Customer Expectations & Environment Analysis Essay

Customer Expectations & Environment Analysis - Essay Example Bus services with four lines serving the city and suburbs is complements the transportation options. Many of the rooms in this property have a great view of Lake Geneva and surrounding mountains. What we want is to create a space in between where the global glamourous/cool crowd meets the local hip crowd. This potential crowd is served well by the Swiss hospitality. We offer a space where Swiss efficiency meets the simple, modern and productive Scandinavian customs and traditions, providing convenient locations for lunch and after-work drinks. We used Google Hotel Finder to scan the competition in the area. We found places with rates as high as CHF400 at Lausanne Palace and places as low as CHF112 at Ibis Lausanne. Our target clientelle is well traveled and well-educated business professionals who are looking for exotic experience(s) rather than product(s) offereing mundane experience(s) and run of the mill environment. We differentiate ourselves from our competition by creating a novel space. Our hotel will offer rates between CHF130-150 including power breakfast, the most important meal of the day, and more importantly free wifi which not many properties have the facility. But it must be kept in mind that the price(s) will fluctuate depending on the season, day of week, and length of stay etc. Taking into account the location of the property, and bearing in mind the target clients/customers/markets based on the analysis of benefits considered by the said clients/customers/markets, we are propose to brand and position our concept as follows: As can be seen from the proposed pricing, we plan to place ourselves between the 5-star hotels and the economy/ budget ones. However, such a pricing does not mean that we will comprise on the facilities and amenities that are required by our target market. It will be â€Å"affordable luxury†, as expounded by

Digital Music Case Study Media Essay

Digital Music Case Study Media Essay The industry condition that led to the revolution in audio distribution was the transformation of music from conventional songs and albums to new digitally recorded formats. The MP3 format not only provided the means to store more songs in a given media by reducing the size of each song but it also enabled digital music players to play these songs with relatively high levels of clarity. The new format also enabled the songs to be downloaded and played on personal computers. Another aspect of the revolution in digital music was the ability of the software to convert existing CDs to the new MP3 format. On a broader scale, the industry condition witnessed the advent of media sharing applications which enabled the users to freely share as well as distribute songs in MP3 format with users who possessed the same file sharing application. Napster was the most popular among such media file sharing applications (Protecting Innovation: The Digitial Music Distribution Revolution ). The stakeholder who would be benefitted the most from this digital revolution would be the consumers of the music, especially those who have a personal computer as well as an access to the internet. With the increased feasibility of sharing media files in the new MP3 format had increased the possibility of users with respect to the acquisition of freely available media files (Protecting Innovation: The Digitial Music Distribution Revolution ). Question 2: Why did the music stores created by the record labels fail to attract many subscribers? What, if anything, should the record labels have done differently? Answer: The music stores created by the record labels fail to attract many subscribers due to their utilization of proprietary file formats. These file formats meant that the songs would have limited playability in terms of the music playing devices. It also drastically limited the digital rights management schemes and this was further subjected to limited offering of media selection. However the unrestricted peer to peer services such as Napster, Gnutella and Kaazaa provided a large selection of free media in the new format which did not incur costs that were commonly incident on media obtained from authorized stores. It is this feature of the unrestricted media sharing applications which led to the music stores created by record labels being rendered as ineffective (Protecting Innovation: The Digitial Music Distribution Revolution ). The record labels should have at least considered the option of changing the format of their offered media to MP3 format in keeping with the current environmental trends and consumer preferences. This would have enabled the record labels to manage the competition by free sharing apps to some extent by providing the popular media format to the consumers (Protecting Innovation: The Digitial Music Distribution Revolution ). Question 3: What will determine how long the success of the iPod and iTunes endures? Should Apple allow its iPods to play non-iTunes songs? Should Apple allow iTunes songs to play on non-iPod MP3 players? Answer: The factors which would determine the longevity of the success of the iPod and iTunes pertain fundamentally to the appeal of the product / service offerings of Apple. One of the main factors is the coolness of the products which has been successful in appealing to the younger faction of the target segment. Adequate emphasis also needs to be maintained on the smart strategies adopted by Apple which has been instrumental in developing strong relationships with the record labels. These record labels had accurately identified the cool factor of Apples products and were able to foresee viable prospects if an association were to be established with it. Other factors which would contribute to the determination of the longevity of the success of the iPod and iTunes would relate to the use of widely adopted and popular media formats, competitive pricing of the media products (purchase as well as downloads) and the possibility of licensing agreements with the record labels by means of which a comprehensive solution could be provided wherein a one-stop music shopping portal would be offered to the consumers (Protecting Innovation: The Digitial Music Distribution Revolution ). Apple currently permits the playing of non-iTunes songs on its iPod. The restriction in this regard is experienced when the users burn music to blank CDs. In this case the non iTunes songs would not be written on the storage media due to restrictions imposed by Apple with respect to non-iTunes songs. Apple should permit iTunes songs to be played on non iTunes compatible MP3 devices. Currently the imposition of this decision would not hold much relevance as Apple has already achieved 73% of the MP3 players market share due to the relaxation in the restrictions which were imposed on the playability of the media formats (Protecting Innovation: The Digitial Music Distribution Revolution ). Question 4: Why would musicians sign away their copyright privileges to their songs through Creative Commons? Answer: Musicians sign away their copyright privileges to their songs through Creative Commons due to the varying degrees of openness which would have an impact on the extent of sharing of media undertaken by the consumers. This degree of openness has been deemed as highly successful for the file sharing applications and the same could be utilized by the musicians for promoting that their music was ready and available for downloading. A significant aspect of this approach is that musicians have been enabled to promote their music for downloading without bearing any risk of infringement lawsuits that would otherwise have been imposed by record labels in such situations (Protecting Innovation: The Digitial Music Distribution Revolution ). Question 5: How is podcasting likely to impact the appropriability of recorded music, radio broadcasting, or other types of audio transmissions? Answer: Podcasts are likely to impact the appropriability of recorded music, broadcasting and other types of audio transmission in terms of the creation rights of such media. Users can freely create and develop the podcasts and share the same with users on the internet. The boundaries of recording have been removed with the possibility of sharing free MP3 media on the net without the presence of restrictions and barriers. The musicians who utilize this method do not approach music labels for obtaining the legal rights to their compositions. Users of such applications have no labels but they are able to generate the require popularity levels in the public. This would directly result in the incurrence of heavy loss to the record labels and would in fact pose a threat to the already existing music productions which have been developed by them. The trend in this regard has already commenced though in its infancy stages, and has gained popularity especially with music bands. An apt example of thi s the initiatives of the famous rock band, Motorhead which had released its new album with download permission being provided to the users. Some of the features of their offering were: The songs were provided in the currently popular MP3 format and this was beneficial for appealing to the consumers preferences. Moreover the standard pricing for albums ($.99 a song) was not imposed on the songs. The band had provisioned that the consumers would be permitted to pay whatever amount that they felt to be nominal in their opinion. The band had not used any record label for distributing this release, but still they managed to get the required reach as desired for their songs. The above features exhibit the manner in which podcasting has affected and will continue to influence the appropriability of recorded music, broadcasting and other types of audio transmission (Protecting Innovation: The Digitial Music Distribution Revolution ).

Suicide Essay -- essays research papers

Suicide The natural end of every human life is death. Some people, for reasons that have never been fully understood, choose to end their own lives. This is called suicide, which means literally "self-killing." For all the uncertainty that has surrounded the phenomenon of suicide, his assessment of the problem is probably as accurate as any. The individual, in seemingly hopeless conflict with the world, decides to end his or her existence in what amounts to a final assault against a society that can no longer be tolerated. In so doing, the person tries to obtain a final revenge on everything and everyone that have caused their feelings of depression. Sometimes suicide has been used as a form of execution. Perhaps the most famous such case is that of the philosopher Socrates, who was required to drink hemlock to end his life in 399 BC, after being found guilty of corrupting the youth of Athens. In the 20th century the German general Erwin Rommel took poison rather than be executed for his role in a plot to oust Adolf Hitler from office. In some societies suicide has had social ties. In Japan, for example, the customs and rules of one's class have demanded suicide under certain circumstances. Called seppuku or popularly known as hara-kiri, which means "self-disembowelment" it has long been viewed as an honorable method of taking one's life. It was used by warriors after losing a battle to avoid the dishonor of defeat. Seppuku was also used as a means of c...

Two Men and a Truck

After reading the case study Two Men and a Truck, I have concluded that the motivational theory used by Mary Ellen Sheets was the goal setting theory. When using the goal-setting theory, employees are motivated when they have a specific goal to complete. Mary Ellen sheets set these goals and encouraged her franchises. Her goal was to have all the franchises have a good experience considering that this is an industry known to cause stress. Two Men has a computer lab where the franchisers are able to check their colleagues spending patterns as well as communicate with each other. This allows them to see what is working and what is not, to help them to be successful. Mary Ellen Sheets business approach to creating high-performing teams within the company was to create consistency within the company. She created Stick Men University, which allowed the franchise owners as well as their employees to learn everything that she has learned. This includes learning the basics such as answering a prospective client’s first call to shaking their hand after the job is completed. Mary Ellen Sheets went as far as building a two-story house at the University to help the franchise owners and employees simulate moving challenges and work through them. After reading the case study Siemens, I have concluded that the motivational theory used by Klaus Kleinfeld was the job enrichment theory. When using this theory, employees who have control over how they performed their job or how they manage their job, are motivated to work better. Klaus Kleinfeld negotiated with the employees to work flexible shifts. He explained to them that this would help to accomplish the work more quickly and cost effectively. By accomplishing this goal, the company would make more money. This would then give the employees more money and job security. These are two big motivators, which would have employee’s performance increase. Klaus Kleinfeld’s approach to creating high-performing teams within Siemans was to encourage the employees to work together to get the job done. Many companies are outsourcing jobs to other countries as a more cost efficient option. Klaus Kleinfeld knew it was important for the employees to work together to be able become more cost efficient. This would allow them to keep their jobs instead of their jobs moving to another country. Klaus was able to motivate the employees to pull together, because he was very open with communication with the employees. He would answer emails from employees immediately, even if it were late at night. This type of leadership is what allowed him to be able to accomplish this.

