (Slack et al, 2009) is a useful way to classify the operations function of an organisation. Select your own organization, or an organization with which you are familiar, and identify at which stage of the Hayes and Wheelwright model you would currently place the operations function. Justify your positioning by drawing on relevant theory and practice. This paper discusses the operations strategy and management of the construction division of Larsen & Toubro Limited – the leading engineering, construction and technology conglomerate of India with an international presence in over 40 countries. I have spent 10 years working with the construction division in various capacities including a rewarding 5 year stint in the corporate head office reporting to the Vice President. Operations function is perhaps the most important function in most organizations, be it a product manufacturing or a service oriented company. The day to day operations, when considered in their totality actually reflect and in turn also constitute the organization’s long-term strategic direction (David Barnes, Operations Management: An International Perspective, 2007). This is in other words the operations strategy impacting the overall business strategy or the corporate strategy. Hayes and Wheelwright’s Model The Hayes and Wheelwright four stage model summarizes the operations contribution to overall strategy. In stage 1 the operations function is reactive and internally focused. Its best contribution is to avoid any big mistakes. In stage 2 the operations function aligns ideology with the best in the market and tries to adopt these. Its forward looking and willing to learn even the hard way and is externally neutral. In stage 3 the operations function is comparing notes with the best in the industry and also has reached a respectful place within the cross-functional company matrix and the other departments look to it for guidance. The operations function is internally supportive. In stage 4, the operations function is providing the foundation for competitive success by being innovative, proactive, and flexible, forward looking and correctly anticipating future, in short being one step ahead of competition.

Problems That Families Face in Canada Essay

Introduction A Family is a group of people who resides in a household, which consists of several different types of families. Most problems such as divorce, abuse, alcohol or drug related problems and child abuse usually are the main dilemmas faced by Canadian families. If these problems keeps reoccurring to families in Canada the question we will have to ask ourselves will families keep on rapidly decreasing because of these present problems faced by Canadian families? In my opinion that’s why I wanted to embrace this topic because if these problems continue in the society we actually see a great change in the family structure in Canada. Also I want to touch on how child related such as adoption, teenage pregnancy and other problems are major issue of why there is a negative in change in the family structure. Usually in cases like these in terms of family problems I would not go off my own assumption I would also obtain perspectives from the Functionalist, Conflict. Feminist and Interacti onists Types of Families We realize that a family is relationship in where live together with a commitment to form an economic unit consider the group of critical to their identity and other reasons. Certain types of families would be Kinship A social network of people based on common ancestry, marriage or adoption is the basis of family structure. (Kendall, Nygaard and Thompson 2011) The extended Family A unit compasses of relatives in addition to parents and children all of who live in the same household. (Kendall, Nygaard and Thompson 2011) The nuclear Family Then we see after the years when industrialization was that nuclear family was created This is basically a unit is composed of one or two parents and his/ her / their dependent who live apart from the relative. (Kendall, Nygaard and Thompson 2011) Single parent family A family that only has one parent running the household. Most of them in Canada being the female running the household and becoming the breadwinner. (Kendall, Nygaard and Thompson 2011) Perspective on the changing family In each social problem we realized that couldn’t lean to our understanding of why certain problems are happening in the society we must definitely include the opinion from the sociological aspects from the Interactionist, Feminist, Conflict and Functionalist. Basically from the Interactionist point of view is that communication is an important part of understanding family roles which each member play in the household. (Kendall, Nygaard and Thompson 2011) They basically analyzed how each member of the family act out their roles and react to the parts played by others so we see that the family tend to develop through interactions between each other. (Kendall, Nygaard and Thompson 2011) What the interactionists are saying that most problems in the families are cause by women becoming more individualized and society emphasizing romantic love, which is mainly as unrealistic expectations. (Kendall, Nygaard and Thompson 2011) From the feminist theory they believed that males are more dominant than female way before capitalism and ownership of properties became an economic system. (Kendall, Nygaard and Thompson 2011) In more studies of the feminist they said that men labeled themselves as the â€Å" bread winners† because they are the superiors and woman were the inferior ones. (Kendall, Nygaard and Thompson 2011) Also because of this inequality this lead to spousal abuse in terms the rates of spousal homicide has decreased but as of course female deaths higher are than males concerning this fact. (Kendall, Nygaard and Thompson 2011) Also the conflict theorists think the same as the feminist what they think is that families are basically sources of social inequality and conflict over values and access to resources. (Kendall, Nygaard and Thompson 2011) Also one of the main reasons is that conflict theorist say that women and children are basically owned by the male figure and they are almost like factory workers. (Kendall, Nygaard and Thompson 2011) From the functionalist perspective they basically stress the importance of family and maintaining stability of the society and the well being of people. They are saying that family sort bring an identity to an individual such as providing economic and psychological support, providing a social status for that member and socializing and educating children. (Kendall, Nygaard and Thompson 2011) Child related Problems Child related problems in Canada is one of ways of why probably families change in some way as you can see these related can harmful effects on kids on the society today. We see certain problems of why certain kids have a certain negative behaviors because these certain dilemmas can bring on depression and anxious behaviors, also some problems such as maybe adoption and abuse can prevent a child from healing from stress related depressions I feel these play a part in the way kids behave and they way family structure shaken up to some of these child related problems. Parental Absence in this situation that can change a family structure. In certain parts of Canada it shown mostly mothers were more present because analyst proved that 78% of the woman that were married and living with a partner but 22% of the family were taken care by women of most of the time but Canada does have some, but not too many homes, where the dad is the only parent in the house. (Serbin, Temchiff, Cooperman, S tack, Ledingham and Scwartzman 2010) I feel that most families need two parents in the home because a dad would provide financial support, security and in my case lectures and lessons and you would need a mother for TLC (tender loving care). In which the child miss any of these growing up the child might be missing certain values in life for example: if a son grew without a dad you see that sometimes the boy might grow up sort of â€Å"soft† because there was no manly figure present. Adoption is definitely one of the related problems to a child. Adoption is a legal process through which the rights and duties of parenting are transferred from a child’s biological and/or legal parents to new legal parents. (Kendall, Nygaard and Thompson 2011) It is a present problem because the hardest to do as family who adopted a child is actually breaking the news to the kid that not that kids real parents and that can be very frustrating for a young child. (Serbin, Temchiff, Cooperman, Stack, Ledingham and Scwartzman 201 0) Another big problem would also be drug/ alcohol abuse. We see that in the society that many young kids our experiencing drugs at a early age such as marijuana and mainly alcohol substances. These drugs if taken at a early can maybe affect the child either physically or mentally. Kids that basically do drugs and alcohol at a constant mainly has poor averages in school and they tend get into a lot of trouble this is where in terms the parenting comes in to play about parents teaching kids not do drugs. (Serbin, Temchiff, Cooperman, Stack, Ledingham and Scwartzman 2010) In Canada One of the huge issues are mainly teen pregnancies. Over the years teen pregnancy has grown tremendously in the ranks and most pregnancies happen to teenage girls in bigger cities such as Halifax, Quebec and Newfoundland. We see that teen pregnancy bring out two themes which is poverty and lack of employment opportunity because according to social analyst teenage mother are unskilled at parenting and mostly to drop out of school and mainly not having enough social support. . (Kendall, Nygaard and Thompson 2011) Parent related Problem In facing social problems we have to realize not only children face problems but also adults face many problems as the leaders of the household. Domestic violence basically more mothers and kids face this problem because they are mostly the victims. (Dufour, Clement , Chamberland and Dubeau 2011) Mother are mostly hurt injured, raped or assaulted by their husbands or somebody else and also the kids can be affected by this as well. (Dufour, Clement , Chamberland and Dubeau 2011) Spousal violence is a part of Domestic violence where the man brings violence towards his wife in certain cases she can end up in hospital or even dead because most of the percentages are women. Men are less likely to be victims of spousal violence. (Kendall, Nygaard and Thompson 2011) Divorce is another problem that parents may go through, Divorce is a legal process of dissolving marriage which permits the former spouse to remarry if choose to do so. (Kendall, Nygaard and Thompson 2011) The reason divorce sometimes is fro many such as religion for example: your lover is probably an atheist and you believe in God so that leads to some sort confusion and divorce can happen through status of job where the women in a dual earner home makes more than husband that can lead to some huge confusion and divorce. Final thoughts In my final thought I believe that most of these issues that change the family structure such as teen pregnancy divorce and alcohol and drug related issues is, in my opinion, mainly caused by poverty. In Canada we have a lot social classes upper, middle and lower class but in terms of poverty we have two types of poverty which is Absolute and relative poverty in where absolute poverty is when a family doesn’t have the income to provide the basic human necessities such as food water and shelter. Relative poverty is almost the middle class family who can definitely afford the basic needs but they cannot afford all menial things for their children such as education and insurance. Also from poverty children is being malnourished because they should be eating healthier because families that are not financially strong purchase unhealthier foods. Also another stress for parents because they could not get certain jobs because they lacked higher education from their earlier days they have to take low entry jobs with low benefits. I have experienced poverty as a child a growing up as adolescent when I moved into in grandmother’s neighborhood it was the worst neighborhood. My brothers and I were surrounded by drugs, poverty and bad friends also we suffered child abuse where my grandmother would just beat us sometimes just for going out side but here in Canada you can arrest your parents for disciplining but not where I was from you just took beating and move on. I felt my brothers and I experienced a lot of social problems mainly because of poverty I felt if we where better financial wise I think our lives a whole lot better. Bibliography Kendall, Diana., Vicki L. Nygaard and Edward G. Thompson 2011 . Social Problems in a Diverse Society. 3rd Canadian edition. This was our textbook for this year the writer basically explained social problems that people face in Canada Dufour, Sarah, Marie- Eve Clement, Claire Chamberland and Diane Dubeau 2011 â€Å"Child Abuse Disciplinary Context: A Typology of Family.† Journal of Family Violence The objectives of this study were to identify and validate types of violent family environments based on child abuse in a disciplinary context. The study is original in that it simultaneously takes into account the cognitive and behavioral dimensions of the parental role as it relates to the degree of family violence in a child’s life. Serbin, Lisa A., Caroline E. Temchiff, Jessica M. Cooperman, Dale M. Stack, Jane Ledingham. Alex E. Schwatzman 2010. Predicting family and other disadvantage conditions for child rearing from childhood aggression and social withdrawal: A30 year longitudinal study

