The Causes For Eating Disorders And The Impact Of The Media On Essay

The Causes For Eating Disorders And The Impact Of The Media On Self-Image - Essay Example This paper discusses causes for eating disorders and the impact of the media on the self-image. Causes of eating disorders Poppink defined eating disorder as abnormal eating habits, which may occur in form of starvation or excessive eating acts and identifies anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating as examples of common eating disorders (17). Causes of eating disorder can be grouped into psychological, interpersonal, and social factors. Psychologically, eating disorder may occur because of mental and emotional imbalance. Psychological factors include, lack of self-esteem, feeling of lack of purpose in life and occurrence of anxiety, anger or stress. Psychological factors, though inherent to the patients, can be professionally addressed through patient counseling. In addition, Poppink states that individuals could manage anxiety and anger without seeking professional services where individuals could relax, and avoid incidences that might trigger anger (104). Interpersonal factors could al so result to eating disorders. According to NEDA (1), interpersonal factors may occur through physical and sexual abuse, strained personal relationships, and having history of being ridiculed or teased about ones weight or size. Having relationships and interacting with parties is the genesis of developing interpersonal factors that lead to eating disorders. Avoidance of negative crowd and withdrawal from strained relationships could prevent the occurrence of eating disorder. However, those who have suffered from sexual abuse may further require professional counseling and guidance. Spettigue and Henderson further identify social factors as the leading cause of eating disorders. With the advent of information technology, mass media have created a social context of ideal women through the biased exposures of thin women in their programs and magazines. The society has also framed a narrow definition of beauty where slender women and masculine men are being considered beautiful and han dsome. Poppink further notes the existence of such biased concept and social mind frames in the society may generate peer pressure among individuals who are overweight hence leading to eating disorder (145) Causes of eating disorders offers basis for treatment and recovery. The disorders may be treated in three different approaches, which include the use of psychotherapy, medicines, and nutritional supplements. Spettigue and Henderson stated that the cause of the eating disorder determines the approach of the treatment. Counseling and administration of medicines may be used to treat eating disorder that could have resulted from physical and sexual abuse. It is fundamental that the administered treatment addresses the root cause of the eating disorder and resulting symptoms of the condition concerning psychological, interpersonal and social factors (NEDA). After undergoing successful treatment, an individual is able to recover from an eating disorder. Full recovery is always dependen t on the nature of treatment and care offered to a patient. Recovery is a long-term process, which may last for years. It is vital that one should carefully follow the instructions of the therapist and the outlined recommendations for this stage (NEDA). The role of the media The media has a mandate of informing the public. It, as an informative tool, has contributed to the flourishing of eating disorder in the society. Overweight women, for example, have been subjected to social pressure by the media, which has framed social context of beauty. The media has portrayed celebrities, actors, and models with slender bodies, resulting to a biased definition of bea

Human Resource Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Human Resource - Essay Example Furthermore, more detailed ideas and concepts about the said topic are elaborately obtained from various studies through the use of academic journals. Critical evaluation There is no question about it; sexual harassment is prevalent in diverse parts of the world especially in the workplace. The sad thing about it is the thought that victims have little idea that they were already sexually harassed. One reason may be due to cultural orientation (Poulston, 2008). Some may have different perspective about it (Pierce et al., 2004). This further resulted to situation in which sexual harassment and its definition has not been fully understood by all. It is therefore important to study on this aspect because this can be informative to individuals especially those who have little information about the abusive capacity of those who can impose power over them. It is also important to understand this because sexual harassment has specific undesirable impacts that can eventually result to ineffi cient output in the workplace. Thus, workplace harassment is proven to have negative consequences in an individual and organisation (Bowling and Beehr, 2006; Raver and Nishii, 2010; Hershcovis and Barling, 2010 ). Thus, the human resource department must essentially address this issue in order to ensure efficient output of the human resource. The authors were consistent about their purpose of their paper and that is to outline their position on sexual harassment, how to avoid it in the workplace and the responsibilities of the employers to control this kind of situation. There were various sources employed in the paper and these include those with relevant discussion about the real definition of sexual harassment in the workplace. This makes the paper informative because it tries to inform the readers about the basic forms of sexual harassment in the workplace. Furthermore, more relevant literatures were included in order to justify their points on how to avoid sexual harassment in the workplace especially on the best part that employers can do to protect the human resource. It was also evident in the paper that the authors were able to critically consider various sexual harassment related incidents. From this stand point, it was evidently clear how the authors tried to emphasize the relevance and prevalence of sexual harassment in the workplace. The authors concluded that sexual harassment can represent abuse of power in the workplace. This basically is one of their strong stands on this issue. It is in fact true that through sexual harassment, everyone has the chance to dominate someone through imposition of power based on the definition given by the authors. Unfortunately, they failed to expand on this issue. Even though they are suggesting more important and relevant studies on this part, but they failed to expand or give detailed explanation on this aspect. They failed to provide available literature that could support this claim. Primarily, they have imp arted logical explanation and some relevant statistics about sexual harassment in the workplace but they failed to emphasise how many of them are eventually caused by abusive use of power over the abused or victims. For instance, they pointed out that women are said to be commonly sexually harassed in the workplace. However, there is no clear justification that this result is evident because women are primarily weak in physical strength than men for instance or the latter is more powerful than the former in the