The Regulatory & Ethical Environment of Business

Incorporated In Wall or with a physical presence In Wall) to review in an original term paper. The student must cover at a minimum 3 of the following 7 topics: (2) What type of entity is this business (e. G. LLC, for-profit entity, nonprofit entity, etc. ) and why is that the best choice for this business? (1) How does the equines address ethical or moral issues? (5) What environmental issues does the business deal with? (3) If the business develops, sells or otherwise deals with consumer products, how does the business ensure product safety? (4) Does the business engage in advertising? If so, why? Further, how does it determine what type of advertising best suits Its purposes? (6) What employment Issues has the business faced? 7) What type of steps does the business undertake to Meltzer discrimination both within and outside the workplace? Papers will be graded on thoroughness and concepts covered in the textbooks. Students may conduct research of the business however they see fit, though it is strongly suggested that the student interview or otherwise correspond with a contact person or persons affiliated with the chosen business. Papers must be double spaced, typed in size 12 Times New Roman font with 1 inch margins. The paper must be a minimum of 10 pages and a maximum of 12 pages. MGM-6020-E, 6020?The Regulatory & Ethical Environment of Business Term Paper : Hallelujah Solar (http://www. Holidaymakers. Mom/) length of existence in Hawaii and a description of Hawaii-based activities (particularly f you are covering a national â€Å"chain† business) Hallelujah Solar named after a massive shield volcano that forms more than 75% of the Hawaiian Island of Maim. The story of the company is not what one would expect. It did not start with a massive research or a group or pro environmental scientist. It all started back in the ass's, Hallelujah Solar founder, Jim Whitlock,working as a plumber at a golf course, came home after a hard day of work, ready for a nice shower and realized he had no hot water. He called his landlord, and told him all the water he was getting was cold. Mr.. Toby, a long-time local, came over and pointed to a box on the roof and exclaimed in his broken English, â€Å"No more sun, no more hot water†. Mr..Toby went on to explain how the home-made device, copper tubes sandwiched between old window panes connected to a water tank sitting on a rotting wooden stand, used the sun to create hot water. Jim touched the tubes and pulled immediately back from the heat. The proverbial light bulb went off in his head. â€Å"Holy cow, this actually works†, he thought. And that was it. Jims solar energy Journey had begun. Keep in mind back then he was a long-haired hippie surfer, involved in environmental causes like Save Our Surf, a group dedicated to preserving reefs and pristine shorelines from unscrupulous developers. In a weird twist of fate, here he is years later, using inspiration he got from an amateur b ackyard inventor, still helping the environment and along with it, thousands of other lives as well.However, despite the free spirited image Jim was no slacker he was mechanically inclined and good with his hands. It took Jim 60 days to build a solar system prototype whilst working a day Job. This was no small feat considering this was before most people owned a computer let alone heard of the internet. He spent most of his extra time in the local library doing research and experimenting with different materials and products and eventually developed an efficient working solar hot water system. â€Å"The members of the corporation unlike the members of partnership or the proprietors of a business – are financially liable for the debts of the organization only up to the extent of their investments† (Pig 152 Shaw). 977, Jim officially started his solar company, Hallelujah Resources Inc. During the ass's, due to the oil embargo in the Middle East, crude prices rose dramati cally. Environmental awareness also emerged at this time and the ambition of the two triggered tremendous interest in alternative ways to create energy. Solar was a major recipient of this newfound interest and the whole industry took off. Due to the professionalism and integrity of Jim and his services, the now- named Hallelujah Solar quickly became the largest solar company in Maim, eventually other islands and soon they were installing systems all over the state. In the mid ass's, Jim started experimenting with solar cells, creating electricity.With fuel costs constantly rising, and photovoltaic technology prices dropping, he envisioned a true in which â€Å"people would set up their own small electric companies†. In observing the incredible growth of solar electric today, we can conclude he was right. Hallelujah Solar has been in business for over 35 years and has installed over ten thousand solar energy systems with satisfied customers all over the state of Hawaii. They believe servicing systems is Just as important as installing them. They are a one- stop shop and service anything solar energy related. Hallelujah Solar truly stands behind their work, and are one of the few solar companies in the state to have been round long enough to actually back up a 25 year warranty. What type of entity is this business (e. G.LLC, for-profit entity, nonprofit entity, etc. ) and why is that the best choice for this business? â€Å"When we think of corporation we naturally think of giants such as General Motors, Exxon Mobil, Microsoft or Walter, which exert enormous influence over our economy and society. But the local independently owned convenience store may be a corporation. † (pig 1 52 Shaw). Jim Whitlock knew that if he to have any kind of success he needed to create a corporation. Corporation has many advantages that suited this reticular situation. First of all the expansion factor a non-for-profit entity has harder time Justifying expansion since its goal is not revenue generation but rather its mission.Its not the fact that Non-For-Profit organization cannot generate revenue, actually a lot of them do (For example NCAA (National College Athletic Association)), it is the fact that it cannot use revenues to invest in itself. Revenues of non-for-profit organization usually distributed to shareholders as dividends or invested in projects. Non-for-profit cannot retain profits for self investment. Jim Whitlock had the sights et on expansion and needed the profits and revenues to be invested back into the corporation. So that he can weather downturns in business and have enough financial leverage to expand. Non-for-profit usually relies on donations as the main contribution, Corporations are relied on investors as the main source of contribution.Being an investor is more lucrative than being a donor. With corporation it is easier to get findings not only from people who want to succeed with you but also from financial institutions . If a corporation is generating revenue financial institutions are more inclined to give loan or become an investor. The idea of making money appeals more to the banks rather donations†¦ Go figure. Last but not least the Non-for-profit tax requirement for compliance are tedious and time consuming not to mention strict regulations code Jim Whitlock needed to focus on the company's development and its growth instead of trying to comply with government requirements.These are the biggest reasons why Corporation was the right path for Hallelujah corporation rather than the path of non for profit. One of the most important legal benefits is the proprietors and general partners in a partnership are personally and Jointly expansible for all the liabilities of a business such as loans, accounts payable, and legal Judgments. In a corporation, however, stockholders, directors and officers typically are not liable for the company's debts and obligations. There is this quote in the book â €Å"The problem, of course, is that they are not human beings. Or to quote Lord Thrown an eighteenth-century lawyer, how can you â€Å"expect a corporation to have a conscience, when it has no soul to be damned and no body to be kicked(pig 154 Shaw).The fact is that these types of corporations do have souls because it starts tit one man's idea and that man wants to see his idea come to fruition, to grow and to materialize. To start something from basically zero with Just an idea a person needs to invest time, a person needs to invest resources and most importantly his soul. The corporation is a shield for personal assets to minimize the already enormous risk a person is taking. Such shield allows the company to grow and maintain the work force knowing that the corporation Just like a person can be braised or blamed, even punished for the decisions management makes and the policies management undertakes. 1) How does the business address ethical or moral issues?The 1973 oil crisis s tarted in October 1973, when the members of Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries or the OPEC (consisting of the Arab members of OPEC, plus Egypt, Syria and Tunisia) proclaimed an oil embargo. By the end of the embargo in March 1974, the price of oil had risen from US $3 per barrel to nearly $12. This was the wake up call to search for alternative energy source. A lot of articles was posted on the power of solar technology. Jim Whitlock recognized the niche need for solar powered heaters and decided to turn an idea into reality and in turn o profit. â€Å"Pollution and the depletion of natural resources are two aspects of the same problem: Both involve using up natural resources that are limited.Pollution uses up clean air and water, Just as extraction uses up the minerals or oil in the ground† (pig 244 Shaw). However, here we have something that is free and taken for granted – Sunlight. Hallelujah Corporation uses sunlight as its primary resource and conv erts it to heat and electricity the added bonus is no pollution created. In fact studies have confirmed that in the long run installing solar powered equipment reduces cost to he consumer in the long run. Those costs are not only monetary but also environmental since no additional pollution generated there is no additional cost to improve the environment. The cost of cleaning up pollution â€Å"Cost can include time, effort, discomfort, and lost opportunities† (pig 248 Shaw).Since solar industry does not generate extra pollution it saves everyone a lot of time, effort, discomfort and lost opportunities. The longer the solar technology is used the more indirect benefit it generates. Something that deserves to be mentioned a lot of government findings are spent falls into this category. The incentive for solar industry actually comes from two levels the State and The federal both offer tax credits if consumer or a company decides to take a â€Å"greener† route. Both the state of Hawaii and the US federal government offer generous tax credits for new solar photovoltaic system installations. The state of Hawaii also gives tax credits for solar hot water systems.These incentives dramatically lower the cost of purchasing and installing a solar system and have fueled the huge wave of interest in the last several years for solar energy in Hawaii. We thought we would explain how these tax credits work in order for you to start to understand how you can take advantage of them. Now lets get into the specifics the federal government gives a 30% tax credit on the cost of equipment and installation of a solar photovoltaic system and applies to all systems placed into service before December 31, 2016. The Hawaii Energy Tax Credit allows solar customers to claim an income tax credit of 35% of the cost of equipment and installation of a solar hot water system.So here we have a savings of 30% from federal and 35% from state on top of this we have a long term savin gs on the cost of electricity and indirect benefit of no pollution being generated. Utilitarianism is the moral doctrine that we should always act to produce the greatest possible balance of good over bad for everyone affected by our actions† (pig 48 Shaw). With so many reason for the use of solar technology there is no moral or ethical counter argument against it. So what is holding back ?. It is hard to get over the initial investment. Even with all the tax credits solar investment still has a hefty price tag. It is a big investment for a middle class person to shell out for a system that has tendency to be unreliable. That brings us to the next hurdle – unreliability.Even though in this day an age this is almost a non issue because of storage batteries and much more efficient ways to store energy which is being unused. Solar energy does heavily rely on the sun and some parts of the world (other than Hawaii) sun is seasonal and inconsistent so even with all the incent ives it is unpractical in some parts of the world. Last but not least, solar technology does require maintenance once in a while, the solar panels do get dusty and dirty and they need to be hosed off. Not everyone has the physical agility to climb the roof so additional expense is squired to maintain it. What environmental issues does the business deal with? The Hallelujah solar Inc is the futures answer to the present day pollution.We live in a time when its apparent that the use of energy that comes from the combustion of fossil fuels is something that needs to be left in the past, because these sources of energy are not endless and they have quite a negative impact on our Earth's delicate CEO-system. â€Å"William T. Blackstone, have gone further to argue that each of us has a right to a livable environment. In Blackstone view, this is a human right. Each person has the right qua being human and because a livable environment is essential for one to fulfill his human capacitiesâ €  This right has emerged as a result of well as the possibility of realizing other human rights† (page 245 Shaw). Solar power is an efficient, CEO-friendly, and endless source of energy that does not have the negative effects on our environment.Yet despite the availability of alternative sources most of the power used in the United States is made from dirty fossil fuels including coal, gas, and oil. Once fossil fuels are burned to generate energy, they Anton be reused and we have to find more to create more energy. The search for more fossil fuels is only going to become more dangerous and expensive. â€Å"Ecosystem which refers to a total ecological community, both living and nonliving. Webs of interdependence structure ecosystems. Predators and prey, producers and consumers, hosts and parasites are linked, creating interlocking mechanisms – checks and balances – that stabilize the system. â€Å"(page 243 Shaw).Pollution is a cancer that is slowly eating a way at the entire ecosystem. Slowly corroding the interlocking mechanism and destroying the checks and balances. Air pollution causes damage to crops, animals, forests, and bodies of water. It also contributes to the depletion of the ozone layer, which protects the Earth from the sun's UP rays. Another negative effect of air pollution is the formation of acid rain, which harms trees, soils, rivers, and wildlife. Some of the other environmental effects of air pollution are haze, transportation, and global climate change. Pollution also has a direct effect on human that becomes apparent and burdensome during our lifetime.Air pollution can cause long-term and short-term health effects. It's found that the elderly and nouns children are more affected by air pollution. Short-term health effects include eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, allergic reactions, and upper respiratory infections. Some long-term health effects are lung cancer, brain damage, liver damage, kidney damage, heart disease, and respiratory disease. The sun is a huge source of free, natural and renewable power. Using solar power can help offset energy generated from fossil fuels. About half the electricity in the U. S. Comes from burning coal, which releases toxic emissions, such as nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide, and heavy metals like mercury.Using solar electricity reduces our dependence on coal, thus decreasing greenhouse gases and pollution. Energy produced from green sources, like solar, will help reduce our dependence on imported energy. Solar power can be generated cleanly and safely in the United States, where Jobs can be created in sales, installation, and engineering. In addition, home solar provides freedom from electricity rate increases and power outages. Here in Hawaii, this is even more critical as all of our oil is imported leaving us vulnerable to unstable worldwide fluctuations in the prices of crude oil. By going solar, you can edge the risk of fluctuating oil prices.H allelujah Solar helps fight against the ongoing pollution by offering a substitute energy source. Aside from the obvious benefit to the environment Solar company does offer something immediate to an individual such as tax credit. The government sees the benefit to not only get rid of dependence on foreign resources but also the need to take care of the environment. A lot of incentives were offered to the make money destroying the environment can there be a profitable business that benefits the environment. Apparently it can Solar industry has been gaining a lot of round people are looking to save money and governments are looking to reduce the cost of pollution and to reduce the indirect cost of foreign resource dependency. Social responsibility and environmental sustainability are core business competencies not a fringe activities† (page 245 Shaw) Conclusion and final thoughts, which may include a global view of what you've discovered about the business, what the future likel y holds for the business, etc A solar industry is finally getting its time in the sun. When I began the research I was curious in the industry and what it had to offer. With today's rising prices in oil and gas you are forced to look for alternatives. This year on may 9th president Obama stressed the need for US to find alternative energy source and pledged 2 billion dollars to solar industry. Executive actions that will drive investments in solar energy upgrades for government and private sector buildings, improve appliance efficiency standards, strengthen commercial building codes, encourage innovative financing, and create Jobs by developing a skilled solar workforce. † (Washington Post, may 9th). A lot of big corporations such as Apple and Kea are taking a chance on alarm energy and installing it at their locations. First of all there are incentives such as tax credits which save money for corporations in the short run. Second of all, there are saving incentives in the lon g run since the companies don't have to pay so much for traditional forms of energy. Third of all, it is a really great publicity stunt which can go a long way with investors. So the government is curious about the future of solar technology, the corporations are curious about yet the public remains blind.

