New York Life – Marketing Management Case Analysis

BAB25 – Case analysis 2: New York Life and Immediate Annuities Unlike the old days where a retiree could rest assured that they could live out the rest of their life on their pension and social security checks, the retirees of today receive their pensions paid out in a lump sum that takes the place of the pension check, but encompasses the total amount a retiree has to live on until they pass away. This creates uncertainty in the amount a retiree can spend per month, and if the total amount is sufficient to last them until they pass away. Immediate annuities help to create certainty in the financial situation of retirees. While retirees can be certain that they will receive a social security check each month, the amount of income they are able to receive from their pensions can vary depending on their contribution plan. Immediate annuities are a one-time purchase that guarantees a monthly payment for the remainder of the purchaser’s life. They solve the problem well as they take away the uncertainty of where a retiree can receive their income from, they are the â€Å"ideal vehicle to guarantee retirees a lifetime income† (Rotemberg & Gourville, 2010, p. ). Generally speaking, neither the buyers (the retirees) nor the sellers (agents/advisors) of immediate annuities are very enthusiastic about them. Consumers have several interrelated reasons for not buying immediate annuities. Firstly people are often not familiar with immediate annuities, which evidently causes fewer buyers. Then, buying immediate annui ties means spending a large sum of money as usually immediate annuities cost at least $100. 000 or more. This large sum of money has to be paid at once, while the purchase is irrevocable which causes doubts, most importantly because the retiree does not know if they will live long enough to make the purchase profitable. If not, more money will be put in the purchase than they will get out of it, meaning it is quite a gamble to buy immediate annuities (Rotemberg & Gourville, 2010). The agents and advisors that are supposed to sell immediate annuities, on the other hand, also have their doubts. Investment advisors actively manage their clients’ money. Immediate annuities do not allow for this as it is a one-time investment. This also means that the advisor/agent gets a one-time commission, which is less profitable compared to collecting multiple fees from one client over time for revocable investments (Rotemberg & Gourville, 2010). Additionally, advisors/agents often also do not have enough knowledge of the product, making it very hard to sell. Agents/advisors that do have knowledge of the product often state that immediate annuities are a bad retirement product. Only 9% of financial advisors (strongly) prefer the product, against 64% having a (very) weak preference for it (Morgan Stanley Research, 2007, as used in Rotemberg & Gourville, 2010). New York Life (NYL) has set its mind on growing the Guaranteed Lifetime Income (GLI) business in the future, but faces several possible paths in order to reach this goal. To be as cost-efficient as possible, we think that the company should select its pool of end-customers wisely. The focus on retirees should be maintained and even enforced, as many still do not know the products proposed by NYL. Furthermore, the focus should be broadened to a larger target group, to include the â€Å"typical† customers of the companies, families with children. As noted by Rotemberg and Gourville (2010), NYL tends to build long term relations with its clients, as agents follow them over time and sell multiple contracts to them. We can think that an ageing family would present a â€Å"risk management mindset†, as their children's future is not secured yet. We can hence position the product by presenting it as a safe solution adapted to one's own needs. Differentiating the product from those of NYL's competitors is important; potential clients of GLI annuities should understand the superior benefits of the product. Building on the company's reputation, GLI annuities should be promoted as a long term investment from a responsible company, concerned with its customers and providing long term relations between agents and customers. In order to reach a greater public and change customers' mindsets, we need to strengthen the core components of the company. For this, we believe that the focus should be put on NYL's agents rather than collaboration with investors that would force NYL to compromise on its values and products. While the pool of agents is already significant, only 4000 of them sold GLI annuities, as only 40% of the 11,500 agents had received the training specific to the product (Rotemberg & Gourville, 2010, p. 12). Therefore we believe that the GLI business would grow if all agents are trained to improve their knowledge of the products and hence their services to customers. We believe that the pool of agents should be increased gradually as number of customers grows in order to sustain the aforementioned values of NYL while the price of GLI annuities should not be changed, considering the customized services NYL provides. Instead, they need to focus on convincing customers that they're worth their price as their product is unique. i. e. NYL needs to emphasize the novel aspects of its product to differentiate from competitors', while promotion should be built on NYL's values.

Intelligence Testing Article Analysis Essay

No other topic in psychology has ever generated as much interest as the study of human intelligence. Numerous tests and strategies have been designed to explore the quality of human intelligence in depth and to analyze the basic factors and processes which take place within the structure of human cognitive functioning. From the viewpoint of psychology, intelligence testing may provide professionals with a wide range of effective instruments of research and analysis. Simultaneously, not all professionals and scholars in the field of psychology agree that intelligence testing is an effective and a relevant tool of psychological analysis. In this context, a number of theories have been designed to explain the essence of intelligence testing as such and the factors which may impede or enhance one’s successes in the process of testing intelligence. Intelligence Testing Article Analysis Introduction No other topic in psychology has ever generated as much interest as the study of human intelligence. Numerous tests and strategies have been designed to explore the quality of human intelligence in depth and to analyze the basic factors and processes which take place within the structure of human cognitive functioning. From the viewpoint of psychology, intelligence testing may provide professionals with a wide range of effective instruments of research and analysis. Simultaneously, not all professionals and scholars in the field of psychology agree that intelligence testing is an effective and a relevant tool of psychological analysis. In this context, a number of theories have been designed to explain the essence of intelligence testing as such and the factors which may impede or enhance one’s successes in the process of testing intelligence. It is difficult not to agree to Gottfredson (2006): â€Å"the debate over intelligence and intelligence testing focuses on the question of whether it is useful or meaningful to evaluate people according to a single major dimension of cognitive competence†. Nevertheless, researchers keep to believe that intelligence testing may be of extreme value, when measuring specific aspects of human cognitive activity and seeking to expand the boundaries of human cognitive functioning. Gottfredson (2006) develops a whole set of theoretical assumptions, trying to remain objective in her evaluation of intelligence testing relevance as a tool of psychological analysis. In Gottfredson’s view, intelligence testing is usually designed to measure one specific aspect of one’s cognitive ability (e. g. , mathematical skills), but where psychologists seek to evaluate one specific cognitive function, they tend to forget that intelligence tests cannot be fully released and clarified of other mental skills. These are usually referred to as â€Å"mental impurities†; they do not have any significant effects on cognitive testing results, but should be taken into account to guarantee the objectivity of testing procedures. Interestingly, Gottfredson (2006) links the effectiveness of intelligence testing to biological factors. In her view, the effectiveness of one’s cognitive functioning depends on age; moreover, researchers tend to believe into existence of a human gene responsible for IQ. Finally, it is at least incorrect to assume that social and psychological environments produce marked effects on one’s IQ. As a result, it is unclear whether measuring one’s intelligence may produce any significant changes on the quality of one’s wellbeing (Gottfredson, 2006); nevertheless, professional psychologists are still committed to the idea of using intelligence testing to define one’s learning disabilities. O’Brien (2001) develops a set of theoretical assumptions which place intelligence testing as the outstanding means to define one’s learning disabilities and the means of resolving them, and while intelligence testing has been widely used to analyze and determine one’s learning disabilities, it would be fair to say that to some extent intelligence testing had been devised for this purpose. In his theory, O’Brien (2001) refers to the cut-off scores which may prevent professionals from investigating the cognitive implications of low-IQ groups, but which cannot also serve a serious obstacle on professionals’ way to developing more effective intelligence testing forms. It appears that on the basis of IQ alone it is possible to predict the pathways children will follow in their cognitive development, and develop a set of social adjustments low-scored children will need to improve the quality of their well-being. In this context, intelligence testing is expected to produce long-term impacts on one’s life and one’s prospects for individual and professional self-realization. Given that intelligence testing involves information processing mechanisms and relevant nerve centers which require activation, the speed of this activation and the quality of information processing shapes the cognitive image of a person and turns intelligence testing into a relevant tool of psychological analysis (Schweizer, 2000). However, how is effective intelligence testing? And what factors professionals need to consider in order to promote objectivity of testing results? Despite the wide application of intelligence testing in psychological practice, its effectiveness remains the topic of hot debate. On the one hand, there is no single definition of what intelligence is. On the other hand, it is not clear, how appropriate it is to measure the social usefulness of a person based on a single cognitive criterion (Gottfredson, 2006). It appears that the effectiveness of intelligence testing also depends on one’s mood, fatigue, or motivation. From the cultural viewpoint, the majority of intelligence tests are designed to fit to Westernized cultural criteria, and are thus of limited use in mixed populations (O’Brien, 2001). Finally, Schweizer (2000) suggests that due to the limited access of human consciousness to information, the processes of information processing involved into intelligence testing may not always reveal the true state of cognitive functioning in children and adults. Certainly, intelligence testing remains one of the most reliable and widely used methods of investigating cognitive mechanisms in humans; but the problem is that we have not yet gone beyond the boundaries of traditional cognitive knowledge. For psychology professionals, intelligence testing remains the only available tool of research, the reliability of which is usually taken for granted. As a result, whether professionals are able to look deeper into the essence of human cognition and to develop sound analytical strategies depends on their preparedness to cross the boundaries of traditional research, and to investigate the effectiveness of traditional intelligence testing procedures. Conclusion Intelligence testing remains one of the central instruments psychology professionals use to test human cognitive abilities. Despite the stable popularity of intelligence testing, its effectiveness remains the topic of hot debate. Numerous factors have to be reconsidered and reevaluated to guarantee objectivity of testing procedures. To a large extent, the reliability of intelligence testing is taken for granted, and whether this type of analytical research works to promote individuals’ social wellbeing depends on the psychology professionals’ ability to look deeper into the essence of intelligence testing and cognitive mechanisms, which are involved into the process of testing one’s cognitive features. References Gottfredson, L. S. (2006). The general intelligence factor. Scientific American. Retrieved April 28, 2009 from http://www. psych. utoronto. ca/users/reingold/courses/intelligence/cache/1198gottfred. html O’Brien, G. (2001). Defining learning disability: What place does intelligence testing have now? Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology, 43 (8): 570-573. Schweizer, K. (2000). Cognitive mechanisms at the core of success and failure in intelligence testing. Psychologische Beitrage, 42 (2): 190-200.

