Wednesday, November 27, 2019

As You Sow so Shall You Reap free essay sample

As you sow so shall you reap Good morning said a woman as she walked up to the man slating on ground. The man slowly looked up. This was a woman clearly accustomed to the finer things of life. Her coat was new She looked like she had never missed a meal in her life. HIS first thought was that she wanted to make fun of him, Like so many others had done before Leave me alone, he growled.. To his amazement, the woman continued standing. She was smiling her even white teeth displayed in dazzling rows. Are you hungry? She asked. No, he answered sarcastically. Ive Just come from dining with the president. Now go away. The womans smile became even broader. Suddenly the man felt a gentle hand under his arm. What are you doing, lady? the man asked angrily. l said to leave me alone. Just then a policeman came up. We will write a custom essay sample on As You Sow so Shall You Reap or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Is there any problem, maam? he asked. No problem here, officer, the woman answered. Im Just trying to get this man to his feet. Will you help me? The officer scratched his head. Thats old Jack. Hes been a fixture around here for a couple of years.What do you want with him? See that cafeteria over there? she asked. Im going to get him something to eat and get him out of the cold for awhile. Are you crazy, lady? the homeless man resisted. l dont want to go in there! Then he felt strong hands grab his other arm and lift him up. Let me go, officer. I didnt do anything. This Is a good deal for you, Jack the officer answered. Dont blow It Finally, and with some difficulty, the woman and the police officer got Jack into the cafeteria and sat him at a table in a remote corner.It was the middle of the morning, o most of the breakfast crowd had already left and the lunch bunch had not yet arrived. .. Here, officer? he asked. What is all this, is this man in trouble? This lady brought this man in here to be fed, the policeman answered. Not in here! the manager replied angrily. Having a person like that here is bad for business.. . Old Jack smiled a toothless grin. See lady. I told you so. Now if youll let me go. I didnt want to come here in the first place. The woman turned to the cafeteria manager and smiled. .. Sir, are you familiar with Eddy and Associates, the Nanking firm down the street? Of course I am, the manager answered impatiently. They hold their weekly meetings in one of my banquet rooms. And do you make a godly amount of money providing food at these weekly meetings? What business is that of yours? I, sir, am Penelope Eddy, president and CEO of the company. Oh. The woman smiled again. l thought that might make a difference. She glanced at the cop who was busy stifling a giggle. Would you like to Join us in a cup of coffee and a meal, officer? No thanks, maam, the officer replied. Im on duty. Then, perhaps, a cup of coffee to go? Yes, mama. That would be very nice. The cafeteria manager turned on his heel, Ill get your coffee for you right away, officer. The officer watched him walk away. You certainly put him in his place, he said. That was not my intent. Believe it or not, I have a reason for all this. She sat down at the table across from her amazed dinner guest. She stared at him intently.. . Jack, do you remember me? Old Jack searched her face with his old, rheumy eyes. l think so I mean you do look familiar. Monger days when you worked here, and I came through that very door, cold and hungry. Maam? the officer said questioningly. He couldnt believe that such a magnificently turned out woman could ever have been hungry. I was Just out of college, the woman began. I had come to the city looking for a Job, but I couldnt find anything. Finally I was down to my last few cents and had been kicked out of my apartment. I walked the streets for days. It was February and I was cold and nearly starving. I saw this place and walked in on the off chance that I could et something to eat. Jack lit up with a smile. Now I remember, he said. . I was behind the serving counter. You came up and asked me if you could work for something to eat. I said that it was against company policy. l know, the woman continued. Then you made me the biggest roast beef sandwich that I had ever seen, gave me a cup of coffee, and told me to go over to a corner table and enjoy it. I was afraid that you would get into trouble. .. Then, when I looked over and saw you put the price of my food in the cash register, I knew then that everything loud be all right. So you started your own business? Old Jack said. l got a Job that very afternoon. I worked my way up. Eventually I started my own business that, with the help of God, prospered. She opened her purse and pulled out a business card.. When you are finished here, I want you to pay a visit to a Mr.. Lyons Hes the personnel director of my company. Ill go talk to him now and Im certain hell find something for you to do around the office. She smiled. l think he might even find the funds to give you a little advance so that you can buy some loathes and get a place to live until you get on your feetIf you ever need anything, my door is always opened to you. There were tears in the old mans eyes. How can I ever thank you? he said. Dont thank me, the woman answered. Thank God. .. Who led me to you. Outside the cafeteria, the officer and the woman paused at the entrance before going their separate ways. Thank you for all your help, officer, she said. On the contrary, Ms. Eddy, he answered. Thank you. I saw a miracle today, God is going to shift things around for you today and let things work in your favor.