Parallels essays

Parallels essays In Charlotte Brontes masterpiece, Jane Eyre, of the Victorian period and the Romance of Tristan and Iseult, as retold by Joseph Bedier, the couples that find themselves in love are Jane Eyre with Edward Rochester, and Tristan with Iseult. Both couples face major obstacles that jeopardize or destroy their relationship. Some of the characteristics of romantic love used in these two works are suffering for one another in a variety of ways, constant thought of one another, and most vital to these particular tales, the overcoming of obstacles. The parallels between the two novels extend beyond these, but there are some obvious differences. In both novels, the love of the two protaganists is forbidden by social obstacles, all very important. In the case of Tristan and Iseult, it is the marriage of Iseult to King Mark, and in Jane Eyre and Edward Rochesters instance, it is Edwards marriage to Bertha, his insane wife who is contained in the attic. Iseult and Mark could never be divorced, as that was not an option in feudal times. Edward and Bertha also could not be divorced, for several reasons. The only truly acceptable cause for divorce in Victorian times was infidelity. Bertha was always faithful, she only later became insane. Edward highly resents Bertha, and makes it clear. He calls her a hideous demon, a filthy burden, and a maniac,(336, 342, ch. 27) when Jane learns of his secret hiding in the attic. If Iseult resents her marriage to Mark, or Tristan resent his to Iseult of the White hands, they do not make it clear. In their case, they dont feel comtempt for their spouses, only desire for one another ou tside of their marriages. A major difference between the two is the conditions of their love. Tristan and Iseult have no choice. They consumed a potion intended for Iseult and Mark to drink together, without knowledge of its magical implications. They...

monetary and fiscal policy essays

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The Early Bird Gets the Worm... and Early Risers Get Better Grades

The Early Bird Gets the Worm... and Early Risers Get Better Grades A New York Times article on September 9, 2011, To Earn an ‘A,’ Set the Alarm Clock Early, reported that early morning classes, at least at one college in New York, correlate to higher grades. The professors who conducted the study found a direct relationship between later morning classes and higher incidence of alcohol use. The article did not make it clear whether the morning classes were the cause of the tame nights, or whether students already inclined not to drink were the ones who chose early classes. What was clear is that students with later classes drank more and slept more poorly, albeit for more hours, than did their early bird counterparts.   Apparently their grades suffered. Could an early schedule actually be a cause of sobriety and overall responsibility?   If so, it seems that registering for early morning classes is a good idea for any college student.   Why tempt fate? And perhaps the same rule applies to people in the workforce.   Certainly people who get up at 5am for work every day are unlikely to spend their weeknights pounding shots until 2am. So what about business owners and job seekers?   Those early morning BNI and other networking events might be keeping us on the straight and narrow. I am not a drinker myself, but I do know that when I don’t have early morning appointments I tend to stay up later – working, not playing, but perhaps I would be more productive if I were to go to bed by 10pm and get up at 5am each day, rather than slide into a 1am to 8am sleeping pattern.   Am I hurting my â€Å"grades† by doing that?   I’m starting to wonder. If you are someone who does not have an external force keeping you to a schedule, perhaps it is a good idea to create an early morning appointment of some kind to train you to go to bed at a decent hour.   Some people I know have a mini coaching call with a friend each morning.   Some go to the gym religiously at 7am.   If you knew you would perform better overall by starting early, would you do it? One of my friends and informal coaches keeps telling me I should stop working at night.   I generally haven’t listened to his advice (note:   I wrote this blog at 10pm on a Saturday night).   But I’m going to try an experiment.   This week I am going to go to bed by 11pm every night, and get up at 6am. Will I see a difference in how much I get done, or in how well I do it?   I’ll keep you posted on the results. 😉 Log in to Reply The Essay Expert says: September 20, 2011 at 12:45 pm Thanks for your comment Brian! I wonder if there is a societal listening of people who get up early and go to bed early that they are more productive? Clearly some people, like BeeGee, have a different experience of life! One of my challenges is that some of the people I work with send me things to do late at night, and some are in time zones where if I do not respond I lose an entire day of potential communications. Despite my promise to go to bed at 11pm last night, I was up until 11:45 and got up at 6:45. Hey, at least the times started with my promised numbers! And I did get a LOT done this morning from 7-9am. Log in to Reply Karla says: September 20, 2011 at 7:55 pm I agree. I get the most accomplished during the day if I get up early. I dont necessarily love getting up early, but I feel much better about my productivity when I rise early. I also took early morning classes during college and I earned As and Bs. I feel like once I woke up, I was much more alert for my morning classes than in the late afternoon or evening when my energy was dragging. Great post! Log in to Reply

Devolution and the legislation policies enacted by Obamas and Bush Essay

Devolution and the legislation policies enacted by Obamas and Bush administration that increased the federal government powers - Essay Example Nixon’s role The idea of devolution in the USA can be traced back to as far as Richard Nixon’s New Federalism. Immediately Nixon came into power, a notable shift towards devolution intensified. He broke the tradition in The USA by shifting federal programs from categorical grants to block grants. The first shift was the Comprehensive Employments training act of 1973 (Patterson 43). The community development block grants (CDBG) in 1974 followed the Act. In this way, Nixon’s contribution to devolution comprised of the federal government delegating some control without suspending its financial responsibilities. Reagan’s role Some of the moves by Nixon came to an end when Reagan came into power. However, some programs remained, however, in more devolution manner. Funding and control at the local level emerged. As the closure of general revenue sharing indicated, the Reagan administration continued the progressive change toward pure devolution (Patterson 39). Reagan’s twist on New Federalism focussed control and fundraising of home programs at the state and local level. The idea was to reduce the size of the federal government in the face of a budgetary deficits level. Additionally, Reagan’s new initiatives were many. As funding from general revenue sharing came to an end, laws produced by the federal government continued, establishing many situations where state and local governments were needed to implement policies without the funding to do so.

