Diversity in the Workplace - 964 Words

Running head: DIVERSITY IN THE WORKPLACE Abstract Select (highlight) this text and then begin typing your abstract, which should be limited to one paragraph of not more than 120 words A Survey of Organizational Culture and its Effectiveness on Managing Diversity in the Workplace Diversity in the workplace is a relatively new concept that has been attracting considerable attention from the executives of most businesses. â€Å"Ongoing demographic trends (increasing percentages of African-Americans, Hispanics, and Asians, in the American workforce, an aging population, expanded female labor force participation) have made diversity a fact of organizational life,† (Roberson, 2007, pg. 1). These trends in diversity have some companies†¦show more content†¦Today’s businesses are behind the gun to make the changes that will keep them profitable and leading edge. Nurses can testify that healthcare is an occupation in which change is constant and hospitals employ a large and diverse workforce. â€Å"The healthcare industry is increasingly diverse in the workforce and the patient population. Diversity is both an asset and a challenge. Nursing shortages make it imperative that diversity be leveraged to improve the interaction among colleagues and nurse retention,† (Beheri, 2007 pg. 17). Yet hospitals continue to be among those companies that suffer from the lack of strong organizational cultures. â€Å"Health care provider organizations are like the bumblebee. The basic structure of many hospitals, group practices, managed care systems, and so on is unsound and seemingly unfit for survival (Martin D. Merry, 1994 pg. 1). Gayla Hodges, an expert on managing change within organizations states that it is constant change in an organization that creates the cracks that will eventually lead to conflict. She sites three reasons why some companies can survive change within their organizational culture why some cannot. They are, â€Å"inadequate culture-shift planning, lack of employee involvement, and flawed communication strategies, â€Å"(Hodges, 2007 pg. 17). References Beheri, Wadea Hasan. (2007). Nursing diversity: The knowledge of cultural diversity and its impact on the interaction levelShow MoreRelatedDiversity In The Workplace. . Diversity In The Workplace990 Words   |  4 PagesDiversity in the Workplace Diversity in the workplace is imperative even though some commentators argue that too much diversity can be negative. Diversity can lead to staff feeling ‘threatened or even annoyed by persons with views and backgrounds different from their own’ (Barsoux, Strebel and Manzoni, 2010). Instead of inclusivity, diversity can end up causing conflicts, as some staff are reluctant in changing their viewpoints and are less adaptable to change. The discourse relating to diversityRead MoreDiversity Of Diversity At The Workplace942 Words   |  4 PagesIn this week’s integrated article, review, I am focusing on diversity at the workplace. This is a topic very relevant and important for any organizations success. Diversity at the workplace refers to any characteristic that makes people different from one another. Today’s workforce is a diverse mix in terms of age, gender, ethnicity, generational attitudes. It is important for an organization to adopt diversity management practices to bring this diverse mix together into a stable productive unitRead MoreWorkplace Diversity And The Workplace853 Words   |  4 PagesWorkplace Diversity Many outstanding articles, books, journals and papers have been written regarding the topic of workforce diversity. Some are relatively short papers such as Diversity in the Workplace published by the University of Florida, and seek to provide the reader with a basic understanding of what is meant by workplace diversity, as well as the potential benefits to both employers and employees alike. Other resources can be significantly more in-depth and explore subtopics of workplaceRead MoreDiversity At Workplace Diversity Within The Workplace3281 Words   |  14 Pages1.0 Diversity at workplace Diversity is a very extensive subject and can be in any genre or class; it is difficult to categorize because of its complex nature. According to Res (2012), diversity can be represented as a variety of human aspects pertaining to different societies and cultures in the workforce or can be explained tolerating the differences. On the contrary, diversity is a quest of differences among human beings in safe, positive and nurturing surroundings and moves beyond simple toleranceRead MoreWorkplace Diversity Of The Workplace965 Words   |  4 PagesJob’s face many struggles and challenges each and every day. Workplace diversity is something which is being talked about the most here lately. Out breaks of minimum wage, sexualities, gender, and even your skin color affects what diversity a business would want. Within the business, the professional level is set pretty high due to the superior designers making us able to dress well fashioned. When people step into a business they do not want someone that is going to walk in with a t-shirt and gymRead MoreThe Diversity At The Workplace747 Words   |  3 PagesThomas (1992) entails the diversity at workplace in terms of all ancestry, ethnicity, age, gender, race, educational background, sexual orientation, marital status, religious belief, income, geographic location and work experience. The mobility in human resource trend is emerging within the competitive market that requires more strategic role on account of human resource management. Organizations may fall in dire consequences of outplaying by other competitors in strategic employment. Nowadays, workforceRead MoreDiversity in the Workplace1096 Words   |  5 PagesRunning head: DIVERSITY IN THE WORKPLACE Diversity in the Workplace Amber Barger ORG536 – Contemporary Business Writing and Communication Colorado State University –Global Campus Dr. Phillip Jackson November 26, 2013 DIVERSITY IN THE WORKPLACE As companies start to regain their footing after the recent economic downturn, 2 factors such as the rising number of immigrants, mergers of large corporations, the popular use of temporary workers and the increasing globalization of business,Read MoreDiversity in the Workplace714 Words   |  3 PagesDiversity in the Workplace Introduction Workplaces are becoming increasingly diverse, and this is a dynamic that is causing some tension between and among employees. What are the positives and negatives of diversity in the workplace? America is a place with a great diversity of cultures, but sometimes in the workplace cultural values can clash and this paper discusses the why and how of those issues. The Literature Why are workplaces becoming more diverse, and why does diversity in a companyRead MoreDiversity in the Workplace1465 Words   |  6 Pagesï » ¿ Diversity in the Workplace As stated in our book, workplace diversity is defined as â€Å"diversity at work means having a workface comprised of two or more groups of employees with various racial, ethic, gender, cultural, national origin, handicap, age, and religious backgrounds†. There are many positives and also negatives of diversity in the workplace. Some of the negatives from workplace diversity are stereotyping, discrimination, tokenism, ethnocentrism, and also gender- role stereotypes. SomeRead MoreDiversity in the Workplace5680 Words   |  23 PagesSURFACE LEVEL DIVERSITY, DEEP LEVEL DIVERSITY, AND ORGANIZATIONAL COMPETITIVENESS ABSTRACT Surface level diversity is the mixture of people who differentiate by sex, race or ethnicity, and the observably physically disabled. These differences typically cannot be changed and are easy to measure because they are visual. Deep level diversity are differences such as personality and attitudes that can be communicated through verbal and nonverbal behaviors. Diversity can be affiliated with socio-economic

Kant s View On Morality - 921 Words

Another topic that Kant contributed to is morality. According to Kant, moral laws cannot be derived from human nature. To put it in other terms, it is not human nature that should be used as a model to how we should behave morally. Kant believed that humans do not always make the right moral decisions because human nature can be flawed at times, often times choosing an animalistic desire over doing something that is morally permissible. In addition, Kant believed that the outcome of human nature is not the central issue when it comes to knowing what is right or what is wrong. Instead, Kant believes that it each of the individual actions that should be analyzed to see if it is morally wrong or if it is morally right. Kant’s point of view about morality is different from previous philosophers, because most of them looked to human nature in order to find the morally right things to do. To look more closely at human nature, Kant pointed out that there are categories in which each action takes place. Kant believed that there are differences between physical laws and ethical laws. Kant separated natural laws into two main parts: pure natural laws, and laws of inclination. Pure natural laws are laws that everything must obey including humans, animals, and non- living objects. An example of a pure natural laws are the laws of physics, such as gravity and the law of inertia. Laws of inclination can be described in different terms as laws of desire. Kant points out thatShow MoreRelatedKant And Hobbes s View On Morality1761 Words   |  8 PagesKant and Hobbes have completely different interpretations of morality. The vast differences between them is due to their opposing schools of thought. Kant’s view on morality is very analytical and strict. Whereas, Hobbes’ view is both provisional and tentative, depending on the outcomes. Although these differen ces between their philosophies were present, they both took a subjective stance in their reasoning meaning, they believed moral philosophy should be centered on the person. This essay willRead MoreKant s Theory Of Morality982 Words   |  4 PagesImmanuel Kant is said by many to be one of the most influential â€Å"thinkers† in the history of Western philosophy (McCormick, n.d.), this being said, most of his theories continue to be taught and are highly respected by society. Kant was a firm believer that the morality of any action can be assessed by the motivation behind it (McCormick, n.d.). In other words, if an action is good but the intention behind the action is not good, the action itself would be considered immoral. Those who follow theRead More Ethical and Philosophical Questions about Value and Obligation977 Words   |  4 Pageshow can we view the philosophical ethics of Mill, Kant, Aristotle, Nietzsche, and the ethics of care? III For Mill, the question is what is the relation between his (metaethical) empirical naturalism and his (normative) qualitatively hedonist value theory and his utilitarian moral theory? One place we can see Mill?s empiricism is his treatment, in Chapter III, of the question of why the principle of utility is ?binding?, how it can generate a moral obligation. Compare Mill?s treatmentRead MoreKant And Kant s Categorical Imperative1241 Words   |  5 PagesImmanuel Kant, an 18th-century moral philosopher, had contended that the fundamental principle of morality is the Categorical Imperative, from here will be additionally labeled as (CI) or otherwise mentioned. He supported his view by suggesting a pure moral philosophy; a metaphysics of morals that is not solely for rational beings to explore different ¬ sources of basic moral principles that are found through their own observational experience a priori, but additionally for the sake of morality as itRead MoreImmanuel Kant And Friedrich Nietzsche Essay1504 Words   |  7 PagesImmanuel Kant and Friedrich Nietzsche are two widely acclaimed philosophers due to the groundwork they made towards the philosophical principles of morality. However, even though they both have openly discussed their views, they have ended up contradicting each other. Kant implied that morality is not learned, but rather predestined, whereas Nietzsche alluded to a experience based morality, or one that is learned through actions and memories. Although these two men have accepted views of morality, theRead MoreThe Ethical Concepts Of Kantian Ethics Essay1043 Words   |  5 PagesMorality in Reasons, not Consequences Introduction The philosophy of Kant has become a turning point in the development of the Western thinking and worldview. His innovative and progressive ideas have strongly contributed to the formation of a new paradigm of the universe and role of humans in it. A great role in Kant’s studies belongs to the analysis of ethics, morality and law as the main regulators of the human behavior in the society Kant is known as the founder of the deontological ethics (Kantianism)Read MoreKant s Categorical Imperative Of The Modern Era826 Words   |  4 PagesEmmanuel Kant was an influential philosopher and strong proponent of the modern era. Besides his large contribution to epistemology and metaphysics, his work in ethics was just as substantial. Kant’s ethics came to propose an objective morality, where moral judgments is not only true according to a person s subjective view. He believed the moral worth of an action is not determined by its consequence but the motive behind it. Through Kan t’s ethics, he demonstrates this duty through his unconditionalRead MoreImmanuel Kant And Kant On Morality1097 Words   |  5 Pagesdefinition of morality is the rules for right action and prohibitions against wrong acts. Sometimes morality is the single set of absolute rules and prohibitions that are valid for all men at all times and all societies. More loosely, a morality can be any set of ultimate principles, and there may be any number of moralities in different societies. Examples would be don’t cheat, don’t steal, and treat others as you would want to be treated. When dealing with the philosophers take on morality, there areRead MoreThe Role Of Happiness On Kant s And Mill s Ethics1712 Words   |  7 PagesThe Role of Happiness in Kant s and Mill s Ethics Corey Guitard (0241740) Introduction to Ethics November 18th, 2015 Philosophy 2701 Dr. Rupen Majithia Words: Immanuel Kant refers to happiness as contentment (Kant, ) whereas John Stuart Mill refers to it as the pursuit of pleasure and the absence of pain (Mill, p.7). Kant does not base his ethics on happiness. Instead, he argues that morality is based on our duty as a human (Kant, ). To do what is right for Kant is to do what is instinctuallyRead MoreThe Appraisal Of Moral Worth : Kant Versus Nagel1253 Words   |  6 PagesThe Appraisal of Moral Worth: Kant Versus Nagel Since the moment we were born, our minds have been absorbing information and relaying that information into choices that subsequently dictate our life. Out of these choices, we face the dilemma of personal gain versus morality. It is in the best interests of all humanity that each individual shares similar values, such as trust, compassion, loyalty, and a desire for communal progress. When individuals share such values, it allows a society to build