Cafe Expresso And Sustained Competitive Advantage

Cafe Expresso And Sustained Competitive Advantage The purpose of this report was to critically analyse the Human Resource and Performance management systems of Cafe Expresso as a source of sustained competitive advantage. Specific objectives were to discuss the Human Resource, as a source of sustained competitive advantage (under RBV) in a company. In addition, the implications of RBV (Resource Based View) on SHRM (Strategic Human Resource Management) of an organization were discussed and how performance management systems are put in place to multiply its efficiency. The role of managers in this regard was also analysed to certain extent. In the end, threat posed to Cafà © Expresso was identified and recommendations were offered. One of the challenges faced by the company was the sustainability of its competitive advantage. The report recommends an extensive use of innovation and creativity at all levels of management in the company and futuristic approach in all its strategies and decision-making process. Table of Contents Introduction The case study on which this report is based, deals with one of the renowned players of the coffee house industry, called the Cafà © Expresso. After reining the coffee industry for almost 15 years, they lost their market share at the hand of rival competitors. As their key staff was poached and business model imitated. The new leadership in the form of charismatic chief executive, Ben Thomson, identified the problem in companys human resource and appointed, Kam Patel as a new global HR director to sort it out. Kam Patel worked on the new HR strategy to achieve Bens vision of becoming the number one coffee house across the globe. She revolutionised the role of HR and introduced functions of Partner Resources, where all employees were termed as partners in the business. Other key areas on which she focused were, resourcing and retention, learning and development, talent management, employee involvement and communication, and compensation and benefits. Her efforts reaped results and Cafà © Expresso moved to number two in the industry. The service had improved considerably and there was an increased level of staff and customer retention. However, they were now concerned about sustaining and developing this competitive advantage, which they achieved through superior strategy and innovative HR practices (Harzing and pinnington, 2011). Objectives of the report The main objectives of the report are to discuss the Human Resource Management strategy of cafà © expresso in light of Resource Based Theory presented by Barney (1991). Followed by key recommendations, as to how it can further develop or maintain its competitive advantage, based on this perspective. Purpose of the report The purpose of this report is to put forward an inductive theoretical discussion, where by, the human resource in an organization can be viewed as a source of sustained competitive advantage. In order to accomplish our mission, we will focus on the need to introduce the Strategic Human resource Management and the summary of Resource Based View of an organization, as well as, cursory touching upon the old and new conflicting theories in the process. We will then identify the circumstances, under which the human resource is actually valuable, rear, inimitable and non-substantial (VRIO framework). We will draw an end to literature review by discussing the implications of RBV on basic SHRM and example case study. Finally, we will discuss the inferences and put forward recommendations, as to how human resources can provide sustained competitive advantage and analyzing the role of HR practices in creating this advantage. Limitations Due to word limit, this report only discusses the theoretical research carried in the field of SHRM development and not the empirical research. Literature Review Strategic Human Resource Management and Transformation Armstrong (2008:5) defines Human Resource Management as a strategic and coherent approach to the management of an organisations most valued assets- the people working there, who individually and collectively contribute to the achievement of its objectives. Therefore, strategic HRM can be termed as those HR policies and practices, which will help an organisation in achieving its long-term goals and objectives through its people. Purcell (1999) defines strategic HRM as those actions, which differentiate an organsiation from its competitors in the market. HR policies and practices are no longer being formulated in isolation, as in the past. In the last half a century, HR functions have transformed from personnel in 1970s to employee welfare (unions) in 1990s to a strategic business partners in 21st century (Holbeche, 2009; Ulrich and Brockbank, 2005). The current period of HR transformation has been greatly influenced by Dave Ulrichs thinking (Holbeche, 2009). Strategic Management Framework Strategic management has seen remarkable advancement in the past half a century. Ever since the realisation of strategy into management, both academic researchers and practitioners have shown great interest in this field (Wright, et al, 1994). The business strategy encompasses the organisations strength, weaknesses, opportunities and threats-SWOT (Chanda, 2009). The strategists have relied extensively on this single framework (SWOT) to structure their work (Barney, 1991). Other contribution in this framework is Porters- 5 Force Model in Fig.1.1, which emphasizes on the external environmental factors affecting firms performance. Porters model did receive a wide range of acceptability by the practitioners, but it does not cater for the determinants, on which a companys manager has influence (Wright, et al, 1994). Keeping in view the above mentioned strategic management theories, based on external factors determining the competitive advantage of an organization, let us now narrow down to strategic human resource management. In this regard, the most relative one is the Outside-in (Michigan HRM Model) theory, first published by Tichy, et al., 1982) According to them, People are recruited in to the organisations to do the jobs defined, by the division of labour. Performance must be monitored and rewards must be given to keep individuals productive (Devanna, et, al, 1984). In their model, Fig.2.2 Strategic management and environmental pressures they present the basic elements as interrelated systems, that are surrounded in the work related environment. C:UsersShahrukhDesktopR0801E_A.gif Fig.2.1 The five competitive forces that shape strategy Source: Harvard Business review, 2008 However, critics suggest that this model has harder, less humanistic approach to HRM, holding the employees as a resource, in the same manner as any other business resource. People can be obtained as cheap as possible, used sparingly, developed and exploited to organizations benefit (Price, 2011). Another limitation to this model is that, it cannot fit into dynamic and globalized economic conditions, where innovation and learning is the key to sustained competitive advantage. One of the upcoming and current theoretical discussions on strategic management is the Resource Based View of an organization (Barney, 1991; Wright, 1993). This theory of strategic management is different from environmentally-focused and externally motivated theories (e.g., Poter, 1980; Tichy, et al, 1982; Devanna, et al, 1984). It mainly focuses on the inside out view of the organization (Barney, 1991), its strategy and its performance (Hill and Jones, 2007). Furthermore, the Resource Based model of competitive advantage is mainly organisation- focused as compared to strategic management analysis by Porter and Devanna, which are industry environment- focused (Mc Williams and Smart cited in Wright, 1994). Resource Based View of an organisation Resource based view of a company as described above, emphasizes upon the internal resources of the company as a major factor in competitive success and sustainability (Wright, et al, 1994). It is therefore, imperative to briefly focus on the definitions of resources, competitive advantage and sustained competitive advantage. Resources within Resource Based Theory According to Barney(1991:101) the resources in a firm are all assets, capabilities, organizational processes, firm attributes, information, knowledge, etc. controlled by a firm that enable a firm to conceive of and implement strategies that improve its efficiency and effectiveness. Barney also classifies these resources in to three categories, such as, physical capital resources, human capital resources and organizational capital resources (Wright, et al, 1994). Since our focus is on human capital resources, therefore, according to Barney, it includes such things as experience, intelligence of both managers and workers in an organisation. Competitive and sustained competitive advantage When discussing the RBV of a firm, the above mentioned resources are in fact the source of competitive advantage. Barney (1991:102) believes competitive advantage is being achieved when a firm is implementing a value creating strategy, not simultaneously being implemented by any current or potential competitors. In contrast, in the environmentally motivated strategic models (e.g. Porters 1980; Devanna1984), the resources are considered to be mobile and that companies can create or purchase, resources held by the other firms (Wright, et al, 2001). The second definition is the sustained competitive advantage. Some authors have suggested that a sustained competitive advantage is simply a competitive advantage that lasts long period of calendar time (e.g. Jacobson 1988; Porter1985) (Barney, 1991). Whereas, the new theory is that sustained competitive advantage occurs only when the competitors are unable to copy the benefits of a competitor advantage at the first place (Wright, et al, 1994). Therefore, the criteria chalked down by Barney (1991) for sustained competitive advantage in his resource based theory is VRIO: Value should be created through resource There should be an element of uniqueness or rarity in the resource as compared to its competitors in the market The resource should not be imitable The resource of an organisation should not be substitutable with resources from other competitors Human Resource under VRIO Framework We have established that human resource is one of the components of sustained competitive advantage. Let us now further discuss it under the resource based (VRIO) framework (Barney Wright: 1997). Human Resource as Valuable As mentioned above, in order for human resource to become the source of sustained competitive advantage, it needs to add value to the firm (Elliot, 2003). According to Barney (1991), resources must possess additional characteristics, in order for them to add value to the organization. Other researchers believe that because of the variable level of skills and abilities of employees, there is a variance in individual contribution to the firm, consequently adding to the ability of human capital to provide value. (Wright, et al, 1994). In addition, value can also be created within the organisation for its human resource through regular training and development activities (Ulrich and Brockbank, 2005). Human Resource as Rare In contrast to the idea of rarity of human resources, it can be argued that labor pool is in fact homogenous due to existence of fairly high levels of unemployment, leading to an excess of supply of labor (Elliot, 2003). However, it is widely believed amongst the HR strategists that rarity in a human resource is derived from their variable levels of competencies and skills. For example, cognitive is an ability which is rarely found in all levels of human resource (Wright, et al, 1994). Since these rare competencies are distributed uniformly amongst the talent pool, therefore, quality human resource is rare (Lado and Wilson 1994). Human Resource as inimitable According to Wright et al (1994), If the competitive advantage gained through having a high quality skilled worker is easily imitable, then it not possible for human resource to constitute as a source of sustained competitive advantage. According to the RBV of competitive advantage, SHRM researches argue that the high quality workers can be imperfectly imitable, if they possess pre-requisites such as, unique historical background, casual ambiguity and social intricacy (Elliot, 2003). Furthermore, to sustain a competitive advantage, the human resource must also be imperfectly mobile i.e. that cannot be traded as regularly as possible (Amit Shoemaker; Grant; Peteraf, cited in Elliot 2003). However, William (1992) argues that nothing lasts forever and no matter what the organisation does, its competitive advantage will eventually be copied by its competitors. Therefore, he purposes the idea of First mover advantage- how fast an organization can maneuver across a range of competitive co nditions. Human Resource as non-substitutable Not able to be substituted mean that there must be no strategically equivalent valuable resources that are themselves either not rare or imitable (Barney 1991:111). Alternatively, if the resources are not rare and imitable, the other firms will be able to easily create and implement same business model and strategies, thus, invalidating the benefits of competitive advantage (Barney, 1991). However, it is widely argued that the biggest advantage to human resource is the fact that every person is genetically unique in a way that no two people are exactly identical, thus they are heterogeneous resource (Barney Wright, 1997; Wright et al, 1994; Pfeffer, 1995). In addition, human resources is the only source in an organisation, which has the potential to not to grow obsolete and can be easily introduced to new technologies, products and markets (Wright, et a, 1994). Furthermore, the time human resource spends in an oragnisation, adds to the experience which in turn adds to the total valu e of the organisation (Barney Wright, 1997). Applying RBV to SHRM and sustained competitive advantage As it is mentioned in para.2.1 that SHRM is a set of those HR policies and practices, which are designed to achieve long-term organizational goals. Though field of SHRM has not directly born of the RBV, it has clearly been instrumental to its development (Wright; Dunford; Snell: 2001). It was largely due to the fact that RBV shifted the view from external (environmental) factors to internal firm resources as a source of competitive advantage (Hoskisson: 1999). Therefore, amalgamation of RBV into SHRM should come as no surprise to the practitioners around the world. HR practices and sustained competitive advantage The potential of HR practices to establish a source of sustained competitive advantage has been argued greatly amongst academic researchers (Wright, et al: 2001). Two arguments came in quick succession in 1994. Wright et al (1994) suggested that HR practices (tools used to manage human pool), when studied under the RBV, VRIO framework (Barney and Wright: 1997), does not form the basis of sustained competitive advantage. As, individual HR practices can easily be imitated by competitors. Alternatively, they proposed that only the human resource capital (highly skilled and highly motivated workforce) has the potential to become the source of sustained competitive advantage for a firm (Elliot: 2003).In contrast, Lado and Wilson (1994) argued that HR practices are in fact the source of sustained competitive advantage for firm because HR systems (opposite to individual practices) can be unique, informally ambiguous and synergetic in way they develop firm competencies. Thus, HR practices wi th all its complementariness and interdependencies would be impossible to be copied by another competitor. This argument seems valid in the current SHRM paradigm (Wright, et al: 2001). Development and performance management The constant development in the field of SHRM has rendered RBV to achieve some consensus on the role of human resource in achieving sustained competitive advantage (Wright et al: 2001). These factors are illustrated in Fig.2.5. Fig.2.5: A model of basic strategic HRM components C:UsersShahrukhDesktop1-s2.0-S0149206301001209-gr1.gif Source: Journal of Management (2001) The components depicted in Fig.2.5 are only the levers by which a pool of human capital can be developed (Wright et al, 1994). The role of managers in a firm is inherently limited, when it comes to defining the sources of sustained competitive advantage under VRIO framework (wright et al 2001). However, Wright et al (1994) argues that the managers can play a vital role in developing a pool human capital (highly skilled and motivated workers) by superior HR practices such as: Extensive selection and recruitment process Systems to attract, identify and retain high quality employees Training programs aimed at increasing and developing individual skills and competencies Attractive wages and compensation packages Based on Wright et als(1994) model, Elliot(2003) suggests that the next aim of an HR manager is to affect the individual behavior of employees by introducing Performance Management Systems supportive of firms competitive strategy. For example, Reward systems, Appraisal systems, communication systems and socialization systems and encourage employees to improve their individual performance, where by, they can deliver and act in the best interest of the organization (Wright et al, 1994). Link between theory practice- Cafà © Expresso Here, we will link theory to practice, by practically, adding the example from the case-study on Cafà © Expresso. After Ben Thomson (CEO) decided to re-launch Cafà © Expressos business strategy, the main emphasis of his program was the refurbishment of HR department. As, this discussion focuses on modern HRM theories and practices in light of RBV, it is evident that the new HR director, Kam patel, applied almost the same strategy. For example: To start with, they set aside the external (outside-in) environment (Michigan model by Devanna et al (1984) and Porters forces model (1985)) and focused on the firms internal (Inside-out) HRM strategy and practices (RBV of the firm by Barney (1991) and Wright et al (1994)). Due to high turn-over of employees in the industry and weak retention, they identified the key human capital of the company, as a source of competitive advantage (based on Wright et al, 1994). Kam Patel, with her futuristic and modern approach, transformed the HR function as Partner Resources (based on Holbeche, 2009; Ulrich and Brockbank, 2005). She introduced performance management systems, for example, objective and development needs, in relation to knowledge, technical skills and behavioral skills. Performance appraisal was conducted bi-annually and feedback from customers and peers were included in the process. (Based on Wright et al, 1994; Elliot, 2003). Under the VRIO framework (Barney, 1991), Cafà © Expresso did manage to create Value, Rarity, Inimitability and non-substitutability through their superior HR practices. Value and Rarity by introducing learning and development feature in their HR practice, for example, new recruits were encouraged to spend time on the floor. They spent a day in Cafà © Expresso development Centre, learning the company history and coffee industry. They were made Cafà © expresso ambassador by taking part in the coffee master program. They were groomed through mentor system, where both baristas and managers were provided with a buddy, who would support and provide assistance in their job. In addition, the new resourcing technique (window advertsing and word of mouth) meant that most of their selected partners were actually loyal customers in the past, which is a rare human resource pool in a firm (Harzing Pinnington, 2011). In-imitability and non-substitutability is measured by the fact that cafà © expresso possessed a unique team of partners (mostly former customers) with the same love and passion for coffee house experience amongst them. Furthermore, the retention strategy offered was of high quality and included wide range of benefits, for example, share option scheme and discount of 30% was offered to partners on all cafà © expresso stores. In addition, they empowered their partners to provide suggestions and ideas. Partner Voice a company magazine was introduced, by which all employees were kept aware of all the activities of the company (Harzing Pinnington, 2011). Conclusion One of the objectives, set in the introduction part of this paper was to analyse the HRM strategy of Cafà © Expresso in light of Barneys (1991) Resource Based Theory. It is proven from the discussion that Cafà © Expresso did work on its HR policies and practices based on the reigning Resource Based Theory by Barney and Wright. The link between Cafà © Expressos HR practices and companys performance has been established through the above mentioned theory. For example, when Ben Thomson did not find any solution in the external (industrial) environment, he turned his focus inside the company and immediately discovered problems in the internal resources; out of which the most important one was the HR function. With RBV of the firm he added value to the firm by employing an experienced HR director Kam Patel. She in turn added more value and rarity to the firm by introducing empirical HR strategies and unparalleled performance management systems. The result was that Cafà © Expresso star ted to grow and moved to second place in the industry (Harzing Pinnington, 2011). It has been established that human resource can become a source of competitive advantage in the industry, as well as, a possible source of sustained competitive advantage when scrutinized under VRIO framework (Wright et al, 1994). Furthermore, Cafà © Expresso did achieve the competitive advantage they hoped for, but the true test of the robustness of their strategy is in fact sustainability and development of the same. Finally, is it enough for Cafà © Expresso to not to worry any more about their current competitive advantage, as, they have fulfilled all the prerequisites of the Resource Based Theory of competitive advantage laid down in the paper? The answer will be discussed in the Recommendations part. Recommendations Despite the debate amongst strategists and scholars continue, regarding the effectiveness of RBV, there is no denying the fact that sustainability is the function of companys key resources and their immobility (Brahma Chakraborty, 2011). Undoubtedly, the question is what makes these resources absolutely, valuable? Petraf and Barney (2003:312) state that, Resource Based Theory (RBT) is not the only or a best substitute for industrial level analytical tools, such as five-force analysis (Porter, 1980) or for group analysis or analysis of macro environment. It is relatively an additional tool to complement all these tools, where by, one can search for possible causes of sustained competitive advantage. In view of the above, I have come up with following recommendations for cafà © expresso and their issue of sustained competitive advantage: Aphorism: Innovate or Die is a famous saying these days, which warns companies to innovate or face the consequences of being driven out of the market for good (Barney, Ketchen Wright, 2011). Rapid advancement in the field of Information sharing technologies, Globalisation and dynamic economic environment are some of the factors, which pose an existent threat to any companys competitive advantage in the market. Companies, such as Cafà © Expresso, should not only rely on one successful strategy for long but should constantly revise and develop new ideas to develop and maintain their competitive advantage. How time affects strategy? The common denominator is time; this approach helps managers become proactive in creating change- in policies, in practices and in processes. Williams (1992) suggested this theory for sustained competitive advantage, which I believe holds much valid in todays fierce business environment. The success in this theory is embedded in the managers ability to change the rules of the game so entirely that the competitors are left behind in the chase. The management of cafà © expresso should keep their options open and avoid fixation. Futuristic leadership at all levels in the organisation is one of the key factors to sustained competitive advantage. A visionary team of managers will push the organization towards innovation and creativity, avoiding stagnation in the process. Ben Thomson (current CEO) should constantly monitor market for new avenues and trends in the coffee house industry. He should also develop and train his key managers to become visionary and creative. Capacity for change is an all-time important element of a sustained competitive advantage. Due to highly fluid business environment, where new technologies and features enter the market every day, a company should possess a capacity to change its internal business ethos accordingly. Human resource in an organization has a great capacity to change and being exposed to new environments. Being Customer focused is last but not the least of worries for a company such as, cafà © expresso. The kind of industry in which it operates is directly involved in customer service and satisfaction. Much study has been done on customer service and retention in the past two decades or so, because the focuses of almost all the businesses have now shifted in the direction of its customers. The future of entire coffee house business is embedded in this single aspect.