It’s a Good Life vs Twilight Zone Essay

After comparing the story â€Å"It’s A Good Life† by Jerome Bixby to the movie adaptation of Twilight Zone, I found many differences in each account. In Jerome Bixby’s version, Anthony is a 3 year old little boy. He has purple eyes, and is a creature with godlike powers. He can transform people and objects into anything that he wants, and he can read others minds. In this story, Anthony does not speak until the very end. Anthony plays with a rat during the story. He is bored from playing with it, so he makes the rat eat itself. At the end of the story, Anthony turned Dan into a creepy object and wishes him into the cornfield. In the Twilight Zone, Anthony is portrayed as a six year old little boy. He has blue eyes, instead of purple. He is a monster with godlike powers, also. He controls and destroys the things around him whenever he wants. Anthony speaks throughout the entire screen version. He creates a three-headed animal that he plays with during the Twilight Zone. At the end of the episode, Anthony turns Dan into a jack-in-the-box. Some structural differences between the two accounts is the dialogue of Anthony. In the story, he does not speak until the very end. In Twilight Zone, he talks throughout the entire episode. The screen version of â€Å"It’s A Good Life† is more effective. It keeps the audience’s attention, and it is more appealing. The story version does not hold the audience’s attention throughout the entire story. The screen version includes more details and is more in-depth than Jerome Bixby’s version.

Research Proposal Master Research Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Master - Research Proposal Example These greenhouse gases, in large part, emanate from human activities, particularly the consumption of fossil fuels and the changes in the ways that land is used. But what does this have to do with business Consider the economic costs of the chaotic weather patterns that have broadened in scale over the past decades. Patterns of floods and drought that have devastated local areas have increased in their extremity. The severity and frequency of hurricanes and tornadoes, as well as in more mundane thunderstorms, have also increased. This can be attributed to the increase in global temperatures, and so one can see that increased production of greenhouse gases can have a lasting effect on business - particularly as those who owned businesses in Florida before it was hit by Hurricane Andrew, or in New Orleans before it was hit by Hurricane Katrina, can attest. The focus of this paper will be to measure the specific effects of climate change on the global economy. In other words, how will the current trend of climate change affect the world's productivity if it does not go unchecked Can the world accept President Bush's laissez-faire approach to climate control, or does the global economy demand more specific solutions Literature Search. Literature Search. I located five articles that represent a cross-section of the spectrum of thought about the ways that global climate change will affect the world's economy. Jennifer G. Hickey's essay entitled "Flaky climate data will cost U.S. dough - economic costs of global warming treaty" represents the side of the skeptics - those who feel that the science behind the idea that human activity has generated greenhouse gases that are causing higher global temperatures to be a fallacy. These skeptics generally tend to fall in the politically conservative ranks, and they see no reason for government to intervene in the affairs of business on the basis of iffy science. Implementing such measures as the Kyoto emissions treaty would have economic effects that are more easily measured and verified, in the writer's opinion, than the less tangible benefits of reduced emissions. One of the counterarguments that this essay puts forth in response to the call for reduced emissions is the idea that, between 1940 and 1970, carbon dioxide in the atmosphere increased dramatically, and yet the global temperature fell during that time frame (Hickey). This article goes through several economic projections of the financial effects of the Kyoto treaty on the American economy, which the Clinton Administration signed, but never sent to the Senate for formal ratification. Of interest is the fact that this article was written in 1997. During the intervening years, such writing as this has declined in the mainstream press, becoming relegated more and more to right-wing publications. It is still an argument that has its strong adherents, though, and would be an obstacle to implementing large-scale environmental regulations unless there were ironclad proof that greenhouse gas emissions directly caused global warming, and that global warming was certain to harm the economy in the future. Next, I found two sources by William D. Nordhaus. One is a brief analysis of the economic and environmental effects of the

Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 7

Assignment Example 4 Part D 5 Describe the single most important/useful thing about organizational behavior. 5 Part E 5 Assuming this is true, what would a culture look like for shaping high ethical standards? 5 What could top management do to strengthen that culture? 5 Do you think it’s possible for a manager with high ethical standards to uphold those standards in an organizational culture that tolerates, or even encourages, unethical practices? 5 Works Cited 6 Name of the Student Name of the Professor Name of the Course Date Part A Summarize article It is very important to bring about major changes within organizations. Otherwise, they tend to remain locked within the old patterns and lag behind their competitors. In some other cases, they end up in poor alignment with the business objectives or markets. In such cases, one of the best courses of action includes making big changes within organizations. The decision of bringing about a change within the organization is very risky. However, it i s better than lagging behind the competitors. Higher attention is required for the maintenance of team psychology during taking change initiatives or restructuring. Some of the necessary steps in this context include retaining talented employees, hiring new employees and building team cohesiveness. These are the important points to be considered as they might pose as big challenges to the organization and put restraints on the organizational changes. The article states that it is very important to consider how rewarding and motivation can be incorporated within organizations effectively. Motivational drivers are the reasons responsible for the performances of team members. Each and every team member has his/her own motivational driver. These drivers help in building elegant solutions with quality, creativity and skill. The motivational drivers for the managers include how to bring an effective change within an organization and leave their mark in it. Individuals within an organizati on require stability and knowledge regarding their specific functions along with their respective positions. The article states that organizational change is nothing but a race of stability. Part B What are the key signs of culture in your organization? Explain. Culture is a significant factor in an organization which helps in bringing together a group of different individuals (Hofstede 22). It is comprised of aspirations, beliefs and languages. In an organization, establishment of a unique prevalent culture is very important as cultural values are different for individuals belonging to different backgrounds. Organizational culture is of great significance in today’s world (Hofstede 48). In order to seek new opportunities, it is very important to respect the mission and values of the organization in which an employee is working. This is the first sign of positive working culture. It is essential to create a supportive environment for all employees, so that they can feel comfo rtable to work in it. It is vital to determine different ways to make the workplace comfortable and genial. These are the important signs of positive organizational culture. If much of the literature is accurate and ethical/moral values and behavior are shaped at an early age, how do you explain what has happened in recent business history? (Tyco, WorldCom, Enron, etc.) Ethics and moral values are very essential for shaping effective organizational behavior. However, the recent deceptive activities suggest that

The Internet Technology and Data Ownership Issue Assignment

The Internet Technology and Data Ownership Issue - Assignment Example The internet has become such a norm that the mere existence of man at a certain place without having been connected to the internet is though impossible. About (2011) defines the internet as: â€Å"The term  Internet  today refers to the global network of public computers running  Internet Protocol. The Internet supports the public  WWW  and many special-purpose client/server software systems. Internet technology also supports many private corporate  intranets  and private home  LANs.† (about, 2011) The human society has been transformed completely with the advent of the internet. Human life before it was devoid of the thought of staying virtually connected to innumerable individuals just by getting connected to a network w=of computers that was nothing more than an obscure network of corporate computers just about a quarter of a century back. Though it started off merely as a very small scale office network today the internet is the biggest network of connecte d computing devices from all over the world that has ever existed. This network is a massive den of information. This information may be related to just about anything and everything. It is an open network and the more users get connected to it via their connecting device the wider it becomes. The connecting devices may either be as small as a mobile phone and may even be as large as a super server computer. Any user can add just about any kind of information over the internet. Only information gathered from reliable resources is authentic and may be referred to others further on. Isao Hiroki mentions internet in his paper in the following words: â€Å"The virtual space of the internet permeates our daily lives and countless new services.† (Hiroki, 2003) For all students and inquisitive learners the internet is an ideal resource. This is because they can find out information regarding just about any of their topics from the internet. All they need to do id to search for the r equired topic by entering its’ prominent words in efficient search engines. These search engines dig throughout authentic (spyware free) web pages and bring out their links as a result. The user can then make use of the massive data retrieval that is at his disposal with the additive advantage of it being free of cost. Evan Charles Sveum (July 2010) mentions Computing and Internet Technology in the following words: â€Å"Computing and Internet technologies (U.S. Department of Labor, 2000) have changed the nature of work and occupations that would allow a person to earn a living.† (Sveum, 2010) The above statement narrates the fact that internet based jobs have been very popular among the public since internet technology has emerged. Besides that the availability of other jobs can also be checked via the internet as many vendors propagate the availability of jobs at their sites via it. Many people can now earn a living by earning over the internet in the form of e-busin ess, writing blogs etc. DQ2-Who owns the data? Privacy and/or security issues are inherent in large databases. Who owns the data about a particular person: medical, credit, personal, financial, consumer information, etc.? Support your position. The question referring to the ownership of data has been existent ever since the launch of databases. The dependence of man on computing machines for transactions related to monetary and personal details cannot be overlooked in this fast paced