Why Cosmetology Free Essays

I haven’t had an actual job related to this career, other than doing freelance Jobs when asked to. It is because of the freelance work Vive done that I decided to take this career path for now. I thought to myself, why not make more money off something I do already anyway? Like Jessica, from Real Stories, I have changed my mind a lot about the kind of career I want to. We will write a custom essay sample on Why Cosmetology or any similar topic only for you Order Now One thing I am sure of now though Is that I don’t want to be a cosmetologist for the rest of my life. I can definitely see myself In a Job that Is unrelated to Cosmetology. My goal Is to make a change in people’s lives, and I feel Like this Is one way of doing that. If making people feel better about their appearance gives them self-confidence, I have done my lob. This relates to the career I actually want which Is to be a Youth Probation Officer because I want to make a change In young people at an early age. A cosmetologist and a probation officer are two completely different careers, but when you really hint about it they both try and make an impact in people’s lives. I am sometimes concerned that I will go through what Jessica from Real Stories went through. I am scared that the career I want is nothing like what I expected. If I were Jessica I would have done more research on the work environment of the job. Online research is always good, but there is nothing like interviewing someone that is exactly where you want to be. They have been there and can tell you exactly what to expect. We should always have options in life. I personally get bored of the same routine. This could affect my decision of the career I want in the long run. So, I think it is a good idea to attend graduate school to expand our options. We never know how a job really is until we actually start working it. It doesn’t matter the amount of research we do on a specific career because everyone’s experience is different. We are individuals, and some might love it and others might hate it. We should always have options and be prepared. How to cite Why Cosmetology, Papers

International Finance Strategies and Competitive

Question: Discuss about the International Finance for Strategies and Competitive. Answer: Introduction: In the given case, Pomo Ltd expects to receive payment of S$800000.00 in one-year time. The one-year forward rate is $0.76. The forward contract hedge is calculated by multiplying the forward rates with the currency receivable. Calculation of Forward Contract hedge Particulars Amount Payment receivable (Singapore $) $ 800,000.00 Forward Rate $ 0.76 Forward contract hedge $ 608,000.00 Table 1: Forward Contract hedge (Source: Created by Author) Money market Hedge The money market hedge is a three-step process. The first step is that the company will take a loan from a bank in Singapore at the interest rate of 7% per annum. The maximum amount of loan that the US Company can borrow from a bank in Singapore is S$747664. The calculations are given below: Calculation of Maximum loan amount (Singapore dollar) Particulars Amount Payment receivable $ 800,000.00 Interest rate 7% Maximum Loan Amount $ 747,664 Table 2: Maximum loan Amount (Source: created by Author) The second step is to convert the loan amount from Singapore currency to American currency at the spot rate of $0.74. The loan amount comes to $553271. The calculation is given below: Calculation showing conversion of loan to US dollar Particulars Amount Loan Amount $ 747,664 Spot Rate $ 0.74 Loan Amount in US dollar $ 553,271 Table 3: Conversion of Loan (Source: Created by Author) The third step is to deposit the amount in bank for earning interest at the rate of 9%. If the amount is remained invested in American bank for one year, the total amount received is $603605.00. Calculation of Amount Receivable at the end of one year Particulars Amount Deposited Amount $ 553,271 Interest rate 9% Interest Amount $ 49,794 Total Amount received $ 603,065 Table 4: Amount received (Source: created by Author) The customer in Singapore settles the loan amount at the end of one-year period. The total cash inflow from the money market hedge is $603065.00. The exercise price of put option is US$0.77 and the premium payable for put option is $0.04. The put option hedge is $584000.00. The calculation is give below: Calculation of Put Option Hedge Particulars Amount Payment receivable (Singapore amount) $ 800,000.00 Exercise price $ 0.77 Option premium $ 0.04 Net receivable (US) $ 0.73 Amount receivable (US) $ 584,000.00 Table 5: Put option hedge (Source: Created by Author) In foreign currency, transaction there is a risk of foreign exchange fluctuation that might cause loss. In such a situation, the company has two options either to undertake hedging or not to hedge the position (Bartram et al., 2013). If the company does not hedge its position then it will have to receive payment based on the future spot. The statement showing probability and the amount that is receivable to the company with no hedge position is given below: Amount receivable in no hedge position Probability Future Spot Rate Amount Receivable (Singapore) Amount Receivable (America) 20% 0.75 $ 800,000.00 $ 600,000.00 30% 0.77 $ 800,000.00 $ 616,000.00 50% 0.81 $ 800,000.00 $ 648,000.00 Table 6: Amount receivable no hedge position (Source: Created by Author) The above table shows that there is huge fluctuation in receivable. In order to reduce the risk it is important to hedge the position. The optimal hedge is that which reduces the loss. The best hedging strategy is selected based on the cash flow received. The cash inflow in forward contract hedge is $608000.00, in money market hedge, the cash inflow is $603065.00 and in put option hedge, the cash inflow is $584000.00. As the inflow of cash in the forward contract hedge is maximum so this hedging strategy should be selected. Profit/ (Notional loss) on Hedge Particular Probability 20% Probability 50% Probability 30% Forward Contract Hedge $ 608,000.00 $ 608000 $ 608000 Amount Receivable (America) $ 600,000.00 $ 616,000.00 $ 648,000.00 Profit/(Notional loss) $ 8,000.00 $ (8,000.00) $ (40,000.00) Table 7: Profit/ (Notional loss) on Hedge (Source: Created by Author) The table shows that the there is a 20% probability that hedging will save the company $80000.00. There is a 50% probability that the amount received is $608000.00 so there is a notional loss of $8000.00. There is a 30% probability that the amount received is $648000.00 so there is a notional loss of $40000.00 if the company opts for hedging. The Multi National Companies as Pomo Limited does hedging in order to reduce or limit the losses arising from international transactions involving foreign exchange. The Multinational Corporations has operations in different countries but the currency of different countries does not move in the same trend at the same time. In order to mitigate this risk the MNC usually applies hedging strategies (Dong et al., 2014). The hedging strategies are used as an operational or financial risk management strategy. The success of hedging strategies can be assessed after determining the effect it has on the objective of mitigating risk and increasing the value of the shareholders (Kroencke et al., 2014). In the hypothesis developed by Modigliani and Miller in 1958, it was established that financial policies of the company does not have any impact on the value of the company. The theory also found that if the financial market is efficient then the hedging activity does not increase the value of the company. On the other hand, if some the hypotheses are relaxed then it is possible to show that the hedging increases the value of the firm. The companies risk management has developed many theories and one of them is optimal hedging theories (Stulz, 2013). The over hedging is a term used if a position is hedged to such an extent that it ceases to be profitable. On the basis of the above discussion it can be seen that as per the Modigliani and Miller Theorem hedging does not influence the value of the firm further and the over hedging defeats the very purpose of entering into the transaction. Therefore, it can be concluded that over hedging can negatively influence the financial position of the company so it should be avoided (Mancini et al., 2013). Reference Bartram, S. M., Burns, N., Helwege, J. (2013). Foreign currency exposure and hedging: Evidence from foreign acquisitions.The Quarterly Journal of Finance,3(02), 1350010. Dong, L., Kouvelis, P., Su, P. (2014). Operational hedging strategies and competitive exposure to exchange rates.International Journal of Production Economics,153, 215-229. Kroencke, T. A., Schindler, F., Schrimpf, A. (2014). International diversification benefits with foreign exchange investment styles.Review of Finance,18(5), 1847-1883. Mancini, L., Ranaldo, A., Wrampelmeyer, J. (2013). Liquidity in the foreign exchange market: Measurement, commonality, and risk premiums.The Journal of Finance,68(5), 1805-1841. Stulz, R. M. (2013). How companies can use hedging to create shareholder value.Journal of Applied Corporate Finance,25(4), 21-29.

Building In The Voice Of The Customer Essays - Quality,

Building in the Voice of the Customer Building in the Voice of the Customer. (Quality Functional Deployment.) In partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of : BA(Ordinary) Food Marketing Building in the Voice of the Customer. The first understanding of "building in the voice of the customer" for the manufacturer, are you producing a product that the consumer feels satisfied with? Within so many products there are sometimes so many misunderstandings because the customer and the product development teams speak completely different languages. For example a customer may state they would like a car that is easy to start, this interpretation to the engineers is the production of a car that starts within 10 seconds of continuous cranking. Another example could be the customer wants a "soap leaves the skin soft" this must be translated into pH or hardness specifications for the bar of soap.( Evans 1993 ) By the incorrect translation within the organisations different departments, the customers' requirements can become irreclaimable and lost forever. The Japanese developed the concept of quality functional deployment (QFD) to hopefully ensure that all customer requirements were discovered throughout the stages of design process and also in the area of design of production systems. QFD is fundamentally a philosophy and is driven by an arrangement of planning and communication tools that is aimed totally to the customer needs and requirements, this is done by co-ordination within the design, the manufacturing and marketing of goods. QFD originated in 1972 at Mitsubishi's Kobe shipyard site, Toyota then took over the development of QFD. QFD is now used successfully world-wide by manufacturers of electronics, appliances, clothing, construction equipment and by firms such as General Motors, Ford, Mazda, Motorola, Xerox, Kodak, IBM, Proctor & Gamble, Hewlett-Packard, and AT&T ( Evans 1993 ) Within a critical level, QFD offers the incentive and opportunity for senior management to release themselves from the traditional hierarchy and narrow-minded attitude on "results" ,which are only measurable at the completion of the sale, though with the implementation of QFD the broader-minded process is of ho w to focus on how the results are obtained Before we identify the voice of the customer the organisation will move away from the more traditional approach of it's departments such as product planning, design teams, research and development tested, refined and marketed. If the consumers needs can be correctly identified first time, then such wasteful re-engineering will be eliminated. This is the initial philosophy of Quality Functional Deployment. One of the major benefits of QFD is improved communication and teamwork between all constituencies in the production process, such as between marketing and design, design and manufacturing, purchasing and suppliers etc. Product objectives are not misunderstood or mis- interpatated during the production process. QFD helps to determine the causes of customer dissatisfaction, and is a useful tool for competitive analysis of product quality by top management. ( Evans 1993 ) This definitely allows the organisation to bring new products onto the market sooner and will confidently help the organisation to gain the competitive edge. The customers requirements is called simply voice of the customer, these can be catalogued into the following areas customer needs, satisfies, exciters delighters and dissatifiers. A set of matrixes are used to relate to the voice of the customer to counterpart characteristic requirements when they are expressed as technical specifications and process control requirements. There are four principle planning documents. Customer requirements planning matrix. This translates the voice of the customer into counterpart characteristics of the final product Product characteristic deployment. This translates counterpart characteristic of the final product into critical component characteristics. Process plan and quality control charts. The document identifies critical process and product parameters and control points of each. Operating instructions. This identifies operations to be performed by plant personnel to assure that important parameters are achieved. This matrix is the fundamental contents of the QFD inspiration. Within the configuration of the matrixes it is often defined as "the house of quality" because of its shape. The house of quality relates customer attributes to the counterpart characteristics to ensure that any engineering decision has a basis of meeting a customer need. (Dale & Plunckett 1990 ) To build the house of quality within the organisation, it consists of completing six steps.