Critical Analysis of Edvard Munchs The Scream Essay -- Visual Arts Pa

Critical Analysis of Edvard Munch's The Scream "The Scream", sometimes known as "The Cry" was painted by Edvard Munch in 1893. Some say Munch played a role in the development of German Expressionism, though the Norwegian painter turned down two offers to join the group, and preferred not to be classified, or 'put' into a category. This painting was part of Munch's "The Frieze of Life", a series of paintings each portraying a phase of life - as defined by Munch: Birth of Love, Blossoming and Dissolution of Love, Anguish of Life, and Death. The eleven paintings - "The Kiss", "Madonna", "Ashes", "Dance of Life", "Melancholy", "Red Virginia Creeper", "The Scream", "Death in the Sick-Room", "Puberty", "Moonlight", and "The Sick Child" - are as moving today as they were a hundred years ago when the motifs were first conceived. Munch finished "The Scream" in 1893. It was a work of great personal meaning to him. The painting was like the culmination of all the tragic and harrowing events in his life. When Munch was aged only five years old, his Mother died from Tuberculosis. Nine years later, his favourite sister Sophie dies from tuberculosis also, at the age of 15. Frequent illnesses prevent him from attending Technical college in Christiania (Oslo). In 1889, he is hit with perhaps the biggest blow so far: his beloved father dies. Munch wrote: "And I live with the dead ones; my mother, my sister, my grandfather, my father- he, especially. Every memory, every little thing, they all come back to me in flocks. I can see him again as I saw him for the last time four months ago, when he told me goodbye on the bench; we were a little bit shy, we didn't want to betray the pain that this separation was causing to us. How much we loved each other in spite of everything, how much he worried at night for me, for my life - because I couldn't share his faith" Therefore, it is not surprising that the mood of the painting is so haunting. Munch painted it surrounded by morbidity. The point in the painting where we see the figures, was a road on top of a hill looking over Christiania and the harbour. On one side of the hill was a psychiatric hospital where one of his sisters had been sent, and on the other side, an abattoir. Munch described the feeling he experienced in a diary entry in his literary diary in Nice, on the 22nd January 18... ...e influenced two German expressionist groups, Die Brà ¼ke and Die Blaue Reiter. He had two offers from Die Blaue Reiter to join them, but he turned both down. Painting was for Munch a personal experience, and he did not like to share it, or put his works into any grouping. The painting itself looks quite 'slapdash', as though it was rushed. The thick streaks of oil paint give the effect of a movement blur, like the world was swirling around the figure. It is hard to distinguish between the water and the land, difficult to recognize where the hills in the background stop and the sunset begins. "The Scream" is a painting full of emotion, full of character not understood at the time of its birth. It reflects Munch's life at that time, all the Death and anxiety that makes the painting so mysterious and haunting, whilst also lively. When I look at it, I feel I can hear the scream echoing from it. The screaming figure draws the attention of the onlooker, but other aspects of the painting are just as interesting. Whilst we cannot know what was going through Munch's mind when he painted"The Scream", we can guess that the painting evokes all the pain he was feeling.

Durga puja Essay

Different people may have different take on the need and importance of Durga Puja. If one is looking from the traditional point of view then Durga, who is considered as the culmination of energies of the various Gods resembles the victory of the good over the evil. Goddess Durga has not only the powers to destroy evil but also the caring heart of a Mother and is therefore, referred popularly as Maa Durga. She is also referred to as Aditi – the mother of all gods and goddesses. This endearing quality of Durga makes Her so very lovable in the minds of Her followers. From being mother of all creations She equally holds the place of the destroyer. The word Durga means â€Å"durduhkhena gamyate† – destroyer of all evil and ignorance. Modern day importance – the concept of feminist Maa Durga with Her all powering qualities represents the feminist concept of women-power. It calls for the respect of the mother and women in our lives. No where it is important than in India where gender discrimination is still rampant. Durga Pujas and its various traditions like the Kumari Puja send forth an idea to the followers to respect Womanhood. in fkvbrnvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv- vvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv- vvvvvvvvvverfvkmedcomedcmelmclemclemcklec register | forgot Bottom of Form Maa Durga Importance of Durga Puja Different people may have different take on the need and importance of Durga Puja. If one is looking from the traditional point of view then Durga, who is considered as the culmination of energies of the various Gods resembles the victory of the good over the evil. Goddess Durga has not only the powers to destroy evil but also the caring heart of a Mother and is therefore, referred popularly as Maa Durga. She is also referred to as Aditi – the mother of all gods and goddesses. This endearing quality of Durga makes Her so very lovable in the minds of Her followers. From being mother of all creations She equally holds the place of the destroyer. The word Durga means â€Å"durduhkhena gamyate† – destroyer of all evil and ignorance. Modern day importance – the concept of feminist Maa Durga with Her all powering qualities represents the feminist concept of women-power. It calls for the respect of the mother and women in our lives. No where it is important than in India where gender discrimination is still rampant. Durga Pujas and its various traditions like the Kumari Puja send forth an idea to the followers to respect Womanhood. in fkvbrnvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv- vvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv- vvvvvvvvvverfvkmedcomedcmelmclemclemcklec register | forgot Bottom of Form Maa Durga Importance of Durga Puja Different people may have different take on the need and importance of Durga Puja. If one is looking from the traditional point of view then Durga, who is considered as the culmination of energies of the various Gods resembles the victory of the good over the evil. Goddess Durga has not only the powers to destroy evil but also the caring heart of a Mother and is therefore, referred popularly as Maa Durga. She is also referred to as Aditi – the mother of all gods and goddesses. This endearing quality of Durga makes Her so very lovable in the minds of Her followers. From being mother of all creations She equally holds the place of the destroyer. The word Durga means â€Å"durduhkhena gamyate† – destroyer of all evil and ignorance. Modern day importance – the concept of feminist Maa Durga with Her all powering qualities represents the feminist concept of women-power. It calls for the respect of the mother and women in our lives. No where it is important than in India where gender discrimination is still rampant. Durga Pujas and its various traditions like the Kumari Puja send forth an idea to the followers to respect Womanhood. in fkvbrnvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv- vvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv- vvvvvvvvvverfvkmedcomedcmelmclemclemcklec