Environment of Firms Essay

Environment of Firms Introduction Business environment consist of all those factors that have a bearing on the business. The term â€Å"business environment† implies those external forces, factors and institutions that are beyond the control of individual business organizations and their management and affect the business enterprise. These forces are customer, creditors, competitors, government, socio-cultural organizations, political parties national and international organizations etc. some of those forces affect the business directly which some others have indirect effect on the business. Types of Environment 1Internal Environment The internal environment is the environment that has a direct impact on the business. Here there are some internal factors which are generally controllable because the company has control over these factors. It can alter or modify such factors as its personnel, physical facilities, and organization and functional means, like marketing, to suit the environment. A) VALUE SYSTEM The value system of the founders and those at the helm of affairs has important bearing on the choice of business, the mission and the objectives of the organization, business policies and practices. B) MISSION,VISION AND OBJECTIVES Vision means the ability to think about the future with imagination and wisdom. Vision is an important factor in achieving the objectives of the organization. The mission is the medium through which the objectives are achieved. C) Organizational Structure It includes the values and expectations of your firm’s stakeholders; its mission, goals and objectives; and its resources. These factors combined  determine what your organization is trying to accomplish and how successful it is likely to be. 5 basic parts of organization: Operating core, Strategic Apex, Middle line, Technostructure, and Support staff basic organization structure: a) Functional b) Divisional c) Hierarchical d) Line and Staff Structuree) Task Force The Need for Organizational Structure Organizations needs structuring so that lines of authority along with individual duties and responsibilities can be understood by every company member. f) Matrix Structure TRENDS IN ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURES The growth in retailing, both on-site and off-site, has required merchants to readdress their tables of organization so that they will better serve the needs of their customers and make their companies more profitable. Some of today’s trends in organizational structuring for the fashion-retailing arena are described in this section. Restructuring to Accommodate Multichannel Expansion When department stores in particular expanded their catalog operations, many initially opted to make this division part of their brick-and-mortar operations. Similarly, when retailers saw that the Internet had the potential to increase revenues, they changed their organizational structure to reflect this and to make the overall operation function more efficiently. Today, the trend is for the major multichannel retailers to adjust and expand their tables of organization and separate the three functions into separate channels. Macy’s, for example, is one of the giants in the industry  that has changed to that format. Consolidation of Divisions The acquisition of department stores by major retail groups has become a dominant trend. May Department Stores and Federated Department Stores, for example, are two companies that have expanded their operations by purchasing other retail companies. In their pursuit of maximizing profits, these groups have, in many cases, decided to merge the new acquisitions into some of their own stores. May, for example, purchased sixteen Wanamaker’s stores and three Woodward & Lothrop stores and merged some into their Hecht’s division and some into the Lord & Taylor group. Through this practice, fewer buyers and merchandisers were needed as were other executives who previously worked exclusively for one store. As this acquisition trend continues, this staff consolidation is likely to continue as well. Decentralization Much of the growth in large-scale retailing has come about by expansion into new trading areas. Although centralization was once the forte of the chain organization, this expansion has necessitated some decentralization of functions. Merchandise distribution, for example, has now been decentralized to include regional operations. When stores were so far from the single distribution center, the time it took for merchandise to reach many of the units was both inefficient and costly. SMALL STORE APPLICATIONS The manner in which small stores are organized is unlikely to change, because these operations require few employees to run them. The key roles are usually performed by the owner or partners with the remainder of the functions such as selling and stock keeping left to the sales associates. When there isn’t a store manager on site, as is often the case, a particular salesperson should be designated to take charge and assign tasks such as handling temporary changes in sales associates’ hours. When outside tasks, such as advertising and visual merchandising, are required, outside agencies should be hired to take care of them. The need for in-house specialists to perform these tasks is limited and is too costly for small businesses to afford. Strengths and Weaknesses Strength is any attribute or ability of the organization that may help it in accomplishing its mission and in fulfilling its vision Weakness is any attribute or ability of the organization that may hinder it in accomplishing its mission and in fulfilling its vision †¢For example factors relating to products, pricing, costs, profitability, performance, quality, people, skills, adaptability, brands, services, reputation, processes, infrastructures, etc †¢Factors tend to be in the present Starbucks SWOT analysis 2013 Strengths 1.Sound financial records 2.No. 1 brand in coffeehouse segment valued at $4 billion 3.Starbucks experience 4.Largest coffeehouse chain in the world 5.Employee management Weaknesses 1.Coffee beans price is the major influence over firm’s profits 2.Product pricing 3.Negative publicity Opportunities 1.Extend supplier range 2.Expansion to emerging economies 3.Increase product offerings 4.Expansion of retail operations Threats 1.Rising prices of coffee beans and dairy products 2.Trademark infringements 3.Increased competition from local cafes and specialization of other coffeehouse chains 4.Saturated markets in the developed economies 5.Supply disruptions 2External Environment It refers to the environment that has an indirect influence on the business. The factors are uncontrollable by the business. Two types of external environment: Micro Environment The micro environment is also known as the task environment and operating environment because the micro environmental forces have a direct bearing on the operations of the firm. a) Suppliers An important force in the micro environment of a company is the suppliers, i.e., those who supply the inputs like raw materials and components to the company. b) Customer The major task of a business is to create and sustain customers. A business exists only because of its customers. c) Marketing Intermediaries The marketing intermediaries include middlemen such as agents and merchants that help the company find customers or close sales with them. d) Financers The financers are also important factors of internal environment. e) Public Public can be said as any group that has an actual or potential interest in or on an organization’s ability to achieve its interest. Public include media and citizens. Macro Environment Macro environment is also known as General environment and remote environment. Macro factors are generally more uncontrollable than micro environment factors. When the macro factors become uncontrollable, the success of company depends upon its adaptability to the environment. a) Economic Environment Economic environment refers to the aggregate of the nature of economic system of the country, business cycles, the socio-economic infrastructure etc. b) Social Environment The social dimension or environment of a nation determines the value system of the society which, in turn affects the functioning of the business. Sociological factors such as costs structure, customs and conventions, mobility of labor etc. have far-reaching impact on the business. c) Political Environment The political environment of a country is influenced by the political organizations such as philosophy of political parties, ideology of government or party in power, nature and extent of bureaucracy influence of primary groups etc. d) Legal Environment Legal environment includes flexibility and adaptability of law and other legal rules governing the business. It may include the exact rulings and decision of the courts. e) Technical Environment The business in a country is greatly influenced by the technological development. The technology adopted by the industries determines the type and quality of goods and services to be produced and the type and quality of plant and equipment to be used. Financial System of the Country and Selected Items of Monetary & Fiscal Policies The structure of the Philippine Financial system is dominated by a banking system. Bangko Sentral is the official central bank in the Philippines. The structure of the financial system allows the option to take debts and buy bonds or stocks. There are many private banks present for this purpose. Financial Institutions are the intermediaries that mobilize savings and facilitate the allocations of funds in an efficient manner Fiscal policy refers to the â€Å"measures employed by governments to stabilize the economy, specifically by manipulating the levels and allocations of taxes and government expenditures. Fiscal measures are frequently used in tandem with monetary policy to achieve certain goals.† In the Philippines, this is characterized by continuous and increasing levels of debt and budget deficits, though there have been improvements in the last few years. The Philippine government’s main sources of revenue are taxes, with some non-tax revenue also being collected. To finance fiscal deficit and debt, the Philippines rely on both domestic and  external sources. External Sources of Financing are: 1 Program and Project Loans – the government offers project loans to external bodies and uses the proceeds to fund domestic projects like infrastructure, agriculture, and other government projects. 2 Credit Facility Loans 3 Zero-coupon Treasury Bills 4 Global Bonds 5 Foreign Currencies Domestic Sources of Financing are: 1 Treasury Bonds 2 Facility loans 3 Treasury Bills 4 Bond Exchanges 5 Promissory Notes 6 Term Deposits In 2010, the total outstanding debt of the Philippines reached Php4.718 trillion: Php2.718 trillion from outstanding domestic sources and Php2 trillion from foreign sources. According to the Department of Finance, the country has recently reduced dependency on external sources to minimize the risks caused by changes in the global exchange rates. Efforts to reduce national debt include increasing tax efforts and decreasing government spending. Monetary policy is the monitoring and control of money supply by a central bank, such as the Federal Reserve Board in the United States of America, and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas in the Philippines. This is used by the government to be able to control inflation, and stabilize currency. Monetary Policy is considered to be one of the two ways that the government can influence the economy – the other one being Fiscal Policy (which makes use of government spending, and taxes). Monetary Policy is generally the process by which the central bank, or government controls the supply and availability of money, the cost of money, and the rate of interest. The Philippines’ inflation target is measured through the Consumer Price Index (CPI). For 2009, inflation target has been set to be 3.5 percent, having a 1% tolerance level, and 4.5 percent for 2010, also having  1% tolerance. Also, the Monetary Board of the Philippines announced a target of around 4 ±1 percent from 2012 to 2014. Opportunities and Threats Opportunities are any issue, event or trend that may help the organization in accomplishing its mission and in fulfilling its vision Threats are any issue, event or trend that may hinder the organization in accomplishing its mission and in fulfilling its vision †¢for example, factors relating to markets, audience, fashion, seasonality, trends, competition, economics, politics, society, culture, technology, environmental, media, law etc †¢factors tend to be in the future

Eassy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Eassy - Essay Example This essay will touch on the key steps involved in the academic writing process, all of which should have critical thinking intertwined with them. The three parts of the pre-writing stage are choosing a topic, gathering ideas, and organizing data. These steps help the writer to become focused on the topic so the paper does not end up rambling on. Overall, pre-writing can be one of the most important stages of the writing process. If one does not organize data and work out a plan of action to complete the writing process, the paper may turn out unsuccessful. The first stage in the academic writing process is to critically analyze the topic. However, choosing a topic must come before this step. The writer should decide on a topic and choose how the topic shall be researched. Next, it is important to gather ideas. Gathering ideas is very important, as this is a part of the pre writing stage. During this stage, it is also important to organize data. Once the pre-writing stage is complete, the writer can begin to draft a rough copy. While drafting a rough copy, the writer will be able to critically analyze all of the researched data and put ideas into words. During this rough draft process, the paper begins to take shape as sentences are formed into paragraphs. The importance of this stage is critical because this is the basis for the entire paper. The rough copy needs to be written in three steps. These steps are important to the paper, as they allow for the paper to be properly developed. The first step is to create an opening paragraph. The opening paragraph allows the reader to become hooked on what the paper is about. The thesis of the paper is also mentioned here. In this opening paragraph, it is wise to entice the reader with information on the topic that will leave the reader wanting to know more. The body of the paper is the second step in

Internship Plan Journal Entry Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Internship Plan Journal Entry - Assignment Example The first goal is to analyze sales and report the findings. Specifically, I was to understand the market trends. The two actions that I did are visiting other companies to collect data. I also did research on other companies sales. This goal was accomplished by the end of the week, 30th January 2015. The purpose of this goal was to understand how analysis of sales data is utilized to comprehend market trends. I measured my progress by first analyzing the sales data that has been collected. The second goal that I purposed to accomplish is to gather and interpret customer feedback.Specifically,I was to understand the customer trends. The two actions that I did were collection of the customer’s feedback on suggestion box and also did a research on the customers. The purpose of this goal is to contribute to consumer insight initiative within the organization. This goal will enable me to develop my skills in gathering and interpreting customer feedback. I look forward to taking this next step as I finish up with my training in sales data analysis. The set time frame for achieving this goal is the second week of February that is from 4/2/2015. My third goal entails conducting primary research for the organization’s products. Specifically, I did analyzed the effectiveness and usability of the company’s product. The two actions that I did involved researching on products sales and also questioning the customers. The purpose of accomplishing this goal is to enhance my comprehension and skills involving product research. I can easily measure this goal because I will be able to perform the specific task by the end of my training. This goal is attainable as I have already had exposure in conducting market research for the company. This is a realistic goal because I have the support and expertise of my co-workers coupled with the support of my supervisor. The timeframe of achieving

The Absence of Competition and Price Discrimination in the Market Research Paper - 145

The Absence of Competition and Price Discrimination in the Market - Research Paper Example One of the losses to society as a result of monopoly versus perfect competition is limited output and high prices. Because of its market dominance, a firm in a monopolistic marketplace has the exclusive rights to raise prices. Consequently, when it does so, the society has no alternative but to buy high cost products. In contrast, in perfect competition, if one business raises prices the society can just move to the next competitor for a lower price. Thus, society gets better prices (Samuelson & Marks, 326). The losses to society can further be explained in terms of supply and cost curves. In perfect competition, prices and the number of goods produced are arrived at by looking at the market demand and supply curves. Accordingly, society is assured of competitive prices, which necessarily lead to minimum prices. In a monopoly, the supply curve is hardly there. The amount of output does not determine the prices. Whether the sole firm produces less or more, it can still maximize the pr ices because the competitive level is restricted. Hence, in a monopoly, firms maximize their profits by raising prices without any added benefit to society (Samuelson & Marks, 327). In addition, in a monopoly, the sole firm produces less in order to increase the price, consequently exploiting society. Finally, the loss to society as a result of monopoly versus perfect competition is the reduction in the consumer surplus. Under monopoly, because of raised prices firms earn much more than what consumers gain from them. As a result, the reduction in consumer surplus leads to a reduction in consumer social welfare.