How dose graduates feel about working in an unethical organization Research Proposal

How dose graduates feel about working in an unethical organization - Research Proposal Example Against this backdrop, the proposed research purposes to explore the attitudes of graduates towards working in unethical organization. The unprecedented growth of business ethics has necessitated the need to study the attitudes and perceptions of graduates towards work ethics, in their capacity as future employees and future leaders (Balmer, 2007). The proposed study will explore whether education in the subject areas of corporate social responsibility, sustainability and ethicality has imparted graduates with the right mindsets to face ethical dilemmas within work environments. As prospective leaders and employees, graduates are required to maintain morality and ethical awareness in their decisions (Hansen & Dunford, 2011). The main objective of this research will focus on identifying graduates’ attitudes and perceptions towards ethics and the factors that influence their decisions when assessing prospective organizations in an employment-offering situation. The research will explore the attitudes and perceptions of graduates from different study levels (bachelor and masters) and cultural viewpoints. Exploring attitudes and perceptions from different viewpoints will be necessary in assessing the role of culture and education on ethics. Moreover, the study will explore the role of education (teaching ethical issues in higher education) and gender in the formation of morals and ethics. In order to achieve robust, academic outcomes, the following research questions will be explored and answered: Concerns over corporate ethics informed the introduction of business ethics as a core subject in business schools. Educators held the view that business students were better placed to learn business ethics during their higher education to shape their attitudes towards ethics. Furthermore, researchers began investigating the attitudes of future leaders who had been exposed to business ethics

Developing Speaking Fluency and Accuracy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Developing Speaking Fluency and Accuracy - Essay Example Paul further expressed that people do have an integral and perplexing fear towards the English language which can be attributed to the inhibitions of a person in expressing themselves using the newly acquired language. As Paul (2009) elaborated, teaching how a word is properly enunciated or pronounced appeared to be the most difficult aspect that students are found to have. This gives an obvious divergence between the teacher and its students. One reason for this is that often foreign speakers are failing to adapt the English language as a secondary language. Since there are different people coming from different countries speaking English, there are modifications made in the pronunciation of a word. It is not an easy task to master the English language especially if this is not the mother tongue of a particular group. There are people who continually struggle with the rules and regulation of sentence construction or grammar. Ways to Improve Speaking These demanding challenges make it necessary for any teacher of English to have formal training in instruction and approach. As expressed by the British Broadcasting Company (BBC) (2003) that it is an effective method for teachers to find an appropriate plan on how the lessons will be presented that can aid the students in better understanding and adapting the enunciation and grammar of the foreign subject. According to the BBC’s (2003) world service radio series, the following elements attributes for a better and effective speaking: confidence, fluency and accuracy, proper usage and choice of words, bulk language learning, pattern as to where one should be going, maintaining the interest in its listeners, and becoming a supportive listener and sounding like a native speaker. This paper underscores the concepts of fluency and accuracy in the development of speaking skills.

In the Court of Appeals of the State of Illinois Melissa Porter vs Research Paper

In the Court of Appeals of the State of Illinois Melissa Porter vs John Straub - Research Paper Example On November 14, 2011, the District Court ruled in her favor. There was no Motion to Modify Child Support filed by either party. However, the District Court Judge made an Order of Child Support. Pursuant to that Order, the Judge allowed for a deviation from the child support guidelines to accommodate Mr. Straub’s new child, born of his current marriage. There is no Order of Support for that child. There was nothing in the Order addressing unpaid support. STATEMENT OF THE FACTS In October 2011, Melissa Porter sought to regain custody of her son, David, from the child’s father, John Straub. There was an order of Paternity, Custody and Support entered in a Florida court in 2008. Pursuant to that Order, Mr. Straub was ordered to pay $100 per month in child support. His payment history was poor and he was in arrears when Ms. Porter found it necessary to join the Army Reserves to supplement her income in order to properly care for the child. Ms. Porter and Mr. Straub had a ver bal agreement that he would care for his son while Ms. Porter completed Basic Training in the Army Reserves. Mr. Straub was ten months in arrears in his child support obligation at the time he began caring for his son in August 2010. Ms. Porter was injured in a training accident while on active duty and spent several months recovering. Upon her return home, she sought the return of the child and Mr. Straub refused. Mr. Straub filed for custody in the Illinois courts. That filing resulted in an Order granting custody to Mr. Straub. Ms. Porter filed for an Order to Vacate that finding and the District Court for Cook County found in her favor, returning her son to her. During the course of those proceedings, the District Court made a support order, allowing a 20% deduction from the Illinois child support guideline amount to accommodate Mr. Straub’s new child of his current marriage. There was no provision for paying the arrearage. There was no inclusion for the income of Mr. Str aub’s current spouse when calculating the total net income upon which the support amount should be based, nor was there a finding on the record of the guideline amount upon which the deduction would be based. When Ms. Porter objected, the judge instructed the parties to â€Å"take it up on appeal.† Appellant now appeals from the Order Modifying Support. ARGUMENT The facts of the case are not in dispute. All parties were present when the District Court judge modified the child support order to accommodate Mr. Straub’s parental obligation to his new child of his current marriage. The judge deducted 20% from the guideline amount without stating an initial child support guideline amount and the factors at law that allowed him to vary from the statutory guidelines. I. Standard of Review Of the issue presented here on appeal, the standard of review is de novo because there is no dispute as to the facts and the issue is a question of law. In re Marriage of Baumgartner, 393 Ill. App. 3d 297; 912 N.E.2d 783 (2009). See also Einstein v. Nijim, 358 Ill. App. 3d 263, 831 N.E.2d 50 (2005). A judgment is contrary to law â€Å"when an opposite conclusion is apparent or when findings appear to be unreasonable, arbitrary, or not based on evidence.†

Should College Athletes Get Paid Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Should College Athletes Get Paid - Term Paper Example Setting aside for the now that college athletes who participate in the more popular sports such as football and basketball earn millions of dollars for their respective college and that non-athletic students gain from these financial benefits as well, athletes, by virtue of their demanding schedule, are deprived of the ability to earn while they learn and because of this reason alone should be compensated somewhat. The amount of a stipend is debatable but a reasonable amount of, for example, $200 per month is hardly exorbitant. This discussion will examine the reasons why college athletes receive pay. Both the universities and the NCAA make millions of dollars each winter from the bowl games following the regular football season, a sum that doesn’t include the share individual conferences enjoy. Now add up concession and ticket proceeds, merchandise sales and money gained from corporate sponsorships that without the existence of sports would not be available to a university ev ery year. Those millions come from one month’s revenue from one sport. The college athletes understand that their efforts produce many millions of dollars for their schools but they are not allowed to make even pocket change while giving their all for their team. Athletes are subjected to the most meager of a life under current NCAA rules. Meanwhile, they observe other students with enough spending money at least for an occasional burger and their coach making a multi-million dollar income but know that it is them who are the ones that making the biggest sacrifice. When a college athlete or their family is experiencing financial difficulties as is the instance in many situations, the pressure to leave school to try a professional career is enormous. What would inspire a student-athlete in this predicament to remain in school if they were presented with a chance to earn what even a minor league salary or a backup role at the top league level may offer? Moreover, college athlet es face the perpetual threat of a career ending injury. This has ended the dreams of many for a professional career but, more tragically, also ends their academic career too. (Chaisson, 2001). There undoubtedly is a disparity between athletes and non-athlete students which is not in favor of the athlete. For example, college students who are engaged in extracurricular pursuits other than athletics, musicians for instance collect scholarships and can perform for their college’s symphony whether they or not they are academically eligible. They are also able to perform and make money in a professional band or orchestra while enrolled at school. By contrast, if athletes did this, they would lose their scholarship, be kicked out of school and most likely end any chance of playing professional sports. Furthermore, a music student is able to earn a music degree and even for a specific instrument. â€Å"A football or basketball major is unheard of, much less a major in playing quart erback or strong forward. Athletes are scrutinized for getting any type of job while on scholarship for their school. Getting paid to play or work in football would be sacrilege† (Chaisson, 2001). Student athletes represent of a unique sector of the school’s population. Much more is required of them. Athletes spend much more time and effort than general population students and are relentlessly challenged with balancing academics, athletics and social