The edocrine system

The endocrine system The endocrine system is a collection of ductless glands which are positioned through the whole body. The endocrine glands pass their secretions of hormones directly into the blood stream so that they are always adjacent to blood vessels. Hormones are chemicals in the body produced and secreted in the body that regulate the function of a particular tissue or organ (Bing dictionary). These chemical messengers transfer information from one set of cells to another.Despite many chemicals being transmitted and circulated around the body via the bloodstream, each one only acts n the cells that are genetically programmed to receive and respond to its message. Hormone levels can be influenced by many factors including stress, infection and changes in the balance of fluids within the body. A gland is a group of cells that produce and secrete chemicals (http://kidshealth. org/parent/general/body_basics/ endocrine. html). A gland will select and eliminate waste materials fro m the blood, then process it and secrete the end product for use at another location in the body.Endocrine glands release more than 20 major hormones straight into the loodstream and from here they can be transported to the cells in other parts of the body. There are many major glands that make up the endocrine system and these include the: hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenals, pineal body and the reproductive glands (testes for males and ovaries for females). The pancreas is also involved in secreting hormones which are involved with the maintaining of blood sugar levels within the body.The pancreas is also associated with the digestive system as it produced hydrolytic enzymes which aid with digestion. Neuro- endocrine system The nervous and endocrine systems control all the biological processes within the body and they can almost control one another. The nervous system can stimulate or inhibit the release of certain hormones while the endocrine system can promot e of inhibit nerve impulses. Hypothalamus The hypothalamus is found in the lower part of the brain and is a collection of particular cells.It has key links with the nervous system and the endocrine system and has an important role in secreting hormones. The nerve cells in the hypothalamus control the pituitary gland by producing certain chemicals that can timulate or supress hormone secretions from the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is moderately small and is located at the base of the brain beneath the produced hormones that control other endocrine glands within the body. The hypothalamus can convey information sensed by the brain to the pituitary gland to make any changes that could be influenced by factors like emotions and seasonal changes.The pituitary Gland The pituitary gland is divided into 2 sections: Anterior lobe This regulates the activity of the thyroid, adrenals, and reproductive glands. It also roduces growth hormone which stimulates the growth of bone and other body tissues. It also produces prolactin which stimulates mammary gland growth and activates milk production in females. Thyrotropin is another hormone produced and this stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. Corticotrophin is produced which causes the adrenal glands to produce certain hormones.Follicle- stimulating hormone (FSH) is also produced and affects ovaries in females and stimulates the development of oocytes. It also affects the testes of males and stimulates the production of sperm. Luteinizing hormone (LH) affects the ovaries in females and stimulates ovulation, the formation of the corpus luteum and results in secretion of oestrogen and progesterone. It affects the testes of males and stimulates the production of testosterone. The pituitary gland also secretes endorphins. These are chemicals that act on the nervous system and allow us to reduce our sensitivity to pain.It also triggers the reproductive organs to release sex hormones such as testostero ne in males, and estradiol and progesterone in females which play a part in the menstruation cycle. Posterior lobe This releases antidiuretic hormone and this encourages reabsorption of water by the kidneys. The posterior lobe also produces the hormone called oxytocin and this helps induce labour and produces milk in the mammary glands of females. Another hormone produced in the posterior lobe is Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) and this helps with the darkening of the skin. Hull. R, Anatomy & Physiology for Beauty and Complementary Therapies, the Write Idea Ltd, 2009) Thyroid The thyroid is positioned in the lower region of the neck at the front and it produces a hormone called thyroxine. This is an amino acid derivative and increases the metabolic rate and heart rate. It also promotes growth within the body. Another development also, and helps with body temperature and plays a role in metabolism. Calcitonin is another hormone formed which targets bones and lowers the level of calcium in the blood.The production and release of these thyroid hormones is controlled by Thyrotropin and this is secreted by the pituitary gland. If a person has more thyroid hormones circulating in the blood stream, the chemical reactions within the body will occur much quicker. Parathyroids There are 4 small glands that are attached to the thyroid called the parathyroids. These release a hormone called parathyroid hormone and this adjusts the level of calcium in the blood with the help of calcitonin, which is also formed in the thyroid. (http://kidshealth. rg/teen/your_body/body_basics/endocrine. html). It also decreases the level of phosphate in the blood and promotes the formation of calcitriol by the kidneys. Thymus The thymus gland plays an important role in the immune system and secretes numerous hormones. One of these is thymosin and this promotes the growth of T- Cells which are a type of white blood cell. (Hull. R, Anatomy & Physiology for Beauty and Complementary Therap ies, the Write Idea Ltd, 2009). Adrenal Glands The adrenal glands are situated above each kidney and release many hormones that are important in the body.The adrenal glands are divided into 2 sections and each one has a particular function: Adrenal cortex The adrenal cortex produces steroid hormones that are essential in the body. These hormones are grouped into mineralcorticoids, glucocorticoids and sex hormones. This produces corticosteroids that regulate water and salt balance in the body. They also play a role in the bodys response to stress and help maintain metabolism. The adrenal glands also produce mineralcorticoids (mainly aldosterone) and this acts on the kidneys.It regulates the mineral content of the blood by increasing blood levels of sodium and water, it also decreases blood levels of potassium. Sex hormones called androgens and oestrogens are also produced in the adrenal cortex and these have a small contribution to sex drive and libido. The adrenal medulla in innerva ted by neurones of the sympathetic branch of the ANS and can quickly release hormones called catecholamines. One example of this is epinephrine (also known as adrenaline) and this produces many effects which are related to short-term stress response.It is also responsible for the â€Å"fght or flight† response which is triggered during times of stress. This increases blood pressure and heart rate (from own personal notes). Another hormone called norepinephrine (also known as noradrenaline) plays a role in the body's response to stress. It decreases the rate of digestion and stimulates cellular metabolism. Pineal Gland The pineal gland is located in the middle of the brain and it secretes a hormone alled melatonin and this regulates sleep patterns in the body.Reproductive glands In males the reproductive gland is the testes. It produces a hormone called testosterone which regulates the development and maintenance of secondary sex characteristics. In females the reproductive gl and is the ovaries. A hormone produces is estradiol which regulates the development and maintenance of secondary sex characteristics. Another hormone produced is progesterone and this prepares the uterus for pregnancy and is involved in the regulation of the menstrual cycle in females. PancreasThe pancreas is also involved in secreting hormones around the body and also links with the digestive system as it secretes digestive and hydrolytic enzymes. The pancreas produces 3 hormones. Insulin: this is secreted from the beta-cells of the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas and is secreted in reply to a raised blood glucose concentration. The effect of insulin is that is lowers blood glucose concentration to normal levels. The modes of action for this are that it stimulates the absorption of glucose from the blood by the muscle fibres, liver cells and adipose cells.

Sugarcoating or Career Sweetener The Values of PHR and SPHR

Sugarcoating or Career Sweetener The Values of PHR and SPHR Human resources is  a great versatile career path to follow. The field has so much potential for job growth and earnings as well as flexibility. As an HR manager, every day you are faced with new challenges so there is no typical work day. If you are looking to further your career in HR and stand out amongst the competition there are several  certifications to look into. The two most popular are PHR and SPHR. The Professional in Human Resources (PHR) and  Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) are great certifications to hold in the field. These certifications help you to stand out amongst your colleagues as well as give you more opportunities for growth to further your  career within the company. The infographic below has many bonuses of getting certified in either PHR or SPHR and the effect it will have in your  developing career.   Let’s just say the increased pay is just the icing on the cake!Source [Pay Scale]