In a study in this unit, you found an organizational improvement Term Paper

In a study in this unit, you found an organizational improvement model, process, or tool for addressing health care laws or poli - Term Paper Example The nurse supervisor studies surveys and other quantitative and qualitative data as a basis for implementing significant changes to improve the health care facilities’ current service quality. Currently, the changes in the present organization’s health care policies are to slow. This is understandable because some persons deter the unfavorable effects of change. On the other hand, some health care subordinates feel disgruntled with the disparity between current health care policies and the real situation in a typical patient – nurse relationship. The current policies are too outmoded or too general. The policies are made without regular consultation from the most affected persons – the nurse subordinates. The current health care policies are implemented without conducting an in-depth survey of the real situation within the wards and other departments of the health care facilities. Paul Bate (2007) reiterated the nurse supervisor should not focus on gatheri ng of data as an end. On the other hand, the nurse supervisor must implement a timely gathering of relevant data to update and enhance the health care facilities’ present patient-based policies.

Food Memoir Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Food Memoir - Essay Example My grandmother made sure that all of us were present for dinner together. Today we cherish those moments and value the tradition as we realize that food holds the family together. I have always seen my mother do the shopping and as I grew up I used to accompany her to the malls. I used to be amazed at the way she knew exactly what was required for the kitchen and in what quantities! She took care of the personal food habits of all of us in the family and till date I admire this quality in her. If only a few things were required, she would buy them from the street vendor occasionally. As children, we were expected to go to bed early but we were given the privilege of sitting down together for dinner. Ours was a closely knit family and my parents and grandmother used to have an early meal with us. After we went to bed, they lazed around over coffee and clearing the table. Meals were always sat at the dinner table and never in front of the television. Today when I see the distractions that the television causes, I realize and value the teachings and the discipline during food. We learned to value food, we learned to taste food and we learned to enjoy food. Food eaten while watching a television show is merely â€Å"eaten† and not enjoyed. We enjoyed food and the food time. We were taught the table etiquettes which included saying the prayers before starting the meal. We also waited for our grandmother to start first and then we followed. We were not allowed to talk while munching on food and once I remember, when I was just about three years old, I made a gurgling noise as the soup was too hot! My mom immediately corrected me and said this was indecent. What I liked about my family was that we were never scolded but given reasons for doing or not doing something. That made it easier to remember it the next time and we seldom repeated it. At the end of the meal we again said a thanksgiving prayer. Oh, and we had to

Differences Between Jefferson and Hamilton Schools Essay - 3

Differences Between Jefferson and Hamilton Schools - Essay Example This notion is supported by the explanation that elites have more resources and better skills set for the formation and execution of government. This view is further disregarded by Jefferson through another counter-argument that every form of government is corruptible and giving such power to limited individuals makes rest of the public vulnerable. Hamilton, on the other hand, believes that for stronger control over a system, executives in the government need to be strong and have complete sovereignty (Geer et al. 13). Another fundamental difference between Jefferson and Hamiltonian approaches is the presence of state government. Jefferson believes that the division of power between state and national governments would allow citizens to have more control of government’s decisions whereas Hamilton recognizes the concept of strong national government. Other than supporting citizens’ extensive rights, Jefferson believes that expanding gateways of influence would allow bett er liberty to people and will keep government accountable for its actions. This view is also contested by Hamiltonian approach as it believes that restriction in gateways would allow access of only educated, skilled and experienced elites to the government matters. Jeffersonian view believes that state should be more involved in internal matters instead of global issues. A hamiltonian approach, on the contrary, believes that strong strategic positioning in global affairs through established industrial and military power would benefit United States (Cunningham 106). Analyzing these differences helps in understanding that a Hamiltonian approach provides a more holistic system of government. It is understandable that all the individuals i.e. elites and common men, cannot have the same profile and skills for participating in government. Therefore, allowing educated individuals to have access to government offices ensures that only the most suitable and capable talent runs this instituti on. Of course, selecting elites representing different social segments would benefit American citizens more. There are rather limited benefits accrued to the American nation due to irreconcilable differences among these two approaches. Now, United States has a system which allows elites to represent interests of communities and states. Both of these regimes have strong disagreements regarding structure and role of government. Perhaps, finding a middle way i.e. system run by elites for the welfare of Commons would be more suitable. Question No. 6 Division of Power in American Constitution Division in power represents a division of authority among different branches of government along with national and state governments. The federal government divides into legislature which is Congress, executives which include president and other bureaucracy, and judiciary which is Supreme Court and federal courts (Geer et al. 11). Another name for this vertical division of power is the separation o f powers. This division of power among different branches of government ensures that no branch becomes too independent and strong in its authority and operations that it harms the interests of common citizens. This system of branches having authority over each other is called checks and balance.  

Sunflower Incorporated management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Sunflower Incorporated management - Essay Example Brands such as Frito-Lay, Nabisco, Pringles, Borden’s and Planters are determined to increase their market share through renewed marketing strategies of their products (Cummings and Worley 239). These imminent dangers to the company propelled the president of Sunflower, Mr. Joe Steelman, to pirate Agnes Albanese from a competitor. The new position of Director of Pricing and Purchasing was created specifically for her. Her direct superior was Mr. Mobley, the Vice President for Finance. The president and Mr. Mobley both gave her freedom in her position and to create rules and procedures as she sees fit. Her position as a new top executive of the company necessitated coordination with each region and this was made known to all concerned personnel for compliance. Less than a month from taking on the job, Albanese implemented a number of new policies that every region must comply with toward a standardized system for all regions. These changes are, first, financial executives must notify her of more than 3% changes in local pricing, second, contracts amounting to more than $5,000 must first be cleared by her office. Though the latter rule is in fact inoperable since majority of the items are bought in bulk and distributed from the head office and only 40% are from within each region. These guidelines, she decided, were to be sent to the regional executives through email and shall be implemented immediately and thereafter be included in the company’s policies within four months (ibid 240). Haphazard Changes The major mistake that Albanese committed is in coming up with new procedures without proper diagnosis of the needs of the company and... Sunflower Incorporated is primarily a distribution company which purchases salty snack and liquor and supplies it to various retail stores in the United States and Canada. The company has had an established system focusing on geographical location as its main consideration. The main unit of Sunflower has given its branches ample leeway in terms of autonomy since each location consists of a varied demand correlative to the predisposition of the consumers of their given area. Understandably, each region consumes a greater amount of one product over another. Where whisky and bourbon is a major demand in the northeast part of the United States, vodka, gin and rum is popular in the West while Mexican taste is replicated in the snacks distributed to the southwest. The company in its outlets in the two countries is divided into 22 regions where each has an independent finance department, purchasing department, sales team and a central warehouse. The signs were clear early on but Agnes Albanese opted to disregard them and instead obstinately carried on a plan which lacks procedural and substantive purpose. She acted as though time was not on her side and executed changes that are ill-fitting to the organization as it stands. She took the liberty given to her by the highest ranking executives of the company and despite the cautionary advice of her superior, Albanese proceeded with her plan instantaneously. There was no proper evaluation of all surrounding conditions nor was there a concrete plan of action that everyone is on the same page. Evidently, it is easier to say yes on email than to argue with the computer.

Love - Culture, Technology, and Entertainment Essay

Love - Culture, Technology, and Entertainment - Essay Example d, when a talk show, a movie or a song are not entertaining then they have little chance of influencing culture on the people who either watched or listened. Additionally, since entertainment involves showing what is popular with people this helps in defining culture. The interesting nature of any form of entertainment greatly defines the culture of people who come across this form of entertainment. It can be stated in a different argument that themes in any form of entertainment are cultural (Cheok, 2010). Technology is hugely beneficial not only to entertainment, but also the entertainment industry as a whole. For instance, through technology, it is possible to produce high quality movies or record high quality songs. The most employed form of technology in the entertainment industry is computer technology. Application of computers in the entertainment industry has made production and distribution of any form of entertainment effective and efficient. Taking production of movies into consideration, there are advanced computer software, which are used in the production process, known as the green screen. Through the green screen, movie producers can impose non-existing images or features in a movie. Technology is also beneficial to the music entertainment in the production process. Music producers use computer software to create instrumentals instead of the traditional way of playing musical instruments. Manipulation of vocals is also possible through computer software, which brings ab out voice clarity. The other area in which technology has highly become beneficial is in the distribution process. In this case, the internet has proved to be very useful. Whether the entertainment is in the form of audio of video, its distribution to customers through the internet is very efficient. The internet has made buying and selling of any form of entertainment faster, since customers can pay for a song or a movie online and thereafter download it on their personal computers.