Analysis of the Affordable Care Act Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Analysis of the Affordable Care Act - Essay Example Republicans, on the other hand, provided an alternative where employees would buy instead of employers. A stalemate arose and the bill did not pass. Obama introduced the bill again in 2009 and it stipulated a plan that would achieve the needed healthcare plan for the sake of meeting the main ideals of the organization. Universal care was one of the stated goals to assist in pushing the bill into an Act through the two houses (Barr, 2011). Opposition to the bill was overwhelming from Republicans and protests were initiated to fight against its discussion. Voting, however, made the Democrats win by 60-39 vote thereby ending the debate on the bill in December 2009 (McDonough, 2011). Nonetheless, President Obama signed it into an Act on March 2010. Many termed it as the best overhaul of the healthcare system after Medicaid and Medicare (Jacobs & Skocpol, 2010). More people were insured and subsidies lowered costs by 76% for citizens who qualified for subsidies. Insurance companies now had more clients to cater for, but the law was on guard to protect them. More were eligible to Medicaid. The Act reduced the number of uninsured by 32 million, and only 23 million would be uninsured after 2019 (McDonough, 2011). Implementation process was expensive as more people would have to get into the system and the taxpayers had to give more to meet these expenses. Complications also arose as a result of the individual mandate when it comes to the filing of taxes because of the exemption fee offered to those who can afford health coverage (Jacobs & Skocpol, 2010). Options are man but the pricing will differ amongst private companies, and that makes it difficult to equate healthcare everywhere. The tiered healthcare system would only equate healthcare to money, which is damning for the poor. Medicare payments are more for doctors than other payments, making healthcare costlier for the poor (Feldman, 2011). Partisan disagreements in the Congress have made it

Living space in architecture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Living space in architecture - Essay Example The living room as an architectural space has a complete interior design and has undergone renovation of an apartment composed of two floors. The main aim of building this apartment was to bring out a transformation of existing and dark apartments into brighter loft and meanwhile surface a real view elements found in ancient buildings. On the first floor there is a 60 m sq living room. Within the room itself many activities can be done at a go without getting involved into other areas and there is a conception that it is a space that is continuous with the capability of hosting variety of activities. There is staircase made of steel that is situated in a position that produces a transition linking the dining and cooking area. In the above there are walls that are made using satin glass and form a series which attracts natural light to the bathroom and the lower level. A seat is provided by an oak painted gray window bench which enjoys the striking view towards the neighborhoods. It c an also be used as storage cabinets. A sliding door made of nut wood provides a possibility of closing off entrance room from living space. As the inhabitants enjoy cooking, the kitchenette has been stuffed with appliances that are specifically designed for fulfillment of the kitchen needs. On the second floor there is a room for guests and the master bed room. The rooms border each other and are always flexible to adjustment in case of need. They can be joined to serve any other purpose. The bathroom’s location is just in between the master bed room and the guests’ room. ... As the inhabitants enjoy cooking, the kitchenette has been stuffed with appliances that are specifically designed for fulfillment of the kitchen needs. On the second floor there is a room for guests and the master bed room. The rooms border each other and are always flexible to adjustment in case of need. They can be joined to serve any other purpose. The bathroom’s location is just in between the master bed room and the guests’ room. There have been removals of plaster walls that have been into existence with the aim of exposing beams of old roof into view. There is a long closet measuring 11 meters that have designed with its main purpose being for storage and at the same time act as a wardrobe. A colorful closet which has existed there has a purpose of definition of the closet’s height and breaking of long line colored white of the latest furniture. On top of the closet there is light that is not direct that has been placed to put an emphasis on space continui ty. There has been keen choice of the lighting system and designing of indirect light has been done in such a way that various possibilities are created to the place. The plain plinths and doors without frames have been put in place to bring out the perception of sharp and pure surfaces. The floor has been made using bamboo which provides a feeling of warmth upstairs. On the other hand, on the initial floor an epoxy floor that is gray creates a contrast that is balanced with the elements of nut wood. The floor is made of smooth tiles which reflect light into the room through the staircases. This mood creates a relaxed environment which provides a room for social interaction. The ceiling is made of ply wood and moderately high above the floors. This enables the sources of light

Research Project Assignment Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Project Assignment - Research Paper Example There have been varied views on the matter as others support it while others object to the use of identical tests in testing the competency of learners. It has been widely applied in determining the ability of a student to move to the next level. They, especially, measure a student’s ability at mastering given content. States also use the system as required by the federal laws to assess the capability of a student. Educationists have relied on standardized testing because of its perceived objectivity. This method of assessment, however, constrains the real role of leaning. This method of assessment creates an unnecessary competition that pressurizes students to overwork themselves. Research shows that it is unproductive to work under pressure. Students work under pressure in order to avoid the punishment associated with poor performance. This result to anxiety among young children as critical educational decisions are made based on standardized testing. Students end up suffering as the pressure to portray good performance weights heavily on them. Sociologists argue that perceived intellectual abilities closely relate to conception of the self. Students, therefore, who do not manifest relatively high performance, suffer from reduced self worth. The theories of sociologists, such as Emile Durkheim, propose that everyone should receive education. In this view, not only the intelligent students should receive education. This is because every person has entitlement to acquire knowledge. In addition, since education seeks to transform the whole society, eve ry individual should receive the education that is appropriate for living a worthy life. In spite of this complaint, the corporate world blames the education system for not realizing that the outside world is even more demanding than the pressure perceived in schools. In this view, standardized tests should be a means of creating consistency in learners

Movie review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 7

Movie Review Example This is because he tells Alexandria a story about five warriors who were on an epic quest, but continues only after Rose has stolen for him a morphine from one of the dispensaries. As the story continues it changes into reality as all the characters in the story are shown including Alexandria and Roy who are incorporated into the film. The outstanding character in this movie is Alexandria (Catinca Untaru) who is nine years old. She depicts the annoying balance between a hopeless girl and annoying child who misses a parent’s love. Alexandria is fascinating especially the way she struggles to understand Roy. Even though, the movie has many aspects, the most significant aspect of the film is the way the producer has managed to piece all different elements into one big world. The film is conceptually ambitious and stunning visually; it encourages the viewers to invest much interest and how the director managed to use dual narratives shows how he thought about very little details of the film. As the movie advances, the line between fiction and reality becomes thinner as the characters in the Roy’s story are interwoven into reality including Alexandria and Roy themselves. In connection to this, one of the main messages that the director is passing to the audience is that it is possible to create the reality virtually out of anything. In conclusion, since Interior architecture is a combination of the practice and study of architecture with interior design. The film is, therefore, relevant to the field in that the director has managed to piece different elements into one big reality. Looking at the movie it is visually attractive with background colors that are harmonious. In addition, the director has also managed to create a thin line between reality and fiction by integrating Roy and Alexandria into the story that that Roy was telling

Using surveys to conduct research Essay Example for Free

Using surveys to conduct research Essay What are the advantages and disadvantages of using surveys to conduct research?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Surveys have been used as methods of collecting data for as long as can be remembered.   In practically all scientific fields, surveys have proven invaluable in obtaining data that would otherwise be impossible to gather.   As a method of determining certain behavioral aspects of society and man, surveys have also proven to be beneficial to all research in that field.   Yet as with everything in this world, there will always be advantages and disadvantages.    This short discourse will outline the advantages and disadvantages of using surveys to conduct research.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   First of all, the advantage of having a survey is that it allows the researcher to gather more date in a shorter amount of time.   The questions in a survey are able to address a multitude of issues that would require a researcher more amount of time in lieu of a survey.   Aside from the ability to allow access to more information, surveys can be specifically designed to elicit objective responses. This lends to its value in highly quantitative research that deals with hard data instead of non-quantifiable aspects.   In short, surveys are advantageous because they allow the researcher to obtain the information that is required much faster and more efficiently than other sources.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The problem with surveys, however, is that it is difficult to construct an accurate survey that removes biases or false data.   Surveys are prone to providing the wrong information.   Another problem of surveys lies in the fact that it is not as accurate when gathering qualitative aspects or figures.   Opinions or sentiments are very hard to capture and quantify in surveys.   As such, as a method of conducting research, depending on the subject matter involved, surveys can be very disadvantageous.   Surveys may not always represent the mean of every sample.   Surveys must be given accurately in order to obtain an approximate cross section of the sample used.   The disadvantage, therefore, lies in making an accurate survey that will lead to the correct data.