Tesla electrical car Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Tesla electrical car - Essay Example This essay will focus on the marketing method for a special product of the famous automobile company named Tesla Motors Inc (Marchionne, 2009). Product Identification The company of Tesla primarily engages in the production and sales of hybrid or electric cars. The researcher would introduce the brief marketing strategy of the Model S electric car for the company. This car is basically an electric car with seven seats manufactured by the company. The car is characterized with a rigid body structure. The weight proportion distributed in the car is 50-50. It is claimed that this car has a low centre of gravity. The company claims that the features of the car qualify it to be an efficient sports car. However, the external appearance of the car looks like a top class Sedan (Teslamotors, 2013). Figure 1: Model S (Source: Teslamotors, 2013) It is claimed by the company that the acceleration of the car is instantaneous owing to the inbuilt power train technology used for manufacturing the c ar. The form of energy used in the car is gasoline. The car also has a multilink suspension system that provides complete comfort to the users. The smooth power steering of the car is found to react automatically to any changes in the driving conditions (Teslamotors, 2013). Target Market The above context clearly shows that the Model S of Tesla is an efficient car that is well equipped with a lot of advanced technical features. However, while formulating its product marketing (Model S), the company needs to strategically focus on the target customers. All the marketing activities would be then formulated on the basis of the needs and preferences of the consumers. Market Opportunities After the emergence of globalization in 1990, the developing economies in the world have significantly grown up by enjoying the benefits of industrial revolution in the developed economies. The company through its marketing strategies should grasp the growing market demand in the emerging economies of t he world. It is found that the countries like, Russia, India, China and Brazil, are enjoying the fruits of economic development in the form of rise in their per capita income levels. The rise in per person income has increased the level of luxurious demand that is created by the individuals in these economies. The Tesla company must try to grasp the growing market demand of individuals in these economies (Mom, 2004). Today, the consumers are highly conscious about the protection and preservation of environment. This is the reason due to which the electric vehicles are now on high demand in the market. Model S of Tesla comprises of all the good features that a modern electric car should possess. Thus, the growing market demand of the electric cars provides an excellent opportunity for the company to sell its desired product in the market. Rather, the degree of urbanization in countries across the globe is improving and has significantly increased the demand for cars in the market. Th e gross revenue generated by the entire automobile industry has increased in the last few years. So, the rising living standards of the individuals, growing consciousness about environmental protection and the booming aggregate demand in the automobile industry are the primary market opportunities for Tesla’

Should College Athletes Get Paid Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Should College Athletes Get Paid - Term Paper Example Setting aside for the now that college athletes who participate in the more popular sports such as football and basketball earn millions of dollars for their respective college and that non-athletic students gain from these financial benefits as well, athletes, by virtue of their demanding schedule, are deprived of the ability to earn while they learn and because of this reason alone should be compensated somewhat. The amount of a stipend is debatable but a reasonable amount of, for example, $200 per month is hardly exorbitant. This discussion will examine the reasons why college athletes receive pay. Both the universities and the NCAA make millions of dollars each winter from the bowl games following the regular football season, a sum that doesn’t include the share individual conferences enjoy. Now add up concession and ticket proceeds, merchandise sales and money gained from corporate sponsorships that without the existence of sports would not be available to a university ev ery year. Those millions come from one month’s revenue from one sport. The college athletes understand that their efforts produce many millions of dollars for their schools but they are not allowed to make even pocket change while giving their all for their team. Athletes are subjected to the most meager of a life under current NCAA rules. Meanwhile, they observe other students with enough spending money at least for an occasional burger and their coach making a multi-million dollar income but know that it is them who are the ones that making the biggest sacrifice. When a college athlete or their family is experiencing financial difficulties as is the instance in many situations, the pressure to leave school to try a professional career is enormous. What would inspire a student-athlete in this predicament to remain in school if they were presented with a chance to earn what even a minor league salary or a backup role at the top league level may offer? Moreover, college athlet es face the perpetual threat of a career ending injury. This has ended the dreams of many for a professional career but, more tragically, also ends their academic career too. (Chaisson, 2001). There undoubtedly is a disparity between athletes and non-athlete students which is not in favor of the athlete. For example, college students who are engaged in extracurricular pursuits other than athletics, musicians for instance collect scholarships and can perform for their college’s symphony whether they or not they are academically eligible. They are also able to perform and make money in a professional band or orchestra while enrolled at school. By contrast, if athletes did this, they would lose their scholarship, be kicked out of school and most likely end any chance of playing professional sports. Furthermore, a music student is able to earn a music degree and even for a specific instrument. â€Å"A football or basketball major is unheard of, much less a major in playing quart erback or strong forward. Athletes are scrutinized for getting any type of job while on scholarship for their school. Getting paid to play or work in football would be sacrilege† (Chaisson, 2001). Student athletes represent of a unique sector of the school’s population. Much more is required of them. Athletes spend much more time and effort than general population students and are relentlessly challenged with balancing academics, athletics and social

Global Business Strategy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Global Business Strategy - Essay Example This further asserts that liberalism and structuralism dominates and applies to WTO system as an organization that is weaving global influence in world political economy. Liberalism, National Protectionism and Structuralism Liberalism theory is etymologically derived from individual’s love of freedom and democratic principles. Applied to governance, liberalism adheres to liberal democracy which is inclined to more peaceful administration of government. Pluralist liberalism contends that the inequitable distribution of power cause gaps and may result to international conflict while economic liberalism rest on economic interdependence of states to establish peace and cooperation (WTO, 2011). In regulatory processes, liberal policies and foreign relations are driven by the principle of accommodation. Under liberalism, individuals and private groups seek to promote their independent interests within the context of differentiation, individual autonomy and an unlimited competition b y seizing either absolute or comparative advantage (Roy, 2011). It seeks to limit the role of the state in the economic activities. Economic nationalism, on the other hand, refers to the set of policies which regulate the capital generation, economic control, labor management. Capital generation also deals with tariff imposition and some restriction on the movement of labor, goods and capital (The Economist, 2009). It is contrary to globalization, liberalization and unrestricted free trading. It seeks to assert the role of the state in managing national economy. Cross-national trading is consistent to economic protectionism and import substitution. As a consequence of this, economic protectionism extols the imposition of tariff trade to control national involvement in international trading and encourage their local industries to cultivate their business, unions and market for domestic competitiveness (Economist, 2009). Roy (2011) pointed that a country barring economic liberalizatio n would confront problem on decreasing trade relations and poor strategy in trade management. Under mercantile operations, protectionist economy prefer the exclusive trading within a region or country, hence, their raw materials and resources are not exported but are utilized for its own populace. Developing internal competitiveness proved advantageous for them to nourish their independence, inventiveness and innovation in managing domestic markets (Economist, 2009). It’s likewise aimed at stimulating its economy, free from external compulsion and to revolve their finances within. It is against foreign acquisition of national resource for multinational-sourced developments. Structuralism is a theory which focuses on framework or models about how an institution or organization coordinate and interrelate for the full completion of their tasks Structuralism relates to the ties of government and its people in an interrelated social fabric and operation of governance (Balaam & Dil ham, 2010). In trading, this points to the relation of investing countries to host nations in international trading relations. Since structure binds people, the political and economic relations are likewise sensitive to system of social behavior, culture, economic dynamism or political processes. It illustrates some frameworks and policies that are maybe extensive, diverse and sometimes complicated, especially on international market relations between less developed countries and the industrial or