The secret police Propaganda and the cult of personality Essay Example for Free

The secret police Propaganda and the cult of personality Essay The following were equally important reasons why Stalin was able to hold on to power in the Soviet Union: The purges and show trials The secret police Propaganda and the cult of personality Stalins economic policies Explain how far you agree with this statement There are a number of reasons why I partially agree with this statement, however, I do not believe it would be correct to say that it is totally correct. The fact that Stalin was extremely politically cunning enabled him to combine the above techniques, in order to minimise opposition, and maximise support and production in the soviet state. Stalins techniques can be classed into two main methods of winning support: the use of fear, and the use of propaganda and success in order to persuade. After Stalin achieved power in 1928, he became increasingly paranoid of any opposition. His initial aim was to ensure that his position in power was totally secure, and risk free. In order to achieve this, Stalin used two of the methods mentioned above: the purges and show trials, and the secret police. These two methods were very closely linked and intertwined. From around 1930 onwards, Stalin gave the Secret Police (NKVD) the right to arrest anyone suspected of opposing, or having the potential to oppose Stalin. However, this did not simply include party members who had previously opposed Stalin, for the police would arrest scientists, doctors, actors, teachers, artist and any ordinary people or workers whom Stalin felt threatened by. Naturally, this was an enormous task, and could not be managed by Stalin alone. Instead, a vast army of informers were released into society, to tip off the NKVD of any opposition. Such was the extent of the spying that went on in the 1930s, and Stalins terror of opposition, that children were even encouraged to inform on their own parents, and neighbours would condemn each other, in order to deflect blame from themselves. The situation became extremely similar to that of the Nazi police state, with the Gestapo, in which Hitler used to spy on the public. In addition to this, Stalin even took the extreme measures of executing any members of the NKVD, who were either inefficient at rooting out counter-revolutionaries, or who he suspected of knowing too much about his plans, and posing a potential threat to his position. A number of show trials were also held under Stalins command. These were court cases of predetermined verdict, which were greatly publicised in order to boost support for Stalin. By doing this, Stalin aimed to ward off criticism for having killed millions of Russians as a result of the purges. In 1934 Kirov, a popular leading communist was assassinated. Historians today are quite convinced that Stalin was at least partially responsible for the murder. However, on 13th march, 1936, sixteen old Bolsheviks, including Zinoviev and Kamenev were faced with charges of having been responsible for the death of Kirov, and having plotted against Stalin. Whilst historians today believe that it is extremely unlikely that the two loyal Bolsheviks had anything to do with the assassination of Kirov, all sixteen of the accused were sentenced to be executed on 24 August. This shows how Stalin was able to carefully twist purges and show trials into a form of propaganda, in which he could present himsel f as a great leader, and make it impossible for people to oppose him. In the following years, up to 1938, many more show trials were held. Stalin was extremely quick with dealing with the army, executing over 90 percent (some 25 000) of all Soviet generals in order to make it totally incapable of leading a putsch against Stalin. The Communist party had been purged of anyone likely to face up to Stalin, and all of the old Bolsheviks of the 1917 revolution were gone. History books were rewritten in order to erase any memory of these counter-revolutionaries. By 1939, Peoples lives were crippled with fear of the NKVD, as over 20 million Russians were now in labour camps, 12 million of them dead. To prove this, in 1989, a mass burial pit was discovered, containing the bodies of over 80 000 people who had been executed under Stalins command. However, in the meantime all knowledge of Stalins purges was being erased, and the myth of his greatness being created. Stalin had finally achieved what he wanted, and his position in power was totally safe, with the army incapable of opposing him, and all opposition amongst the communist party, and throughout the Soviet Union removed. This was an extremely important step taken by Stalin, in order to preserve his leadership, however due to the huge cost of these actions, Stalin found the economy under a great deal of stress. It is my belief that Stalin used his economic policies for two main reasons. Firstly a successful economy would cause him to look good, and help him tighten his grip on power. Secondly, the international situation was becoming fairly gloomy for Russia, it was seriously threatened by famine, and it could not compete with other industrial countries, increasingly towards 1938, after Stalins costly purges and show trials. Stalin said in a speech to the first conference of workers, we are fifty to a hundred years behind the advanced countries. We must make up this gap in ten years. Either we do this or they crush us. We can therefore conclude that it was becoming vital for Stalin to introduce a change in the system in order for Russias economy to survive. After realising that Lenins idea of trying to persuade the Peasants to join collective farms was not working fast enough, Stalin decided that a far more ruthless process was required, in order to produce enough food to support an increasing amount of workers in industry. To begin with, Stalin tried Lenins tactic of persuading peasants, however after they heavily resisted, Stalin became far more brutal. Over 5 million kulak families are thought to have died in labour camps, along with anyone who tried to defend them. Eventually, Stalin achieved the results he wanted, and by 1935, 94 percent of agricultural land had been collectivised, and the kulak class eliminated, however the brutal way in which this process was carried out meant that it was greatly resented by many. On the industrial front, Stalin set about introducing the first Five-year Plan, from 1928 until 1932. This was a regime intended to last for five years, in which GOSPLAN, the State planning Commission constructed a list of ambitious targets to develop industry, power supply, and transport. The basic aim of the plan was to shift Russia away from agriculture slightly, and move more into industry. After having successfully swayed Russia from being an agricultural country, to an agricultural-industrial country, Stalin introduced the second Five-Year plan. This plan involved increasing the production of machinery, such as tractors to keep up with the collectivisation of farming, water supplies and transport. In little time at all, Russia had become the worlds third biggest industrial power, which was an enormous success. These five-year plans were an extremely important method of keeping Stalin in power, as people would become proud of their country and leader, and be reluctant to change. However, this boost in industrial strength came at a heavy price, and the importance of these plans is shown in the tight discipline exercised by Stalin. Managers could be prosecuted, and arrested by the NKVD for failing to reach targets, as it was actually made to be a crime. Every worker was required to have a permit in order to change jobs, and was instantly sacked if absent for more than a couple of days. Alternatively they could be briefly sent to prison! Anyone leaving school had no choice of where they worked, and they were simply allocated to jobs where employees were needed. By the time the third five-year plan was introduced in 1938, Stalin was able to start producing consumer goods, such as radios, bicycles and household goods. In my opinion, these consumer goods were a clever trick played by Stalin, to convince the public that their standard of living was improving, in order to win support. In reality, it was quite the opposite, and living standards generally declined. People were regimented, lost their personal freedom, and were very closely supervised and intimidated by the NKVD. In general, this economic revolution was a fairly important step for Stalin to remain in power. Firstly, although they may have resented the way in which the economy was boosted, it would have triggered a large amount of support from the Russian people, who felt unstable in their economy, and surrounded by hostile neighbours. Many people also shared his view that rapid industrialisation was the only way for Russia to survive, and so would have been extremely impressed after Stalin caused Russia to become second to only the USA in industrial production. Stalin was also extremely aware of the importance of his image, and how the impression he made on people affected the way in which he could govern. He realised that in order to maintain his domination of Russian people, he would be required strictly monitor and regulate all aspects of the media, and promote his qualities which won him respect, so he set up a tight propaganda program, which eventually brainwashed the minds of Russian people. Stalin ensured that all arts, films and books were carefully controlled by the state. Artists were forced to adapt their work so that it glorified the state, and positively projected its policies. Through the careful control of films, Stalin was able to promote himself as running the state as a haven of the good-life for all workers, showing workers having free holidays and happy lives. Films also promoted hard work, by glorifying workers such as Stakhanov, who exceeded his factory quota. Authors were also kept under strict regulation, being forced to promote the state and Stalins policies, and those who wrote anything critical of these thins were arrested by the KGB ( ) and thrown into prison, or disappeared into labour camps. Another way Stalin promoted himself was by presenting himself as the Father and protector of the Soviet Union. Stalin tricked the public into believing that he had been close to Lenin, when in fact, Lenin left a list of complaints of how he disliked Stalin in his testament. In general, I feel that this is a moderately important step towards keeping power in the Soviet Union, as it reduced opposition to his policies, however it would have provoked aggravation amongst people involved in the production of films, books and arts. Stalin a Drawing to a conclusion, I believe that the way in which Stalin sustained his grip on power was extremely complex, and it is therefore very difficult to put a finger on one particular technique and say that it is most important. Realistically, the four main methods used by Stalin; the purges and show trials, the secret police, propaganda and the cult of personality, and Stalins economic policies were all carefully intertwined. For example, Stalin used the show trials, in which he had many counter-revolutionaries falsely accused of murder, as a means of propaganda, to deflect criticism from himself. The secret police were also heavily involved in the three other methods of maintaining power. They ensured that Stalins propaganda campaign ran smoothly, arrested anyone failing to keep up with the pace of Stalins economic policies, and were actively involved in the purges and show trials, to such an extent that some became victims and were exiled or executed. I also believe that Stalins economic polices were partially due to the stress placed on the economy by the costly purges. It is therefore possible to see how all of the reasons why Stalin was able to hold onto power in the Soviet Union were very much dependant on each other. However, I do believe that propaganda was a rather unimportant contribution to Stalins success, after he had achieved power in 1924. Whilst Stalin did a good job of controlling the media and presenting himself well to the Russian people and the rest of the world, many Russians were not really given a choice in the first place. Therefore I believe that even without propaganda, it could have been possible for Stalin to maintain power, due to the way people were strictly monitored and intimidated by the secret police.