Man’s Nature is Evil †Hsun Tzuu Essay Essay Example

Man’s Nature is Evil – Hsun Tzuu Essay Essay Example Man’s Nature is Evil – Hsun Tzuu Essay Essay Man’s Nature is Evil – Hsun Tzuu Essay Essay Man’s footing demand is to last and boom. This is such because he loves himself. This love for himself is makes him selfish and selfishness makes him evil. There is no 1 in this universe that doesn’t love himself. This love for himself makes him set his demands over everything else. Puting one’s demands over other and non being considerate towards others and harming them for ain advantage is evil. There was 1000000s of ways to demo how work forces are evil. To get down with there are legion histories where work forces led wars against other states. destroyed belongings. In the name of suppressing their land they have taken guiltless lives all for their ain involvement. They try to warrant the wars by stating it’s to work out a certain issue but there’s no manner war is a solution to any job. Work forces have cheated and robbed others in the name of trade and commercialism. The biggest illustration is â€Å"Capitalism† which makes rich people richer and hapless people invariably poorer. Governments all around the universe have invented Torahs and ordinances to repress people. It is invented to protect the rich and powerful from the hapless and unfortunate people so that they can’t come back and repossess their stolen rights. The rich and powerful are ever traveling to look down upon the hapless people. If the hapless people are given a opportunity they’ll certainly rob the rich people of their assets and make precisely what the rich people did to them. There’s no clemency no forgiveness neither there is any love and spirit of brotherhood among work forces. All these unfairness. contending. wars. misrepresentation and lies everything proves that man’s basic nature is evil. Hsun Tzu says man’s true nature is evil and goodness comes out as a consequence of his scruples activity. which is perfectly true. There are practical and true statements that he made in his essay where he depicts his man’s true signifier of evil. First of wholly if a adult male is non evil so he wouldn’t necessitate any instructor or counsel to be a good individual or to make good things yet he needs to be invariably guided by rules and instructions to go better. If a adult male is originally good in his true nature so there is no manner that he can acquire derailed from his true nature. But every bit shortly as his Born he is more goaded towards all the errors so his nature can be originally pure and good. Bing respectful towards their seniors and being careful towards their kids is what a adult male is supposed to make. They are non traveling to eat until the seniors have eaten or non traveling to rest until they will demand remainder until they have provided for their seniors and kids but all these travel against their true emotions. If they were originally good in nature so adult male would hold been of course respectful to others therefore his nature is what we call the antonym of good . A adult male is fond of beautiful sights. sound and gustatory sensation. Seeking the beauty to delight him is his true nature. He admires the outer beauty instead than the beauty concealed indoors. He loves the beautiful outside instead than looking deep inside person. He will neer like individual with an ugly face ; will neer take something with a bad gustatory sensation and smell even if it’s a medical specialty. This exemplifies his immorality and obscure nature. If a man’s nature was originally good so the sage male monarchs who invented ritual rules out of their scruples activity would hold neer had to do them. Man would make good things and do merely determinations without the sage king’s contriving the ritual rules. All the statements that Hsun Tzu makes here have supported my positions about man’s nature being evil. He has reassured my apprehensions about man’s true nature. If world is left free to indulge in his true passion this universe will shortly fall into pandemonium and convulsion. There will be no peace no Concord no harmoniousness no cordiality. We will decease of unfairness and our ain passion of evil. This is why we need the cherished ritual rules so that we can last and allow other unrecorded. With the above being discussed it is appropriate to state that man’s true nature is evil.

An Analysis of The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

Time is not really suspended, even for the novels beautiful young hero In the light of this comment, discuss ways in which Willed portrays time passing in The Picture Of Dorian Gray. One of the main ways in which Willed portrays time passing is the ageing and changing of the portrait. Dorian is exceptionally vain and becomes convinced, after a brief conversation with rod Henry that his most significant characteristics; his youth and attractiveness are slowly going to fade away. The thought of this makesDorian worried and therefore he curses his fate and pledges his soul so that he could live without bearing the physical burdens of aging and sinning. He no longer sees his beauty as a gift but as something he must fight to retain at any cost. The fact that at first, Dorian Gray is described as a beautiful creature, and someone who should always be there in winter when we have no flowers to look at suddenly, with a matter of time, after listening to Lord Henrys famous aphorisms he soon believes them and with that he turns into meeting completely different from how he was first described. He changes into something volatile with mad hungers that become more ravenous. He goes through life living through sin and pleasure and after being given the yellow book by Lord Henry, he lives under the influence of the book. As he approaches his thirties, many people shun him, whilst others find him charming, due to the fact that these are the people that have seen him in person and therefore dismiss his wrong doings due to the purity of his face.His face however reveals no dissipation; his appearance is merely innocent, only his soul has been poisoned by a book. Although physically Dorian doesnt age, emotionally he does. He seems to grow more and more restricted from others and gain pleasure at any cost, something Freudianism would call an over indulgence of the id the pleasure principle where this pleasure principle is outweighed more than the ego -? reality principle and the superego the morality principle.

The Financier Alwaleed bin Talal Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The Financier Alwaleed bin Talal - Assignment Example l who is currently fifty years old has being able to amass a lot of wealth since the year 1979 after finishing his university education and the latest Forbes ranking placed him as the 26th richest man in the world with a net worth reported to be approximately US $20 billion. Al Waleed Talal’s main investment vehicle is his Kingdom Holding Company where he owns 96% of the total shareholding. Khan (2005) further wrote that despite being a member of the Saudi’s royal family, Al Waleed Talal early childhood was not that rosy since a single mother raised him and this could be perhaps among the driving forces that have propelled him to be a successful man. According to Khan (2005), among the personal initiatives of Al Waleed Talal that have shaped him to become the most prominent Arab businessperson and investor is the military training that he received upon finishing high school that can be assumed made him a strict business man who is fully active on all of his business ventures. According to Khan (2005), the military training hardened him as a person and hence the reason why despite being a member of the Saudi royal family, he is the only member who has been able to amass a lot of wealth on his own, and even become the most influential Arab in the world. According to Khan (2005), in the business world Al Waleed Talal personal character is seen as an aggressive investor eager to tap on potential opportunities that may appear non-lucrative at the time, such as buying Citigroup’s shares while the company was in crisis. Al Waleed Talal is a philanthropic businessperson and through his foundation, he has made numerous donations mostly in a bid to further Islamic education in the world. Al Waleed Talal’s successful career has also being shaped up by his professional initiatives that have given him the skills required to run a successful business and even become a successful businessperson. To begin with, Khan (2005) stated that Al Waleed Talal has a Bachelor of

Foster Children who turn 18 Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Foster Children who turn 18 - Research Paper Example (Denuwelaere & Bracke, 2007). There can be different reasons as to why the children are being given under the foster care however; physical battering is considered as probably the most critical reason behind this decision. What is however, important to note that the removal from the families can be a painful experience for the children and as they grow and reach to their adolescence years, they may be unable to find a proper fit between their original families and their foster parents? Adjusting their individual personality to such split therefore can create both the psychological as well as the sociological issues. There can be different sociological issues faced by the foster children when they turn 18 including alienation from their original families as children often tend to live on their own and independent of both their original and foster families. Besides, foster children leave their communities, friends, relatives as well as school therefore a strong sense of social exclusio n tend to emerge and intensify in foster children. This paper will attempt to discuss two of the important sociological issues faced by the foster children when they turn 18 while further discussing the influence of different political, economic, legal, ethical as well as practical factors. Further, a detailed research proposal will be made outlining the different research questions to be probed through the use of different statistical methods and measurements besides discussing the original value of such research. Sociological issues As of September 2008, there were approximately 463,000 children in US who were put under the foster care.1 Almost 50% of the foster children live in their non-relative foster family homes suggesting that significant portion of foster children live in an environment which is unfamiliar to them. Though most of the children often reunite with their own families however, the case of foster children of higher ages is more peculiar and sensitive in the sense that lack of reunification with their families makes them more vulnerable. There are different sociological issues faced by the foster children when turned to the age of 18. This is typically a period when a foster child actually makes a completely new transition to a more independent life. The existing research on this subject outline different sociological issues faced by the foster children who turn 18 and two of the most important are: Alienation, Social exclusion and Prejudice Since foster children are separated from their original families at the early age therefore they tend to develop the tendencies of adapting the behaviors and values of their foster families. Though, during this process, children usually keep contact with their original families however, the overall influence of their foster families remains significant. Since foster children always remain vulnerable to the psychological problems therefore they tend to engage themselves into the search for formation of th eir own identity. The issue of alienation particularly arises when children leave their foster families because at that time they have probably left both of their families, their culture and values and as well as the people and friends and others who may have grown up with these children. The issue of

The Art of Teaching Life Lessons Effectively Through the Use Of Fables Essay

The Art of Teaching Life Lessons Effectively Through the Use Of Fables and Parables - Essay Example Weather it is to teach a child or a youth fables and parables play an important role. In bible, there are several instances when Jesus uses parables to explain to his disciples and his people the basic principles of life. This paper explains how fables and parables are useful in the art of teaching life lessons effectively. Before we get into the discussion it is essential to define the terms fables and parables and also find the basic difference between the two. Fable (from the Latin fabula, "a telling") puts the emphasis on narrative (and in the medieval and Renaissance periods was often used when speaking of "the plot" of a narrative). Parable (from Greek parabole, a "setting beside") suggests a juxtaposition that compares and contrasts this story with that idea. Allegory (from Greek allos and agoreuein, an "other-speaking") suggests a more expanded use of deceptive and oblique language (Jesusi.com, 2001). According to the Wikipedia encyclopedia a fable is defined as a brief, succinct story, in prose or verse, that uses animals, plants, inanimate objects, or forces of nature which are anthropomorphized (given human qualities), and that illustrates a moral lesson (a "moral"), which may at the end be expressed explicitly in a pithy maxim (Wikipedia, 2007a). In simple terms the fable is generally a tale or a story of animals that come to life and behave as though they were humans. The fable tends to concentrate on animating the inanimate. The only difference between a fable and an ordinary folktale is that a fable always carries a moral (Jesusi.com, 2001). In simple words fables are knowingly fictional, unrealistic fantasy stories with moral that illustrate previously discovered human wisdom (Chopra, 2004). On the other hand a parable does not take the help of animals, plants, inanimate objects, or forces of nature as actors (Wikipedia, 2007a). The parable also tells a simple story. But, whereas fables have a tendency to personify animal characters, the typical parable uses human agents. Parables generally show less interest in the storytelling and more in the analogy they draw between particular instances of human behavior. For instance, in bible Jesus through the parable of good Samaritan proves the true neighborly kindness required in human behavior at large. Preliterate oral cultures are the common roots of parable and fable and both are means of passing down through generations the traditional folk wisdom (Jesusi.com, 2001). Deep spiritual truth is demonstrated using parables that are not previously understood by man (Chopra, 2004). The parables make it easier to set up unexpected connections. The parable is built on characters, images and situations already known by the reader or the listener, allowing the author or the storyteller to set up, unexpected links with new ideas or situations. The art of metaphor rests exactly in the capacity of establishing comparisons between ideas and situations that, at first sight, do not have much in common, thus revealing unexpected truths and new aspects of truths in life (Badenas, 22-40). Similar to poems, fables, parables, and allegories have some hidden truths. These are like imaginative literature or spoken utterance constructed in such a way that their readers or listeners look for meanings hidden beneath