Structure Of Retail Sector In India

Structure Of Retail Sector In India Abstract Despite the ongoing wave of incessant liberalization and globalization, the Indian retail sector is still aloof from progressive and ostentatious development. This dismal situation of the retail sector undoubtedly stems from the absence of a Foreign Direct Investment (hereinafter referred as FDI) encouraging policy in the Indian retail sector. In this context, attempts have been made to study the strategic issues concerning the structure of Indian retail sector, current FDI policy and its limitation. Moreover, the latest move of the government to allow 51% FDI in multi-brand retail in India and increasing the FDI limit in single brand retail in India to 100% (from the existing 51%) is facing opposition which has raised significant hurdles for effective implementation of the reforms. FDI in retail has been opposed citing fears of loss of employment and that traditional retail may be affected. However, adherents of the same indicate easy access to capital for domestic retailers, increa sed transfer of technology, enhanced supply chain efficiencies, increased employment opportunities and curtailment of inflation as the perceived benefits. By analysis of the debate thats raging over opening the retail sector to FDI it is pointed out that opening up of FDI in retail in India could potentially be a mixed blessing for domestic players and negative impact if any is expected to be short-lived and to weaken over time. Also, the advantages of allowing unrestrained FDI in the retail sector evidently outweigh the disadvantages attached to it. Though its time for opening the door for FDI in retail the same should be treaded cautiously and the proliferation of foreign capital into retailing needs to be anchored in such a way that it results in a win-win situation for India. Introduction The retail industry comprising of organized and unorganized sectors is of late often being hailed as one of the fastest growing sectors in India. According to the Investment Commission of India, the retail sector is expected to grow almost three times its current levels to $660 billion by 2015. Though initially, the retail industry in India was mostly unorganized, however with the change of tastes and preferences of the consumers, the industry is getting more popular these days and getting organized as well. The Indian retail sector is ready to take on challenges from global retail players such as Wal-mart and Carrefour. Recently, to encourage the organized retailing in the country government decided to allow 51% FDI in multi brand retail and 100% in single brand retail in November, 2011.While this long awaited approval, come as a relief to many organised retailers and foreign players, oppositions from state government, political parties etc., raises significant hurdles for effective implementation of the reforms. Structure Of Retail Sector In India Before we go into the intricacies of the issue we must know what retail means and what the structure of retail sector in India is. Retailing can be said to be the interface between the producer and the individual consumer buying for personal consumption. This excludes direct interface between the manufacturer and institutional buyers such as the government and other bulk customers. Retailing is the last link that connects the individual consumer with the manufacturing and distribution chain. A retailer is involved in the act of selling goods to the individual consumer at a margin of profit.  [1]  Also, the High Court of Delhi  [2]  defined the term retail as a sale for final consumption in contrast to a sale for further sale or processing (i.e. wholesale). The retail industry in India is divided into organised and unorganised sectors. Organised retailing refers to trading activities undertaken by licensed retailers, that is, those who are registered for sales tax, income tax, etc. These include the corporate-backed hypermarkets and retail chains, and also the privately owned large retail businesses. Unorganised retailing, on the other hand, refers to the traditional formats of low-cost retailing, for example, the local kirana shops, owner manned general stores, paan/beedi shops, convenience stores, hand cart and pavement vendors, etc. Unorganized retailing is by far the prevalent form of trade in India.  [3]   Current Fdi Scenario With Respect To Retail In India The advent of FDI in India was witnessed during the end of 1990s when the Indian national government announced a number of reforms which aimed at helping in the process of liberalization and deregulation of the Indian economy.  [4]   FDI in Single- Brand Retailing was, permitted in 2006, to the extent of 51%. Since then, a total of 94 proposals have been received till May, 2010. Of this, 57 proposals were approved. The proposals received and approved related to retail trading of sportswear, luxury goods, apparel, fashion clothing, jewellery, hand bags, lifestyle products etc., covering high-end items. FDI in cash and carry wholesale trading was first permitted, to the extent of 100%, under the Government approval route, in 1997. It was brought under the automatic route in 2006. But, FDI in Multi-Brand retailing is prohibited.  [5]   Limitation Of Present Setup Limitation in the present scenario calls for relaxation of FDI norms. These limitations are as follows: Infrastructure There has been a lack of investment in the logistics of the retail chain, leading to an inefficient market mechanism. Though India is the second largest producer of fruits and vegetables (about 180 million MT), it has a very limited integrated cold-chain infrastructure, with only 5386 stand-alone cold storages, having a total capacity of 23.6 million MT. , 80% of this is used only for potatoes. The chain is highly fragmented and hence, perishable horticultural commodities find it difficult to link to distant markets, including overseas markets, round the year. Storage infrastructure is necessary for carrying over the agricultural produce from production periods to the rest of the year and to prevent distress sales.  [6]   Lack of adequate storage facilities cause heavy losses to farmers in terms of wastage in quality and quantity of produce in general.  [7]  Though FDI is permitted in cold-chain to the extent of 100%, through the automatic route, in the absence of FDI in reta iling; FDI flow to the sector has not been significant. Intermediaries dominate the value chain Intermediaries often flout mandi norms and their pricing lacks transparency. Wholesale regulated markets, governed by State APMC Acts, have developed a monopolistic and non-transparent character. According to some reports, Indian farmers realize only 1/3rd of the total price paid by the final consumer, as against 2/3rd by farmers in nations with a higher share of organized retail.  [8]   Improper Public Distribution System (PDS) There is a big question mark on the efficacy of the public procurement and PDS set-up and the bill on food subsidies is rising. In spite of such heavy subsidies, overall food based inflation has been a matter of great concern. The absence of a farm-to-fork retail supply system has led to the ultimate customers paying a premium for shortages and a charge for wastages.  [9]   No Global Reach The Micro Small Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector has also suffered due to lack of branding and lack of avenues to reach out to the vast world markets. While India has continued to provide emphasis on the development of MSME sector, the share of unorganised sector in overall manufacturing has declined from 34.5% in 1999-2000 to 30.3% in 2007-08  [10]  .This has largely been due to the inability of this sector to access latest technology and improve its marketing interface. Prospected Changes In Fdi Policy For Retail Sector In India Recently in July 2010, the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) had put up a discussion paper proposing FDI in multi brand retail. In July 2011, a Committee of Secretaries (CoS) had cleared the proposal to allow upto 51% FDI in multi-brand retail and increasing the FDI limit in single brand retail to 100%, which has been approved by the Union Cabinet in November 2011, albeit with a few drivers  [11]  . These drivers in bill are as follows: For multi-brand retail- Minimum investment of US$ 100 million by the foreign investor is required and atleast 50% of the investment by the foreign company to be in back-end infrastructure. The proposal restricts the location of stores to cities with a population of one million or more (53 cities as per 2011 Census); given constraints around real estate, retailers are allowed to set up stores within 10 km of such cities. Also, at least 30% of manufactured items procured should be through domestic small and medium enterprises (SMEs). While the proposals on FDI will be sanctioned by the Centre, approvals from each State Government would be required. For single brand retail- While allowing FDI limit in single brand retail to 100% with government approval, some restriction is again laid down. The foreign investors are to be an owner of the brand and products to be sold should be of a single brand only. Also, in respect of proposals involving FDI beyond 51%, 30% sourcing would mandatorily have to be done from domestic SMEs and cottage industries artisans and craftsmen. Further, like in multi-brand retail state government approval is needed. But, the mounting opposition by several political parties and State Governments has prevented the effective implementation of the key reform measure. Challenges For Foreign Firms In Organized Retail In India The first challenge is competition from the unorganized sector. Traditional retailing has been established in India for many centuries, and is characterized by small, family-owned operations. Because of this, such businesses are usually very low-margin, are owner-operated, and have mostly negligible real estate and labor costs. Moreover, they also pay little by way of taxes. Consumer familiarity that runs from generation to generation is one big advantage for the traditional retailing sector. It is often said that the mom-and-pop store in India is more like a father-and-son enterprise. Such small shops develop strong networks with local neighbourhoods. The informal system of credit adds to their attractiveness, with many houses running up a tab with their neighbourhood kirana store, paying it off every fortnight or month. Moreover, low labor costs also allow shops to employ delivery boys, such that consumers may order their grocery list directly on the phone. These advantages are sig nificant, though hard to quantify. In contrast, players in the organized sector have to cover big fixed costs, and yet have to keep prices low enough to be able to compete with the traditional sector. Getting customers to switch their purchasing away from small neighbourhood shops and towards large-scale retailers may be a major challenge. The other major challenge for retailers in India, as opposed to the US, is the storage setup of households. For the large-scale retail model to work, consumers visit such large stores and return with supplies likely to last them for a few weeks. Having such easy access to neighbourhood stores with whom, as discussed above, it is possible to have a line of credit and easy delivery service, congested urban living conditions imply that few Indian households might be equipped with adequate storage facilities. Concerns Causing Roadblock In Implementation Of Relaxed Fdi Norms History has witnessed that the concern of allowing unrestrained FDI flows in the retail sector has never been free from controversies and simultaneously has been an issue for unsuccessful deliberation ever since the advent of FDI in India. The recent proposal for relaxation of FDI norm is also facing the same challenges and opposition creating roadblock for implementation of suggested reforms. The antagonists of FDI in retail sector oppose the same on various grounds which are as follows: Move will lead to large-scale job losses.  [12]  International experience shows supermarkets invariably displace small retailers. Small retail has virtually been wiped out in developed countries like the US and in Europe. South East Asian countries had to impose stringent zoning and licensing regulations to restrict growth of supermarkets after small retailers were getting displaced. India has the highest shopping density in the world with 11 shops per 1,000 people. It has 1.2 crore shops employing over 4 crore people; 95% of these are small shops run by self-employed people. Adverse impact on domestic small and unorganized retailers as the move would lead to unfair competition and ultimately result in large-scale exit of domestic retailers, especially the small family managed outlets.  [13]   Global retail giants will resort to predatory pricing to create monopoly/oligopoly. This can result in essentials, including food supplies, being controlled by foreign organizations.  [14]   Disintegration of established supply chains by establishment of monopolies of global retail chains, leading to their control on both ends of the supply chain.  [15]   Farmers to get affected on account of non-remunerative prices paid to them by these corporate giants.  [16]   Key Perceived Benefits In spite of the recent developments in retailing and its immense contribution to the economy, it still continues to be the least evolved industries and the growth of organised retailing in India has been much slower as compared to rest of the world. Over a period of 10 years, the share of organised retailing in total retailing has grown from 10 per cent to 40 percent in Brazil and 20 percent in China, while in India it is only 2 per cent (between 1995-2005).  [17]  One important reason for this is that retailing is one of the few sectors where foreign direct investment is not healthily and liberally allowed. Given this backdrop, it is widely acknowledged by the advocators of the reform that FDI can have some positive results on the economy, triggering a series of reactions that in the long run can lead to greater efficiency and improvement of living standards, apart from greater integration into the global economy.  [18]  Some of the benefits claimed by implementing FDI in re tail sector are as follows  [19]  : These would enable cash-starved domestic retailers to deleverage their overly stretched balance sheets by plugging the gap between capital required for growth and the ability of local players to raise capital. Local incumbents will be benefited from technical inputs, investments in supply chain, and investments in human capital. There could be a potential shift in bargaining power of these retailers with FMCG companies (at present, large FMCG players are better positioned vis-à  -vis retailers in discussing terms of trade) once these retailers become large and attain size and scale. Improvement of supply chain/ distribution efficiencies, coupled with capacity building and induction of modern technology, which will help arrest wastages (in the present scenario, lack of investment in logistics and inadequate storage facilities have been creating inefficiencies in the food supply chain, leading to significant wastages). Though FDI is permitted in cold chains to the extent of 100% through the automatic route, in the absence of FDI in front-end retail, investment flows into this sector have been insignificant. The move to open up retail sector to FDI will reduce inflationary pressures as : Farmers will be able to directly sell their produce to retailers, thereby reducing margins for middlemen. Investments in cold-storage and warehousing will ease supply-side pressures that have driven inflation close to a double-digit. Improved supply chain contributes to savings in food wastages which has been rampant on account of inadequate infrastructure. Further, consumers would also benefit from wider choices and better quality products.  [20]   Improvement in productivity and realizations for farmers through direct sales to these large organised players, thus eliminating the margins outflow to the middle-men who have been dominating the value chain, and whose pricing lacks transparency. The opening of the sector to FDI is expected to result in creation of over 10 million jobs (including 6 million jobs in the logistics sector alone) in three years, across agro-processing, sorting, marketing, logistic management and the front-end retail business. Expectations are that it would create jobs not only in the retail industry but also in related areas like real estate and construction. Consumer Benefit In the fierce battle between the advocators and antagonist of unrestrained FDI flows in the Indian retail sector, the interests of the consumers have been blatantly and utterly disregarded. Therefore, one of the arguments which inevitably needs to be considered and addressed while deliberating upon the captioned issue is the interests of consumers at large in relation to the interests of retailers.  [21]   In wake of relentless protests for the opening up of the Indian retail market for the reception of unrestrained FDI, the Investment Commission in July, 2006, opined that that foreign investment would help in improving the retail and supply chain infrastructure, and generate large-scale employment in the country. In addition, the Indian retailers could absorb some of the best operational practices of these international retailers and gain in experience. Ultimately, the consumers would benefit due to the availability of more product offerings, lower prices, and efficient service. The entry of large low-cost retailers and adoption of integrated supply chain management by them is likely to lower down the prices. Also, FDI in retailing can easily assure the quality of product, better shopping experience and customer services. They promote the linkage of local suppliers, farmers and manufacturers, no doubt only those who can meet the quality and safety standards, to global market and this will ensure a reliable and profitable market to these local players.  [22]   Also, from the stand point of consumers, organized retailing would help reduce the problem of adulteration, short weighing and substandard goods. FDI will not just provide access to larger financial resources for investment in the retail sector but simultaneously will rationally allow larger supermarkets, which tend to become regional and national chains to negotiate prices more aggressively with manufacturers of consumer goods and thus pass on the benefit to consumers and to lay down better and tighter quality standards and ensure that manufacturers adhere to them.  [23]   Authors View In principle, governments should not prevent anybody, Indian or foreign, from setting up any business unless there are very good reasons to do so. Hence, unless it can be shown that FDI in retail will do more harm than good for the economy, it should be allowed. Authors are of view that concern raised by opponents is exaggerated. Opening up of FDI as per reform in India could potentially be a mixed blessing for domestic players and negative impact if any is expected to be short-lived and to weaken over time. A major argument given by opponents of FDI in retail is that there will be major job losses. Frankly, the jury is out on whether this is the case or not, with different studies claiming different findings. Big retail chains are actually going to hire a lot of people. So, in the short run, there will be a spurt in jobs. Eventually, theres likely to be a redistribution of jobs with some drying up (like that of middlemen) and some new ones sprouting up. Infact, the government has added an element of social benefit to its latest plan for calibrated opening of the multi-brand retail sector to foreign direct investment (FDI). Only those foreign retailers who first invest in the back-end supply chain and infrastructure would be allowed to set up multi brand retail outlets in the country. The whole idea is that the firms must have already created jobs for rural India before they venture into multi-brand retailing. Also, fears of small shopkeepers getting displaced are vastly exaggerated. Whe n domestic majors were allowed to invest in retail, both supermarket chains and neighbourhood pop-and-mom stores coexisted. Its not going to be any different when FDI according to the reform is allowed. It is also pertinent to note here that that with the possible advent of unrestrained FDI flows in retail market, the interests of the retailers constituting the unorganized retail sector will not be gravely undermined  [24]  , since nobody can force a consumer to visit a mega shopping complex or a small retailer/sabji mandi. Consumers will shop in accordance with their utmost convenience, where ever they get the lowest price, max variety, and a good consumer experience. The argument that farmers will suffer once global retail has developed a virtual monopoly is also weak. To begin with, its very unlikely that global retail will ever become monopolies. Stores like Wal-Mart or Tesco are by definition few, on the outskirts of cities (to keep real estate costs low), and cant intrude into the territory of local kiranas. So, how will they gobble up the local stores. Mega retail chains will keep price points low and attractive thats the USP of their business. This is done by smart procurement and inventory management: Good practices from which Indian retail can also learn. The benefits of larger FDI in other sector has been tangibly felt in the domains pertaining to technological advancements, generation of export, production improvements, and hastening of manufacturing employment. Capital inflow into India has increased and so have the exports from the country. Allowing healthy FDI in the retail sector would not only lead to a substantial surge in the countrys GDP and overall economic development, but would inter alia also help in integrating the Indian retail market with that of the global retail market in addition to providing not just employment but a better paying employment, which the unorganized sector (kirana and other small time retailing shops) have undoubtedly failed to provide to the masses employed in them. Apart from this, by allowing FDI in retail trade, India will significantly flourish in terms of quality standards and consumer expectations, since the inflow of FDI in retail sector is bound to pull up the quality standards and cost-com petitiveness of Indian producers in all the segments. Further, with regard to the concern raised about limit of cap for FDI in multi- branding authors would like to highlight that Industrial organisations such as CII  [25]  , FICCI, US-India Business Council (USIBC), the American Chamber of Commerce in India, The Retail Association of India (RAI) and Shopping Centers Association of India (a 44 member association of Indian multi-brand retailers and shopping malls) favour a phased approach toward liberalising FDI in multi-brand retailing, and most of them agree with considering a cap of 49-51 per cent to start with. RECOMMENDATION FDI in multi-brand retailing must be dealt cautiously as it has direct impact on a large chunk of population.  [26]  Left alone foreign capital will seek ways through which it can only multiply itself, and unthinking application of capital for profit, given our peculiar socio-economic conditions, may spell doom and deepen the gap between the rich and the poor. Thus the proliferation of foreign capital into multi-brand retailing needs to be anchored in such a way that it results in a win-win situation for India. Therefore, apart from the drivers incorporated in the bill negative effect if any can be further diluted and given below are the recommendation for the same: Reconstituting the poverty stricken and stagnating rural sphere into a forward moving and prosperous rural sphere can be one of the justifications for introducing FDI in multi-brand retailing. To actualize this goal it can be stipulated that at least some percentage of the jobs in the retail outlet should be reserved for rural youth and that a certain amount of farm produce be procured from the poor farmers. Public Distribution System is still in many ways the life line of the people living below the poverty line. To ensure that the system is not weakened the government may reserve the right to procure a certain amount of food grains for replenishing the buffer. To protect the interest of small retailers the government may also put in place an exclusive regulatory framework. It will ensure that the retailing giants do resort to predatory pricing or acquire monopolistic tendencies. Besides, the government and RBI need to evolve suitable policies to enable the retailers in the unorganized sector to expand and improve their efficiencies.  [27]   A National Commission must be established to study the problems of the retail sector and to evolve policies that will enable it to cope with FDI- as and when it comes. The proposed National Commission should evolve a clear set of conditionalities on giant foreign retailers on the procurement of farm produce, domestically manufactured merchandise and imported goods. These conditionalities must be aimed at encouraging the purchase of goods in the domestic market, state the minimum space, size and specify details like, construction and storage standards, the ratio of floor space to parking space etc. Giant shopping centres must not add to our existing urban snarl.  [28]   In order to address the dislocation issue, it becomes imperative to develop and improve the manufacturing sector in India. There has been a substantial fall in employment by the manufacturing sector, to the extent of 4.06 lakhs over the period 1998 to 2001, while its contribution to the GDP has grown at an average rate of only 3.7%.  [29]   The government must actively encourage setting up of co-operative stores to procure and stock their consumer goods and commodities from small producers. This will address the dual problem of limited promotion and marketing ability, as well as market penetration for the retailer. The government can also facilitate the setting up of warehousing units and cold chains, thereby lowering the capital costs for the small retailers. Set up an Agricultural Perishable Produce Commission (APPC), to ensure that procurement prices for perishable commodities are fair to farmers and that they are not distorted with relation to market prices. Quality regulation, certification price administration bodies can be created at district and lower levels for upgrading the technical and human interface in the rural to urban supply chain. Credit availability for retail traders must be encouraged with a view to enhancing employment and higher utilization of fixed assets. This would lead to less wastage (India has currently the highest wastage in the world) of perishables, enhance nutritional status of producers and increase caloric availability. CONCLUSION Indias retail sector remains off-limits to large international chains especially in multi-brand retailing. A number of concerns have been raised about opening up the retail sector to FDI in India. But, after in depth study it can be safely contended that the advantages of allowing unrestrained FDI in the retail sector evidently outweigh the disadvantages attached to it. While initially the small indigenous retailers business would be impacted once modern retail enters the locality, this adverse impact is expected to be short-lived and to weaken over time. Indias experience between 1990-2010, particularly in the telecommunications and IT industries, showcases the various benefits of opening the door to large-scale investments in these sectors. Arguably, it is now the turn of retail. It is expected that organized retail could help tackle inflation, particularly with wholesale prices. It is also expected that technical know-how from foreign firms, such as warehousing technologies and distribution systems, for example, will lend itself to improving the supply chain in India, especially for agricultural produce. Creating better linkages between demand and supply also has the potential to improve the price signals that farmers receiv