A change of UK political policies

A change of UK political policies Introduction Over the years, United Kingdom politics have generated a lot of interest globally. In the recent past, the centre stage of the UK political arena has been the formation of a coalition government in 2010 between two major UK political parties; the conservative and the liberal democrats.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on A change of UK political policies specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This paper is going to dwell on the coalition government as a change in political policy that has caused the emergence of the UK political reforms and its effects (Dorey, Garnett, Denham, 2011). Cause of Political Reforms The UK grand Coalition was arrived at in order to solve and accommodate for different political ideologies for the sake of government continuity. This was seen as the only amicable way of ensuring that the leading party had garnered the requited majority seats to be head of the government as required by the constitution. Bearing in mind that this was the first coalition since 1945, it become apparent that, there was a dire need of initiating political reforms. The reforms were destined to avoid the emergence of such conflicts in the future (Liberal Democrats, 2011). Under the leadership of Prime Minister David Cameron and his assistant Nick Clegg a new political dispensation policy was proposed in form of political reforms. The main agenda behind the proposed political reforms involve the need to ensure that power is devolved to the grass root levels in order to guarantee more representation in the Westminster. These reforms also call for accountability and transparency in the legislature and the cabinet in order to ensure that the government is sensitive to the needs of the people it serves. This also, ensures that government policies are people centred thus reducing political influence on policy formulation and implementation. The major issues highlighted in the political reforms in clude the inclusion of the right to recall a member of parliament whose conduct is not consistent with the constitution, the establishment of a new electoral system, establishment of proportional but fewer constituency that ensure equal representation, empowering the backbench members of parliament, introducing the election of members of the house of lords, devolution of power and introducing e-petitions that force members of parliament to vote on issues of national importance (Liberal Democrats, 2011).Advertising Looking for essay on political culture? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Effects of Political Reforms The progress of political reforms in the UK has had major effects on the political landscape and on people’s view with regards to the political mileage that the coalition government has been able to attain (Dorey, Garnett, Denham, 2011). Some of the most notable effects of the political reforms inclu de the changes that have been brought about by e-petitions which require 100,000 petitions to ensure that the legislature bills are no longer mere discussions among the members of parliament within their lobby groups but open discussions monitored by the public (The official site of the British Prime Ministers Office, 2011). Further, the parliament through the speaker has also implemented political reforms in the sense that all parties have an equal voice in the parliament. This has also seen the emergence of an empowered backbench representation which has consistently kept the cabinet on check. Therefore, maximizing on policy implementation and ensuring that the cabinet fulfils its mandate to the people. Transparency and accountability has also received a major boost in the parliament through election of competent members of committees as opposed to the previous predicament of nominated members of a committee. In addition, political reforms have also introduced the five year parlia mentary term and a boundary review to reduce the number of constituencies (The official site of the British Prime Ministers Office, 2011). References Dorey, P., Garnett, M. Denham, A. (2011). From Crisis to Coalition: The Conservative Party, 1997-2010. London: Palgrave Macmillan. Liberal Democrats. (2011). Political Reform. Retrieved from https://www.libdems.org.uk/policy_briefingsAdvertising We will write a custom essay sample on A change of UK political policies specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The official site of the British Prime Ministers Office. (2011). The Coalition: One year on. Retrieved from https://www.gov.uk/government/news/the-coalition-government-one-year-on

INTRODUCTION TO INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS GLOBAL MAKETING Case Study

INTRODUCTION TO INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS GLOBAL MAKETING - Case Study Example This resulted into a provision of year round contributions of products, services, technology and resources in terms of finances. As opposed to the 1990’s broadcasting was significantly on the rise though the award of the same seemed complex. Never in the past had a single negotiation resulted into a multi-game broadcasting and though the percentages of Canada in terms of viewers decreased in 2006 as compared to 2002, was the overall success with regards to the same commendable. For the 2006 winter Olympics, there was a representation in terms of sponsorships in three main categories that is the main sponsors, official sponsors and official suppliers. Among the three levels The Torino Organizing Committee was able to get 57 companies and 63 brands a number which included 5 main sponsors and 17 official sponsors and number which were quite significant in the success of the Olympics (Glasurit set for 2006 Olympics. (Final Coat) (Brief Article). (2005, November 1). To realize this success the sponsors undertook huge investments. The investments by the sponsors through the Olympics of 1998, 2002 and 2006 in terms of partners increased from 26, 53 to 57 in 2006 while the revenue and support was $163 million, $494 million and $348 million in the last year due to minor challenges faced at that time(Elam and Curt). The ticket and licensing took a twist where over 540000 products were sold to commemorate the 2006 winter Olympics through 32 official licenses for 35 products groupings bringing revenue of $17 million which was way ahead by 10% above the set target. Among the licensed products involved a higher percentage of Torino 2006 brand images. Another success was witnessed in rising of the awareness of the Olympics. An increase of percentage from 87% in 2004 to 94% in 2006 of awareness was recorded and hence a boost in all the remaining aspects (Elam and Curt). 2. What worked well, and what did not? In terms of worldwide sponsorship as a longer term marketing p rogram aimed at promoting prolonged sponsorship of the Olympic Games, the 2006 winter Olympics which falls in the year category 2005-2008 recorded 12 TOP sponsors which became the sixth TOP cycle since the advent of the program hence we call it TOP VI (Elam and Curt). The future still needs to look for more sponsorship to strengthen the financial base of the organization. This will be realized through stronger legislations which direct the management of funds required for the same (Glasurit set for 2006 Olympics. (Final Coat) (Brief Article). (2005, November 1). Despite the fact that the 2006 Olympics was a success it is hard to say that it is the best Olympic so far witnessed as those for Lillehammer of 1994 and that for Salt Lake City of 2002 can still be ranked above them for the reasons of a few setbacks. This is despite the right things that happened of the sponsorships and the tickets sales and licensing acts which all lead to the creating of the independent of the IOC due to the increased revenue. The other partners like NOC and OCOG also benefitted from the money resources collected (Elam and Curt). There are though a few things which did not happen right and need to be corrected which include; the difficulty experienced in the comparison of the winter games. Such clarity must be distinguished so that monies such as those used for broadcasting and even other advertising can be rightly and transparently accounted for. Lack of such

United States v. Jones Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

United States v. Jones - Essay Example In the making of court decisions involving the fourth amendment of the Bill of Rights, three critical aspects are considered. The aspects include the kind of activities considered by the government to constitute searches and seizures, the probable cause constituted by the actions in the government activities, and the appropriate mechanisms of addressing the violations of the fourth amendments (Wetterer 94). In the case between the state and Jones, it is in order to put clear some facts to understand the unfolding of events in the court decision and reasons for such decisions. First, Jones, who is the respondent in the case, is the owner and operator of a nightclub come under suspicion that he could be dealing in drug trafficking. Based on the above occurrence, police after conducting their investigations sort for a warrant from the Federal District Court, which the courts granted for to use of a GPS tracking device on the Jeep registered to Jones’ wife, which, however, driven exclusively by Jones (McDonald and Means 112). However, the officers failed to beat the ten-day deadline issued and instead put the GPS tracking device on the car to track on the car’s movement on the eleventh day while in Maryland, outside of DC, which the permit granted. With the help of satellite, the GPS device was in a position to monitor the car’s movement for twenty-eight day, sending i ts data to a government-monitored computer and producing data comprising of over 2,000 pages over the same period (McDonald and Means 62). From the findings, Jones was charged for conspiracy of cocaine distribution by the government. Concerning the evidence presented to the court by the state, the judges suppressed the data obtained from the GPS while the car was parked in Jones garage while holding the remaining data based on the aspect that Jones had no expectation of privacy whenever the car was in a public place at the pre-trial hearing of the case (Arcila 88).

Economic Forces And Effects Of Globalization In Tourism Industry Essay

Economic Forces And Effects Of Globalization In Tourism Industry - Essay Example The major factor in the tourism industry is the â€Å"tourist,† who by some is defined as a person, or people who travel, and stay in places outside their usual areas of residence for a period of more than twenty-four hours. The tourism industry comprises of the different types of facilities and services offered to tourists within a destination, or country for those â€Å"tourists.† For example, air transportation, hotels, and accommodation, restaurants, bars, cafes just to mention a few all of which are used in boosting the level of tourism within a country or destination. Therefore, the international tourism involves movements across borders for at least one stay in the foreign country for different purposes. These include business, leisure, visiting friends and relatives, international conferences, or seminars, and other purposes. This report deals with short-term movement of international tourists across borders for the reasons mentioned herein. The international to urism industry is worth an estimate of $856 billion in 2011, representing a growth of 1.7% per year over the past five years. However, the growth shadows a strong declined of 3.6% experienced in 2009 as the global economy succumbed to recession leading to a sharp fall in tourism in international tourism numbers.... This massive economic development resulting from tourism has both positive and negative consequences. Economic forces and effects of globalization play a significant role in shaping trends in the tourism industry. Economic forces refer to factors such as nature of the economic system in a country, demographic changes, employment, fiscal and monetary policies, rate of inflation, and interest rates which determines the state of the competitive environment in which a firm or industry operates. These factors affect the outcomes of a firm’s marketing activities, by determining the strength and volume of demand for its products and services. For example, increase in employment rates in a destination results into increased demand products and services. Globalization is the process of development toward an increasingly integrated global economy and characterized by free low of capital, free trade, and the tapping of cheap labor from foreign markets. Globalization also entails improvem ent of labor standards and practices resulting into quality services within the tourism and hospitality industry. With the ever increasing trend toward open and free economies, hospitality organizations such as Hilton Hotels has been able to gain from globalization that has created less trade regulations allowing the hotel to open and operate more chains globally. In addition, Hilton can acquire its supplies from all over the world without incurring more expenses resulting from trade barriers. Globalization has spread the materialistic culture common with the Westernized world and implementing values previously associated with the western culture. This has enabled the hotel chain to benefit economically from its chains established