Conner Lab Company Analysis

Conner Lab Company Analysis Conner labs are company that deals with manufacture and supply of surgical units, disposable instrument and diagnostic units. In 1990, it introduced the first diagnostic unit with the highest price. This was very successful, as the unit never required the dilation. They also had a market that believes in them as they had set a good reputation. The diagnostic unit was emphasized to last for life and they were confident giving lifetime warranty on the unit. The sales were boosted initially by the notion that the surgeon had in the quality of the materials they required as thy thought that the high the price the more quality the materials were. Thus the Conner lab had advantage as they sell quality products and at high price. However, after sometime the surgeon noted that there was no great difference in the quality for surgical equipment from either if the manufacturers. Therefore, they opted to be buying the equipments with low price(Douglas, 2010). Conner stone had initially advantages, as they were the pioneer developer of digital / laser technology in the medical field. This made even more organization to prefer the Conner lab for they offered quality services. They also had modified their line of surgical units and most of the seller used the extension in their selling strategy promoting their sales. They also made sure that they intensified their promotion of high quality products. This was to promote their reputation and increasing their high margins. They attract very skilled and established sales representative and qualified sales managers to enhance their sales. This saw their gross margin grow steadily from 2001 to 2003. Nevertheless, of recent soon the company has experienced a very great decline in the gross margin their market share has also dropped from 70% to 22%. This drop is notable and it makes the management to inquisitive, as there must be a problem somewhere(Douglas, 2010). Various problem I their marketing has been noted. The company produces very expensive equipment that very few can afford. Thus, most of their buyers have shifted to the cheaper materials that have the same factions as theirs. This makes their sales turnover top decrease and their market share decline in daily basis. Most of the equipments they produce are patent by other people making their competitor to imitate their product producing them at a low cost. So, most of the buyers opt to buy the cheap products that are from other company which have similar function. This makes their sales to decline as the products that have been imitated are so many in the market and gotten at low price. The company also believed in working on their reputation only, they have won the competition. Therefore, they never worked in their market research at the best time to get the real picture in the ground. They dealt mostly in producing quality product by increasing their technology. Their competitors majored in this and manufactured equipments that bore the same function and offered them at low price. The Conner lab had very complicated sales strategy. The sales personnel were meeting some individuals showing them how quality their products were. The process became so confusing to the buyers. They never understood if they were being compelled to buy the products or it was a mere advertisement to help them choose whether to buy their product or not. According to the buyers, they would have opted to buy the products at their own will but not being compelled. Product maturity was another issue that made the Conner lab to have a downfall. The customers complained of their product taking very long to mature. The lead-time between the placing of an order and the day the equipment was taking long to a verge of buyers getting them elsewhere. This made most of the customer to quit the companyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s service and source it somewhere else. The competitors were delivers product faster as their maturity time is short. The company also never established the right people in their sales strategy. For example, in a hospital the management may allocate a given amount of money to buy the equipments. However, the surgeons have a great impact on the type of the equipments that are to be bought. Therefore, for the Conner lab to thrive in the market, they have to get the champions in a certain market. This would help them identify the main obstacles in their sales failure. Recommended solutions Conner lab need to do an intensive research to establish the core cause of their downfall and come up with their market strategy. The following marketing strategy is recommended for them to assist in reviving their business. Market dominance The company should establish their position on the market in relation to how they have dominated it. They should know their current market share and the projected market share in the future. According to market dominance strategy, there are four categories in which the company should be able to establish themselves with to ensure that they make good future plan. The first one is the leader. They should make sure that they know the company that leads in the market share to help them establish what they are doing. According to Douglas 2010, having dropped from 70% to 22% in the market share, there must be something wrong. They should also establish their follower in the market share. This will help them to be careful not to lose more of their share. The last one is that it is also very important to establish their niche to know where they have the highest market share meaning that there products in that place are readily accepted. In doing this, they will be in a good position to get t o a place where they were initially. Porter generic strategy They should ensure that they understand their market penetration method as they now have a good reputation and produce quality goods as their strategic strength giving the a competitive and sustainable advantage. They should deal with their product differentiation and low cost leadership with the aim of focusing in a broader market share. They should first segment their market into smaller segments to help them understand them better to ensure that they earn back their customers confidence. The company has an advantage of having qualified sales personnel that can help it come up very fast(Douglas, 2010). Innovation strategy Conner Lab Company has done well in response to the technological change. This has made it possible to bring in diagnostic unit as the first company. For that reason, they never considered the aspect of time at their product matured. They mostly concentrated on quality forgetting that they need to integrate the aspect of time also in their service delivery. This means that more innovation was required to hasten their product maturity. This means that they required people to be pioneers of the technological change, others to be close followers of the outcome of the technology employed while others to be late followers to get the impact brought in the market. With the three teams, they will be able to integrate more technology in their business increasing service delivery. Growth strategy They should finally intensify their growth strategy by vertical and horizontal integration. As stated by Douglas 2010, the vertical growth by recruiting competent personnel, the Conner Lab has tried. Still they should ensure that the recruited personnel are highly compatible to change and can come above any challenge that may arise in the company. They should also diversify their marketing strategy by using a simple method of advertising their product and not trying to compel the customers to buy their products. They should ensure that they intensify their marketing using the pivotal people who affect the acquisition of the products in the company. For them to compete well as they grow horizontally, they should devise means of production that do not comprise their product quality but lead the product to be cheaper. This will enhance their growth in the competitive market. Management and organizational plan The Conner Lab must be having a problem with its management and organization structure thus unable to deal with its inventory and supply chain. This organization need to be restructured to ensure that the information has no hindrances. This is seen by the way the gross margin declined in the between 2003 and 2004 (Douglas, 2010). They should adopt an organization plan that has low bureaucratic process to enhance faster flow of information. They should adopt an organization plan that enables people in lower management level to communicate directly to the people in the top management level. With this, problems in the grass roots will get to be known and tackled in the appropriate time before they go too far. Conclusion The Conner Lab Company has all the required potential to revert their situation to their renowned situation. This requires putting the recommended ideas into practice and going a mile away in their process of regaining their lost market share. They have all the material if the management want to they are able to make it.

Nation As A Myth Is India A Myth History Essay

Nation As A Myth Is India A Myth History Essay The dictionary definition of Nation is: A group of people who share the same culture, ethnicity and language, often possessing or seeking its own independent government. When one looks at this definition and then re-thinks about it for the Indian prospective, The first thing that come to the mind is either there is something remarkably wrong with the definition, as India has is a combination of a plethora of cultures, ethnicities and languages or hence is a complete misfit for being termed as a Nation or there is something wrong in the way with the way the world understand what a Nation is. Basically the whole concept of nation is an imaginary concept. Its never possible that people will be influenced by the same likes of culture or ethnicity. A human mind tends to deviate from what normal around it to explore new things, when a group of people live together by the will or by virtue its called a society. Each member of the society is unique, He might not be there purely because of his will to be there, But might be compelled to be there because of various factors. This might be financial, Social, And Family or lack of other options. We cannot interpret that the individuals staying in the society are part of the culture or adhere to the same ethnicity. The chances of them being there by choice is as good as for them being there by choice. Now taking the concept of a society to a broader target, it gives us a few foundation pillars towards the concept of a Nation. Although people might be a part of it, but its not necessary they want to be there. They mostly are there, because either the decision to be there was taken on their behalf by their Elders (in case of a partition or plebiscite), by their Leaders (Again a leader is not one which represents everyone but a majority) or they belonged to the land from birth. The concept of Nations is elaborated as expressed more much more complex than it was ever thought to be. As put in new literature by many writers, Nations is an imaginary concept and hence should be distinguished in the way they are imagined. The fact is, the concept of a nation is more of an idea; its an idea of people from a common culture and values, their desire and will towards freedom. We had been reading from the text books for ages that Unity in Diversity is what India stands for as a nation. But the whole idea of India as a nation is been criticized much because of its failure to become a single unified Nation state in the likes of Germany (after the East Germany and West Germany) and Japan. One can also claim that India has done much better in terms of keeping the minor states together, unlike the rest of Europeor the far gone USSR which are now divided into various small states. The Indian nation reflects the counter of the Europe small countries that were homogeneous when considered in terms of population and culture, England, Germany and France to name a few. Even Islamic nations like Iran, Iraq or Saudi Arabia were let down when it came to a concept of Nations and ended up in military dictatorship or medieva l style monarchies. India as a Nation: The nation state idea never worked for India, because of it size and diversity. For others like Europe, they had to work hard to suppress their divisions and prejudice the idea of nationhood. India also fails to stand as a nation unlike other Nations is because India set out for a democratic model, whereas the other nations were on imperialistic rule and not an integrated culture encompassing the subcontinent. Diversity in India adds to the failure of idea of the Indian Nation: India with it diversity has failed as a nation right from the formation of India as an independent country. Firstly the formation of the Islamic nation of Pakistan, Then the Issue of Kashmir, The North-East, The khalistan Movement, The recent show downs from Telangana, Gorkhanland etc. India had been suffering at the hands of the minor states, and in order to maintain a nationwide feel, has been dealing with them by avoiding the issue till the very last stage when any further push will result in a crack in the complete National structure and then bending down to the demands. Not to mention after a heavy disrupt and unnecessary bloodshed. The idea of the Nation of India chronologically speaking has never been a single State. History has its records that all those who tried to keep India as unified states failed in their endeavours weather it may be the King Ashoka or Alexander. What these great rulers identified in this land was that the diversity of its origin and existence is not only trivial to capture but to keep united in public interest is a herculean task. Yet, India emerged as a golden bird in the early 16th Century and attracted a lot of unwanted attention from other Nations. The British came to India for trade and sighted an opportunity to take charge as the nation was spread in forms of small princely states rather than as a Nation. It took our leader decades in the struggle for freedom, And the first thing that was set to harbinger the lack of National interests post independence was the partition of Pakistan and the formation of East and West Pakistan. The Indian political leaders had sleepless nights try ing to put a map in place for the unified princely states in India. Pivotal role of Indias Freedom: When the labour party in England won the elections, their chief agenda of decision of discontinuation of the British Empire in India, Different communities in India started demanding of India as a free state or as a State of States. It was for the United National Congress will that they 562 princely states became a part of India. But not all the states were happy for this, As a result of this political decision, there were riots between Hindus and Sikhs and Hindus and Muslims. The demand for Hindu State from the Hindu Mahasabha, The demand for Sikh State in Punjab, The Dravidians in South India, The Tamil State and the issue with Hyderabad and Kashmir who cited independence. All the demands for separate states were demands from the political parties as they saw an opportunity to have the power of the land and also to gain maximum benefits for themselves and their followers from the same. The formation of Pakistan, Added fuel to the already heated demands for separate States, and the feeling of discontent with India as a Nation started to fade even before it was established. India then was ruled by Indian National Congress and Pakistan was governed by The Muslim League. Whereas the other stated were pleased by giving them individual power in their own regions. A total of 25 states were created post independence to feed the political hunger of those regions. This set out the lifeless frame of the Indian Nation which was more of a compromise of State wise governing rather than a nationwide government. The other discontent states in the likes of Telengana, Gorkhaland, Kashmir and others were still left unanswered. And since then the issues have been kept avoiding till the time when avoidance resulted in further blows to the so called nationalism in the country. India has never been in a nationalistic phase, the fragmentation in India occurs due to the political will. Where a particular political party keeps fragmentation or demand for a separate ruling state as an agenda to come to power. And its not related to some minority areas which have a low impact on India, But India faces the pull from all directions and every corner with a demand for a separate state. In 2002 the then in power political party had to make way for three more states in order to fulfil the political appetite of the political parities of the concerned regions. But the government always fails to find a solution to the problem; In 2002 the government took the steps to avoid any more drama on the topic but indirectly ignited the sentiments of the political parties from other regions who have been fighting for a separate state. The Gorkhas with their issue for Gorkhaland, The Telangana issue which has been hot for a long time now, the demand for Bundelkhand, The demand for Saurashtra etc. Were reignited and the political parties got afresh agenda to create havoc. History and Social Issues of India as a Nation: This political view is not just challenged on the basis of Region, But also on the basis of Religion, Caste, Race and Language. With the political drama in Maharastra for the Marathi Manus has been a nuisance. Which is nothing more than a agenda to capture vote bank in the political parties there. The essence being, the parties capitalize of the fact that the people there have a lack of view of nationality and have a clearer picture and identification in their own culture and language. And believe that they first are Marathis, (or Tamils or Gorkhas for that sake) then Indians. Apart from the political views clash on basis on Regionalism and Language, issues which shake the will of India as a nation have been as pity as Interstate disputed over Water and Territorial boundaries, Caste Related violence, Naxalism are a few to name. Partition of Pakistan: Taking the case of The Myth of India as a nation has been punctured right from the formation of India post independence, ending up with two different countries, India and Pakistan (East and West). Till date it remains to be a major issue and the scars of which continue to haunt us in the form of the battle for Kashmir which started in 1947 and continues till date with no solution in site. Both the involved parties believe its a part of their territory because they believe that its more closer to their culture and hence should be a part of their territory. But what they fail to see is that the case of plebiscite never came to discussion. India and Pakistan both have been having a hard nut with their own internal issues, Pakistan with the disputes and killing between the Shia and Sunni tries in the name of superior race, On the other hand India with the issues like Marathis and Biharis, Hindus and Muslims , Hindus and Sikhs etc. Both are not able to handle either existing states and wi sh to take another disputed state to their bag. The idea for India and Pakistan was not from the people of the respective groups but were driven by the political leaders of the groups. These leaders made the people belief that the only way of growth and progress of their community is via a separate nation only. A decision which they all repented later in life. At the time of partition when Indians started the quest for India to have and nationality was more than a requirement, and ended up being a matter of pride. This was the time when the Hindus and Muslims started having a desire for a nation. The sense of nationality could have existed without the desire for having a separate nation. North East: The North Eastern states face a similar issue when it comes to the sense of Nationality. They are a part of India, But how often have there been uprising from the North East fronts in demand for a separate land, The ULFA in Assam, The Gorkhas in the regions around Darjelling etc. The reasons why these states have always been a trouble for the centre is because of the lack of importance that the North Western Indian front is given over the decades. The political parties in order to control the vote bank gave citizenship to immigrants from Bangladesh, Which further boiled the anger of the region. These regions have never thought of India as a country but as a power at Centre which is to be followed. Hence to the North East the concept of nation comes from chance and not by choice. The mudslinging continues as the nation says that these states dont tend to treat them as part of India and the states believe that they are treated as foreigners in India, So why not be a separate nation. Rest of India they dont believe in North Eastern as Indians: They are often referred as Chini or Chinkis and are treated as foreigners. The Nagas in Nagaland believe they are a separate nation and consider rest of Indias as foreigners and always believed they were included in India against their will. Arunachal Pradesh has been confused which country they do belong to India or China. And as both the countries have been fighting on this front, Arunachal Pradesh believe they need a solution to their long standing problem now. This is just as big as the Kashmir issue but is never addressed. Khalistan Movement: The Sikhs wanted a land of their own right from the India freedom struggle. These unmet demands were outburst in the form of the state of Punjab during the Khalistan movement. The demand for a separate state by Bhindranwala, the ironic leader who demanded a separate land for Sikhs lead to further shows of why the concept of Indian nation is a political will rather than a cross culture believe. Telangana: Again when the case of Telangana was addressed, the issue that the political leaders brought up to the surface was the suffering and they believe they had nothing to lose in the battle. But a battle? With their own country, their own motherland, well this is because of the fact that for them the mother land in Telangana and not India. The leaders and the followers believe that since their issues are not addressed by the Indian government, its better to be on their own. The factor that the political parties capitalise to come to power is that they assure the formation of a new state in case they come to power. They capitalise on the vote bank, and then to gain more direct power and control follow their promises to ask for a separate state. This is negotiated till the time the elasticity permits. With the regionalism of politics, race and language, there are other sectors also that get affected. The long standing delusion of patriotism is now being replaced by the new found jingoism. This is not only evident from the uproars of the states but can easily be read even from the number of TV channels for specific states. Various Incidences in recent times: Attacks as the one triggered by MNS and Shiv Sena on the North Indian candidates for the All India Railway recruitment board entrance in West region in Mumbai shows how much politics goes into everything. The plot was to dent the feeling of India as a nation to Marathis, and to reinforce the power of Marathis in the state of Maharastra over the feeling on India as a nation. The anti Tamil riots in Karnataka in 1991, the attacks which mainly took place in Bangalore and Mysore was to show the disrespect against the orders of the Cauvery Water Tribunal appointed by the Government of India. Again a matter where Region over Nation. The various other cited examples include The attack on North Indians in Maharastra and the referring on Biharis as outsiders in Delhi by the Chief Minister of Delhi are clear depictions that the integrity is more towards regions rather than nations. So what is the point then of being in the essence of a nation? The answer is simple, To keep a central authority. Which also comes from a combined political view, But as we have seen from time to time, This tends to dilute and the comfort of regionalism overpowers the feel of nationalism. The being of India as a nation is more of a will from the political fronts, where the views of nationalism are intact only till the point when it does not clashes with any other major interest. The interest may be related to religion, region, caste or other social issues. As soon as a political agenda is created out of the same, the skeleton of India is ruptured. These ruptures not only make a mark at the time of the impact but also leave significant scars which are exploited time and time again based on the political requirements of the regional or nationalist parties The Failure of the State: The idea of India as a nation is clashes with the regional identity, Any political demand for statehood, or sub-statehood, when demonstrates identifiable support from masses clearly state the lack of Indian nationalism. The emergence of the various ethnic nations in India e.g. Bengali, Sikh, Gujarati, Manipuri, or Tamil have taken shape and protect their ideology with stronger support for their regions rather than the nation. The support is derived from the followers who put their region first to their Nation. And for them being a part of India is just a mere way of recognition till the point they get a identity of their own. The regional and sub regional accommodation of identity in India have served to weaken the bases of political secessionism and secessionism and separatism while not defeating the principle of internal self determination of nation. The concept of India as nation was never there in the essence of purity; It lacked the vigour and desire, and came into being as a way out of the then impossible structure of princely states structure. But, the political figures try to hold it together, and time and again, are faced by the protest when people decide that their individual or community interest is superior to that of the nation. This individualistic feeling of superiority than the nation has always been into India, right from when the states were asked to join in the Union of India. The existence of India as a nation in itself a myth, If given a chance, there will be a handful who will not be willing to have a state or sub state like the Europe or former USSR. Europe failed through history in uniting as a subcontinent, though some attempts in this direction were made (for example, Napoleon).   The only country of comparable size that has better succeeded than India through history in maintaining its unity as a country is China. But even China never had so much diversity as India. But still India is better off from the modern Europe with their nationalistic phase, when every Indian state will start functioning as different countries or starts regarding them as different nations all together. The foreign ruler ship prevented this from happening. Hopefully Indian political will would keep the Indian national interest at priority for a more stable time to come and help India avoid the European nationalistic phase.