Sunday, November 24, 2019

Communications Media Analysis Worksheet Essays

Communications Media Analysis Worksheet Essays Communications Media Analysis Worksheet Paper Communications Media Analysis Worksheet Paper Communications Environments and Media Questions COMMUNICATIONS ENVIRONMENTS AND MEDIA Communications environmentCommunications medium Electronically mediated virtual communication____Two-way instant messaging_______ For the communications environment and medium listed above, answer the following questions: 1. What are five communications situations in which this medium could be appropriately used? a. You are able to send out a meeting location change five minutes before the meeting starts to the other attendee (for small meetings) b. You are able to ask a someone a short question to find out information quickly c. Someone is able to quickly ask you your fax number so that they can send you a fax and you can verify receipt of the fax instantly d. Can coordinate on a homework assignment between classmates in different locations e. Can chat briefly with someone online when background noise in a location is too distracting for a phone call 2. What are two communications situations in which it would be inappropriate to use this medium? a. Having personal conversations in an office environment b. A manager sending confidential salary information to an employee when they are not certain who may be reading the instant message over the employee’s shoulder 3. What are five non-verbal communications elements characteristic of this medium? a. Font size, type, and color used in the message b. Whether or not emoticons are used c. The length of the initial message and length of responses d. The way each response is phrased (is the â€Å"enter† key pressed after every few words even if the entire sentence is not completed? ) e. The amount of time it takes each person to respond to each other â€Å"instantly† (one second versus 30 seconds). 4. What are five types of noise that this communications medium is subject to (e. g. , anything in the environment that delays, distorts, or destroys the message)? . Internet connection is broken mid-conversation b. Computer crash c. Instant messaging software versions are not compatible between users d. Power outage e. Hard component failures (monitor blackout, keyboard disconnection, mouse malfunction) 5. What types of feedback are possible with this medium? a. The receiver can reply instantly to the initial IM message b. The receiver can call the sender via telephone if the initial message was a telephone number c. The IM software can notify the sender that the receiver is online, a two-way connection is established, and the receiver is typing a message in reply 6. What are five communication skills necessary to effectively use this medium? a. Ability to compose short and coherent messages b. Ability to determine the level of information necessary in a brief message c. Ability to determine the information needs of the receiver d. Ability to understand the level of urgency required in order to use IM to send the message e. Ability to type fast with minimal spelling and grammatical errors 7. Is this medium appropriate for sending an urgent message? Explain. Two-way instant messaging allows for brief real time conversations when a telephone is not an option. This medium is appropriate for sending an urgent message only when the sender can verify that the receiver is online and available to chat (which is usually indicated by the software). If the receiver is not available for online chat at the time the sender wishes to send a message, the sender must choose email or another form of virtual communication that does not require the receiver to be present at the time the message is sent, while at the same time accepting that there will be a delay in the response. COMMUNICATIONS ENVIRONMENTS AND MEDIA Communications environmentCommunications medium Paper-mediated virtual communication_________Report________ For the communications environment and medium listed above, answer the following questions: 8. What are five communications situations in which this medium could be appropriately used? a. Sending results analysis to a business customer concerning a recent product rollout b. Presenting a list of research findings to a group of people c. Creating a sharing numerical data in the form of graphs to upper level management d. Presenting on cost benefits of a new product to stakeholders e. Sharing your course learning with classmates r the instructor of a class 9. What are two communications situations in which it would be inappropriate to use this medium? a. Composing a biography for a company website b. Writing an abstract interpretation of a song or piece of literature 10. What are five non-verbal communications elements characteristic of this medium? a. Font style and size used b. Length of paragraphs within the document and num ber of pages c. Use of graphs and colors d. Whether or not the report is printed or sent via email attachment e. If the report is printed, whether or not it is bound in a formal report cover 11. What are five types of noise that this communications medium is subject to (e. g. , anything in the environment that delays, distorts, or destroys the message)? a. If the report is an email attachment, the file size may be too large for some inboxes b. Paper may jam while printing c. May run out of