Advantages and Disadvantages of Franchising

Advantages and Disadvantages of Franchising Franchising Franchising is arrangement where one party (the franchiser) grants another party (the franchisee) the right to use trade-name as well as certain business systems and processes, to produce and market good or service according to certain specification. The franchisee usually pays a one-time franchise-fee plus a percentage of sales revenueas royalty, and gains immediate name cognition, tried and tested products, standard building and decor,detailed technique in running and promoting the business, training of employees, and ongoing help in promoting and upgrading of the products. The franchiser gains rapid expansion of business and earningsat minimum capital-outlay. Feature of the franchise is that each buyer undertakes to fulfill the various conditions and requirements of the seller (franchiser), related to the production and sale of goods and the provision of related services to consumers. Thus, in the world market there are groups of companies united in a single system under the auspices of a major international corporation. Its partners in the contract the franchisor provides advice on corporate location, selects equipment, helps in training, advice on management, and may also provide financial assistance. All this facilitates the standardization and unification of products and services of the companies included in the system of franchising provides unity on market events, style and design, the quality of goods and services sold the centralization of procurement related savings (and the additional benefit to the franchisor). Advantages of franchising mode are following (Kotler, 2002, p. 377): Rapid expansion of sales markets, the increase in sales volume and the territorial expansion of the business Absence of the cost of the vertically-integrated network management (reduction of personnel costs) A lower level of own capital investment Lift the prestige of the company and its trademark, recognition from the customers, increased confidence in the quality and range of products a single company Income from the sale of the license and renting real estate franchise and equipment Profit from lending opportunities franchisees and reducing the time of turnover. Disadvantages of franchising mode are following (Kotler, 2002, p. 377): The likelihood of a smaller part of the profits from the franchise business than on their own Low reputation of one of the franchises in the absence of proper quality control can affect the reputation of the firm; Difficulty in controlling the reliability of financial reporting franchisee The franchisor is preparing a possible competitor in the face of franchisee company Joint ventures Joint ventures are often created for access to foreign markets, company’s decision to team up with their foreign partner, sharing ownership and control over the activities of the company. In world practice, there are many examples of well-known association of firms and corporations to tap new markets and gain competitive advantage. Creation of a joint venture may be the preferred method of access to foreign markets for the following reasons: 1. If the company lacks the financial, technological, managerial and other resources for self-development in foreign markets 2. If the government does not admit to its market foreign companies or subsidiaries without the participation of local capital for some political or economic reasons; 3. When the company, for economic reasons, team up with a foreign company for the joint production, the sale of which will provide the company higher profits due to the low cost of use of local resources (labor, raw materials, etc.) However, with all advantages of the using joint venture as entry mode for entering and presenting on the international market there are a few problems, the main ones are (Kotler, 2002, p. 377): 1. Contradictions between the partners in the joint venture what may be related to different points of view on the use of the profits of the enterprise, management and implementation of marketing activities, areas of investment, and etc.; 2. The need for a strong partnership in the creation and funding of the joint venture may hamper the implementation of the transnational corporation its own, universal for all countries production and marketing policy. Foreign direct investment The most complete form of the involvement of a foreign market is the investment of capital in the creation own overseas assembly and production plants. The meaning of direct foreign investment is defined by the so-called concept of control. The main idea of this mode of entry is that a foreign investor investing in the purchase or construction companies abroad controls further management decisions in this venture. And he does not have to have a 100% ownership interest in it; even a small percentage of shares may be sufficient to establish control over decision-making (Kotler, 2002, p. 378): On the other side, even all shares do not provide absolute control: if the government dictates whom the company should hire, distribution of revenue, what should company sell and at what price. However, usage of this foreign market entry mode includes several advantages (Kotler, 2002, p. 378): 1. All the profit from investments belongs to the company and it can use it at its own discretion, carrying out their own long-term production and marketing strategies; 2. The firm can increase its profits thought gaining working experience in a large international market with the help of usages local cheap raw materials, labor, saving on transportation costs, etc., as well as expanding sales and conducting effective marketing activities; 3. Paying taxes to the budget of the foreign state and creating jobs, the company can secure a favorable image in government and among the population; 4. Due to establishing close favorable relations with suppliers, distributors, agents and customers the company can better adapt its products, services and marketing programs to the characteristics of the foreign market, thus constantly improving its competitiveness. Direct investment capital to the foreign market is carried out in two forms: the export of venture capital and loan capital. Venture capital imported into the international market in the form of direct and portfolio investment. Direct investment involves the purchase or acquisition of the total local company’s controlling stake. Portfolio investment means buying shares of local companies that are insufficient to establish control over them. Loan capital is loans provided by states, companies, banks, administrative regions, municipalities, etc. Loans divided on two groups: short-term (up to two years) and long term (over two years) (Kotler, 2002, p. 378).

Surfing Is Supposed To Be Para :: essays research papers

Surfing is Supposed to be Paradise Every time a new 'untouched paradise'; is discovered, the first thing everyone wants to do is visit it. By their united enthusiasm to find these 'sanctuaries'; people bring the cage of society with them. Very quickly it becomes necessary to erect bars to keep people out. William Tucker 'Is Nature Too Good For Us?'; William Tucker's essay 'Is Nature Too Good For Us'; discusses the complications with the environmental movement to set aside pieces of land as wilderness. One of the main points of Tucker's argument brings up the problem with preserving natural land as wilderness is that these wild paradises often conflict with people's desire to visit these paradises and experience them. Tucker uses the example of Kauai as a paradise that has been ruined by the overuse and overpopulation. Tucker describes how in 1964 the Sierra Club put out an article on the relatively unknown island and by 1979 Time magazine ran an article in which some of the local people expressed their desire to keep outsiders out. The issue of protecting paradise is a hotly debated topic that is currently being fought over by surfers. To a surfer nothing is more rewarding than the search and discovery of perfect uncrowded waves. This notion of the search for uncrowded surf was brought to the attention of the general public with the 1963 release of Bruce Brown's The Endless Summer. The film documented two surfers traveling around the world to exotic locales previously left unexplored by the surfers of Western civilization. The images that Brown brought back to mainstream movie screens forever changed the lives of surfers. This film changed how surfers viewed the world. No longer were surfers confined to their local coastlines, they were inoculated with desire to seek out their own paradise.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Over the years many surfers have found their little piece of paradise and never left. Instead these surfers have opted to spend the rest of their lives surfing the waves they initially had intended to just visit and experience. They never left these beaches because the waves were uncrowded and the beaches were breathtakingly beautiful. Compare this to the modern industrial places in the U.S such as Los Angeles or San Francisco and you can see why surfers are constantly searching for paradise. Surfers get tired of surfing in crowded, polluted, and poor wave producing areas, so they travel.

Themes in of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck

There are many themes in Of mice and men by John Steinbeck. There is the theme of brotherhood and friendship. Lennie and George against all odds are close friends, brothers in a way. They take care of each other in different ways. George takes care of Lennie and tries to keep him out of trouble which is a very difficult task but one which he takes on nonetheless. Without him Lennie has noone and probably wouldn’t last long, even if he went and lived in a cave. And George does get something from Lennie – he gets companionship their friendship is what sets them apart from the other guys that works on ranches. An’ why? Because†¦ because I got you to look after me, and you got me to look after you, and that’s why†. Without their friendship there would be no book. You get to read a lot about how George and Lennie interact with each other. Segregation is also  in the book. There is the obvious one: Crooks the negro stable buck is set apart from the others because he is black, he isn’t even allowed to sleep in the same bunkhouse as the other ranch workers. But others in the story are set apart from the group as a whole. Curley’s wife is ignored by everyone, the only woman on the ranch and she has noone to talk to.There is a lot of prejudice towards the two aforementioned characters. Other characters whom people feel prejudice against are Lennie, for his disability and Candy, who like his dog is getting old and will soon have outlived his usefulness. Another theme present is the one of innocence. Lennie has the mind of a small child, he is very innocent and naive. He doesn’t realise what he’s doing most of the time. How can he be guilty of a crime when he hasn’t done anything harmful on purpose? He doesn’t know his own strength. He doesn’t know much at all. One thing he does know is that George looks out for him and he is very loyal towards him.In the outsider’s chapter he gets very agitated when Crooks implies that something might have happened to George in town. It’s interesting that he is so loyal to George but that he can’t remember his Aunt Clara, someone actually related to him by blood and that took care of him for some time. There is a fair amount of violence in the book. Some of it is intentional, Curley trying to pick a fight with Lennie, the ranch hands going after Lennie at the end of the novel all intent on causing pain and/or killing him. The one who causes the most pain and most death though is Lennie but he barely realises it.He shatters Curley’s hand, kills all the animals he acquires and also Curley’s wife. However loneliness is definitely the biggest theme in the book because everyone in the story suffers from it. The farm hands going from ranch to ranch by themselves George talks about their loneliness already in the first chapter, Curley's wife trapped on a ranch with a bunch of men who won't talk to he r because they risk getting into trouble with Curley, Crooks who is cast out by everyone, Candy is alone after they shoot his dog who was the only constant companion in his life. All these characters admit that they are lonely.The only people that aren’t alone are George and Lennie so it is quite sad that he has to shoot Lennie, which might be the best for Lennie at the time but from then on George joins the ranks of lonely ranch hands travelling on their own. Except he has known companionship so he will always know what he’s missing; the other guys have never had anyone they were that close to so they don’t understand his pain after he shots Lennie. This is obvious in the last sentence uttered by Carlson watching George and Slim walk away together. â€Å"Now what the hell ya suppose is eatin’ them two guys? †

APA Referencing †How to Cite a Journal Article (Proofread My Paper)

APA Referencing – How to Cite a Journal Article APA Referencing – How to Cite a Journal Article The American Psychological Association (APA) style guide is favored by hundreds of journals, textbook publishers and academic institutions. APA referencing is therefore one of the most widely-used citations formats, especially in the sciences, medicine and education. In this post, we cover the basics of citing a journal article using the APA referencing style. Author-Date Citations The basic format for all in-text citations in APA involves providing the author surname and year of publication for the cited source in parentheses: Development of golf tourism requires significant planning (Priestly, 2006). If the author is already named in the text, you only need to cite the year: According to Priestly (2006), planning golf tourism demands extensive infrastructure. If the article has three or more authors, provide all names in the first citation: A study by LeClerc, Che, Swaddle and Cristol (2005) shows that golf courses are viable nesting sites for bluebirds. After this, you only have to use the first author’s surname and â€Å"et al.†: Nest boxes on golf courses provide an excellent habitat for young bluebirds (LeClerc et al., 2005). Quoting Sources When quoting a source, APA citations should appear after the quoted text and include page numbers: As well as golf courses, golf tourism requires â€Å"hotels and other forms of property development† (Priestly, 2006, p. 170). If the author is named in the text, the year of publication should be given after the name, but the page numbers still appear after the quoted text: Priestly (2006) states that â€Å"essential to plan golf tourism regions carefully in order to make economic and social objectives compatible† (p. 170). Reference List APA requires all cited sources to be added to a reference list at the end of your document. Entries should include all relevant publication details, with sources sorted alphabetically by author surname. For a journal article, the information required includes: Author Name(s) and Initial(s) (Year). Title of article. Title of Periodical, Volume Number (Issue Number), Pages. The Priestly article cited above, for instance, would appear as: Priestley, G. K. (2006). Planning implications of golf tourism. Tourism and Hospitality Research, 6(3), 170-178. If you’re citing an online version of a journal article, you should also include the relevant DOI or URL in the reference list: LeClerc, J. E., Che, J. P. K., Swaddle, J. P., Cristol, D. A. (2005). Reproductive success and developmental stability of eastern bluebirds on golf courses. Wildlife Society Bulletin (1973-2006), 33(2), 483-493. Retrieved from jstor.org/stable/3785076