A terribly strange Bed Essay Example for Free

A terribly strange Bed Essay Therefore they are encouraged to read further on. The things, such as chill wind, affect the readers touch sense. All of the senses are appealed to, and therefore the readers are able to feel more involved and believe they are included in the mystery. The 1st person narrative is important in this story because although we have been slightly detached from the story we are not directly involved in the actions but are more of a spectator of the events. We automatically begin to piece together the pieces of the mystery rather than getting involved in the story. We only get the viewpoint of Watson describing Holmes and Helens experience. It is not narrated by a protagonist but by a neutral to the story having no reason to lie or exaggerate as he plays such a small part in the plot. A terribly strange bed is the same genre as the speckled band but Wilkie Collins creates suspense differently to Conan Doyle, for one the main protagonist writes the story and describes his own feelings of whats going on, so we may get a slightly more exaggerated storyline to what actually happened but this just adds to the excitement and tension, also there will be no important information missed out. Wilkie Collins creates tension differently by using MFs naivety of the back streets of Paris to play with the audiences mind, they will be shouting at him to not do what hes doing but because he not street wise he thinks he can go to these casinos and not be in an danger whatsoever. Let us go somewhere where we can see a little poverty stricken gambling He doesnt understand the implications of going to such a place. MF is the perfect victim in this story he is young, rich and also drunk at the time he is gambling, it would be easy for someone like the French soldier to get him under false pretence and then rob him of all his winnings. One of the main differences between these two stories is that in Wilkie Collins story we dont suspect a thing until three quarters into the story, we know that he is susceptible to such doings but we have to suspicion because of how nice everyone is being, its not until the nurse makes the mistake of putting to much sleeping drugs into the coffee that keeps MF awake, we realize the full extent of whats happening to him, we relive the crime as its happening whereas in Conan Doyles story. The crime has already happened an Holmes is trying to solve it therefore it is necessary for him to use a person who is not involved in the story to be a Narrator whereas if Wilkie Collins did this then the story would be a complete failure because we would know he survives, yes there would be an adventure but it wouldnt grab the audiences attention and they wouldnt feel involved in the story. Therefore I think both authors go about creating mystery and tension the best possible way because if they swapped round and Holmes was telling the story then the audience wouldnt want to get involved and the same with a terribly Strange bed Both authors create suspense in their own way that in my opinion are as effective as each other but I felt more eager to turn over the page in The Speckled Band. Also the description of the setting is successful in creating the most suspense, as the use of darkness suggests something is going to happen. We dont find out a lot about the setting in A Terribly Strange Bed but it his little relevance to the story. Show preview only The above preview is unformatted text This student written piece of work is one of many that can be found in our GCSE Arthur Conan Doyle section.

Human Resources Planning In Organizations

Human Resources Planning In Organizations InTroduction Planning is very important to our everyday activities. Several definitions have been given by different writers what planning is all about and its importance to achieving our objectives. It is amazing that this important part of HR is mostly ignored in HR in most organizations because those at the top do not know the value of HR planning. Organizations that do not plan for the future have less opportunities to survive the competition ahead. This article will discuss the importance of HR planning; the six steps of HR planning that is : Forecasting; inventory, audit, HR Resource Plan; Actioning of Plan; Monitoring and Control. Definition of HR Planning Quoting Mondy et (1996) they define it as a systematic analysis of HR needs in order to ensure that correct number of employees with the necessary skills are available when they are required. When we prepare our planning programme, Practitioners should bear in mind that their staff members have their objective they need to achieve. This is the reason why employees seek employment. Neglecting these needs would result in poor motivation that may lead to unnecessary poor performance and even Industrial actions. Importance of Planning Planning is not as easy as one might think because it requires a concerted effort to come out with a programme that would easy your work. Commencing is complicated, but once you start and finish it you have a smile because everything moves smoothly. Planning is a process that have to be commenced form somewhere and completed for a purpose. It involves gathering information that would enable managers and supervisors make sound decisions. The information obtained is also utilized to make better actions for achieving the objectives of the Organization. There are many factors that you have to look into when deciding for an HR Planning programme. HR Planning involves gathering of information, making objectives, and making decisions to enable the organization achieve its objectives. Surprisingly, this aspect of HR is one of the most neglected in the HR field. When HR Planning is applied properly in the field of HR Management, it would assist to address the following questions: How many staff does the Organization have? What type of employees as far as skills and abilities does the Company have? How should the Organization best utilize the available resources? How can the Company keep its employees? HR planning makes the organization move and succeed in the 21st Century that we are in. Human Resources Practitioners who prepare the HR Planning programme would assist the Organization to manage its staff strategically. The programme assist to direct the actions of HR department. The programme does not assist the Organization only, but it will also facilitate the career planning of the employees and assist them to achieve the objectives as well. This augment motivation and the Organization would become a good place to work. HR Planning forms an important part of Management information system. HR have an enormous task keeping pace with the all the changes and ensuring that the right people are available to the Organization at the right time. It is changes to the composition of the workforce that force managers to pay attention to HR planning. The changes in composition of workforce not only influence the appointment of staff, but also the methods of selection, training, compensation and motivation. It becomes very critical when Organizations merge, plants are relocated, and activities are scaled down due to financial problems. Inadequacy of HR Planning Poor HR Planning and lack of it in the Organization may result in huge costs and financial looses. It may result in staff posts taking long to be filled. This augment costs and hampers effective work performance because employees are requested to work unnecessary overtime and may not put more effort due to fatigue. If given more work this may stretch them beyond their limit and may cause unnecessary disruptions to the production of the Organization. Employees are put on a disadvantage because their live programmes are disrupted and they are not given the chance to plan for their career development. The most important reason why HR Planning should be managed and implemented is the costs involved. Because costs forms an important part of the Organizations budget, workforce Planning enable the Organization to provide HR provision costs. When there is staff shortage, the organization should not just appoint discriminately, because of the costs implications of the other options, such as training and transferring of staff, have to be considered. Steps in HR Planning Forecasting HR Planning requires that we gather data on the Organizational goals objectives. One should understand where the Organization wants to go and how it wants to get to that point. The needs of the employees are derived from the corporate objectives of the Organization. They stern from shorter and medium term objectives and their conversion into action budgets (eg) establishing a new branch in New Dehli by January 2006 and staff it with a Branch Manager (6,000 USD, Secretary 1,550 USD, and two clerical staff 800 USD per month. Therefore, the HR Plan should have a mechanism to express planned Company strategies into planned results and budgets so that these can be converted in terms of numbers and skills required. Inventory After knowing what human resources are required in the Organization, the next step is to take stock of the current employees in the Organization. The HR inventory should not only relate to data concerning numbers, ages, and locations, but also an analysis of individuals and skills. Skills inventory provides valid information on professional and technical skills and other qualifications provided in the firm. It reveals what skills are immediately available when compared to the forecasted HR requirements. Audit We do not live in a static World and our HR resources can transform dramatically. HR inventory calls for collection of data, the HR audit requires systematic examination and analysis of this data. The Audit looks at what had occured in the past and at present in terms of labor turn over, age and sex groupings, training costs and absence. Based on this information, one can then be able to predict what will happen to HR in the future in the Organization. HR Resource Plan Here we look at career Planning and HR plans. People are the greatest asserts in any Organization. The Organization is at liberty to develop its staff at full pace in the way ideally suited to their individual capacities. The main reason is that the Organizations objectives should be aligned as near as possible, or matched, in order to give optimum scope for the developing potential of its employees. Therefore, career planning may also be referred to as HR Planning or succession planning. The questions that should concern us are: Are we making use of the available talent we have in the Organization, and have we an enough provision for the future? Are employees satisfied with our care of their growth in terms of advancing their career? Assignment of individuals to planned future posts enable the administration to ensure that these individuals may be suitably prepared in advance. Actioning of Plan There are three fundamentals necessary for this first step. Know where you are going. There must be acceptance and backing from top management for the planning. There must be knowledge of the available resources (i.e) financial, physical and human (Management and technical). Once in action, the HR Plans become Corporate plans. Having been made and concurred with top management, the plans become a part of the companys long-range plan. Failure to achieve the HR Plans due to cost, or lack of knowledge, may be a serious constraints on the long-range plan. Below is an illustration of how HR Plan is linked to corporate Plan. The link between HR Plan and Strategic Management STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT -> HR PLANNING Æ’Â   STRATEGIC PLAN Organizational goals Values Organizational goals Strong and weak parts Mission Strong weak points Opportunities and threats Goals and Priorities Opportunities threats Sources of Competitive advantage Resource Allocations Source of Competitive advantage Identify People related matters Define HR strategies, Implement Hr Processes Goals plans Policy Practices HUMAN RESOURCES PLANNING Bohlander et as (2001) Monitoring and Control. This is the last stage of HR planning in the Organization. Once the programme has been accepted and implementation launched, it has to be controlled. HR department has to make a follow up to see what is happening in terms of the available resources. The idea is to make sure that we make use of all the available talents that are at our disposal failure of which we continue to struggle to get to the top. Do you have an HR Plan in action? Let us all check where we are working and see whether there is really a Human Resource Plan. If its not available, let use try to develop one and you would see how you will make a difference. It is quite true that HR plan is the basis of Human Resources Management. If we do not know how to develop it, then we are not doing an services to our Organizations and our impact will not be felt in the management pool. Human resource planning has traditionally been used by organizations to ensure that the right person is in the right job at the right time. Under past conditions of relative environmental certainty and stability, human resource planning focused on the short term and was dictated largely by line management concerns. Increasing environmental instability, demographic shifts, changes in technology, and heightened international competition are changing the need for and the nature of human resource planning in leading organizations. Planning is increasingly the product of the interaction between line management and planners. In addition, organizations are realizing that in order to adequately address human resource concerns, they must develop long-term as well as shortterm solutions. As human resource planners involve themselves in more programs to serve the needs of the business, and even influence the direction of the business, they face new and increased responsibilities and challenges. In an early treatment of the topic, Vetter (1967) defined human resource planning as the process by which management determines how the organization should move from its current manpower position to its desired position. Through planning, management strives to have the right number and the right kinds of people, at the right places, at the right time, doing things which result in both the organization and the individual receiving maximum long-run benefits. (p. 15) Contemporary human resource planning occurs within the broad context of organizational and strategic business planning. It involves forecasting the organizations future human resource needs and planning for how those needs will be met. It includes establishing objectives and then developing and implementing programs (staffing, appraising, compensating, and training) to ensure that people are available with the appropriate characteristics and skills when and where the organization needs them. It may also involve developing and implementing programs to improve employee performance or to increase employee satisfaction and involvement in order to boost organizational productivity, quality, or innovation (Mills, 1 985b). Finally, human resource planning includes gathering data that can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing programs and inform planners when revisions i n their forecasts and programs are needed. Because a major objective of planning is facilitating February 1990 à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ American Psychologist Copyright 1990 by the American Psychological Association, Inc. 0003.066X/90/$00.75 Vol. 45, No. 2, 223-239 Human Resource Planning Challenges for Industrial/Organizational Psychologists Susan E. Jackson and Randall S. Schuler New York University an organizations effectiveness, it must be integrated with the organizations short-term and longer term business objectives and plans. Increasingly this is being done in leading organizations, although in the past business needs usually defined personnel needs and human resource planning, which meant that planning became a reactive process. The reactive nature of the process went handin-hand with a short-term orientation. Now, major changes in business, economic, and social environments are creating uncertainties that are forcing organizations to integrate business planning with human resource planning and to adopt a longer term perspective. For example, according to Kathryn Connors, vice president of human resources at Liz Claiborne, Human resources is part of the strategic (business) planning process. Its part of policy development, line extension planning and the merger and acquisition processes. Little is done-in the company that doesnt involve us in the planning, policy or finalization stages of any deal. (cited in Lawrence, 1989, p. 70) John OBrien, vice president of human resources at Digital Equipment Corporation, describes an integrated linkage between business and human resource plans as one by which human resource and line managers work jointly to develop business plans and determine human resource needs, analyze the work force profile in terms of future business strategies, review emerging human resource issues, and develop programs to address the issues and support the business plans. According to OBrien, such joint efforts occur when human resource planners convince corporate business planners that human resources HRM is the legal liason between the organization and the employees,they are to uphold the employment and safety laws (osha, and civil rights act) as well as follow the practices, which may differ within federal guidelines, that the employer authorizes. Corporations are always searching for better ways to produce goods and services. When new technological developments give some organizations a competitive advantage, their rivals try to catch up by adopting and improving on the new technologies. Ford has put many of Toyotas technical advances to work in its own plants, and General Motors has spent over $50 billion in the last decade to modernize its production facilities to develop skills in flexible manufacturing. A large part of this growth is the Human Resources department of these companies, who are responsible for hiring the people with the knowledge to bring new technology into a company. To be successful in the automotive market, these companies needs a highly skilled, flexible and committed work force, a flexible and innovative management, the ability to retain developed talent, and a strong partnership between management and labor unions. To achieve these goals, the company needs a talented HR department. Besides hiring the right people to manage and perform specific jobs, HR managers have to build up commitment and loyalty among the workforce by keeping them up to date about company plans, and laying out the implications for job security and working conditions. Such was the case when I worked at Velco. From the interview process to my exit interview at the end of the summer, the HR department was every employees main connection between the production floor and the upper management. The HR department kept us informed via bi-weekly meetings, a company newsletter, and bulletin-board postings throughout the plant. Whenever a question arose, instead of asking middle-management, an employee could go straight to the HR rep they were assigned to. From my experiences, it seemed like the HR reps knew everything there was to know about the company and how it is run. And I found that to be a very valuable asset. I imagine the same takes place at large corporations around the world, be it Velcro or General Motors. The backbone of any successful company is the HR department, and without a talented group of people to hire, culture, and inform employees, the company is doomed for failure.