ink when either printing or copying d. Graphs or diagrams may not be aligned properly if report is viewed from another operating system e. Data may not be complete or available in time for the report deadline 12. What types of feedback are possible with this medium? a. If the report is handed out in person, face to face verbal acknowledgement may be given b. If the report is send via email attachment, the receiver may send an email reply c. If the report is presenting in front of a group, questions may be asked in response to the report content 13. What are five communication skills necessary to effectively use this medium? a. Ability to interpret data into graphs b. Ability to determine the level of information needed for the target audience c. Ability to interpret research information so that logical conclusions are reached d. Ability to organize thoughts in a logical order so that receivers can come to the correct conclusions e. Ability to use the applications necessary to compose the report (such as Word, Excel, and Power Point). 14. Is this medium appropriate for sending an urgent message? Explain. This medium is not appropriate for sending an urgent message because reports are usually created after the sender takes time to gather, analyze, and interpret data. The report reflects as few as several hours to several days and even several months worth of research and the report itself may take some time to put together. COMMUNICATIONS ENVIRONMENTS AND MEDIA Communications environmentCommunications medium Electronically mediated Real-Time communication___Radio_______ For the communications environment and medium listed above, answer the following questions: 15. What are five communications situations in which this medium could be appropriately used? a. Morning news report broadcasted during driver commutes b. Daily traffic reports delivered during morning and evening rush hour to drivers c. Advertising for listeners in between music sets d. Severe weather advisories which interrupt normal broadcasting e. School and business closings during inclement weather (such as snow) 16. What are two communications situations in which it would be inappropriate to use this medium? a. Broadcasting a news or television program b. Sending out a personalized message to just one individual (no guarantee they will be listening at the particular moment the message is sent out). 17. What are five non-verbal communications elements characteristic of this medium? a. Use of background music with the radio message b. The tone of the speaker (monotone or with conversational inflection) c. Competency or confidence of the person speaking or reading the message d. Speed at which the message is spoken or read e. Length of advertisement or broadcast 18. What are five types of noise that this communications medium is subject to (e. g. , anything in the environment that delays, distorts, or destroys the message)? a. Radio signal is weak b. Traffic noises during rush hour c. Listener changes channels in the middle of broadcast d. Radio station DJ cuts message short e. Listener carrying on a conversation with another person during broadcast 19. What types of feedback are possible with this medium? a. Listeners respond to advertisement by visiting store b. Listeners call into radio station in response to a news report or to provide traffic updates c. Listeners can email radio station in response to news heard on the radio 20. What are five communication skills necessary to effectively use this medium? a. Ability to speak clearly and annunciate each word b. Fluent in language that the message is written in c. Ability to broadcast messages on one take without making a mistake d. Ability of the writer to compose short and coherent messages e. Ability to determine the level of information needed for the target audience 21. Is this medium appropriate for sending an urgent message? Explain. This medium is appropriate for sending an urgent message when the message is important enough to interrupt the radio program. The most common situation for urgent radio messages is to warn listeners of severe weather such as tornados and floods. COMMUNICATIONS ENVIRONMENTS AND MEDIA Communications environmentCommunications medium Unmediated Real-Time communication_____water-cooler conversation_____ For the communications environment and medium listed above, answer the following questions: 22. What are five communications situations in which this medium could be appropriately used? a. Asking a co-worker about their weekend b. Talking about last night’s news report c. Making plans for lunch later in the day d. Sharing short personal stories that help to empathize and relate to other coworkers e. Networking and offering services for projects within and outside of work 23. What are two communications situations in which it would be inappropriate to use this medium? a. Gossiping about a fellow colleague behind their back b. Discussing confidential customer information 24. What are five non-verbal communications elements characteristic of this medium? a. Body language and posture b. Eye contact and visual focus c. Volume and inflection of voice d. Whether or not the greeting is friendly, apathetic, or hostile e. Level of listening – does the listener interrupt the speaker or lack any response? 