Japan Index Fund

Japan Index Fund When we talk about Japan we think of one of the most affluent technological and industrial leaders in the world. We think of high-end electronics and highly educated and expertly trained professionals. Throughout the last few years, financial eyes have been on the Japanese stock market as it slowly makes its economic recovery. ‚“Japan‚s stock market has been locked in a bear market since 1989,‚” (Waggoner, 2004) hitting its peak in January 1990. In 2003, the Tankan survey found that ‚“business confidence had weakened‚” with much of the blame on rising oil prices and a stronger yen. Despite all of this, their stocks have risen 12.4% in 2004 while unemployment fell. Financial analysts also reported that Tokyo‚s real estate prices were rising.BBC News reports ‚“Japan owes its change in fortune to booming export demand from China.‚” Toyota, who gets most of its sales from the United States have been seeing higher revenues.United Sta tes

International Comparative Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

International Comparative Analysis - Essay Example This essay focuses on analyzing and presenting of the international comparative analysis, that is highly relevant in today’s growth-oriented societies in which problems can crop up when large concentrations of people are put within a relatively small area such as in highly-urbanized cities of the developing countries. In particular, urbanization continues to pose serious challenges to country planners who have to contend with limited and finite resources while populations continue to expand. This paper discusses some approaches applied to the urban renewal efforts of cities suffering urban decay. The theories from comparative analysis are useful when explaining new patterns of spatial development, like uneven or unequal development such as the new poly-centric patterns of urban growth. The practical application of comparative analysis is to learn from the de-industrialisation taking place in cities like London and New York and apply them to waves of industrialisation taking pl ace in China and the Asia-Pacific. An interesting use of international comparative analysis will be determining which of the two largest nations in the world can pull off an economic miracle. It is concluded by the researcher that theoretical and practical applications of international comparative analysis will guide modern city planners when drafting country policies for development. It will let the countries to maximize all the resources they have and avoid the mistakes of the past because it is very hard to undo them in future.

What was the political and strategic contribution of amphibious Essay

What was the political and strategic contribution of amphibious operations to the korean war 1950-53. does this input offer any guidance to the modern UK amphibious force - Essay Example Historically, successful strategic implementation of such operations was attained by Julius Caesar and William the Conqueror during invasion of Britain. Later on, further development in war techniques and addition of air force has led to considerable changes in the existing situation. Since the World War I onwards, the art of strategic warfare reflected that if success through an amphibious attack needs to be attained, perfect cooperation is required among each three division of an army and implementation of this reflection attained its culmination during the Second World War (Schwartz 310). While the success and consequent onslaught of the Third Reich was holding the entire world with a stronger grip, participation of the United States in the backdrop of the World War II and naval collaboration of the American and Royal Navy introduced the â€Å"Golden Age of Amphibious Warfare† (Alexander, and Bartlett 1). The entire course of the World War II was changed due to several amph ibious landings conducted by naval forces of these two nations and the highest success of such collaborative effort came through success of the D-Day operation on 6th June 1944 (Alexander, and Bartlett 1). By the end of the Second World War it was clearly realized that proper co-ordination among various departments of an army and their adequate cooperation with that of the naval department is absolutely essential to win a war and development of a well-balanced naval force, thus, received considerable attention from the national security perspective. However, due to the huge financial loss that the United States and British government experienced, it order to recover from the situation, they did not have any other option than to reduce allocation of budget for defense system, leading to not only reduction in the total number of armed forces but also

Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 21

Management - Essay Example Every member of the team had relevant and useful information to put on the table, an aspect the led to greater work productivity. Members of the group capitalized on their diversity to create a cohesive group that met its objective as a team. While group cohesiveness is fundamental as far as teamwork productivity is concerned, it does not always lead to positive impacts on group projects. Drawing from a personal experience, group cohesiveness negates project productivity when members of the team fail to debate the contents of their project. Due to individual differences within a group, it is important to debate project contents, scope, and progress (Griffin & Moorhead, 2013). When this fails to take place, the cohesiveness of the group makes a project vulnerable to poor results and/or performance. For example, not all contributions made in a group become part of the final project. If this happens, the cohesiveness of the group affects the quality and validity of the project

Race by the Numbers Essay Example for Free

Race by the Numbers Essay In his article, â€Å"Race by the Numbers†, Orlando Patterson argued about the misinterpretation of the census results and that this misinformation is having negative effects on the perspective of the people. The misinterpreted part of the census, according to Patterson, was the idea that the population of the Whites is becoming the minority in many areas of the country. Thus, Patterson offered arguments and ideas to disprove the validity of the interpretation. However, the question is whether or not Patterson was able to persuade the readers, the citizens, that the interpretation of the census report was indeed incorrect. Patterson’s article is full of information especially statistical and quantitative information that helped him in establishing ground for his arguments. Patterson statement that â€Å"48 percent of Hispanics classified themselves as solely white† (p. 83) adds to his persuasive argument that is also supported by the next sentence in the article, â€Å"Hispanics can be of any race† (p. 83). These statements clearly supported the fact that the total percentage of Whites in was decreased as interpreted by the census report. Patterson also included studies that affirm his claim including recent census result. Patterson stated that, â€Å"whites will constitute 74. 8 percent of the total population in 2050, and that non-Hispanics will still be 52. 8 percent of the total† (p. 83) as indicated by the recent census. With such facts indicated in the article, it can be said that Patterson was able to build a strong evidence and supporting detains and information regarding his assertions. Thus, his argument, regarding the population of white Americans in the country, is a â€Å"gross distortion† (Patterson p. 83) is not a mere point of view but is supported by facts and relevant information. By establishing the facts and the arguments, it can be said that Patterson’s main purpose of writing the article was to show that the population of whites in America is still and will continue to be the majority; disproving the assumption that â€Å"non-Hispanic whites will cease to be the majority† (Patterson, p. 82). By doing so, Patterson aims to encourage the whites that they still are the majority and will continue to be. In this case, Patterson was able to do great job through his article. However, Patterson also indicated in his article the idea that â€Å"each group in the new minority-majority country has longstanding grievances against whites†, thus, Patterson may also want to claim the invalidity of this assertion through his article. But in this case, was Patterson effective? Basing from the article, Patterson was really able to encourage the whites and take away the doubt that they will cease to be the majority. However, Patterson was not able to take away the idea that minority groups in America have grievances on whites. On the contrary, it even points out another idea, that whites does not see minority groups as to be equal to them. Thus, instead of disproving the issue of minorities having grievances on whites, the article may even fuel the said issue. The article can trigger grievances against whites since the article establishes the idea that whites are and will continue to be the superior race in the country. Therefore, this may cause insecurity and rebellion against the white race since others may wish to see the downfall of a superior race. Patterson also included historical developments in regarding some issues such as the classification of races. Patterson stated that, â€Å"In 1930 Mexicans were classified as a separate race by the Census Bureau – which reclassified them as white in 1940, after protests† (p. 84). Patterson also mentioned 2 other related issues in history. In this case, Patterson was able to convince the readers regarding the misclassification done that lead to the misinterpretation of the census result. Thus, Patterson once again established a ground for his ideas and arguments by nullifying the classification made by the census bureau on the issue of which races are to be included as whites. As mentioned earlier, the author was able to establish the supporting facts about his claims. However, there are some instances that the author failed to mention relative and important information. Patterson adapted a study stating that, â€Å"Recent studies indicate that the second-generation Hispanic whites are intermarrying † (p. 83). However, Patterson did not mention what particular study reaches that conclusion. Therefore, readers in doubt of that particular argument have no means of verifying the claim. Patterson should have indicated all the necessary information about the research to enable the readers to locate the particular study, otherwise doubts will remain doubts in the minds of the readers. Although the article has its strengths, i. e. the use of statistical information, the weakness of the article is readily available to the readers. The main weakness of the article was that the author, Mr. Patterson, was obviously one sided in writing the article. The bias can be seen from the very beginning of the article. Thus, this limits the trust of the readers and the integrity of the writer. Showing personal biases is will really lead to doubts and disbeliefs of the author’s claim since the readers are aware that he or she is arguing for or against one side. Thus, in persuading the readers about a certain action or issue, one must show personal biases for this will weaken the arguments and the ideas presented by the author. In order to establish a ground proof about an argument, a writer must not show biases as much as possible. It would be better to show the different arguments of both side and show relative information, facts and evidences and let the readers decide which arguments weigh more basing from the given evidences. All in all, Patterson did a great job in laying the arguments and he was able to fulfil his main objective, to encourage the whites. However, as mentioned earlier, the article has its own weaknesses as well. Thus, the article would only be effective if the reader is taking the same side as Patterson’s, otherwise, the article would seem very racist of which whites are considered incomparable to others. The validity of the claims is thus, very subjective on the personality and side that the readers will take.