Essay --

Credit Rating Check: How to Find Your Credit Score Finding out your credit score is one of the most important steps you can take towards a stronger financial future. It is extremely important for everyone to be well-informed of your credit score so that you can make smart decisions about credit and how to use it to your advantage. Luckily, finding your credit score is incredibly easy and something that everyone should do! The Fair Credit Reporting Act It’s easier than ever to check your credit rating because of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). This requires the three main credit bureaus -Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion- to each offer you a credit report once every 12 months. You may choose to order these reports at different times throughout the year, or all at once. How to Order Your Free Reports Although you are entitled to yearly credit checks at no cost, there is still action required on your part. There are three different ways to request a report from each company. Online, you can visit www.annualcreditreport.com or you can call toll-free at 1-877-322-8228. Th...

Aristotle vs Plato Essay -- Metaphysics,The Four Causes, Soul and Body

Aristotle is considered by many to be one of the most influential philosophers in history. As a student of Plato, he built on his mentor’s metaphysical teachings of things like The Theory of Forms and his views on the soul. However, he also challenged them, introducing his own metaphysical ideas such as act and potency, hylemorphism, and the four causes. He used these ideas to explain his account of the soul and the immateriality of intellect. Prior to Aristotle, philosophers like Parmenides and Heraclitus argued about the existence of change. Aristotle used the terms act and potency to respond to Parmenides arguments about change’s non-existence and bridge the gap between Parmenides and Heraclitus’ polar views. Aristotle used act and potency to examine numerous things such as, motion, causality and metaphysics. He explained that the act or actuality of a thing is its truest way of being and that potency or potential is a things capability of being, further than its current existence. For example, a soccer ball is in actuality on the field; but in potentiality it can be kicked and enter the goal. According to Aristotle’s reasoning, the becoming or change of the soccer ball occurs when a potential is actualized. Though these changes occur, the thing itself stays the same. When the ball is kicked, it loses the actuality of being on the field and gains the actuality of being in the goal; in turn, the bal l then loses the potentiality of being in the goal and gains the potentiality of being on the field. Aristotle later explains that the â€Å"full reality† of a thing is when the actuality and potentiality of a thing are combined. He notes that while things can be â€Å"pure potency,† meaning not actual or real, that there is... ...usible argument. I can see the understanding in both schools of thought. If I were to think logically I would say Aristotle, because he based his conclusions on science and evidence. However, it is their views on the soul where I make my decision on who I (If I had to choose) agree with. I personally believe that the soul, my soul, is something that exists separate from my body. I believe that my body is a temporary and imperfect thing, but that my soul is immortal. I cannot say that I have come to this conclusion because it is the more â€Å"plausible† answer, but rather a belief in my faith that this life is temporary and all souls are eternal. While I understand that this view isn’t completely in line with Plato’s, I think Plato’s is closer than Aristotle’s to mine. Aristotle. "De Anima." Basic Works of Aristotle. Ed. Richard McKeon. New York: Random House, 1941.

Capstone Project Course Syllabus Essay

MISSION: BSC is committed to produce globally competitive graduates imbued with strong value system through its relevant occupational, professional and technological trainings in the field of Fisheries, Agriculture, Art and Science, Information and Industrial Technology, Environmental Science, Tourism, Hospitality Management and Education and undertake timely research and community services along its core competencies to promote self-reliance, social responsibility, science and technology, Filipino culture and sustainable development. VISION: The BSC is a premier institution of higher learning in Batanes effectively educating and training people for self-reliance and global competitiveness in the areas of advanced science and technology community development, and sustainable development, and is committed in the preservation and promotion of culture. Batanes State College Information Technology Education Department COURSE SYLLABUS SUBJECT CODE : ITM 60 SUBJECT TITLE : SYSTEM ADMINISTRATION MANAGEMENT SUBJECT PRE-REQUISITES : ITM 34, ITM 35 SUBJECT CO-REQUISITE : ITM 37, ITM 38, MATH 13i, & ACCTG. 30 CREDIT UNIT/S : 3 UNITS NO. OF CONTACT HOURS : 5 Hrs. (2 hrs. lec. & 3 hrs. lab.) PER WEEK I – Subject Description: This course offers BSIT students the opportunity to demonstrate that they can indeed meet the levels of performance expected of an IT  Professional. It includes project proposal, feasibility studies, intellectual property, teamwork, budget, schedule, and management, professional communications (i.e. reports, presentations, planning, design, implementation, deployment, and testing. Moreover, the Capstone Project is a way of determining whether students are ready to graduate. II – Goals and Objectives: At the end of the course, the student should be able to: 1. Show mastery and efficiency in software development. – To analyze a current system and to propose a design (capstone project) for the improvement of the system. – To develop and implement the proposed capstone project. 2. Practice professionalism in carrying out task within a period of time. – To effectively and efficiently perform duties and responsibilities to meet the needs of a client. III – Instructional Modes 1. Lecture Method using the sequential (logical presentation of topics) and transitional (in-depth treatment of the topics) technique. 2. Discussion – Graded and ungraded recitation technique. Make students focus their attention on certain set of questions about a specific topic. 3. Activity Method – Students are energized to action to accomplish a learning (laboratory) activity. 4. Inductive Method – Process of generalizing that is from simplex to complex. 5. Investigative Method –using the problem solving technique. IV Course Outline TimeTable| Topics| Specific Objectives| Suggested Activities| Laboratory Equipment| Evaluation| 54 hrs.| Orientation on the college and program vision-mission, goals and objectives, and rules and regulations.Pre-proposal Stage†¢ Capstone Project Orientation†¢ Short Listing  of Possible Capstone Projects†¢ Title Critiquing and Patentability Check (Patent Searching)†¢ Pre-Proposal Statement Preparation†¢ Pre-Proposal HearingProposal Stage†¢ Writing of Chapters I, II, III, and IV (planning and design only)†¢ Proposal Manuscript Submission†¢ Proposal Hearing†¢ Proposal Manuscript RevisionsOral Defense Stage†¢ Analysis†¢ Design†¢ Development†¢ Testing†¢ Prototype Submission†¢ Oral Defense Manuscript Submission†¢ Oral Defense Proper (Public Presentation)†¢ Oral Defense Manuscript RevisionsPatent Process†¢ Patent Drafting†¢ Patent Application†¢ Technology Transfer| To help students understa nd, implement, and achieve the vision-mission, goals and objectives, and rules and regulation of the college and program.1. Bring together and integrate knowledge and skills in the course as a whole;2. Reinforceand develop competencies that have not been sufficiently emphasized in thefundamental subjects;3. Define a substantial engineering study or design task and carrying it to completion within a specified time and to a professional standard;4. Complete a comprehensive written and bound report that places the Capstone Project in context, defines its objectives, and describes the work done with the resulting conclusions orrecommendations;5. Bridge the gap between the undergraduate studies and the professional future, and demonstrating professional competencies and capabilities;6. Demonstrate initiative and creativity, taking pride in the achievement of a difficult task.| LecturesDiscussions| Laptop/ PCProjectorSpeaker| * Capstone project manuscript proposal defense * System Oral De fense (Public presentation)| V – Student Requirements: 1. Oral Defense CDs. a. Complete Documentation i. Final Oral Defense Manuscript (Word file) ii. Final Oral Defense Manuscript (PowerPoint Presentation file) iii. Final ACM-Formatted Manuscript (Word file) b. Developed System iv. Installation or Setup Files/Folders v. Installation/or Users’ Guide VI – Grading System 1. Manuscript Proposal Defense50% 2. System Oral Defense50% 100% Passing Mark: 75% VII – Textbook 1. What is the difference between textbooks and reference books? VIII – References 1. Methods of Research 2. Technical Writing 3. System Analysis and Design 4. Advanced Statistics / Probability and Statistics 5. Technopreneurship 6. Software Engineering 7. University of Cebu-College of Information and Communication Studies (UC-CICS). 2011. Capstone Project Guidelines. 8. University of Cebu-College of Information and Communication Studies (UC-CICS). 2012. Capstone Project Guidelines. 9. Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines. 2013. http://www.ipophil.gov.ph/ IX – Committee: Course Title:| Date Effective:| Date Revised:| Prepared by:| Approved by:| SYSTEM ADMINISTRATION MANAGEMENT| 1st SemesterSY 2013-2014| May 28, 2013| ____________________RICARDO Q. CABUGAO JR.Acting Chairperson, ITE Dept| ____________________APOLINARIA A. CIELODirector of Instructions