The Role of Instructional Technology in Change Management Essay

The Role of Instructional Technology in Change Management Businesses change processes and personnel to remain competitive. Essentially their bottom line is profit and efficiency. Change management can be described as implementing new ideas and processes by maximizing the positive components and minimizing the negative to management, employees, and customers (Anonymous, 1999, p. 76). There are many variables to consider when implementing a new process to an organization. This paper will focus on successful change management strategies and its significance to instructional technology. A majority of all change management projects are systems driven. "Aggressive companies are accelerating deployment of strategic business applications to achieve market dominance" (Fournier, 1999, p. a10). For example, an organization develops a new computer interface in order to help serve customers more effectively and efficiently. With the new system, employees have access to more account information that, in turn, requires less follow up time, and the customers’ request is handled faster. Furthermore, this new system will support new business initiatives that are scheduled in the near future. Change and configuration management strategies are necessary "†¦to ensure system reliability" (Fournier, 1999, p. a10). Configuration management is defined as "†¦the IT process concerned with identifying, documenting, controlling, and tracking the configuration of interrelated IT components, at discrete points in time, throughout the development or maintenance life cycles" (F ournier, 1999, p. a10). Moreover IT components are also known as configuration items, comprise "†¦a variety of interdependent software, hardware, and networking components" (Fournier, ... ...way’(Laabs, 1999, p. 48). References Anonymous. (1999, February). Zambia seminar on change management. ManagementAccounting-London, 77 (2), 76. Buchanan, D., Claydon, T., & Doyle, M. (1999). Organisation development and change: The legacy of the nineties. Human Resource Management Journal, 9 (2), 20-36. Elam, D., & Meyland, S. (1998, November). You play like you practice. Inform, 12 (10), 42-43. Ettore, B. (1999, May). Change management. Management Review, 88 (5), 8. Fournier, R. (1999, March 22). Keep your apps in top shape. Informationweek, 726, a10-a22. Hibbard, J. (1998, March 9). The learning revolution. Informationweek, 672, 44-60. Laabs, J. (1998, November). Show them where you’re headed. Workforce, 77 (11), 45-48. Wilbur, R., A. (1999, March). Making changes the right way. Workforce, (Workforce Extra Supplement), 12-13.

Igbo Government and Social Structure :: Essays Papers

Igbo Government and Social Structure Details of traditional Igbo government and social structure varied from place to place throughout the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, but its characteristic nature remained the same. The basic unit of Igbo life was the village group, and the most universal institution was the role of the family head. This was usually the oldest man of the oldest surviving generation. His role primarily involved settling family disputes, and because he controlled the channel of communication with the all-important ancestors, he commanded great respect and reverence. In some areas the government of chiefs and elders was composed of a governing age grade, in others the council of elders was made up of the oldest members of particular families. Titles played a major part in this society. There was a hierarchy of ascending titles that were to be taken in order, accompanied by an ascending scale of payments. The system acted as a simple form of social security, in that those who acquired titles paid a particular fee, and then were entitled to share in the payments of those who later acquired titles. A series of intense rituals were to be undertaken before acquiring a title, which was considered a symbol of character as well as of success. A titled man’s life was dominated by numerous religious restrictions, and it was expected that these would be strictly adhered to. A few Igbo states, such as Aboh and Onitsha, which had a tradition of origin from elsewhere, were ruled by kings, which were regarded as sacred and lived in ritual seclusion. However, the decisions taken by these kings were by no means final, they were often challenged and overruled by other titled men with whom they were required to consult. In general, h owever, kingship was an unfamiliar concept to the majority of Igbos. A political institution that was widespread but not universal was that of the age-grade. Each age-grade was responsible for specific areas of community service, and this often promoted rivalry between the groups. This was actually a valuable instrument of social control, in that in order to preserve the good name of their age-group, its members became involved in disciplining and restraining those who tended to cause trouble within the community. Secret societies were also an instrument of social control. Their members would appear at night, masked, in the guise of supernatural beings. Any offenders in the community would be denounced.