Integrating ICT in Teaching and Learning Mathematics

Integrating ICT in Teaching and Learning Mathematics Investigate and discuss the use of ICT in teaching and learning Mathematics. Explore the use of MAPLE. Illustrate and discuss: 1) Competence with the main features of a range of ICT: ICT in teaching and learning mathematics is a requirement of the National curriculum and computer simulations can now place mathematics in a real life context. [1]There are a number of superior computer-based environments available to support this process. Some of these include dynamic geometry environments, graph-plotting packages, statistics and data holding packages and computer- algebra packages. Graphing calculators can be used to teach the beginning of Algebra. Similarly pocket calculators are convenient and quick to access as well as being relatively inexpensive today and is a useful mathematical tool. With the graphing calculator it is possible to determine that ‘every classroom could be turned into a computer lab and every student could own his or her own inexpensive personal computer with built-in mathematics software’ [2] The researchers Arnold and Aus identified three generations of graphing calculators: scientific calculators with large viewing windows, e.g. The T1-82, those which were more versatile with a range of mathematical functions like the Casio – 98JOG and those with CAS and dynamic geometry like the TI-92. Several discussions can be had around the implementation of calculators in mathematics teaching and learning and the subject continues to spark debate. Although the resolution of a hand held calculator is not comparable with that of a computer screen there is no need to alter the setting of the classroom or have to gain access to a number of computers to use it for learning. With regard to computational skills and mental arithmetic again calculators come up for criticism although there is a definite argument to be had that suggests calculators do not compromise the application of basic mathematical skills, as long as those skills are developed first in a conventional environment u sing pen and paper based calculations. [3] ICT can assist with turning algebraic symbols into graphical representations and vice versa. Using spreadsheets for algebra can encourage the use of letters to be interpreted as symbols and spreadsheet symbols can be used to solve mathematical problems[4]. Spreadsheets can be utilized to introduce students to a range of mathematical ideas and as a more generic mathematical tool. Recent research also provides evidence that young people are beginning to use spreadsheets on their own home computers. [5]Dynamic geometry can be used to teach transformation geometry as it can for establishing properties of circles, functions and graphs. Secondary level curriculum mathematics skills and the application of IT can be linked intrinsically by way of some of the following examples. The pupils ability to develop skills of mathematical modeling through the exploration, interpretation and explanation of data can be enhanced by using the appropriate graphical representations for displaying information from a data-set, by experimenting with forms of equations in producing graphs which are good fits for data plots and using motion sensors to produce distance-time graphs. Software can be applied in the context of learning about shapes, space and links with Algebra which automates geometric constructions, carries out specific geometric transformations and performs operations on co-ordinates or is able to draw loci. Finally by entering a formula in algebraic notation to generate values and match a given set of numbers, this can support the Secondary level skill to explore, describe and explain patterns and relationships in sequences and tables of numbers. [6] There are many reasons why mathematics teachers are reluctant to integrate ICT into teaching in the classroom. Many of the computer-based environments are complicated and teachers need to learn themselves how to use these tools effectively for doing mathematics. Although newly qualifying teachers have to pass a basic ICT test as part of their training, it is still difficult for teachers to know where to start, particularly some of the older generation of mathematics teachers. In the practical sense access to computers is not always possible for the benefit of every child being able to learn at the same time and sub-groups and individuals may have to be established in order to take it in turns to use a single computer in the classroom which can be time consuming and logistically difficult. However computers and calculators can be considered to provide six major opportunities for students learning mathematics: Learning from feedback – the computer can provide fast and reliable feedback which is non-judgmental and impartial. This can build students confidence and help them construct their own ideas. Observing patterns – The speed of computers and calculators enables students to provide many examples when exploring mathematical problems. Seeing connections – The computer enables formulae, tables and numbers and graphs to be linked easily. The result of seeing one representation and changes in the other helps pupils to understand the connections between them Working with dynamic images – Students can use computers to manipulate diagrams and encourages them to visualise the geometry. Exploring data – Computers enable students to work with real data which can be represented in a variety of ways. This supports its interpretation and analysis. ‘Teaching’ the computer – When students design an algorithm to make a computer achieve a specific task, they are urged to express their commands literally and in a correct order.[7] 2) Demonstrate the ability to explore maths and solve maths problems using MAPLE in-depth. MAPLE can be defined as a fundamental computer algebra software package which uses simple commands to perform complex operations and enables like by like analysis similar to using a pen and paper. It also allows pupils to focus on the underlying mathematical principles. [8] In Darlene Wu’s Understanding of Calculus she uses a number of experiments to determine the benefits of MAPLE on a series of students. She adheres to the notion that most traditional algebraic features can be delegated to a computer. In particular using MAPLE most problems can be resolved and believe this should be riled out for the benefit of all students studying mathematics. The problem below was assigned to a group of students in a research environment: Graph f(x) = ln(sin(x)*cos(x)) and g(x) = ln(sin(x)) + ln(cos(x)). What is the relationship between the graphs? Does it contradict the property ln(x*y) = ln(x) + ln(y)? By using the graphs of these two functions together with the graphs of sin(x) and cos(x), the students investigated the properties of sin, cos, and ln and show their answers in writing. Students used Maple to draw the two graphs easily, but they looked entirely different. This led the researchers to wander whether this contradicted ln(x*y) = ln(x) + ln(y)? And if so how would students explain it? The experiment needed to be repeated several times, recalling the definitions and properties of ln, sin and cos and concluded that the students assumed the two graphs looked different, whereas they are identical as long as ln(sin(x)cos(x)) and ln(sin(x))+ln(cos(x)) are defined. Wu’s paper concludes that it is necessary to train students to use mathematical methods effectively not just for the purposes of their job but for ‘the real world’ and that software programmes that help in this process are fundamental to their learning. However as a number of contradictions and problems emerged with equations through using MAPLE not only does Wu concede that students may become confused and panic if they cannot attribute the Mathematics problem to themselves or the Mathematics problem itself. She also notes that when teaching calculus it is important to consider whether such technology is still too overwhelming as well as students becoming dependent on its solutions, rather than working them out traditionally. [9] In comparison to this notion another paper with MAPLE as its core area of study is Fitz-Gerald and Healey’s Enlightening the mathematics curriculum with MAPLE. This discusses the implementation of MAPLE to the undergraduate Mathematics curriculum in a large University in Australia. The overall consensus was that in applying MAPLE, traditional topics that were once unpopular with students were now being approached in a much more understanding and enthusiastic way. This experiment demonstrates the advantages of being able to encourage Mathematics by way of helpful software across new audiences who might not have been inspired previously to study in this area.[10] 3. Identify the ways in which a particular ICT Software or graphics calculator can be used within a learning environment and the advantages/disadvantages of each in enabling effective maths learning. In Horton et al’s The graphing calculator as an aid to teaching algebra the paper points out that calculators have become popular in the classroom for the benefit of convenience and speed. What the researchers also determined was that tutorials on the Casio FX2.0 and FX 2.0 PLUS models actually improved manipulative skills. Students beginning a college algebra course following the tutorial scored significantly higher on a test which involved solving linear equations and in addition made suggestions for the tutorial also contributing to an improvement in attitudes.[11] It is interesting to consider their benefits for something other than the obvious assumptions to be made about graphics calculators. In absolute contrast to all perceived theories Graphic Calculators In The Classroom: Students’ Viewpoints presents the results of a piece of research carried out amongst low achieving eleventh grade pupils in Portugal. This revealed that little improvement was gained from introducing graphic calculators to mathematics lessons as the pupils considered the impact of their teacher; their teaching style and personality to be of more educational value to them than the calculator, which improved very little in terms of their academic improvement where mathematics was concerned.[12] Another perhaps more important everyday negative aspect of graphic calculators is their inclusion of games and other non-educative devises such as phonebooks and personal organizers which can detract pupils away from the learning process in the classroom. In addition, the potential for students to store information and consequently cheat during examinations when they are allowed to take calculators in with them in a test environment. The other argument when weighing up some of the differences between hand-held devices and computer programmes is that a calculator can accompany a student into an examination, whereas a computer cannot. They are flexible and user- friendly as well as being able to be powered by solar energy which is of course far more beneficial to the environment. Another advantage is the diminishing cost of calculators. They can be easily purchased anywhere at a relatively small price in comparison with a computer which ‘It has been suggested recently render(s) the use of graphics calculators much more attractive to schools than computers’[13] Interestingly in his research Spreadsheets, graphics calculators and  mathematics education, Barry Kisane provides a suggestion for combining programmes into graphics calculators in order to maximize their potential, thus making them less of a calculator and more of a computer. And notes that ‘The inclusion of these essential  features on graphics calculators seems to extend the range of influence of the  spreadsheet as a useful device for mathematics education in secondary schools, and is deserving of attention to exploit it appropriately’.[14] Essentially perhaps the way forward with graphics calculators is to then modify and technologically enhance them further so that they can take on many of the characteristics of the computer whilst not having the capacity to store information that might prove potentially incriminating to a student in the examination room. Bibliography Bishop, A.J, Clements, M.A (2003) Second International Handbook of Mathematics Education: Springer Cowan, P (2006) Teaching Mathematics: A Handbook for Primary and Secondary School Teachers: Routledge Da Ponte Canavarro (1993) Graphic Calculators In The Classroom: Students’ Viewpoints: Centro de Investigaà §Ãƒ £o em Educaà §Ãƒ £o da Faculdade de Cià ªncias Fitz-Gerald Healey Enlightening the mathematics curriculum with MAPLE, Essay taken from Maple V: Mathematics and Its Application : Proceedings of the Maple Summer Workshop and Symposium, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, August 9-13, 1994By Robert J. Lopez: Birkhà ¤user Horton, R. M., Storm, J., Leonard, W.H. (2004). The graphing calculator as an aid to teaching algebra, Contemporary Issues in Technology and Teacher Education, 4(2), 152 -162. Johnston-Wilder, S, Pimm, D (2005) Teaching Secondary Mathematics with ICT: McGraw-Hill International Kemp, M, Kissane, B Bradley, J (1995) ‘Assessment and the graphics calculator’ in Anne Richards (ed.) FLAIR: Forging links and integrating resources, Darwin, The Australian Association of Mathematics Teachers, 235-241. (Also available at http://wwwstaff.murdoch.edu.au/~kissane/papers/aamt95.pdf Kissane, B (2007) Spreadsheets, graphics calculators and  mathematics education, In K. Milton, H. Reeves T. Spencer (eds) Mathematics: Essential for learning, essential for life. 21st Biennial Conference of the Australian Association of Mathematics Teachers (pp 331-339), Hobart: Australian Association of Mathematics Teachers. Rielly, C (2004) The Application of Computer Algebra Software in the Teaching of  Engineering Mathematics, Higher Education Academy Sutherland, R (2004) Teaching for Learning Mathematics: McGraw-Hill International Wu, D, Some Examples on Using Maple to Increase Students. Understanding  of Calculus, Sourced from: http://archives.math.utk.edu/ICTCM/VOL08/C052/paper.pdf, Date accessed, Footnotes [1] Cowan,P (2006) Teaching Mathematics: A Handbook for Primary and Secondary School Teachers: Routledge [2] Bishop,A.J, Clements,M.A (2003) Second International Handbook of Mathematics Education: Springer [3] Bishop,A.J, Clements,M.A (2003) Second International Handbook of Mathematics Education: Springer [4] Sutherland,R (2004) Teaching for Learning Mathematics: McGraw-Hill International [5] Sutherland,R (2004) Teaching for Learning Mathematics: McGraw-Hill International [6]Cowan,P (2006) Teaching Mathematics: A Handbook for Primary and Secondary School Teachers: Routledge [7] Johnston-Wilder, S, Pimm,D (2005) Teaching Secondary Mathematics with ICT: McGraw-Hill International [8] Rielly,C (2004) The Application of Computer Algebra Software in the Teaching of  Engineering Mathematics, Higher Education Academy [9] (Sourced from: http://archives.math.utk.edu/ICTCM/VOL08/C052/paper.pdf, Date accessed, 30/11/08 [10] Fitz-Gerald Healey Enlightening the mathematics curriculum with MAPLE, Essay taken from Maple V: Mathematics and Its Application : Proceedings of the Maple Summer Workshop and Symposium, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, August 9-13, 1994By Robert J. Lopez: Birkhà ¤user [11] Horton, R. M., Storm, J., Leonard, W.H. (2004). The graphing calculator as an aid to teaching algebra, Contemporary Issues in Technology and Teacher Education, 4(2), 152 -162. [12] Da Ponte Canavarro (1993) Graphic Calculators In The Classroom: Students’ Viewpoints: Centro de Investigaà §Ãƒ £o em Educaà §Ãƒ £o da Faculdade de Cià ªncias [13] Kemp, M, Kissane,B Bradley,J (1995) ‘Assessment and the graphics calculator’ in Anne  Richards (ed.) FLAIR: Forging links and integrating resources, Darwin, The Australian Association of  Mathematics Teachers, 235-241.  (Also available at http://wwwstaff.murdoch.edu.au/~kissane/papers/aamt95.pdf [14] Kissane,B (2007) Spreadsheets, graphics calculators and  mathematics education, In K. Milton, H. Reeves T. Spencer (eds) Mathematics: Essential for learning, essential for life. 21st Biennial Conference of the Australian Association of Mathematics Teachers (pp 331-339), Hobart: Australian Association of Mathematics Teachers.