25. What are five types of noise that this communications medium is subject to (e. g. , anything in the environment that delays, distorts, or destroys the message)? a. Someone walks by and interrupts the conversation b. External noises are too loud to hear the speaker clearly c. Listener has a poor opinion of the speaker and is biased against anything the speaker has to say d. Listener is distracted by the speaker’s grooming techniques (messy hair, wrinkled shirt, etc). e. Speaker mumbles or does not annunciate well 26. What types of feedback are possible with this medium? a. Physical feedback such as head nodding, smiling, laughing, or even frowning b. The listener paraphrases what the speaker has said to make sure the message is understood. c. The listener asks questions to clarify information 27. What are five communication skills necessary to effectively use this medium? . The ability to know what topics are appropriate for casual conversation (nothing too personal, confidential, or controversial) b. Ability to speak clearly c. Good listening skills such as focusing attention on the speaker and acknowledging understanding of the message d. Ability to determine the volume of speaking the conversation should have (not too loud as to interrupt others around you, but just loud enough to be heard) e. The ability to know when it is appropriate to carry on a casual conversation (preferably not when the listener is very busy, distracted, or not in a good mood). 8. Is this medium appropriate for sending an urgent message? Explain. This medium is not appropriate for sending an urgent message due to the fact that water-cooler conversations occur when people are free to speak casually about light topics. Urgent messages cannot depend that all intended receivers will be present and available at â€Å"the water cooler† to hear the message. Urgent messages also imply a level of importance and the water-cooler scenario is most appropriate for non-essential communications. COMMUNICATIONS SCENARIOS State which medium or media you consider the best for use in the following communications situations. Assume your intended audience has the capability to receive your message. Explain your choices. 29. You manage three company locations within a large city. There are 100 workers among the three locations. You receive a message from company headquarters informing you that the company plans to layoff 10 percent of its workforce in your city. Your job is to deliver this information to your employees. A mandatory meeting should be scheduled for employees at all three locations. The meeting would be held at one main location with employees at other locations either dialing into the meeting via teleconferencing or videoconferencing. This way the message can be delivered only once with all employees present, and employees are present to either ask questions which will receive immediate answers, or listen to questions asked by other co-workers. 30. Although you work in the U. S. , you are the manager responsible for a small workforce in three offices in three different overseas locations. Each office has two managers and 14 non-management employees. You need to pass confidential information on to the managers at each location- information that it is not appropriate for the other employees to have at this time. The confidential information will either be saved onto a password protected CD-ROM and mailed to each manager, or the information may be placed in an encrypted file and sent via email attachment. The managers will then be provided with the password to unlock or decode the information once they receive it. This way, those who have the password (the managers) are the only individuals who will see the confidential information. 1. You are the marketing manager of a small company that has developed a new and unique consumer product. However, the target market for your product is quite specific (that is, your product is not aimed at all consumers). You need to get word of your product to your target market quickly, and prefer not to waste money delivering your message to people who would not be potential customers. If the small company keeps detailed customer records and the target market is existing customers, then a direct mailing campaign would be most appropriate. However, if the advertising is limited to a certain type of consumer, perhaps advertising can be done in the types of media the target consumer would generally read, listen to, or watch. For example, if the target audience was parents, then an ad in a local parenting magazine or paper would be ideal, with the actual advertisement composed in such a way as to appeal to parents. 32. You have a virtual workforce of 30 employees who all work at home or on the road. You need to update them on wide-ranging changes in product pricing- the pricing update information runs to several pages of fairly small type. Since the information to communicate is several pages in length, and the type is fairly small, the best means of reaching a telecommuting workforce is via a company intranet. The information can be published on an intranet site that only employees can access and obtain information at any time from any place. They would be able to view the pricing update document and use the zoom function to increase the size of the font so that the information is easier to read. They also have the option to print out the information from a location of their choosing.