The Reagan Tax Cuts And Foreign Policy Essay -- essays research papers

The Reagan Tax Cuts and Foreign Policy During the 1980's President Ronald Reagan's (our 40th president from 1981 to 1989) domestic policy of a substantial tax cut led to greatly increased economic prosperity for our country. During Reagan's administration marked changes were made to the tax code and economic statistics showed a major change for the better. However, at the same time, the Democrats controlled the Congress and continued increased spending against Reagan's wishes. The Joint Economic Committee stated that an across-the-board tax cut was not new. In the 20's the Mellon tax cuts were implemented by Secretary of Treasury Andrew Mellon during the Administrations of Hoover, Harding, and Coolidge. In the 60's Kennedy introduced tax cuts. In both instances the decrease of high marginal tax rates somehow increased tax payments by the rich. Perhaps a foreshadow of things to come. Debates were raging over the Reagan tax cuts, known as the Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981 (or, ERTA). This act was designed to spur savings, investment, work, and economic efficiency. This policy would impose a 25% across-the-board cut in personal marginal tax rates. In the act of decreasing marginal tax rates, and stimulating economic incentives, ERTA would increase the flow of resources into production, thus lifting economic growth. This policy received much criticism because its opponents argued that ERTA would be a giveaway to the rich, because their tax payments would collapse. Reagan worked hard and skillfully with the congress to obtain legislation to stimulate economic growth and curb inflation, he embarked upon a course to cut taxes and curb inflation. President Reagan was able to sign into law a tax cut in late 1981 even though congressional Democrats tried to block his cuts. All tax payers received these cuts which helped to spur the economy. The cuts were taken over three years with a 5% cut in 1981, a 10% cut for 1982, and in 1983 another 10% cut. Reagan's call for extensive changes in the federal income tax laws helped bring about passage of the Tax Reform Act of 1986. In 1986 Reagan introduced the Tax Reform act of 1986. The tax reform act of 1986 chopped taxes, and indexed taxes for inflation as well. During Reagan's first term the inflation rate was at -5.7%, unemployment was at1.4%, interest rates were at -.7, and the gross na... ... The aides had then illegally given some of the arms money to contra guerrillas. Conclusion The Reagan Tax cuts showed that reducing excessive tax rates stimulates growth, reduces tax avoidance, and can increase the share of tax payments given by the rich. With respect to foreign policy Reagan's performances especially with Mikhail Gorbachev showed a high approval of performance with the people. Reagan had the highest poll ratings for performance of any president since World War 2. It appears that his leadership helped to make the feeling of the country to have a more confident outlook on the future. References "Iran-Contra Affair," Microsoft ® Encarta ® 96 Encyclopedia 1993-1995. 1996 Grolier Interactive Inc. Edition copyright  © 1992 by Houghton Mifflin Company. http://www.house.gov/joe/welcome.html http://www.reaganhome.com/taxcuts.html http://www.theatlantic.com/atlantic/election/connections/foreign/reagrus.htm Hyland, W.G., ed., The Reagan Foreign Policy (1987). The American Heritage ® Dictionary of the English Language, Third The Atlantic Monthly, February 1994; Reagan and the Russians; Volume 273. The Joint Economic Committee reports on the Reagan Tax Cuts