The Dilemma of Macular Degeneration Essay -- Vision Sight Disorders Es

The Dilemma of Macular Degeneration According to Baily and Hall, while visual impairment early in life is associated with inherited congenital disorders, abnormal fetal devepment, and problems associated with premature birth, most eye conditions are associated with aging. They claim that over 70% of the visually impaired population in the United States is over 65. Age related maculopathy, also called macular degeneration, or AMD, impairs the center of vision in older individuals. The macula is the region in the back of the retina that surrounds and includes the fovea (Goldstein 1999). It is important to understand that when this degeneration progresses enough, the condition constitutes blindness because the foveal area is what is used to focus on something. Most cases do not progress this far, but between five and 20% do. Allikments and Shroyer claim that 11 million people in the United States alone suffer some degree of this impairment, with 75% of those individuals being 75 or older. Seven percent of this older age g roup reportedly suffer advanced forms. Freidman reports the disease as most common in developed countries. The high percentages of individuals who endure this impairment justifies and practically demands future research because the causes are not fully understood. The need for future research can be better emphasized if those with normal vision try to empathize with victims of macular degeneration. One can only imagine how frustrating it must be to receive sensatrions only in the periphery of the retina. Because the macula encompassed the cone rich fovea, which is used to focus on objects, the fovea degenerates as well. This occurence inables individuals to interpret the sensations they experience. Reading, ... ... 385-389. Guyer, David R., (1997). Interferon alpha 2a is ineffective for patients with choroidal neovascularization secondary to age related macular degeneration: results of a prospective randomized placebo-controlledclinical trial. The Journal of the American Medical Association, 278(18), 1470. Hunter, M., (1997). Blocking blindness. McLeans, 110 (21), 62. Langer, Stephen, (1996). Set your sights on better nutrition. Better Nutrition, 58 (4), 58. Ruckmann, Adrea von, Fitzke, Fredrick W., & Bird, Alan C., (1997). Fundus autofluorescence in age related macular disease imaged with a laser scanning opthalmoscope. Investigative Opthamology and Visual Science, 38 (2), 478-485. Spraul, Christoph W., Lang, Gabriel E., Grossniklaus, Hans E., & Lang, Gerhard D., (1998). Choroidal blood flow in AMD. Investigative Opthamology and Visual Science, 39 (11), 2201.