Minimum Profit Possible Made on Drinks in Different Climates :: Profit Consumerism Sales Essays

Minimum Profit Possible Made on Drinks in Different Climates Create the minimum profit possible using the predicted amount of how many hot and cold drink would be sold in different weather climates and the price limits for the two drinks as provided in the ICT booklet. Evaluation Task 5 ================= Holly Grove High School Price Pledge Model ------------------------------------------ For this task, I needed to (as stated in the ICT booklet) create the minimum profit possible using the predicted amount of how many hot and cold drink would be sold in different weather climates and the price limits for the two drinks as provided in the ICT booklet. I used the formulas that I knew to calculate totals on the Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and thus to create the minimum profit. I had to ensure that my minimum profit did not go lower than 0 for this would mean that I would not be able to pay for costs such as Programme printing and public address system etc. Now, I am going to evaluate my work going through what was incorrect with each attempt I also did not read the instructions properly and failed to respond to the fact that the hot drinks should either be  £0.55 or  £0.60, therefore the total profit result is completely and I needed to revise the model completely. I choose the cold drink prices because when it was a cold weather climate the cold drink profit was going to be small as people prefer hot drinks in this weather climate, whereas on a hot day, the hot drink profit is going to small, as people prefer cold drinks in this weather climate. Using the correct instructions, my profits decreased rapidly. 40% of the profits were the final profits, which I would use for my final model, however the total profit for the hot weather climate was very high compared to the other profits, which were all under  £4.00. The profits for the warm climate and the mild climate were both below  £1.50, however I checked that they could not go any lower by decreasing the cold drink price by  £0.01 to  £0.53 and  £0.54, however the profits went into the minus numbers. For my third attempt, I decreased the profit for the hot weather

Employee Volunteer Program Essay

Employee volunteer program is a major part of the Corporate Citizenship profile that has become an intrinsic agenda of many successful companies, who understand the value of community service and are ready to contribute their resources in its various forms to such gesture. This is because the importance of employee development is overwhelming: it extends to the company, the employee and the community in which the program is launched. This concept of employee volunteer program describes a situation a company sets a mission statement and proposes goals with a view to contributing to the community in which they live, by getting their employee involved in charity, giving, and community services. These seeming philanthropic activities are targeted at a particular community, usually that which the company serves with its products and services. This agenda is an indispensable program for excellent companies: it is important because it contributes to the Corporate Citizenship Outlook of the company which is promoted among the members of such community. A detailed look at the benefits of the plan has made intelligent company leaders and boards to incorporate it into their company’s mission statement. Really, the importance of corporate social responsibility can not be overemphasized. The benefits are enormous: it is a win-win situation for all. The employees, if well incorporated into the agenda, are strengthened in human relationships, and there is increased employee loyalty. Loyalty is fast promoted when the program recognizes, acknowledges and duly appreciates employee contribution to the company. The company social image is promoted because of such programs. It increases its ability to penetrate the society, and convince it of its products or services; it also makes the organization ‘ a good corporate citizen’. Communities benefit directly from the program: there is associated development. A section of the society is improved through the charity, giving and other forms the program could have taken. Everyone smiles home. And this impact makes the community another marketable centre for the organization, and an extension of its advertising unit. Its benefits outweigh its costs. However, those are also very important as it makes a decision to incorporate such a balanced one: the financial implications are enormous since it is usually a charity parade. This is one of the major costs that the company battles with. It is only with effective communication that employees see the need for it; otherwise, it won’t achieve it set goals. This implies that companies should be ready to create a viable structure for it, fund such and promote it even to the employees that would be involved. Since it is a volunteer, it stands the risk of non-compliance if this structure and communication are not in place. However, employee volunteer program promotes the Company, its employee and the community served. It is a good agenda for a corporate social responsibility.

Tourist Satisfaction Towards Tourist Facilities

Tourism sector has become the third largest source of income from foreign exchange in Malaysia and Melaka is one of the most significant tourism destinations in Malaysia. Tourism sector has helped Malaysia in many ways. Some of the positive sides are that it helps to increase Malaysian quality of life, and promote Malaysia as a fine and save country to visit. As a world class tourism destination nominated by UNESCO in 2008, Melaka has served many tourists throughout the world. Since 2008, many of the study done were focused on heritage conservation and culture appreciation. A study of service quality is important in order to learn on tourists’ satisfaction towards tourists’ facilities. In tourism management, tourists’ facilities are essential to gain tourists’ loyalty, trust and satisfaction. Based on the survey and evaluation, the basis for recommendation and improvements can be allocated for upgrading the physical plan. This research therefore focuses on international tourists’ satisfaction on tourists’ facilities and Melaka has been chosen as the case study. This research’s objectives is (a) to identify tourism facilities needed by the tourist in Dutch Heritage Trail, Melaka. (b) to determine tourists satisfaction levels on tourism facilities. (c) to identify the issues related to tourism facilities. (d) to recommend possible improvements to improve the tourism facilities. This research analysed the current tourists’ satisfaction towards tourists’ facilities in Melaka Heritage Sites. To do so, 100 sets of questionnaire were distributed among the international tourist in Melaka who has experience tourists’ facilities for the purpose of data collection. The data collected were further analysed by carry out Relative Important Index (RII) and spearman test. The results shows that tourists were unsatisfied in certain tourists’ facilities existed despite the fact that Melaka Heritage Sites is the one of the significant tourism destinations in Malaysia. Besides, the results also revealed that there is significant relationship between some of the respondents groups and satisfaction level of tourists’ facilities. Some of the issues identified in this research were cleanliness, pedestrians, quality of information given to tourists and money changes or ATM machines are taken into consideration. Therefore, several suggestions and recommendations were formulated to enhance the existing service quality of tourists’ facilities based on the respondents’ feedback.

High School Compared to the University Essay

High school and university are two important levels of every education’s foundation in the world. It educates students and gives them the knowledge to help them promote their ability position in the future. The first similarity thing is both of them, high school and university, have the same purpose and benefits. Students in high school and university will be educated by teacher through giving them more knowledge not only from text books but also from teacher’s experiences, training them how to improve their skill in learning and help them to take form their personality. The second thing, also similar, is the structure. Every grade has different kind of knowledge to study, but the first year is usually more general than the last year which is the busiest time in student’s life for difficult exams, good scores, and working hard for graduation. However, there are also many obvious differences between high school and university. Teaching styles in high school are obviously different from those in university. Teachers in high schools teach detailed knowledge and facts step by step. They guide students attentively. Also, teachers in high school usually take time to remind students of assignments and the date of tests. In contrast, instructors in university go through the textbooks quickly. They prepare a syllabus distributing and discussing it in the first day of class. Therefore, students should follow the syllabus without reminding about assignments or exams. With the change of teaching styles, students have to adjust their learning strategies. After understanding, students in high school not only memorize the content in textbooks, but refer to ready-made notes which are organized by teachers. All they need to do is study diligently. Because of it, they lack the opportunities to think by themselves. Unlike high school, students in university need to learn how to organize and arrange the big amounts of materials by themselves. Also, analyzing the information and brainstorming are essential abilities. Furthermore, high school students are somewhat more passive than university students. They usually depend on patient and hard-working teachers. On the contrary, university students need to study spontaneously. The last difference is the attendance polices. In High School the teachers are always on students about attendance. They probably call their parents and let them know if the students miss classes. On the contrary, in university the teachers do not care whether or not students are in class. It means that if students are not there, they are going to get a failing grade. So they have to be responsible to succeed. In conclusion, high school and university prepare students to think independently and critically.