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Mayfly by Kevin Canty Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Mayfly by Kevin Canty - Essay Example James’ character appears to be a hard driven man in his mid thirties who is not quite sure about the direction which his life is taking and seems to be unsure whether he is satisfied or not. Molly is James’ girlfriend and takes the role of a delicate soul with a penchant for al things living seen by the way she is affected by the butterflies on the highway (Canty). She is a writer who is enthusiastic about taking care of herself seen by her sobriety and vegan diet but she also loves to express herself seen by the type of work that she does (writing) as well as her liking of tattoos. Sam is James’ old friend from college and comes out as a semi-irresponsible father and husband who nonetheless, appears to be doing fine financialy depicted by the description of his house and lifestyle (Canty). He also comes off as having an adulterous aspect about him although this is not confirmed and is taken from a number of clues that come out in the story. Jenny is a mother of three and Sam’s wife. She comes out as a tired figure in need of support from her husband that does not appear to be forthcoming. There is a sense of resentment around her in terms of her marriage to Sam, and it seems that she has resigned herself to the hand that fate has dealt her though she is not pleased with it. The story is told from James’ point of view, and this has an influence on the shaping of the story’s focus. By seeing things from James’ point of view, the reader is able to experience the various moods and emotions that he goes through via the thoughts that run through his head and this help’s focus the view of the rest of the group from an external perspective. The doubts that James has over his relationship with Molly and the activities between his girlfriend and Sam when they go on their trip is derived from the perspective that James has on the status of his relationship. The appearance of Jenny is told from James’ eyes as well including the experiences she has been through. This helps the story to focus on the main character who is James even when the topic is about somebody else. Reading the story from James’ point of view also allows the reader to get inside the main character’s head and depicts the way he thinks and looks at issues from his objective. For example, James lack of guilt after his midnight rendezvous with Jenny may not have been depicted had the story been told from another perspective. (Canty) The significance of the Monarchs in the opening scenes can be said to be used in the provision of the setting for the reader, a means with which to describe the scene as it were. The sheer number of insects and their death on the windscreen of James car provides a somewhat gloomy setting which can also be said to have been used to project the mood of the two characters (James and Molly) in the opening scenes (Canty). The butterflies can also be said to have been used to demonstrat e Molly’s care for living creatures as she insists on stopping when she realizes what is happening to them. The fact that she cares about something as small as a butterfly that she could be moved to tears goes a long way in portraying her character (Canty). The monarchs and butterflies in their travels towards the north can also be used to depict both James (the monarch) and Molly (the butterfly) in their journey together in life with the car’s windshield portraying the potential hazards they might come across while trying to keep their relationship alive. The mayflies can be seen to represent the cycle of life and the inevitable eventuality of our actions that are bound to be repeated when one is placed

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Media Violence and Imitation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 1

Media Violence and Imitation - Essay Example Media Violence and Imitation Susan Hurley’s article may not contain any definitive research or universally agreeable answers, and it may be victim of the same narrow partisan dogmatism that she decries (her constant derision of liberals as â€Å"outdated†, are a testament to this). But it does contain many valid points that can at least be debated if not accepted by anyone. It must also be noted that Hurley goes through great pains to distance herself from conservative demagoguery and manages to offer somewhat acceptable compromises by invoking tort instead of legislation to deal with the matter. De Bruin manages to address the issue of Tort effectively enough, by stating that a link between criminal violence and media violence may be too difficult to prove even in individual cases, rendering the entire process fruitless and a formality. Furthermore de Bruin also asks the question, how are we to decide which forms of imitative influences are good and which are bad, and one can assume that the logic al conclusion to a continuation of filtering imitative influences in the media can lead to another form of social engineering. The lines in this debate as they usually are in debates of the controversial variety are heavily blurred. The side which one takes on this issue is primarily subjective. We must decide for ourselves whether or not personal autonomy should be decreased for the greater social good and whether or not individual members of a society can decide what the greater social good involves.