Demographic Factors Research

Running head: DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS RESEARCH Demographic Factors Research University of Phoenix MMPBL 560 Managing in a Cross-Cultural Environment October 19, 2009 Organizations around the world are experiencing the effects of cultural and global diversity. Kellogg, Starbucks, McDonald’s, and Arbor are four companies introduced in this paper. They have been researched in order to identify how each company is affected by demographic factors, how these factors are managed, and what systems are implemented to enhance the success of the business; thus, this paper illustrates the key course concepts and their application to the best practices of these companies. The dynamics and dimensions of diversity in an increasingly global business environment can challenge the demographic factors of most organizations. Basically, Kottak and Kozaitis (2003) declare, â€Å"In the 21st century, the overwhelming majority of the world's population, along with a large percentage of the populations of the United States and Canada, will be descendants of the non-Western groups† (Ch. 1, p. 29). In other words, organizations will need to learn how to manage the complexities of a diverse workforce. Among these complexities, organizations will encounter demographic factors such as age, race, education level, religion, political party preference, sexual orientation, and gender (Kottak & Kozaitis, 2003). Because of these diverse factors, organizations need to be prepared to recognize the individuals’ behavior that is influenced by culture, values, and beliefs. To illustrate, culture refers to people’s identity in their traditions, customs, and way of life (Kottak & Kozaitis, 2003). In fact, Kottak and Kozaitis (2003) declare that culture is all encompassing. In essence, it is important for organizations to know that individuals are influenced by popular culture as well. Therefore, individuals in a diverse workplace need to understand and respect each other’s differences. It is not enough to know that the workplace is composed of people with different views in life, values, and attitudes. Kottak and Kozaitis (2003) state that â€Å"Ethnic diversity may be associated with positive group interaction and coexistence or with conflict† (Ch. 5, p. 12). Knowing that diversity can be beneficial to the organization will help management integrate appropriate value systems within the company. However, in the event that conflict exists as a result of diversity, management would need to consider alternative best practices to address the organizational conflict. Given the complexities of a diverse workforce, organizations need to examine constantly alternative solutions to help them manage the demographic factors within the company. Kottak and Kozaitis (2003) declare that â€Å"Failure to achieve an accurate account and appreciation of a race-based group of people results in racism† (Ch. 6, p. 3). Certainly, organizations need to mitigate any potential and undesirable outcomes that can negatively affect the reputation and profitability of the business. To put it differently, â€Å"The great sociopolitical paradox of the contemporary world is that both integration and disintegration are increasing† (Kottak & Kozaitis, 2003, Ch. 3, p. 5). In addition, globalization is contributing to the workforce diversity around the world, and organizations are continually being challenged to learn new ways to manage these changes. Organizations are not only challenged with internal changes but also with external forces such as economic and political factors. The importance of understanding the presence and influence of diversity that affect the contemporary American culture can prove enormously beneficial for any organization. In effect, organizations need to learn how to effectively manage the effects of demographic factors involving their planning and decision making in motivating and rewarding individuals (Kottak & Kozaitis, 2003). Consider for instance, Kellogg started its business more than 100 years ago and has quickly expanded into new geographies, leading to a stead fast growth plan that provided them with a global business, which still stands strong today. While remaining a superior global food company, Kellogg’s management realized that they had to have the strongest possible resources to support their business growth in a diverse and competitive environment (Kellogg, 2009). Likewise, Starbucks is managing its competition challenges; the current economic conditions are factors that Starbucks needs to consider in order to market the new products to preserve its clientele and bring in new customers. Hence, Starbucks is wise to use the four P’s model; Price, Product, Place, and Promotion, to determine the course of action best suited to stay ahead of the competition. To be clear, both Kellogg and Starbucks are managing the effects of postmodernity; that is, â€Å"postmodertnity describes our time and situation—today's world in flux, with people on the move who have learned to manage multiple identities depending on place and context† (Kottak & Kozaitis, 2003, Ch. p. 29). To manage the influence of postmodernity within the context of demographic factors, Kellogg and Starbucks are implementing strategic approaches to aid them in their success involving global and cultural diversity. For example, Kellogg committed itself to developing a comprehensive and ground-breaking supplier diversity program. This program was to cultivate strategic procurement relationships with W/MBE-owned, controlled and operated businesses while supplying products and services Kellogg purchased; this would allow them to foster the growth of their business while marketing the long-term growth of Kellogg (Kellogg, 2009). Similarly, Starbucks expanded the menu to include products to target non-coffee drinkers, with the introduction of blended or iced cold coffee drinks, frappuccino’s, lattes, mocha’s, and teas. Starbucks creatively integrated a diverse menu consisting of bold aromas to creamy sweet flavors, attracting a range of customers to Starbucks at various times and for various reasons. Starbucks’ intention to satisfy the demographic factors has prompted management to add items on the menu for anyone willing to try; among them, Professionals heading to an early morning meeting needing a â€Å"stout† cup of coffee, housewives stopping for a late morning latte with friends after dropping the children at school and the high school and college students in search of Wi-Fi connection and snack (Kembell, 2002). Another company that has continued to strive for cultural adaptability in a diverse global environment is McDonald’s. This company is an organization that can be found in every country, servicing nearly 47 million customers around the world. Because of McDonald’s unique demographic factors, managers are trained through a comprehensive Management Development Program. This program encompasses McDonald’s core values and principles along with the dedication to serve customers, the community, and employees (McDonald’s, 2009). One of the demographic factors affecting McDonald’s management planning involves the aging population in Australia. In other words, McDonald’s management is challenged with having to change its marketing approach in order to reach the newly identified groups (Monash University, 2009). Similar to Kellogg and Starbucks, McDonald’s management is searching for effective systems to help aid the company in addressing the increasing changes in demographics. Fortunately, McDonald’s continues to find strength on its business models in which McDonald’s management is â€Å"committed to exceeding [†¦] customers' expectations in every restaurant every time† (McDonald’s, 2009). Accordingly, McDonald’s management recognizes that the company’s core values go beyond demographics, for this reason, McDonald’s philosophy declares, â€Å"We will seize every opportunity to innovate and lead the industry on behalf of our customers† (McDonald’s, 2009). Effectively, the best practices of McDonald’s, Starbucks and Kellogg demonstrate the dedication and commitment to learn and adopt successful systems that will help them serve customers regardless of demographic factors. Unquestionably, these organizations need to also integrate rewards and motivation systems to help them sustain a diverse workforce anywhere in the world. For example, Arbor Education and Training is a leading provider of workforce development services to job-seekers, workers, employers, and communities nationwide (Arbor E & T, 2009). Arbor employees come from many different walks of life, employees of all ages, religions, and other factors; these employees are treated equally within the organization in decisions concerning rewards and performance. Kottak and Kozaitis (2003) state that â€Å"Cultural diversity refers to variation in institutions, traditions, language, customs, rituals, beliefs, and values† (Ch. 4, p. 6). In summary, organizations are required to continually scan their business environment in order to identify the challenges that come with a diverse workforce. Overall, Kellogg, Starbucks, McDonald’s, and Arbor are challenged with cultural diversity, yet each company is finding the way to integrate successful best practices in the workplace. As noted, the dimensions of diversity in relation to each demographic factor play a crucial role in how Kellogg, Starbucks, McDonald’s, and Arbor cope with the increasing changes of the business environment. Accordingly, the practices of these companies serve to address the presence of a diverse workforce in a constantly changing society. Synopsis of Kellogg by Wendy Harris Kellogg Company, a company with many competitive advantages in global communications, started its company more than 100 years ago and quickly expanded into new geographies. With a stead fast growth plan that provided them with a global business which still stands strong today. While remaining a superior global food company, Kellogg Company realized that they had to have the strongest possible resources to support their business growth. A great deal of that strength was acquired through raw materials and other products and services from the widest and best foundation of resources. During the building process, Kellogg Company committed itself to developing a comprehensive and ground-breaking supplier diversity program. This program was to cultivate strategic procurement relationships with W/MBE-owned, controlled and operated businesses while supplying products and services Kellogg purchased; this would allow them to foster the growth of their business while marketing the long-term growth of the Kellogg Company. Kellogg’s code of conduct, their management staff is required to hold certain employees to special responsibilities under the Code. Kellogg believes it’s their managers’ responsibility to create and maintain a work environment in which all employees and agents know that ethical and legal behavior is expected of them at all times. Each manager is expected to model the highest standards of ethical business conduct and encourage discussion of the ethical and unethical as well as the legal implications of business decisions. It is the mangers responsibility to make sure that anyone needing additional information in an effort to do his or her job receives appropriate policies and training. It is the managers’ responsibility not to hire or retain any employee or agent who they feel may engage in unlawful conduct or unethical activities. In 2005, Kellogg incorporated an awards program called the W. K. Kellogg Values Award, which is given annually to one individual and one team of employees who best exhibit the K Values while working. This program initiated to support their code of conduct as well as the company’s mission. Synopsis of Starbucks by Colleen Holdahl Young urban professionals consuming specialized coffees were the first to patronize Starbucks. Today the popular coffee chain attracts 25 million people each week and draws a large demographic of patrons varying in age and ethnic backgrounds (Hanft, 2005). The most common customer Starbucks attracts is of course, the coffee drinker, yet the company expanded the menu to include products to target non-coffee drinkers, with the introduction of blended or iced cold coffee drinks, frappuccino’s, lattes, mocha’s, and teas. With the presence of bold aromas to creamy sweet flavors, a range of customers are frequenting Starbucks at various times and for various reasons. Starbucks has items on the menu for anyone willing to try: Professionals heading to an early morning meeting needing a â€Å"stout† cup of coffee, housewives stopping for a late morning latte with friends after dropping the children at school and the high school and college students in search of Wi-Fi connection and snack (Kembell, 2002). Adding new products is a challenge as Starbucks must consider many factors. For example when the new Creme Frappuccino was created, Starbucks took into consideration the demographic areas to launch the drink, the market to target, and the packaging of the new product. Introducing the Creme Frappuccino, Starbucks faces a competition that the company has not previously experienced, with competitors imitating the Creme Frappuccino. Competition and the current economic condition, both are factors Starbucks needs to consider how to market the new products to preserve current patrons and bring in new customers. Starbucks is wise to use the four P’s model; Price, Product, Place, and Promotion, to determine the course of action, best suited to stay ahead of the competition. Emotions are potent internal influences described by Hawkins, Mothersbaugh, and Best (2007) as â€Å"strong, relatively uncontrollable feelings that affect behavior† (p. 364). Starbucks is in a controversy over the supposed injustice and treatment toward coffee growers in Ethiopia. The controversy deals with negative emotions of customers, due to the report that Starbucks deprives the Ethiopian growers of $90 Million annually by opposing the Ethiopian government’s efforts to trademark three locally grown coffee beans (Economist, para. ). The Creme Frappucino gives Starbucks an opportunity to offer a guilt-free alternative to non-coffee drinkers or patrons who oppose the Ethiopian controversy, during the time the legal and public-relations situation is in transition. Synopsis of McDonald’s by Marisela Jimenez McDonald’s is an organization that can be found in every country, servicing nearly 47 million customers around the world. Because of McDonald’s unique demographic factors, managers are trained through a comprehensive Management Development Program. This program encompasses McDonald’s core values and principles along with the dedication to serve customers, the community, and employees (McDonald’s, 2009). Hence, the demographic factors affecting McDonald’s vary from each country, yet management understands that by following McDonald’s philosophy, their planning can help mitigate the effects of each demographic factor. To illustrate, some of the demographic factors affecting McDonald’s management planning involves the aging population in Australia, the decline in birth rate, the changing family, the increase in ethnic diversity, and the population growth. In other words, McDonald’s management is challenged with having to change its marketing approach in order to reach the newly identified groups (Monash University, 2009). To address this organizational conflict involving the demographic factors, McDonald’s management focuses on its services and products. Accordingly, McDonald’s management is trained to approach each conflict with honesty and integrity (Monash University, 2009). Not only is McDonald’s management keeping up with the rapid demographic changes, they are also continuing to manage conflict by remaining committed to their principles. This means that McDonald’s management is â€Å"committed to exceeding [†¦] customers' expectations in every restaurant every time† (McDonald’s, 2009). Fundamentally, McDonald’s best practices on dealing with organizational conflict are strongly carved on its philosophy; that is â€Å"We will seize every opportunity to innovate and lead the industry on behalf of our customers† (McDonald’s, 2009). Hence, McDonald’s management recognizes that their focus is every customer, regardless of age, ethnicity, sex, and location. McDonald’s is an organization that understands how to motivate and reward people. Consider for instance, McDonald’s has what is called People Promise. This means that McDonald’s promises to â€Å"value each and every employee, their growth and their contribution – every day in every way† (McDonald’s, 2009). McDonald’s managers recognize and respect each employee; each employee is empowered and coached. This organizational practice is found in every McDonald’s around the world, for this reason, McDonald's prides itself on offering â€Å"more than a pay check to our employees. Our Crew members enjoy flexible schedules, paid training and the chance to have fun working with friends while learning valuable life skills† (McDonald’s, 2009). Synopsis of Arbor E&T by Eduardo Mata Arbor Education and Training (Arbor E & T) is a company with offices throughout the United States and have a very diverse workforce that demonstrates a unique demographic factor. Arbor Education and Training is a leading provider of workforce development services to job-seekers, workers, employers and communities nationwide (Arbor E & T, 2009). Arbor employees come from many different walks of life, employees of all ages, religions, and other factors and these employees are treated equally within the organization when it comes to decisions concerning rewards and performance. Founded in 1968, Arbor E&T is now the largest single supplier of job-related education, counseling and employment assistance under federally funded programs such as the Workforce Investment Act and the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families programs (Arbor E & T, 2009). Management planning for many of its customers receiving federally funded assistance requires that certain guidelines are followed and because of being federally funded and services provided must meet the customer’s requirements and expectations along with the government regulations. Arbor E & T provides services to a wide variety of customers seeking employment, education or training and also provide excellent services to migrant and seasonal farm workers and United States Veterans seeking employment and other services. Training is provided to the entire workforce in providing the best services possible to each group. Arbor management is committed to providing the leadership, training, and resources required to enable our employees to consistently adhere to regulatory requirements, to tirelessly seek improvement of our processes, and to continue to provide world-class services to all of our customers. We are dedicated and caring people who form a company providing excellent human services that enhance the lives of individuals. The company rewards its employees based on employee performance and whether their goals were met for the preceding year. As found in Arbor E & T (2009): Our goal is to be known by our clients and by the workforce development community as the leading provider of services in the markets we serve, i. e. , One-Stops, TANF, youth, early childhood education, and vocational training programs. Our quality management system is a critical element of our effort to achieve this goal. † References Arbor. (2009). Arbor education and training. Retrieved October 17, 2009 from http://w ww. arboret. com/ Hanft, Adam. (April 1, 2005). What you can learn from starbucks. Retrieved October 13, 2009 from http://www. inc. com/resources/marketing/articles/20050401/starbucks. html. Hawkins, D. , Mothersbaugh, D. and Best, R. (2007). The Economist. Consumer behavior: building marketing strategy. Retrieved October 13, 2009 from http://highered. mcgraw- hill. com/sites/0073101370/information_center_view0/revision_changes. html. Kellogg Company. (2009). Kellogg company. Retrieved October 17, 2009, from http://www2. kelloggs. com/General. aspx? ID=466 Kellogg Company. (2003). We act with integrity and show respect in everything we do. Retrieved from http://files. shareholder. com/downloads/K/749861120x0x196418/ ec25a03a-7081-450d- a942-16ee7ad2ee1b/GlobalCodeofEthic. df Kembell, B. (April 2002). Catching the starbucks fever: starbucks marketing strategy. Missouri State University. Kottak, C. P. , Kozaitis, K. A. (2003). On being different: diversity and multiculturalism in the north american mainstream. (2nd ed. ). New York: The McGraw-Hill Companies. McDonald’s. (2009). Our story. [Online]. Available: http://www. mcdonalds. ca/en/aboutus/index. aspx (2009, O ctober 16). Monash University. (2009). Briohny’s report. [Online]. Available: http://www. monash. edu. au/lls/llonline/writing/business-economics/marketing/3. 3. 2. xml (2009, October 16). | |MMPBL/560 Demographic Factors Research Rubric | |Week 2 | | | | | | | |Criterion |Unsatisfactory |Satisfactory |Exceptional |Score | |Knowledge of Course Concepts (40%) | |Describe the Effects of Demographic|Demonstrates a level of knowledge|Demonstrates a level of knowledge |Demonstrates a level of knowledge that |2. 00 | |Factors on Management Planning. that is below the requirement |that meets the requirement |meets or exceeds the requirement and is | | | | | |well supported | | |Analyze the Role Demographic |Demonstrates a level of knowledge|Demonstrates a level of knowledge |Demonstrates a level of knowledge that |1. 33 | |Factors Play in Contributing to |that is below the requirement |that meets the requirement |meets or exceeds the requirement and is | | |Organizational Conflict. | |well supported | | |Examine the Influence of |Demonstrates a level of knowledge|Demonstrates a level of knowledge |Demonstrates a level of knowledge that |1. 33 | |Demographic Factors on Individual |that is below the requirement |that meets the requirement |meets or exceeds the requirement and is | | |Rewards and Recognition. | | |well supported | | |Research (20%) | |Provide Benchmark Research on |The benchmarked companies’ |The benchmarked companies’ |In addition to meeting the requirements of|  2. 0 | |Organizational Applications of |situations do not relate to the |situations relate to the course |satisfactory, the benchmarked companies’ | | |Course Objectives |course concepts, or are not |concepts and are researched from |situations provide a thorough coverage of | | | |researched from academic or trade|academic or trade publication |course objectives | | | |publication sources |sources. The score is ranged | | | | | |between satisfactory and | | | | | |exceptional. | | | |Critical Thinking (15%) | |Demonstrate Critical Thought in |Does not demonstrate critical |Demonstrates critical thought in |In addition to meeting requirements of |1. 0 | |Analyzing Information |thought in the analysis of the |analyzing the information by |satisfactory, synthesizes information | | | |information, or analysis is |presenting various perspectives on|across concepts effectively | | | |disjointed |the concepts | | | |Written Communication (15%) | |Demonstrate Quality and |Written communication is |Written communication is effective|In addition to meeting requirements of |2. 5 | |Effectiveness in Written |ineffective, with numerous | |satisfactory, the paper is engaging to the| | |Communication |spelling and grammatical errors | |reader with concise and clear | | | |or poorly constructed sentences | |communication | | |Format, Style & Citation Standards (10%) | |Adhere to University of Phoenix |Numerous errors in format, style,|Few errors in for mat, style, or |Virtually no errors in format, style, or |1. 25 | |Writing Style (APA) Requirements |or reference citation |reference citation |reference citation | | |Final Score==> |12. 1 | | | |Team B, | | | |The overall submission was interesting and well written. The concept of management planning was thoroughly researched and discussed. All of the companies clearly | |described the organizational conflict except for Arbor and Starbucks omitted the section on research and recognition. All of the companies were demonstrated as | |benchmarked companies that addressed the concepts; however, in some instances a piece was omitted. The score was reduced under critical thought because only | |comparisons were addressed and not all concepts were covered. The written communication was well done and only a minor APA formatting issue was noted. Your research | |section as the instructor’s plagiarism checker noted consisted of an 13% plagiarism rate. The instructor’s plagiarism checker also checks past student papers, as well| |as a more thorough Internet search. Not everyone turned in their team evaluation; however, by the way it looks everyone participated equally in the group. Good | |work! | | |