Financial Economics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

Financial Economics - Essay Example ecent finance theory are applicable across countries, much is still to be done to bring out the effect of different institutional features on capital structure choices. Our knowledge of capital structures has mostly been derived from data from developed economies that have many institutional similarities. The purpose of this paper is to analyse the capital structure choices made by companies from developing countries that have different institutional structures (Artikis, 2007). The study also is to examine the determinants that can be used in capital structure choices of firms. This is mainly for small and private firms. In the study, there was use of data obtained from World Bank to determine the differences that exist in capital structure in the countries (DeMarzo & Sannikov, 2004). In accordance with the capital structure theory, the importance of firm level elements of capital structure, tangibility in terms of assets, and profitability of firms and size of companies are brought out. Results are healthy to the different descriptions of size. Large and listed firms can have easy access to finance in developing countries, thus they have higher leverage and higher debt maturities (Bierman, 2003). For small and private firms, access to finance is depended on the conditions of economic environment. Leverage and debt maturities are sensitive to macroeconomic factors. The knowledge on the capital structure in the essay was also used to analyse the choices that are made by institutions, mainly from developing countries that have different structures in their institutions. As in Gordon and Li (2005), profitability is measured using the return on sales (ROS), return on assets (ROA) and return on equity (ROE). With respect to leverage, there are several measures in the literature. Following Gordon and Li (2005), the paper considers the following ratios: Total Debt to Total Assets ratio and total debt to equity ratio. From analysis, it was found out that financial

Eco Bus Cultural Differences and Marketing Strategy Essay

Eco Bus Cultural Differences and Marketing Strategy - Essay Example †¢Ã‚  Company A is a US based Company, the culture usually followed there is â€Å"democratic management†. The opinions of all concerned parties are considered before the decision is taken unlike in the Taiwan management where dictatorial style is followed and it would not be considered proper if an employee intervenes in the management’s key decision. Therefore while operating there, the most important decision for the A company would be the hiring of the Manager. If a local manager is appointed, he shall have more knowledge of the local markets and will be able to communicate more properly. Company A has to focus its attention to create an environment where the employees will participate in the decision making process and the Manager has to learn to give importance to the ideas generated by the employees even in the lower chain of command. He has to learn to accept that he will gain respect with his abilities as a manager and not because.†¢Ã‚  Company A may also appoint a Manager who does not belong to that culture. For example, he may be transferred here because of his interactive managerial skills and analytical decision making. Such manager will already have an idea of the Company’s procedures but he may face difficulty in adjusting into the new culture. First is the communication barrier that will be a hindrance but it may be overcome by appointing a manager who knows the language. Secondly, he has to cultivate the concept of  Ã¢â‚¬Å"idea-sharing† .... armonious environment but they expect to be given directions by the senior team member, but when working with a Taiwanese team one has try to avoid incidents that may cast a member in bad light in front of other members of the group. 11. Language barrier is yet another obstacle. One has to understand Mandarin Chinese (the official language) or Taiwanese, a southern Fujian dialect to communicate with them. (World Business Culture) Impact of identified issues on the Company A approach: Company A is a US based Company, the culture usually followed there is â€Å"democratic management†. The opinions of all concerned parties are considered before the decision is taken unlike in the Taiwan management where dictatorial style is followed and it would not be considered proper if an employee intervenes in the management’s key decision. Therefore while operating there, the most important decision for the A company would be the hiring of the Manager. If a local manager is appointed , he shall have more knowledge of the local markets and will be able to communicate more properly. Company A has to focus its attention to create an environment where the employees will participate in the decision making process and the Manager has to learn to give importance to the ideas generated by the employees even in the lower chain of command. He has to learn to accept that he will gain respect with his abilities as a manager and not because of his position. Company A may also appoint a Manager who does not belong to that culture. For example, he may be transferred here because of his interactive managerial skills and analytical decision making. Such manager will already have an idea of the Company’s procedures but he may face difficulty in adjusting into the new culture. First is the

Type of Leaders Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Type of Leaders - Assignment Example It is clear from the assignment that the lesson plan is appropriately divided into several sections making it very easy to follow. Each activity is described completely. The teacher is given a step-by-step guide. One noticed however that there was no indication of a time frame for each activity suggested. The format of the lesson plan is written in a form that could easily be understood and read through quickly. One thinks that this is a better format than doing it in a narrative form. The sections on References, Instructional Aids, Materials Needed, Equipment Needed and the Learner Preparation are particularly helpful to the instructor. These sections are indeed appropriate in communicating the content of the lesson. The Content Outline is well-done and easy to follow. The lesson plan is logical and very clear. It encourages the students to be critical thinkers and provides them with opportunities to apply the theories they have learned by relating it to the real world. The pop quiz and online leadership assessment attached to the lesson plan will allow the students to express their ideas freely. They will also be able to interpret the information that they just learned. The quiz will promote their reasoning abilities and help them think what kind of leaders they are. Both the quiz and the assessment are adequate closures which will reinforce the learning process. They synthesize the lesson on leadership. In terms of evaluating the learning outcomes for the lesson, one thinks that there are no clearly identified means of assessing the student’s understanding. Although the pop quiz and the leadership assessment may probably help, it is suggested that the plan include a rubric which the teacher may provide the students so that they will know how they will be graded.

Eco Bus Cultural Differences and Marketing Strategy Essay

Eco Bus Cultural Differences and Marketing Strategy - Essay Example †¢Ã‚  Company A is a US based Company, the culture usually followed there is â€Å"democratic management†. The opinions of all concerned parties are considered before the decision is taken unlike in the Taiwan management where dictatorial style is followed and it would not be considered proper if an employee intervenes in the management’s key decision. Therefore while operating there, the most important decision for the A company would be the hiring of the Manager. If a local manager is appointed, he shall have more knowledge of the local markets and will be able to communicate more properly. Company A has to focus its attention to create an environment where the employees will participate in the decision making process and the Manager has to learn to give importance to the ideas generated by the employees even in the lower chain of command. He has to learn to accept that he will gain respect with his abilities as a manager and not because.†¢Ã‚  Company A may also appoint a Manager who does not belong to that culture. For example, he may be transferred here because of his interactive managerial skills and analytical decision making. Such manager will already have an idea of the Company’s procedures but he may face difficulty in adjusting into the new culture. First is the communication barrier that will be a hindrance but it may be overcome by appointing a manager who knows the language. Secondly, he has to cultivate the concept of  Ã¢â‚¬Å"idea-sharing† .... armonious environment but they expect to be given directions by the senior team member, but when working with a Taiwanese team one has try to avoid incidents that may cast a member in bad light in front of other members of the group. 11. Language barrier is yet another obstacle. One has to understand Mandarin Chinese (the official language) or Taiwanese, a southern Fujian dialect to communicate with them. (World Business Culture) Impact of identified issues on the Company A approach: Company A is a US based Company, the culture usually followed there is â€Å"democratic management†. The opinions of all concerned parties are considered before the decision is taken unlike in the Taiwan management where dictatorial style is followed and it would not be considered proper if an employee intervenes in the management’s key decision. Therefore while operating there, the most important decision for the A company would be the hiring of the Manager. If a local manager is appointed , he shall have more knowledge of the local markets and will be able to communicate more properly. Company A has to focus its attention to create an environment where the employees will participate in the decision making process and the Manager has to learn to give importance to the ideas generated by the employees even in the lower chain of command. He has to learn to accept that he will gain respect with his abilities as a manager and not because of his position. Company A may also appoint a Manager who does not belong to that culture. For example, he may be transferred here because of his interactive managerial skills and analytical decision making. Such manager will already have an idea of the Company’s procedures but he may face difficulty in adjusting into the new culture. First is the

Debut albums, Life Essay Example for Free

Debut albums, Life Essay This is a phrase, a philosophy phrase that is about living, daily living. But what do you think it really means or should we say what is the hidden meaning about it? Why just living is not enough? Living is not enough because we need to experience all the things we can. Simple as to explore the world or the things that was given to us by our beloved GOD. We need to experience all good, better and best, bad, worse and worst. From worst to best to know what the word LIFE truly means. It also doesnt mean we need to do crimes in order to experience bad things, its just like problems, wounds and etc. We and I consider it as bad things because I dont like any of that happen to me. Just living is not enough†¦. We need to explore and find the true meaning of life. He who hesitates is probably right. This is a philosophy that we can use daily, why? Because this is about decision making. And we always make decision in every aspect of our life. As a student I can relate in this because of our recitations in school. We always hesitate before we raise our hands to answer. We will suddenly know that our or my answer is right because someone answers it. And its too late to get the credit. The philosophy above is trying to teach or to tell us that if we have ideas, share it, tell it, explain it because we will never know if our ideas is right if we dont try it. Not only for students but all individuals around the globe. Human life is purely a matter of deciding whats important to you. This Philosophy is saying human life always choose whats important to you. But why? All individuals are different from each other, different tastes, likes, dislikes and many more. But we all have similarities, we always choose whats important to us in every problem that comes in our life. For some instances, family problems like marriage and your family doesn’t want your fiance or fiancee, you will decide whats MORE important to you your family or your love one? If you choose your family, then go and its also the same if you choose your love one. I understand in this philosophy that this our instict that we always choose whats important to us but it never assures us that what is important will be the best for us. Only friends can answer your calls everytime of day that matter. This is a simple philosophy that is about friendship. If we first read it, we will quickly understand what it means. But what do we understand? We all know we have many friends in our life, friends in school, friends in the neighborhood and many more. We also know not all friends are real, just like this saying says Some friends are gold and some friends are silver. The philosophy above is trying to tell us that only TRUE and REAL friends can answer your calls no matter what your problem is. The friends that are there for you no matter what. No matter what time of day it is, you could call them and theyd be there for you. And its true, they are the ones that matter. The people who you can really rely on to be there for you are the ones that should matter in your life.