The Death Penalty and Race Essay -- Capital Punishment Essays

The Death Penalty and Race To look closely at many of the mechanisms in American society is to observe the contradiction between constitutional equality and equality in practice. Several of these contradictions exist in the realm of racial equality. For example, Black s often get dealt an unfair hand in the criminal justice system. In The Real War on Crime, Steven Donziger explains, There are so many more African-Americans than whites in our prisons that the difference cannot be explained by higher crime among African- Americans - racial discrimination is also at work, and it penalizes African- Americans at almost every juncture in the criminal justice system.1 This paper focuses in on one of those "junctures" - the death penalty. The racial disparities that Donziger finds in the prisons can also be found in death row. To be exact, African-Americans are 12% of the US population, but they make up 40% of the death row population.2 I, like Donziger, believe something more is at work; and in the tradition of Ture and Hamilton, I believe that this something works in covert ways. It would almost be better if we could place the blame on blatant racial discrimination. But the death penalty does not serve the explicit purpose of oppressing Blacks. Racism persists, but it has taken on more implicit, more subtle, and arguably more harmful forms. The death penalty is a timely lens through which to observe the covert racism that operates in institutional settings. This topic can be overwhelming, and this paper is in no way comprehensive. Rather, it is an opportunity to string together some soci ological and legal concepts with personal analysis in the d esire to demonstrate that the death penalty and the institutions surrounding... ...ziger, 100. 13 Chambliss, 250. 14 Chambliss, 248. 15 Donziger, 127. 16 Donziger, 109. 17 Donziger, 110. 18 Campaign to End the Death Penalty (pamphlet). 19 Leon Higgenbotham, Shades of Freedom (Oxford University Press, 1996) xxv-xxvi. 20 Donziger, 109. 21 David C. Baldus, et al, "Comparative Review of Death Sentences: An Empirical Study of the Georgia Experience," The Journal of Criminal Law and Criminology 74 (1983): 663-664. 22 Baldus, 664. 23 Donziger, 109. 24 U.S. General Accounting Office, "Death Penalty Sentencing: Research Indicates Patterns of Racial Disparities," The Death Penalty in America, 271. 25 Hugo Adams Bedau, The Death Penalty in America: Current Controversies (New York: Oxford University Press, 1997) 250. 26 Donziger, 113. 27 Ellsworth, 90. 28 Ellsworth, 92. 29 Chambliss, 243. 30 Ellsworth, 92.

Performance Management systems Essay

1. What is the main goal of a Performance Management System? Performance management systems are designed to improve both individual and organisational performance by identifying what skills are needed to perform a role, providing regular feedback and assisting the employees in their career development. The overall aim is to equip staff with the competencies and commitment to deliver on shared organisational goals . 2. Why is it necessary to develop and implement a Performance Management System? A well developed performance management system assist to develop staff and can result in significantly improved output and performance, which ultimately leads to improved results for the organisation. Without a well developed and implemented performance management system, an organisation can risk poor staff performance and a high turnover of staff due to lack of support. 3. What are the three stages of Performance Management? †¢ planning for performance – setting performance goals, establishing performance standards and setting performance expectations, identifying developmental goals in work (action) plans †¢ performance appraisal – observing, documenting and assessing performance †¢ performance improvement – providing regular feedback, review performance appraisal, rewarding excellent performance 4. List the four groups who are involved in Performance Management? †¢ your team †¢ you, as a supervisor †¢ human resource professional †¢ union representatives. 5. Why is it necessary to ensure that performance management and review processes are consistent with business objectives and policies? Staff performance plans must be based on the overall aims and objectives of the organisation so as to ensure that each staff member is working cohesively towards the same goal. They must also adhere to organisational policies so as to ensure that they are fair and consistent across the organisation. This also assures that they comply with legislation (that is, presuming that the policies set out stipulate this). 6. Write a paragraph explaining why you think performance evaluations are necessary and the method/s that you consider best to be utilized. I think the importance of performance evaluations is twofold. In my experience, working in an extremely under-resourced organisation, it has been very difficult for me in the past to gain feedback from my supervisors about my performance. One to one time with a manager is rare. This has at times resulted in frustration because I have felt as though I have not been able to gain direction in my work. I fear that at times this may be the case for the staff that I supervise also. Therefore, I believe that on one level performance management systems are extremely important as a method of support for staff. On a more obvious note, performance management systems can also lead to improved output and performance of individuals, which ultimately leads to improved results for the organisation. In terms of what method I believe to be most effective, I believe that there are some core principles that must be followed. The plans should be developed with staff so as to ensure owndership, implementation must be consistent and timely (3 month reviews shouldn’t be undertaken at 7 months! ). 7. Why is it important that both managers and employees receive suitable training in how to handle performance review interviews? Without training about how to handle performance review interviews, there is a very big risk that the appraisal will not be effective and even more concerning is that it could prove counterproductive and damage the supervisor/employee relationship. Training equips managers and team leaders with skills to conduct positive appraisals. It assist employees to understand the new relationships and how performance issues are openly discussed and resolved. Training sessions also can assist employee to see how their work links to the goals of the organisation. 8. Explain why and how often you think performance appraisals should be held? I believe performance appraisals should be held after 3 months in a role and then every 6 months following this. I write this in the context of the organisation for which I work. One to one time with your manager is difficult in our organisation and I believe that in the past this has led to staff feeling very unsupported. There has been quite a high turnover of staff in some programs and I believe that this could be addressed by stronger support systems in place from management. While some may argue that appraisals at such regular intervals can be difficult for managers to implement due to time constraints, I believe firmly that this investment will be returned in increased staff output. 9. Why is it important to recognize the contribution of your work group members and why should you do this? Recognising the contribution of group members is an important method of motivating staff. It reinforces positive contributions and shows their importance to the organisation. If the contribution of staff members is not recognised, it risks losing the motivation of a team who may feel that their work is for no purpose and is not appreciated. We all need a thanks! 10. List three pieces of legislation that are related to performance management †¢ Fair Work Act (2009) †¢ Workplace Health and Safety Act (1995) †¢ Awards/Enterprise Bargaining Agreements/Union Collective Agreements. 11. How would you devise a training plan incorporating both monitoring and coaching for individuals with poor performance? It is important to spend time to time to try and understand why a staff member may have poor performance. This is important in determining what action to take – be that formal training or coaching. The following points – from the course book – I would certainly include in any coaching I was to undertake: †¢Good coaches challenge employees and ask questions that help the employee to discover how to improve. †¢Coach when you wish to focus attention on any specific aspect of the employee’s performance. †¢A coaching meeting should focus on just one or two aspects of performance. †¢Any more than that and employees won’t remember the main impact of your meeting. †¢Keep coaching conversations brief and between 5 to 10 minutes long. †¢Being an effective coach requires understanding what motivates the members of your team. Remember that people are motivated in different ways. Be sensitive to the things that drive your people to perform. †¢When things are performing well, take the time to understand what is working and why. †¢Good coaching is guiding, not telling or doing. †¢Allow the employee to own the problem and its solutions. Ask them: ‘How finally feels as though she is getting somewhere. In terms of monitoring, I would plan more regular catch ups with the staff member (perhaps monthly) to discuss progress. I would continue to implement reviews at the times stipulated by organisational policy. I would also ask for regular feedback from the staff member. 12. How can you provide support services if required? †¢Provide details of union representatives †¢HR representative details †¢Training options †¢Set up future one-to-one meetings †¢Work manuals †¢Ã¢â‚¬Å"buddy† system in which staff member is teed up with competent staff member 13. If the individual continues to perform below expectations what process would be necessary to implement? If the poor performance continues, it may be necessary to give a written warning to the staff member. This is discussed further in question 20. 14. Why is it necessary to document and record performance? Documenting and recording performance can lower the risk if a person chooses to challenge a negative appraisal. Holding records of poor performance may assist to cover an organisation legally if the employee raises an unfair dismissal claim Documenting good performance is also important so as to avoid claims of favouritism for example of undeserving staff members. Documenting performance also makes it much easier when the time for appraisals comes around, particularly for managers who are managing a large number of staff. 15. Explain the term â€Å"interpersonal conflict† Interpersonal conflict is the most apparent form of conflict for workplace participants. It is a disagreement or differing views between two or more people over a particular idea, thought, or action.. Also language and personality styles often clash, which can create conflict in the workplace. ref http://www. mediate. com/articles/donaisB2. cfm 16. How does interpersonal conflict affect the workplace? Interpersonal conflict is is easy enough to observe in the form of office politics, gossip, and rumours. It can lead to a negative work environment, with groups forming within the workplace. Unless these conflicts are resolved, they can lead to a very challenging and unfriendly workplace. In more extreme cases, interpersonal conflict can lead to charges of harassment and discrimination or at least the feeling that such things exist.