Uae ; Cultural Differences

List of Abbreviations GDPGross Domestic Product MASMasculinity PDIPower Distance Index UAEUnited Arab Emirates UAIUncertainty Avoidance Index UKUnited Kingdom Table Of Contents I. – List of Abreviations II. – Introduction2 III. – The United Arab Emirates2 III. 1 – History2 III. 2 – Economy4 IV. – Important values for a successful business in the UAE5 V. – Culture7 V. 1 – Cultural differences at the national level7 V. 2 – Cultural differences at the organizational level10 VI. – Kuhne + Nagel12VII. – List of References14 II. – Introduction In the current business environment, in times of globalization, financial crisis and terror, there is a growing consciousness about difficulties that can occur when different cultures collide. These difficulties especially need to be regarded when wanting to expand a business internationally or wanting to enter a foreign market. In this paper the United Arab Emirates is analyzed with focus on critical information for operating a business there.This paper will take into account the history, the cultural aspects as well as differences, the business development and opportunities based on an example of the German logistics company Kuhne & Nagel, which is doing business in the UAE since the 70`s. III. – The United Arab Emirates III. 1 – History The Palm islands, The World, the Burj al Arab and the Burj Dubai and other superlatives come to our mind when thinking about the United Arab Emirates, but they only represent the timeframe since the 1990’s. The UAE was founded in 1971.To really understand the UAE and its culture it is important to take a look at the history and the developments before the foundation and the oil. About 1500 years ago the people in the Arabic region were living in tribes, their lives were dictated by the harsh natural conditions and pearl fishing was the prevalent dedication[1]. The community was very import ant within the tribes and a deep social family structure was established. [2] At that time the Islamic Belief was introduced to the gulf region and is therefore deeply rooted in the history and its culture. 3] As trade and piracy rose in the 18th and 19th century the area became known as the Pirate Coast until the British navy launched several attacks on the pirate strongholds to secure the trade. [4] This lead to the signing of 3 truce treaties in total, including the final treaty in 1892, which made them become the â€Å"Trucial States† and preventing them from entering into relationships with any other country but the United Kingdom (UK) as well as disposing territory to anyone besides the UK, in return for coastal protection and support in case attack of land[5].The first discovery of oil in 1958[6] in Abu Dhabi, which led to many more, was very fortunate as the region, which relied heavily on pearl fishing, saw the pearl market collapse between the First and Second World War. [7] The discovery of oil and the hence evolving wealth had a strong influence on the further development of the area. When the British first announced their intention of withdrawing from the Arabian Gulf by the end of 1971, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan of Abu Dhabi immediately wanted to establish closer relationships between the Arabic states. 8] He and Sheikh Rashid of Dubai, became the initiators towards an union of Arabic Emirates, including the Trucial States, Bahrain and Qatar. [9] Since no agreement could be reached between the nine and Qatar and Bahrain became independent, the rulers of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid, decided to form a union between their emirates and later on present its constitution to the other 5 emirates with the offer to join. [10] One day after the Britsh-Trucial Sheikdoms Treaty expired, the United Arab Emirates were founded on December 2nd, 1971.Four emirates joined immediately and Ra’s al-Kaihmah followed on Feb uary 10th, 1972. [11] Since its foundation the UAE has experienced an incredible growth and has managed to go from one of the least developed countries, to achieving an income level comparable to that of the industrialized nations in less than 30 years. [12] The oil revenues of course have contributed in a major way to the modern development and prosperity, but also political stability as well as the leadership by Sheikh Zayed were very influential. 13] The sheikh, who was born around 1918 and raised under poor circumstances, wanted his people to benefit from the country’s resources, while making sure that the people are aware of their roots and that the country’s history and culture are kept. [14] Through his efforts the Arabian culture has been preserved and passed on to the following generation.He was very popular not only within the nation but also in Europe and the US due to his pro-western mentality. 15] His open-mindness also had a big effect on the UAE and enab led it to become one of the most liberal and pluralistic countries in the Gulf region, with its now massively multicultural population. [16] When he died in 2004 his oldest son HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed al Nahyan became the ruler of Abu Dhabi and president of the UAE. [17] III. 2 – Economy Since the oil was discovered the oil sector was the main contributor to the GDP of the UAE. [18] However the country has steadily tried to reduce its dependability of oil and to diversify its economy. 19] The oil revenues were at first reinvested in to healthcare, education and the national infrastructure to raise the standard of living and pave the way for a sustainable economic development. [20] In 1985 the first free zone of the UAE was opened. In the Jebel Ali Free Zone no taxes had to be paid and foreign companies could establish subsidiaries without a domestic partner. [21] The concept of the free zone became very popular in the region and was the first step towards being an attract ive location for subsidiaries of companies that want to open up the Middle Eastern market.Today more than 850 companies have registered in the Jebel Ali Free Zone and almost 6,000 companies from over 110 countries conduct business there. [22] All in all more than 10,000 companies are registered in one of the 15 free trade zones in the UAE. [23] Due to the geographical location of the UAE in the Middle East and between the markets in the east, whose importance to the western companies has been steadily rising, and Western Europe the United Arab Emirates has become the hub for the complete Middle East, India, Afirca and the Commonwealth of Independent States. 24] This development is especially explicit in Dubai, which has evolved with over 140 scheduled fairs into one of the top locations for international trade shows and multilateral negotiations. [25]Due to the booming construction industry and tourism after 20 years of budget deficit there has been a balance surplus since 2005. [26 ] The GDP in 2007 grew by 7,5% to 192,6 billion US$. 27] The United Arab Emirates now has one of the most diversified economies in the gulf region and managed to lower its dependence on the oil industry to a GDP-contribution below one third, as sectors like manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade, tourism, construction and real estate increased their share. [28] IV. – Important values for a successful business in the UAE To successfully operate a business in the UAE it is mandatory that certain basic values of the Arabian culture are known and respected. [29] One has to aware of his own culture and depart from the wrong and right thinking of rong or right and better or worse when it comes to cultures, as cultures are just different without any judgement. [30]First of all one needs to be aware that time is seen in a totally different way in the Arab world and is not considered to be an issue. Business meetings and negotiations take longer, people are not as punctual and dead lines are often not met. [31] Since personal relations are of highest importance for a successful business it is crucial, when first entering into business relations with people from the United Arab Emirates, to establish a trustworthy and respectful relation, much like a friendship. 32] The first face-to-face meetings are commonly time absorbing and used to become acquainted with the prospective counterpart. [33] Impatience or anger because of the often lengthy process should not be expressed as it would be conceived as rude and disrespectful possibly leading frustration of the business relations. [34] Business meetings generally take longer in the Arab world as at the beginning time is usually spent on inquiries on the well-being of the family members. [35] A strong effect on the business practices has the religious faith.The working hours are for example interrupted for praying[36] and during the holy month of Ramadan overall business slows down in the Arabian area. [37] In norma l business practice the religion also comes into play, inasmuch as some decisions are left to â€Å"fate†. [38] Therefore negotiations might end with the term â€Å"Insh'allah† – â€Å"if God wills†, which underlines the strong belief that the course of events cannot be controlled by the individual meaning that the decision will be made by god and not by them. [39] One of the highest values in the Arabian culture is the belonging to groups, especially the family. 40] Family matters are of higher significance than business[41] and interruptions of e. g. business meetings due to family and personal matters are no exception and should not be misinterpreted as rude.[42] Since age also plays a significant role in the Arabian culture, greater respect must always be shown to the more elderly person, by e. g. greeting the most senior person in a meeting first. [43] Often age and status has a greater influence on the career of an Arab than the actual personal achi evements. 44] The interaction with women is not always straightforward and therefore the behavior of the Arabs in the situation should be adopted in terms of how to greet a woman for example. [45] When negotiating and also in normal interactions with Arabian counterparts the concept of saving face needs to always be kept in mind.Criticism should not be expressed publicly and one should avoid to put anyone in a uncomfortable situation, since it could result in loosing face which seriously harms the person’s and his family’s reputation. 46] Dignity and respect are key elements in Arabian culture and saving face, through the use of compromise, patience and self-control is a means by which these values are maintained. [47] Since confrontation and conflicts are to be avoided in the Arabian culture business communication is done differently. Arabia has been identified by Edward T. Hall as a high context region where one has to read between the lines in contrast to Germany wi th a low context country where explicit words have specific meanings[48].A yes for example may mean a perhaps as the Arabs often communicate indirectly through body language or other forms of non-verbal communication like eye-contact or facial cues rather than communicating directly through words. [49] As, one should be aware of the so called â€Å"High Context Communication†[50] and try to carefully observe his counterpart during a conversation and always pay attention to the way the complete message is conveyed. [51] Management in the UAE is mostly done through centralized decision making and tall hierarchies. 52] Employees in the UAE expect to receive clear instructions and orders from their superiors, rather than having the freedom and the responsibility to manage their own work. [53] Due authority being an element of the Arabian culture, the orders are normally obeyed and only rarely questioned. [54] V. – Culture V. 1 – Cultural differences at the national level The biggest difference between the German culture and the culture in the United Arab Emirates obviously is the religion. Religion in Germany exists and is practiced, but not in an extent comparable to the United Arab Emirates.The culture in the UAE can be defined as the Arabian Culture as it is mostly the same in all Arab nations with some local differences and is mainly influenced by their history and even more their religion. [55] Arabs living in the United Arab Emirates are almost all Muslims and believe that the Islam is not only a religion but a way of living. [56] Their God Allah controls their entire life and even the law called Sharia is partly build on the Holy Koran. Praying five times a day as well as drinking no alcoholic drinks, eating no pork and fasting during the holy month of Ramadan is usual Islamic behavior. 