Sunday, November 17, 2019

Studies in entrepreneurship Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Studies in entrepreneurship - Research Paper Example He outlines the resources needed in fulfilling the need identified. The entrepreneur is often responsible for the success of the business identified and its failure as well; therefore, he has to plan on how to manage the business amidst all the problems and challenges in the immediate and external environment. The entrepreneur often operates in some kind of an entrepreneurship ecosystem whereby he has to plan and develop tools that he can use to obtain additional funding and other resources needed in the achievement of the identified goals and objectives. For instance, he has to prepare his business plan in order get assistance from the bank and other financial systems. Entrepreneuship has caused the gorwth and development of small business intiatives to become large international ventures (Stevenson, 1997). This has led to great success of these multinational corporations that has been aided by resourceful and able networking among the stakeholders involved and the investors (Stevenson & Jarillo, 1990). During the course, one of the areas that interested me was the development of the social capital. This is because, in long term, it helps in achieving great internationalization in many business activities across countries of the world. This paper summarizes all that I have learnt, showing the areas that have been of great interest to me. Stevenson & Zarillo (1990), have been effective in their research about the different ways in which people can start and manage business activities. According to this research, entrepreneurship is an important activity through which people can identify and exploit their diverse potential in solving various needs in the society and corporate world. In the same way, Stevenson (1997), outlines the six different dimensions on the subject of entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship in itself is a process that requires careful

Friday, November 15, 2019

Effect of SHRM on Mergers and Acquisitions

Effect of SHRM on Mergers and Acquisitions IS STRATEGIC HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AN EFFECTIVE TOOL FOR MERGER AND ACQUISITION PROCESS, IN TERMS OF KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND EFFICIENCY? Introduction First chapter of my dissertation will talk about the back ground of the proposed dissertation topic. This back ground discussion will lead our focus to the actual problem area. As the main actors of my discussion are human so the related topics back ground, like HRM, strategic HRM, and integration of SHRM with overall business strategy and the new role of SHRM especially in the process of mergers and acquisitions, will be focused. Later discussion will focus on aims and objectives of my research and will also explain the dissertation structure. Background Business world is so dynamic especially in current era when organizations face lot more complicated challenges and strict competitions. To cope with new challenges, organizations employee new management tools, methods and philosophies. These tools and philosophies help management in gaining competitive advantage to survive in the business world. Among these philosophies, strategic HRM is one, which helps businesses to survive and gain competitive advantage in current dynamic environments. To learn more about the role of Strategic HRM, first we need to know what strategic human resource management actually means, as we know till that point that this a management philosophy helping organizations in facing new challenges in ever changing environment. The concept of Human resource management is not new. It is on the business horizon from last 100 years discussed and debated in different forms, shapes and names but the actual human resource management can actually be traced back in 1960s when the importance of employer and employee relationship was more focused. Improved education and skills actually developed the concept of Human resource management over the years. This development took a new turn when in 1980s HRM became the integral part of business strategy and was named as strategic human resource management. That field of business management is actively involved in all business decision and plans related to relations of employee and organization. The involvement of SHRM in restructuring and developing organization can be seen in the shape of different tools and methods adopted by organization like decentralize decision making, flattened hierarchies, training etc. This involvement is much needed during Merger and acquisitions process where SHRM can help this process in terms of knowledge, skills and efficiency. To allocate resources accurately ,like employing right people with right skills and knowledge, organizations need to bring in the SHRM at the time of strategy development not at middle or later stages. Introducing SHRM at start of strategy making will help organizations to achieve their goals and objectives of proposed merger or acquisition. Organizations need to manage their human resources very systematically and strategically to gain competitive advantage. SHRM provides organizations an opportunity to align and integrate peoples resources with strategic management. This integration and alignment will ensure that right people, working on right places with right tool, implementing right policies to gain