Africa †Genetically modified food Essay

Genetically modified food (GM food) is crop, plants or just food are created by using the latest molecular biology techniques in laboratories to have the desired traits such as resistance to pesticides and many more. For a period of 10 years, between 1995 and 2005, the amount of land cultivated with Genetically Modified Organisms had increased from 4. 2 million acres to 222 million acres. In 2003, the countries that grew 99% of the world’s genetically modified food were the following countries-In the United States of America. South Africa, the only country in Africa which accommodates the production of genetically modified food has the least in the world with only 1% of their food modified. These food may appear to be poisonous to the human health because there is no proof or what so ever that they are safe either to the environment or to human health. If genetically modified food is really dangerous to human health than the United States of America will have a big problem for the next coming years. GENERAL INFORMATION ON GENETICAL MODIFIED FOOD. My research on genetically modified food shows no signs that a thorough investigation has been done on the safety of humans to them. Hagelin, J. , (2000) a PhD physicist said that there has never been a single study on the safety of humans to genetically modified food and thus all implications on these products are just fabricated. Chances are some unknown illnesses are caused by genetically modified food but since there has never been some sort of research towards them, one cannot say whether they are safe or not. Dr.Lemaux, P. , (2000) said that she could not elaborate the safety of genetically modified food because there is no proof or study to secure the health of humans. But looking back in the history of science, many examples lead to the risk of human beings and the environment. Most chances are that genetically modified foods are not safe for humans. We have many diseases that the causes are unknown recently, but because no study has been made on these products I believe that some of the unknown diseases are caused by them. Good and evil are moral choices humans are free to make. As applied to technology, these moral choices present great opportunities and great dangers (Whitman, D. B). Whether you choose to consume genetically modified food or not there are still more advantages and disadvantages to it like people claim that there is at the present moment. Other philosophers like George, S. , (1987) a senior follower at Transnational Institute of Amsterdam believe that genetically modified food is the answer to ending hunger especially in African countries and other parts of Asia. She said that these products are the new strategies of food for the future since we have a high population and non-fertile soil in some parts of the world, genetically modified food can be given special traits and abilities to grow in harsh areas or to adapt to that particular environment and grow. She included that if more countries in Africa could accept genetically modified food, more people will not die of hunger, but it will increase the food production. But since there is only one country in Africa that has allowed genetically modified food which is South Africa, solutions of feeding the rest of Africa are very small, more and more people will still struggle to feed themselves on daily basis leading to death. One of the aspects that George Susan (1987) included about genetically modified food is that she believes without genetically modified food there would be a lot of shortage of food to cater for the whole world. Take for instance China. China has the largest population in the world that it is said if the all jump up at once the world could experience the most enormous earthquake ever experienced on Earth. The government could did not have enough natural resources to be able to feed the whole country so they passed on a new law that every woman should have a maximum of 2 children, then after that she would be sterilised. That was because the population was very high that there was not enough food for everyone and again that is why most of them eat almost anything that can be consumed without harming the body. In Africa the situation is worse that there aren’t enough animals available and most of the people are illiterate and cannot strategise, but the worse factor is political issues. GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOOD AS PANACEA Genetically modified food are resistant to pests so there is no need of a pesticides or poisonous chemicals to be sprayed on them. Since fewer chemicals will be used in the process of growing these plants it is very good for the environment because it won’t be exposed to soil erosion, land pollution and most important eutrophication. Since pests cannot feed on genetically modified foods, no crops will go to waste. Farmers will be able to reach their maximum sales because nothing will go to waste. It also solves hunger problems especially in disadvantaged countries. It has been agreed that there is no enough food for the whole world to feed everybody. With genetically modified food a high yield of crops can be reached and therefore more crops are produced by farmers. Genetically modified food can be grown anywhere in the world, at any time and condition and other genetically modified food can be engineered to contain important vitamins and minerals. (Want to know it 2012). Consecol (2000) included that genetically modified foods increase opportunities for reduced tillage systems, it kills fewer non target organisms. GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOOD AS POISON They kill non targeted caterpillars and butterflies such as monarchs. It is also said that genetically modified food causes new viruses and risky side effects to human health. (Consecol, 2000). Some of the endangered species are believed to be affected by these products and can cause enormous change in the eco-system. Whitman, D. B., (April 2000) believes that in the next 50 years, governments would have to feed over 12 billion people per day which can be pretty impossible if there is no new solution to the lack of food to feed the whole world. So far the only solution to feed the whole world is genetically modified foods. She also said that genetically modified food has greater dangers than advantages. Genetically modified technology will not eliminate hunger and malnutrition because dysfunctional governments and economies create problems with production, access and distribution of food. Flawed policies, greed and incompetence will always keep some people in ignorance and poverty. (Whitman, D. B. , April 2000) Want to know it (2012) site included that genetically modified food may have an everlasting effect on other organisms in the ecosystem; completely changing other plants and may cause it to be toxic to insects and animals that use plants as their source of food. The spread of insect resistant genes in crops may lead to insects being resistant to the genetic modified plants. This would cause a widespread loss of crops and plants that have the natural immunity leading to a loss of biodiversity. Cancer. Genetically modified foods share certain toxic effects on the liver, pancreas, kidneys and reproductive system that may cause cancer in these organs, according to a Greek study (February 2009) â€Å"Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition. † The widespread use of recombinant growth hormone — a genetically modified substance — in the agricultural industry is associated with increases in IGF-1, a growth hormone that, in excess quantities, can lead to cancer. Allergies Allergic reactions to genetically modified foods may arise due to the presence of proteins derived from the plant or animal used to modify the food, according to a U. S.study for genetically modified food Toxicological Sciences (July 2009). Current safety standards involve evaluation of the foreign proteins for allergenic potential, and a database of known allergenic proteins has been compiled, along with computer programs for assessing potential allergenicity of proteins. Additionally, animal and non-animal testing methods are being developed to assist in the process of screening for allergenicity. PEOPLE’S OPINIONS More and more people around the world are starting to reject genetically modified food. At first most people did support them but as time goes by more and more of them decided to go organic. Below is a graph of the statistics on the percentage of how many people agreed that genetically modified food will bring benefits to them and those who didn’t in different years. (Choice. com) CONCLUSION Genetically modified food seems to be solving our current problems with food. With these crops governments are able to feed everyone. Only African countries excluding South Africa still has problems with genetically modified food which is why most of these countries are still struggling to feed their people. Health issues are still questionable towards genetically modified food thus one cannot be sure whether they are safe or not. Personally I think more investigation should be done on the safety of these crops and if there is some sort of effects to the environment and human health, they should be prevented before they cause a greater damage than what we are facing now. BIBLIOGRAPHY George, S. 1987. Food strategies for tomorrow. Ed 6. New York: Beverly Tangri the Hunger Project. Roizman, T. 2010. Disadvantages of genetically modified foods [online]. Available at: www. livingstrong. com/article/34554-d:ofgeneticallymodifiedfood. [Accessed on 19/05/2012]. Snyder, M. 1990. Women: the key to ending hunger. New York: Beverly Tangri the Hunger Project. Want to know it. 2012. Advantages of genetically modified foods [online]. Available at: www. wanttoknowit. com [Accessed on 19/05/2012]. Want to know it. 2012. Disadvantages of genetically modified foods [online]. Available at: www. wanttoknowit. com [Accessed on 19/05/2012]. Genetically modified food: poison or panacea. Choice. 2009. Benefits in future- doubts on biotech today [online]. Available at: www. choice. com . [accessed on 21/05/2012] Genetically modified food poison or panacea. 2011. [online DVD]. United States of America. Directed by Shore, J.