57] Where as in the UAE religion dictates to a large extent the life of the people, in Germany to the contrary, religion is practiced as well, but itâ⠂¬â„¢s done in a considerably more relaxed way. [58] The most popular religion in Germany is Christianity, but Islam, Judaism and Buddhism are among other practiced as well. [59] Even though a majority of the Germans consider themselves as Christian, it has only minor effects on their lives. [60]. The way people eat, dress or behave is rather set by themselves and their parental education than by their religion.The Christian calendar defines the national holidays like Christmas and Easter and the day of rest being Sunday. The festivities of Christmas and Easter are celebrated in most of the Christian families, but on the normal every day life religion has almost no effect, compared to the United Arab Emirates. [61] The calendar in the UAE is also influenced by the religion, as the Muslim New Year is around February and March and Ramadan in October. [62] Even the weeks are separated differently, since Friday is the day of rest and either Thursday or Saturday is given off respectively to form the weekend. 63] The Islam also has influence on the way Emiratis have to dress. Women have to wear the traditional abaya, which is a garment that covers their whole body with exception of the feet, hands and face. They might even have to cover up totally, depending on how strictly the husband practices his religion. [64] Men are required to wear a white cotton thobe at with a guthra covering the head. [65]Leaving aside the religious influence on the people in the UAE, Arabs are very conservative as it is. Emotions and feelings towards each other are not openly expressed in public, as they generally try not to attract any attention. 66] This behavior and urge for privacy can also be found in the way the houses are built, as a lot of space between buildings and thick walls are preferred and used to clearly keep the family inside and leave the rest out. [67] The family in the interior is of highest importance to the Arabs and stands over everything. Family members are very lo yal and close to each other, which has originated from the past. [68] Traditionally the father is the head and leader who provides the family with what is needed for living. [69] Although nowadays the situation s slowly changing and women gain e. g. opportunities in regards of education and are not as underprivileged anymore, the role of the woman still predominantly includes taking care of the children and the house as well as being the center for love and emotional support. [70] Additionally women are still treated differently by the law.[71] German family members also live closely together and parents are very caring for their children, but at the same time statistically every third German marriage fails and commonly children have to grow up in different homes. 72] Generally men and women are more equal in Germany in terms of the law as well as in terms of family. The man is not the predetermined head of the family, as the power is more or less equally divided between the father and the mother. [73] The role of the father as the sole provider is slowly diminishing as more and more women work and have careers even though men yet have to get used to the concept of staying at home to take care and raise the children. [74] Similarities in the development towards equality can be seen in both countries, although Germany seems to be a little bit further than the UAE.Like the family, the community is also of high importance to the Arabs. Relatives, friends and neighbors always support each other in every life situation, while one cares for each other and the community. They are usually very patient and open to compromises, as conflicts or embarrassment are avoided. [75] Criticism is not openly expresses because they do not want anyone to feel inconvenient or harm their dignity, because it could lead to someone loosing his face. [76] To â€Å"keep face† is very important and if someone lost face there would be a strong impact on the family’s reputation . 77] Guests are also always taken care of very generously, since the Arabs are known for their hospitality.[78] Such a strong community cannot be found in Germany, where the people are more independent and concerned of their own good. [79] Germans behave very differently and are a lot more individualistic. People are primarily concerned about themselves and secondly about others. [80] There is no concept of â€Å"keeping face† and therefore conflicts are common, issues are openly addressed and discussed. Germans can be emotional and loud publicly unlike the people living in the Arab world. 81] Their openness for new things is also more distinct and attracting and standing in the middle of attention is not regarded as improper behavior in contrast to the conservative Arabs. [82] Another big difference is the outwards appearance of the people in Germany to the people in the UAE since there is neither a predefined kind of clothing nor any limit to the individualism due to the c onstantly changing fashion trends and styles. [83] V. 2 – Cultural differences at the organizational level To show the differences between the two cultures of Germany and the UAE at the organizational level Hofstede’s analysis is a good instrument to apply.The Dutch professor and influential author Gerard Hendrik Hofstede performed from 1968 to 1972 a survey among 116,000 IBM employees about their preferences in management style and working conditions. [84] Through his study he demonstrated that the behaviour of societies and organizations are affected by national and regional cultural groupings. Out of the results Hofstede identified the four dimensions called Power Distance, Uncertainty Avoidance, Individualism/Collectivism and Masculinity/Femininity among which the different groups can be differentiated. 85] The first dimension Power Distance is defined as the extent to which less powerful members of institutions and organizations accept unequal distribution of powe r. [86] In the Arab world, which includes the UAE, a high Power Distance Index of 80 points has been recorded, meaning that people tend to follow orders without hesitation and organizations have a rather steep hierarchy. It can also be said that there are a lot of laws, rules and regulations that have to be followed to reduce the amount of uncertainty.87] The Power Distance Index in Germany is considerably lower than in Arabia with 35 points. Hence Germans have fewer superiors and their orders are more likely to be question than it would be the case in Arabia. Subsequently unequal distribution of power is not unconditionally accepted, the organizational structures are much flatter and decentralized decision making is common applied. [88] The Uncertainty Avoidance Index describes the level of discomfort people feel in insecure situations and the beliefs and means like organizations and institutions that were developed to reduce the uncertainty. 89] In this dimension the UAE and Germa ny are almost at the same level. [90] Both countries have adopted and implemented strict rules, laws, policies, and regulations to avoid those uncertain situations. A high need for security, structured activities and a strong belief in the knowledge of experts mutually applies as well. [91] The way of conducting business though differs, since the Arabian way is affected by their religious belief. They believe their time is controlled by Allah and that they have no influence it.Long talks with lots of coffee and tea are very common in a business meeting and should not be refused, whereas Germans certainly belief that they control their time themselves and are usually on tight schedules and have fixed dates which they administrate. [92] Germans are even famous for creating appointment schedules and seemingly never missing them too. The third dimension is the Collectivism and Individualism (IDV) respectively. This dimension displays whether people rather take care of themselves or othe r people around. [93] The Arabs have a very low IDV score of 38 points compared to the world average of 64 points.This makes the UAE a collectivistic country, where a strong relationship to the member group is very important. That is e. g. the family offering life-long protection and loyalty, which is prior to all other rules. [94] This translated into business as most jobs and promotions are obtained due to age and family status. In Germany to the contrary the IDV score of 67 is relatively high and above the world average, meaning that it is an individualistic country. People rather take care of themselves in stead of others and e. g. job promotions are based on one’s own efforts and market value rather than the family background. 95] In the last dimension the Masculinity Index (MAS) shows the people’s preference for â€Å"masculine† values like competitiveness, authority and materialism.[96] The MAS of 53 in the Arab World is slightly above the average of 50,2 , but still 13 points lower than in Germany, which means that Arabians prefer both â€Å"masculine† and â€Å"feminine† values. [97] They like authority and materialism, while valuing quality of life and relationships at the same time. Germans are mostly â€Å"masculine† in this respect and value especially competition, power and high salaries. 98] Considering the results of Hofstede’s analysis it can be said that religion and tradition have a great influence on the way business is done in the UAE and that there is a fast differences to the Germany, which can not be neglected when doing business. VI. – Kuhne + Nagel Kuhne + Nagel is a German logistics company, which was founded in 1890 in Bremen by August Kuehne and Friedrich Nagel.[99] Since then it has evolved from a traditional international freight forwarder to a globally leading transportation and logistics provider offering integrated supply chain solutions. 100] The company today has 850 off ices in  over 100 countries with more than 54,000 employees. [101] Their concept of helping to turn the customer’s logistic challenges into a competitive advantage through superior service and integrated end-to-end supply chain management solutions has been successful and still is. [102] Kuhne + Nagel has entered the market of the United Arab Emirates in 1977[103], when an office was established in Dubai. [104] For internationally operating logistic companies a global network of representations is very important in order to guarantee a smooth transit of goods.That way in case of any problems the local office can cope with it and is familiar with standards and processes at that location. Like in most Arab countries, a subsidiary can only be established with a domestic sponsor or partner. [105] Therefore the office in Dubai was not owned by majority by Kuhne + Nagel and there was not a lot of business actually taking place in the UAE, but an increasing number of goods passed through, thus the office was at first mainly used for project support. [106] Kuhne + Nagel also moved their office to the Jebel Ali Free Zone and could thus conduct their business independently.With the increasing business activities in the UAE, the branch office in Dubai gained in importance as well. In 2008 there were 120 employees in three Dubai offices, which makes Kuhne + Nagel the 7th biggest German employer in Dubai. [107] Since the company had already established many offices in other countries they are experienced in dealing with different cultures and mentalities. They have always been aware of the cultural differences between e. g. Germany and the United Arab Emirates and paid attention and adjusted to them.As Germans though they enjoyed good reputation and made only positive experiences in making business with the Arabian people as long as they were treated respectfully. [108] With the hotel industry booming, Kuhne + Nagel introduced in 2001 an innovative product contain ing a tailor-made logistics solutions associated with the construction and furnishing of hotel and tourist facilities. Apart from warehousing, the service portfolio further includes the entire management of suppliers and transport. [109] In 2005 this service was even deepened as firstly introduced to the hotels in the UAE by Kuhne +Nagel, which includes supplying amenities to hotels on a regular basis. [110] Kuehne + Nagel is responsible for the entire supply chain, including order management and procurement. Due to its great acceptance the global availability of this service followed in 2006. [111] The general trend towards becoming the â€Å"hub† of the Middle East, makes the location Dubai logistically even more important. [112] The success of Kuhne + Nagel in the UAE is also displayed through the plans of the company to expand its logistic infrastructure as part of the Dubai Logistics City adding about 52,000 m2 to its existing facilities in the Jebel Ali Free Zone. 113]T his new logistic centre will allow the company to optimally provide all the markets in the Middle East and meet the increasing storage requirements of many companies due to the relocating of their stock to the Middle East rather than supplying the area from Europe or Asia in order to reduce their costs and delivery time. [114] VII.