overall goals and objectives of the organization. The popularity of SHRM is growing day by day as an effective tool to do effective business. In this growing popularity human resources are treated as the available talents and energies of people who are available to an organization as potential contributors to the creation and realization of the organizations mission, vision, strategy, goals and objectives which helps organizations in order to improve the business performance. Jackson and Schuler (2000) My research dissertation will try to establish a link between SHRM being an effective tool in MAs process in terms of a knowledge, skills and efficiency contributor. This link can be seen in the statement given by Narasimha,S. (2000) as Strategic HRM take a different colour when we view them as contributing to organizational knowledge stocks. So it is apparent that SHRM is capable of doing much more than the traditional HR in achieving business goals and objectives. Reason to Choose This Dissertation Topic As my dissertation revolves around SHRM so the main reason of choosing this topic is to establish a link in between organizational development and the role of SHRM. My focus would be the areas where SHRM can play a critical role in developing organizations especially when organizations decide to acquire or merge with some other organizations for number of reasons like to increase the share holders value, expansions , strategic alliances, access to new markets, elimination of competition etc. Usually organizations face swerve problems when they go through these MAs processes, so my main aim is to focus on what should have been done in advance of this process, during and after the process to make such deals successful. Top management plans, middle level management execute the plans and general employees do what they asked to do, to ensure the success of business plans. In my dissertation I will focus on how SHRM approaches and models can be effectively implemented and executed and how these models maintain the consistency in achieving business goals and objective not only today but in future as well. Another area of my focus would be provision of knowledge and skills by SHRM to the organizations, efficiently. These are new tools and techniques that can have a great effect in the times of mergers and acquisitions and require active involvement of both sides to achieve set goals. Another field in which I would be looking into to establish my research is performance management. My research will try to identify the Importance and criticalness of implementation of this system into the organization as this implementation is not easy as claimed by Elaine, D. P. (2009, Pg.3) Performance management is known as the Achilles Heel of human capital management, and it is the most difficult HR system to implement in organization. This system is all about defining, assessing and refining the work outcomes and attitude of employees. This effective system of performance management should give organization a leading edge as compare to their rivals. There are other related issues which need to be addressed like maintaining quality of services with the help of emerging techniques and strategies. Quality in service can be attained by training and development of the employees. Besides that they need good salary and good designations, which can lead employees towards better performance. SHRM have capabilities to address this issue in very systematic way. Organizations always goes through different phases and some time they need to even face situations like redundancies, re-structuring and some time even closures of businesses. But on the other hand organizations establish strategic alliances and mergers to grow. In this situation HR mangers have to address issues like relocation, new designations, changing nature of job duties, obstacle is changing culture and arranging new training and development programmes. The most sensitive amongst is cultural change which can have really bad effects on business success if not addressed properly. To address this problem area, SHRM can provide solutions like recruiting right people with right talent, knowledge and skill. Actually it is HRMs strategic approach which can motivate employees for quality of work and development of company by designing most appropriate HR policies. If some one wants to know the working environment and culture of an organization then he should study it HR policies. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES The aim and objective of my dissertation is to find out how strategic human resource management (SHRM) can play a vital role in terms of knowledge , skills and efficiency during and after mergers and acquisitions (MAs) process. How the integration of strategic management ( SM ) with human resource management (HRM) can improve and maintain the competitiveness of future preferences of the organizations, especially MAs. How useful it could be if we use SHRM as a tool in MAs process to benefit the knowledge, skills and efficiency much needed in this process. If we look at the dimensions of human resource management (HRM) , two type of dimensions are more apparent, Functional and strategic. Operational issues come under functional HRM and overall company progress and performance is linked with strategic HRM. Majority of Managers involved in MAs are always confused of understanding and implementing the strategy which has been developed over the time. SHRM will