Solid Variant of Aneurysmal Bone Cyst of Thoracic Spine

Solid Variant of Aneurysmal Bone Cyst of Thoracic Spine SOLID VARIANT OF ANEURYSMAL BONE CYST (S-ABC) OF THORACIC SPINE: A Case Report Abstract Introduction: The solid variant of aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) has been seen on occasional basis, and till date very few cases involving the spine has been reported. The utmost difficulty is in diagnosing it with X-rays without using biopsy or surgery methods. In this case report, we present a very rare tumor of thoracic spine which was presented to us in an emergency situation and was managed by 360 degree decompression via posterior only approach and stabilization. Case Report: A 16-year-old young boy, presented to us with a sudden onset of weakness in both the lower extremities leading to paraplegia. He also had a history of back and chest pain since a year. Collapse of T5 vertebrae on plain radiograph was observed. The patient was taken to the operating room on emergency basis with an initial plan of a total en-block spondylectomy of T5. However, intraoperatively, histology favored solid-ABC variant rather than spindle cell tumor, Giant Cell Tumor. Thus Initial plan was revised to 360 degree decompression and without resecting body en-block via posterolateral approach. Results: After surgery, there was not only complete resolution of sensory and motor functions but also his chest and back pain was resolved.ÂÂ   The diseased vertebral body was re-constituted with new bone formation and healing was seen at 18 months, postoperatively. Conclusion: This case report concludes that solid ABC should be kept as a differential diagnosis for tumour of spine. Intraoperative frozen sections shall be useful as well. However,early diagnosis and appropriate surgical plays the most important role in successful management of ABC. Keywords: Aneurysmal Bone Cyst, ABC, Osteolytic lesion, Palliative Surgery. INTRODUCTION The solid variant of aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is generally very rare to see and accounts for 3.4% to 7.5% of all aneurysmal bone cysts [1]. It is an expansile cystic lesion which can occur in any part of the bone and most often affects individuals in their second decade of life [2,3]. Jaffe and Lichtenstein were the first ones to describe ABC as its own entity in 1942, when they noted a peculiar blood-containing cyst of large size. [4]. Although benign, an ABC can grow rapidly and destruct the bone. Its expansile nature can cause lot of swelling, pain, deformity, disruption of growth plates, pathologic fractures and neurologic symptoms depending on location [2,3]. As many as 69% of primary ABCs demonstrate a characteristic clonal t(16;17) genetic translocationwhich can lead to upregulation of the TRE17/USP6 oncogene [5,6]. However, the diagnosis of ABC is quite difficult without biopsy or surgery. There is a distinct solid variant of ABC which was first described by Sanerkin et al., in 1983 [7]. This solid variant may be easily misdiagnosed as a spindle cell tumor, especially osteosarcoma [1]. ABCs are generally treated with surgery. However, asymptomatic ABCs may also exist which is characterized by clinically insignificant destruction of the bone. In such cases, close monitoring alone of the lesion is sufficient enough. However, the diagnosis must be first confirmed and the lesion should not be increasing in size. In case monitoring alone is selected as the management plan [8]. CASE REPORT A 16-year-old young boy, presented to us with a sudden onset of weakness in both the lower extremities leading to paraplegia. He also had a history of back and chest pain since a year. A good rectal tone without any perineal anesthesia was seen in rectal examination and the post-void residual urine volume was negligible. His premedical history was unremarkable. Laboratory findings were all within normal limits. Plain radiograph revealed collapse of T5 vertebrae in figure 1. CT axial images showed expansile and lyrics lesion in vertebral body, left pedicle and transverse process. T2-weighted Sagittal and axial MRI T2 weighted images of thoracic spine showing hyperintence signals in T5 vertebral body, left pedicle and transverse process with pathological fracture (Figure 2). Attempt to establish preoperative tissue biopsy couldnt be done because of the urgency of decompression. The patient was taken to the operating room on emergency basis with an initial plan of a total en-block spondylectomy of T5. However, intraoperatively, histology favored solid-ABC variant rather than Giant Cell Tumor. Thus Initial plan was revised to palliative surgery with 360 degree decompression and without resecting body en-block via posterolateral approach as shown in figure 3. The vertebral column was reconstructed in a 360ÂÂ ° manner with an expandable titanium cage and pedicle screw fixation (Figure 3). Results After surgery, there was not only complete resolution of sensory and motor functions but also his chest and back pain was resolved.ÂÂ   The diseased vertebral body was re-constituted with new bone formation and healing was seen at 18 months, postoperatively (figure 4). Discussion ABCs are benign, but locally aggressive and highly vascular tumors which has recurrence rates after curettage of equal to or less than 50 % [9]. However, Malghem had reported in his study about the spontaneous healing in three patients [10]. ABCs are found to have a predilection for the lumbar spine in the case series presented by Boriani [11]. Although CT and MRI are preferred diagnostic methods, it may be noted that in the literature, biopsy is the utmost necessary for confirmation, due to similarity of many bone lesions in appearance. Biopsy will show the proliferating round or oval cells, generally mixed with randomly distributed multi-nucleated giant cells, regions of reactive fibroblastic proliferation and region of tumor with the blood filled microcystic component [12]. Depending on the proliferative component, the solid variant of ABC may be histologically misdiagnosed for other benign or malignant tumor-like lesions of the bone [1]. The pathological differential diagnosis should always be kept in mind while thinking of ABC. They include solitary bone cyst, giant cell tumor, hemangioma, osteosarcoma, and chondroblastoma [13]. Treatment of ABC is also very controversial which includes arterial embolization, curettage with or without bone grafting, complete excision, intra-lesional drug injections (steroid and calcitonin) and radiation [14]. However,early diagnosis and appropriate surgical plays the most important role in successful management of ABC [15]. Whether surgical management results in a better outcome and recurrence rate than a more conservative or palliative one (for example, curettage alone) remains controversial and to be seen in future studies. Conclusion This case report concludes that ABC should be kept as a differential diagnosis for tumour of spine. Intraoperative frozen sections shall be useful as well. An effective spinal decompression and stabilization of ABC can be achieved by partial or subtotal excisions. However,early diagnosis and appropriate surgical plays the most important role in successful management of ABC. References Bertoni F, Bacchinin P, Capanna R, Ruggieri P, Biagini R, Ferruxxi A, Bettelli G, Picci P, Campanacci M: Solid variant of aneurysmal bone cyst. Cancer 1993, 71:729-734. Clayer M. Injectable form of calcium sulphate as treatment of aneurysmal bone cysts. ANZ J Surg. 2008 May. 78(5):366-70. Burch S, Hu S, Berven S. Aneurysmal bone cysts of the spine. Neurosurg Clin N Am. 2008 Jan. 19(1):41-7. Jaffe HL, Lichtenstein L. Solitary unicameral bone cyst with emphasis on the roentgen picture, the pathologic appearance and the pathogenesis. Arch Surg. 1942. 44:1004-25. Panoutsakopoulos G, Pandis N, Kyriazoglou I, Gustafson P, Mertens F, Mandahl N. Recurrent t(16;17)(q22;p13) in aneurysmal bone cysts. Genes Chromosomes Cancer. 1999 Nov. 26(3):265-6. Lau AW, Pringle LM, Quick L, Riquelme DN, Ye Y, Oliveira AM, et al. TRE17/ubiquitin-specific protease 6 (USP6) oncogene translocated in aneurysmal bone cyst blocks osteoblastic maturation via an autocrine mechanism involving bone morphogenetic protein dysregulation. J Biol Chem. 2010 Nov 19. 285(47):37111-20. Sanerkin NG, Mott MG, Roylance J: An unusual intraosseous lesion with fibroblastic, osteoclastic, osteoblastic, aneurysmal and fibromyxoid elements: solid variant of aneurysmal bone cyst. Cancer 1983, 51:2278-2286. Tedesco N. Medscape, Aneurysmal Bone Cyst. Available from: http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1254784-overview#a11. Accessed on 24th January, 2017. Ruiter DJ, Van Rijssel TG, Van Der Velde EA. Aneurysmal bone cysts: a clinicopathological study of 105 cases. Cancer. 1977;39:2231-2239. doi: 10.1002/1097-0142(197705)39:53.0.CO;2-Q. Malghem J, Maldague B, Esselinckx, Noel H, De Nayer P, Vincent A. Spontaneous healing of aneurysmal bone cysts: a report of three cases. J Bone Joint Surg Br. 1989;71B:645-650. Boriani S, De Iure F, Campanacci L, et al. Aneurysmal bone cyst of the mobile spine: report on 41 cases. Spine. 2001;26:27-35. doi: 10.1097/00007632-200101010-00007. Saccomanni R. Aneurysmal bone cyst of spine: a review of literature. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg. 2008;128:1145-1147. doi: 10.1007/s00402-007-0477-6. Hay MC, Paterson D, Taylor TK. Aneurysmal bone cysts of the spine. J Bone Joint Surg Br. 1978;60:406-411. Tsai JC, Dalinka MK, Fallon MD, Zlatkin MB, Kressel HY. Fluid-fluid level: a nonspecific finding in tumors of bone and soft tissue. Radiology. 1990;175(3):779-782. Garg S, Mehta S, Dormans JP. Modern surgical treatment of primary aneurysmal bone cyst of the spine in children and adolescents. J Pediatr Orthop. 2005;25(3):387-392. doi: 10.1097/01.bpo.0000152910.16045.ee. Figures and Legends Figure 1. Radiograph showing collapse of T5 Vertebra (AP and LAT XRAY of thoracic spine showing pathological fracture and collapse of T5) FIGURE 2. CT (Top Left) MRI (Bottom left and Right). Figure 2. Intraoperative AP and Lat X-ray of thoracic spine showing pedicle screw fixation and cage Figure 4. Post-surgery MRI showing new bone formation

Why Is Religion Important :: essays research papers

Why is Religion Important? Religion is the one element of life that has connected the races and societies of the world for hundreds of years. It has given meaning to lives that may seem otherwise hopeless. Religion has provided for a universal language and culture among those who believe in a higher power. The spirit or being receiving the worship and praise may not be the same, but the practices are usually similar and serve the same purpose--to give direction, insight, courage, and a divine connection. In today's world, there are many different ways to get involved in religion; various methods have attracted groups of all ages and races. One popular association is FCA or Fellowship of Christian Athletes. This particular group has helped me to find Christ in my own life. There are a lot of unconventional activities to help the younger generations get involved. Some of these activities included Death Week, which focused on death and pain, meetings about family and divorce, lectures to help people reach for their goals, and encouragement speakers. There is a great deal of fun incorporated into all the seriousness, though. We went on ski trips, did missionary work, and put on skits. All of these activities involved Christ in some way, and helped the younger generation to realize that being spiritual was not 'uncool.'; When I attended the FCA meetings, it was the one time that I actually felt free from all my problems. FCA helped me to find my spiritual self and gave me a sense of compl etion. Religion is the main source of morals and values today. I feel like many people today are not following the word of God. I think that religion is overlooked, and not taught enough. For example, colleges, high schools, and many other places are not even allowed to pray, teach or preach the word of the bible. I feel like that is a problem in the United States today. It has had the effect of more violence, problems in families, and the non- education of the younger generation. I feel that though religion is choice, it should be introduced, because many don't even get the opportunity to learn about it.