Accounting Theory Effect on Positive Approach to Accounting Research

The positive approach to accounting research has examined in this research. This research is intended to done to find out the causes and effect on positive approach to accounting research. In the context of accounting this research is done to find out the cause for the cause of face to face interaction is replaced by in-personal behaviors for making various decisions. The ontological and epistemological assumptions to find out the significance of positive accounting research, for this purpose the various empirical studies has been done in order to find out the significance of positive accounting theory (Zmijewsk,2012). The main argument that can be discussed to critic includes the ontology and epistemology of positive research, the theoretical model has discussed, measurement to test the theoretical model, shifting from testing to estimation of hypothesis, there is need of data archives for measuring important concept and finally the extensive replication needed. The author of the study has claimed Positive Accounting Theory for conducting his related research. The paper is emphasizing on the broader view with the intention to develop the casual concept explaining the behavior of human in accounting setting other than the exist example. The examination of this program is based on ontology and epistemology. The rationale of measurable theory testing, while externally practically equivalent to Popper's misrepresentation basis, is substantially weaker. The program which has been used in the research is potentially powerful, the major problems that had identified in the research are the casual construction for the model to be tested, the undue reliance on hypothesis test logic has determined, lack of interest has identified in the parameter of the numerical values, the insufficient amount of replication has recognized, and the decision are based on the qualitative approach for examination   rather to be tested on the basis of quantitative appro ach. Several of the good empirical studies has considered for the Illustration purpose (Chen, 2013). In accounting a positive approach is currently focused, in order to achieve the scientific objectives. Since the Kuhn’s portrayal of normal sciences has fits into the great positive accounting research. The probabilities are quickly talked about Kuhnian upheaval and crises to accomplish its potential which may be free of positive accounting. The research question has been formed as per according to the stated hypothesis in the given article which are stated as follows: Does there is the world exist which is independent to our imagination? Does the events are completely random or intervention of the world itself? Does the focus of intellectual enquiry is to use the observation which helps to gain the world’s understanding? Does the normal people are fairly obtaining the reliable information about world’s event? The author of the study has a keen focused on the events that has been occurred eventually or on interventional basis. The author’s stated hypothesis and research questions are followed by literature review which is based on the positive accounting theories and its related issues. The critics are done on the main points that has represented by the author of the study which is based on ontology and epistemology of positive research and its falsification and hypothesis testing. The author of the study said that positive accounting theory is a trademark term, it means that as compared to the other particular theories the positive research is found broader. After studying the empirical studies it has found an argumentative point that in differ types of organization the concept of accounting is are the main caused behind the self-interest of many parties that interact with one and other through express and implied contract. This is the factor which is not only encouraged by the organization’s manger but the decision is also made by the regulator and other expert of academics (Huber, 2014). The author of the study said that these decisions are useful to the organization but rationally it is not linked with positive accounting theory. From the second empirical studied the author of the study is found to be in the support of the discussion, the author of the study has said that about 80% of the rational behavior is correct, but the examination might not be done on the exact basis. Its need to be concerned that without getting assuming the rational behavior how it could be possible for auditors to make judgments. From the empirical study it has been elaborated that the positive accounting theory are not found more border then positive accounting research. The causes which are defined due to the non-rational aspect of psychology of humans qualify positive which is considered as the scientific accounting research (Cato, 2016). According to the author of study it is presented that it is not necessary that all researches are qualified for the circumstances that positive accounting research   don’t find similar to the scientific accounting research. Some of the open question pursue under interpretive research.   It has been found in the study that human rationality is socially- constructed therefore they cannot observe the world of its own circumstances, the description of other participant is also involve. It has been raised as an argumentative discussion that the program that has been constructing with the aim to fulfill the objectives is because of the accounting futile phenomena. It has been said in the argumentative discussion to the point that how advocated is the interpretive study of the presumptions of positive look (Bhaskar, 2013). The socially built nature of the truth is not an insuperable issue: termite hills and wolf packs are socially developed, yet are passably agreeable to logical review. Interpretive evaluates contend that "people are distinctive," yet that is at present a matter of attestation instead of exact confirmation: we basically don't comprehend what lived encounters and shared implications go into the social development of a wolf pack (Lucas, 2014). According to the author of the study it has been found that the proper criteria of the research are needed to be evaluated. The collection of data should be done by the evolvement of many scientific researches. A researcher needs to be well focused while evaluating whether to choose qualitative technique or quantitative techniques for conducting research. The author if the study stated that the accumulation of data can be suggested by sine other inductively but the author also defined that the induction is not the only possibility that make the theory correct. The author stated that the any kind of induction cannot be able to prove the theory. From the other empirical study it has found that the author is in the support the logic over the acceptance of various theories that evolved over the centuries and the popper is the base of understanding. Working regular researchers, when they consider logic of science by any stretch of the imagination, have a tendency to acknowledge Popper's p ortrayal as genuinely near what they do. Fundamentally, the system might be abridged as takes after: (b) Develop a formal hypothesis, with testable expectations, that is reliable with all present important and solid experimental proof. The expectations require not be quantitative, but rather quantitative expectations are favored where conceivable in light of the fact that they are more powerless to distortion. (c) Test the expectations of the new hypothesis against new perceptions in circumstances where the new and old speculations make diverse expectations. Dismiss whichever hypothesis comes up short the test, once the result is clear (so that observational mistakes, for instance, can't drive the outcome). (d) Repeat steps (b) and (c) until the end of time The author of the study said in the argumentative way that numerous sciences are to a great extent or entirely quantitative, and sciences frequently move toward becoming more quantitative as they develop. Be that as it may, there are numerous respectable subjective sciences, (for example, plant science, geography and zoology); and some effective speculations, (for example, Darwin's hypothesis of development) are simply qualitative.16 It is a typical mix-up in the sociologies to expect that positive and quantitative research are the same, prompting significant perplexity in considering inquire about which is sure however subjective. The author from the other empirical studies supported a point in favors by stated as or, on the other hand all the relapse based reviews, what amount do we truly know concerning how reviewers, themselves, value a review? How do they decide a delicate offer and what recognizes the conduct also, introduction systems of review accomplices or firms with higher achievement rates in winning review tenders? What number of review firms values their reviews utilizing broad/point by point relapse conditions? The author of the study found that the positive accounting theory is useful if the circumstances will focused significantly. It has found that the positive accounting theories are providing a base to demonstrate that target objective of accounting is achieved more efficiently by the implications of correct theory model. It has been analyzed that there is a need to focus on the quantitative approach as well instead of only making their focus strong on the qualitative measurement. The program that has been used in the research is seems potentially powerful.   The positive approach is found useful for the organization in order to archive the target goals of accounting effectively.   The author of the study found that the correct use of model and principle are essential for achieving the stated accounting goals. The limitations while conducting the research includes the limitation of time and cost. The limitation is faced while distributing the questionnaire. The biasness also occurred from the researcher’s side and it is totally unavoidable. The research is done in with the very limited scope because of the limited time frame. The answer of some question is not fully understandable there must be lackness in answering some questions. The margin of error is always associated. The positive way to deal with accounting research has inspected in this exploration. This exploration is planned to done to discover the causes and impact on positive way to deal with accounting research. With regards to accounting this examination is done to discover the reason for the reason for eye to eye connection is swapped by in-individual practices for settling on different choices. The ontological and epistemological suppositions to discover the criticalness of positive accounting research, for this reason the different exact reviews has been done with a specific end goal to discover the hugeness of positive accounting hypothesis (Zmijewsk,2012). The fundamental contention that can be talked about to faultfinder incorporates the metaphysics and epistemology of positive research, the hypothetical model has examined, estimation to test the hypothetical model, moving from testing to estimation of speculation, there is need of information documents for measuring imperative idea lastly the broad replication required. The creator of the review has guaranteed Positive Accounting Theory for directing his related research. The paper is stressing on the more extensive view with the aim to build up the easygoing idea clarifying the conduct of human in accounting setting other than the exist case. The examination of this program depends on philosophy and epistemology. The method of reasoning of quantifiable hypothesis testing, while remotely essentially proportional to Popper's distortion premise, is considerably weaker. The program which has been utilized as a part of the exploration is possibly intense, the real issues that had distinguished in the exploration are the easygoing development for the model to be tried, the undue dependence on speculation test rationale has decided, absence of intrigue has distinguished in the parameter of the numerical qualities, the inadequate measure of replication has perceived, and the choice depend on the subjective approach f or examination rather to be tried on the premise of quantitative approach. A few of the great exact reviews has considered for the Illustration reason (Chen, 2013). In accounting a positive approach is right now engaged, with a specific end goal to accomplish the logical destinations. Since the Kuhn's depiction of ordinary sciences has fits into the considerable positive accounting research. The probabilities are immediately discussed Kuhnian change and emergencies to fulfill its potential which might be free of positive accounting. Zmijewski, Mark E., and Robert L. Hagerman. "An income strategy approach to the positive theory of accounting standard setting/choice."  Journal of accounting and Economics  3, no. 2 (1981): 129-149. Chen, W., Hribar, P., & Melessa, S. (2016). Two-stage regression analysis and biased estimates in accounting research: An application of the Frisch-Waugh-Lovell theorem. Ecker, F. (2016). Review of Recent Research on Improving Earnings Forecasts and Evaluating Accounting?based Estimates of the Expected Rate of Return on Equity Capital. Discussion of Easton and Monahan.  Abacus,  52(1), 59-69. Beattie, V. (2014). Accounting narratives and the narrative turn in accounting research: Issues, theory, methodology, methods and a research framework.  The British Accounting Review,  46(2), 111-134. Christensen, H. B., Lee, E., Walker, M., & Zeng, C. (2015). Incentives or standards: What determines accounting quality changes around IFRS adoption?.  European Accounting Review,  24(1), 31-61. Miller, G. S., & Skinner, D. J. (2015). The evolving disclosure landscape: How changes in technology, the media, and capital markets are affecting disclosure.  Journal of Accounting Research,  53(2), 221-239. Casey, R. J., & Grenier, J. H. (2014). Understanding and contributing to the enigma of corporate social responsibility (CSR) assurance in the United States.  Auditing: A Journal of Practice & Theory,  34(1), 97-130. Huber, D. (2015). ON THE HEGEMONY OF FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING RESEARCH: A SURVEY OF ACCOUNTING RESEARCH SEEN FROM A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE.  Journal of Theoretical Accounting Research,  11(1). Christensen, A. L., Cote, J., & Latham, C. K. (2016). Insights regarding the applicability of the defining issues test to advance ethics research with accounting students: A meta-analytic review.  Journal of Business Ethics,  133(1), 141-163. Bhaskar, R. (2014).  The possibility of naturalism: A philosophical critique of the contemporary human sciences. Routledge. Lucas, S. R. (2014). Beyond the existence proof: ontological conditions, epistemological implications, and in-depth interview research.  Quality & Quantity,  48(1), 387-408.

Business Management & Decision Making Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Business Management & Decision Making - Essay Example Strategies can be complicated and the decision-making process has to consider many factors. Ryanair is one such low-cost carrier that entered the market as pioneers in the budget airline industry and adopted a classical airline business model focusing on customer service. Their strategies in different areas like market segmentation, e-relationship with customers, marketing communication, their distinction in offering or abstaining from on-board and ground services have reached them this position. Ryanair, the Dublin based carrier, started its operations in 1991 on the very successful, Southwest Airlines Low Cost Leadership Model. Like most European flights, this airline offers a point-to-point rather than hub service. It offers no frills like seat allocation, meals or frequent flyer programs (SD, 2006). It aims to turnaround flights in 25 minutes and they have the shortest routes. Ryanair’s CEO is an accountant by training but an entrepreneur by inclination and he has amply demonstrated this ability in the success of this airline (Box & Byus, 2007). He has gone against the trade unions, the government officials and the competitors but he has achieved dramatic growth and profitability in this industry. Ryanair flies only Boeing 737s and is currently facing challenges escalating fuel costs, intense competition and regulatory framework in the UK. Despite these challenges, Ryanair has been able to create its own market due to its strategic decision making process. Success in marketing can be achieved by matching the organizational capabilities with the requirements of the marketplace. This matching is based on market segmentation. Expectation based segmentation is a powerful marketing tool in the services sector because it provides knowledge for customer identification, which aids better customer service (Diaz-Martin, 2000). They can tailor their actions to suit the individual requirements. Ryanair followed the expectation based