Haiku master Essay -- essays papers

Haiku master Matsuo Basho radically redefined the three-line, 17-syllable haiku poetic form from an entertaining pastime in 16th-century Japan to a major literary genre in the 17th century. An early Basho haiku provides an example of his meticulous and sensitive approach in selecting and arranging words and images to produce highly evocative allusions: On a leafless bough In the gathering autumn dusk: A solitary crow! Haiku emanates from the 31 syllable, five-line "tanka" (short poem) which was originally arranged in two parts, an opening triplet (hokku) and a couplet. The Haiku form was popularized during the Heian period (794-1185). At that time, it was customary for the educated elite of Japan to engage in writing, singing, and reciting poetry as forms of cultural entertainment. In addition, social customs of the day demanded that the aristocracy of the refined court society display both a sensitivity to nature in their poetic expression and an ability to discuss the poetic classics of Japanese and Chinese literature. Tanka, then, could express a wealth ...

Learning Team Skills Assessment Paper and Matrix

Learning Team Skills Assessment Paper and Matrix Team A is made up of skilled individuals. The team is researching business ideas for a consulting firm. The team’s plan is to review the members’ strengths and weaknesses and evaluate what type of consulting firm would best suited for the qualities of the team members. In addition, Team A will review the opportunities and qualifications the team believes are required to strengthen the management team and company. Team A believes the general management skills and the strengths of the partners will provide the team with advantage and opportunities to convince potential customers that the team has the necessary skills to be successful. Team Skills Summary/Analysis The pool of individuals who will develop this organization is comprised of dynamic talent and energy. Every corporate officer has obtained a college degree in business administration demonstrating discipline and motivation. Within experiential categories, which are characterized by skills and strengths, the team brings together qualities that complement and build on those of other members. The skills are comprised of management level proficiency within accounting, employee development, human resources, business law, computers and information processing, marketing, and E-business. Strengths are centered on personal relations within human resources and organizational competence. These skills and strengths will combine well to develop a consulting firm that will uphold our team commitment to our client providing the best-qualified candidates to meet and exceed their requirements and expectations. Consulting Firm Options for Team A Medical Staff / Personnel Consulting Two of Team A’s members have work experience in the medical field which would benefit a Team decision to pursue a firm to provide consultation for medical staff or personnel. Kellie Wolinski currently works for the United Health Group as a Territory Developer. Kellie’s job function involves educating providers, facilities, and senior groups about Medicare Plan Options that will provide the consulting background for our medical staffing and personnel-consulting firm. Mary Ann Senatore is currently employed at JFK Medical Center as Resource Coordinator of Cardiovascular Services, allowing er to assume the administrative role for payroll, purchasing, and human resource functions. Performing the function of medical staff or personnel consultation would require identifying and recruiting candidates for employment. Team A could use knowledge of industry needs to help fill essential positions in the medical field. The consulting company would develop a database of professional s able to fill clients’ needs. Team A would provide background checks, accreditation checks, and confirm any specialized training or certification prior placing professionals in the database. Professionals in the system would be encouraged to pursue advanced training in specialized fields to meet the demand of the firm’s clients. Team A would provide the professionals with resume services, coaching through the interview process, salary negotiations, and provide relocation assistance services. Internet Advertising/Marketing Consulting Tracy Schneider has experience working with Internet marketing through work experience with her own business. Team A could use Tracy’s experience and educational background of the team’s members to start an Internet marketing consultation firm. The goals of the firm would be to help clients attract, retain, and convert Internet traffic into viable business leads. The firm would provide Internet public relations, brand management, and product reputation management. Jessica Mazakas marketing skills will be an asset in obtaining and retaining clients. The firm would work with clients to identify individual target markets and establish business goals by combining off line and online business activities. Proper branding and brand recognition services retain consumers through brand loyalty initiatives. Broadcasting Technology Consulting Team A is also considering consultation services in the field of broadcast technology and online training programs for broadcasting professionals. Team A’s members could apply experience from the online training environment at the University of Phoenix to the online training needs of this sector. Ryan Bierbaum’s experience in gaming networks may be beneficial to the inner workings required for broadcasting technology. The firm could also provide consultation and project management for system integrations and technology system upgrades by collaborating with product suppliers. One other area of interest is the design of content specific software design technologies. Plans to Develop Skills As indicated, Team A has a diverse mixture of skills. Each team member has identified his or her own strengths, skills, and weaknesses. Through our combined strengths, we will be able to provide our clients with the services they require. Our weaknesses will allow those team members to benefit, learn, and grow through other member’s strengths. This complement of skills allows us able to move forward with our consulting firm.

Acer Case Transnational Management Essay

1. When Multitech was starting up, Stan Shih preached frugality in the form of not spending more money then necessary and not being wasteful with the resources the money spent provided. Shih went as far as creating a campaign that focused on turning lights off, using both sides of paper, and traveling economy class. This is vastly different then the philosophy of other startup companies that spend more money then they have available and quickly go bankrupt. Secondly, Multitech made employment very attractive through delegated responsibility. Most companies have a top-down management approach where all decisions are made at the top and employees need to do what they’re told and keep their ideas to themselves. With Multitech, there was a sense of freedom, which led to the recruitment of bright young engineers. That type of creative freedom, as long as it’s for the betterment of the company, breeds increased productivity. Third, to compensate for offering no more then a modest salary, Multitech offered key employees equity in the form of ownership in subsidiary companies. Can you imagine just coming out of college and being offered ownership in a company? I would take a little less per hour for that opportunity. Imagine if any of us had such an opportunity with Apple or Facebook. Wow! Lastly, joint ventures allowed Multitech to expand its sales into new territories without the risk of hiring more people or raising more capital. In other words, Multitech increased their market share without taking on additional expenses or putting in more money. To sum up, keeping spending under control, hiring the best minds and keeping them happy, and expanding for â€Å"free† leads to an impressive startup. 2. Leonard Liu added value to Acer by making employees responsible for their actions. Liu did this by introducing productivity and performance evaluations. Before Leonard Liu came on board, employees did not have a profit and loss responsibility and as we know, the difference between a successful company and an unsuccessful company is profit. Now, if an employee wanted freedom to make his own decisions, that employee had to make sure his freedom produced a profit. Before Liu, there was a lack of structure within the company. Liu brought a professional management structure to Acer by establishing standards for intra-company communications to make sure everyone was on the same page. Most importantly, Liu created structure within the company by creating RBU’s and SBU’s. With this change, organizations, subsidiaries, and marketing companies under the Acer umbrella all had specific responsibilities instead of doing a little bit of everything. Unfortunately, some of the changes Liu implemented seemed to do more damage then good, which eventually led to employees questioning his judgment and implementing his directives half-heartedly. The supportive family approach was gone having been replaced with an iron-fisted form of management. Employees were not responding. The change was too drastic. Something in between Shih’s approach and Liu’s approach would have probably been more productive. Also, frugality was replaced with lavish spending on accounting and law firms and full acquisitions of companies instead of joint ventures, which put all the financial responsibility on Acer. If the goal was profit, Liu was losing just as much, if not more money. 3. In regards to development of the Aspire, I believe a local-for-local model was used. The Aspire was the first product designed and developed by an RBU, in response to a locally sensed market opportunity. Acer America and other RBU’s felt that Acer’s Taiwan-based SBU’s were too distant to develop product configurations that would appeal to diverse consumer and competitive situations around the globe. The second aspect of the local-for-local model requires that subsidiaries use their own resources to develop products. With that criteria, Mike Culver, AAC’s Director of Product Management, commissioned a series of local focus groups to explore opportunities in home computing. After the focus groups showed a potential for a consumer PC, Culver hired Frog Design to create a prototype for the Aspire. By using focus groups and hiring Frog Design, a company independent from Acer, Culver was using resources available to him outside of the Taiwan home base. From start to finish, the development of the Aspire happened in the US as a product initially for the US market. 4. Shih should allow the development of the Aspire to continue as long as implementation is transferred back to the SBU’s in Taiwan. If all of the company’s engineering and production expertise is located in Taiwan, those with the most expertise should handle the launch of such an expensive product into a highly saturated and competitive market. Shih would also need to make sure that the design of the Aspire stays as-is to achieve economies of scale on production. As far as marketing, I see no problem with different markets customizing the marketing plan for the Aspire. Companies all over the world implement different marketing strategies for a product depending on the market. For example, Diet Pepsi is marketed as Pepsi Light in some countries outside of the US. What may be an important feature of the Aspire in the US market might not be as important in a different market.