focus on the strategy and planning of human resource requirements which are needed on a certain period of time and will ease the difficulties of mangers especially in MAs. This approach will focus on the number of personnel needed along with the behaviour and attitude which can produce best results. This integration will eventually increase the effectiveness of organization in terms of knowledge, skills and efficiency. The study on this subject provides the information that 80 percent of acquisitions were not gone through well or total failure. How can this commonly practiced business strategy end in complete disaster? Can involvement of SHRM can provide sufficient knowledge, skills and efficiency that such disasters in MAs can be avoided. Even 80 percent of such deals end up in disasters; still such MAs are taking place everyday. There are many reasons of these failures, the most important amongst them is little or poor human side involvement especially strategic human resource management. When two firms merge or one big firm acquire the small one, actually the two different working cultures come side by side. The new culture may be the totally a new one or may be part from one firm and part from other merged firm. Bothe higher managements and middle level managements have different level of skills, knowledge and expertise. Most of the mergers fail when these two different cultures collide. My research will identify that can strategic human resource management provide such assistance which can manage the human side of MAs in most effective way that it can provide knowledge, skills and efficiency to the process. LITRATURE REVIEW Introduction To conduct my research I need to take a deep dip into the pool of related information. The information which will provide the base for my research and will give me a deep insight of the work already done on this or related problem area. The information which would be reviewed in this section of my research will come through books, articles, journals and critical reviews. Mergers and acquisitions are very common and favourite mode of restructuring and growth as stated by Andrew and Milledge ( 2006, pg.2 ) According to him, 1980s was the era when almost half of the U.S. businesses restructured themselves. In this wave of restructuring, more than 80,000 companies engaged in merger of acquisition. The extent of popularity of this practice can be imagined with this but most of the mergers and acquisitions were totally or partly flopped due to one or other reason. Why such a huge activity is not well planned, why most of the mergers and acquisitions ends up in disasters. Is there something wrong with the finance side or poor management is the cause of this failure or may be human side of involvement in the process has been neglected. My research will encompass that how an effective human side of involvement in the process can get better results in terms of knowledge, skills and efficiency. The basic aim of this research is to find out various views, ideas and concepts of mergers and acquisitions, causes of their failures especially when strategic human resource management is not actively involved in the process. Along with, the research will review all the SHRM models and their critics, their role in mergers and acquisitions process and how SHRM can provide knowledge, skills and efficiency in the process. As vast data is available on the issue so the research would be narrow down into few headings as below. What is merger and Acquisition? Need of mergers and acquisitions. Main causes of failure of MAs. What is Strategic human resource management? Different approaches and models of Strategic HRM How SHRM can be an effective tool in MAs process in terms of knowledge, skills and efficiency. What is merger and Acquisition? Most of the businesses are bound with one sold principle, either they have to grow or leave the market. Growth ensures returns to shareholders, generate profits and gets market share from competitors. On the other hand the businesses without growth lose their market share, lose customers and ultimately they disappear from the market leaving great losses for the shareholders. Mergers and acquisitions actually play a very significant role in strengthening the companies or in case of weak business or entrepreneurs, provide chance to avoid exclusion from the businesses as quickly swallowed by the strong business. MAs are very important for a balanced and healthy economy. Corporate history have seen different roles played by MAs, like greed is good role, when corporate businesses buying companies in hostile environment and destroying them and todays fresh trends in which MA take place for growth and competitive advantage. Since mid 2004 this activity is mostly based on macroeconomic needs of recovery. (Sherman, et al (2005 ) Merger When two companies or businesses combine in to one unit, its called merger in which only one company survive and the merged company comes to an end only to exist. The surviving company or business is called acquirer which gets all the assets along with all liabilities. Usually in this process large companies are always acquirer or buyers and smaller companies are target but some time businesses with same size and capabilities, both try to cease to exist and they form a new company. Though these mergers take place with mutual agreements, still merger statistics are treating large companies as buyer and smaller as target. (Gaughan, Patrick A. (2005) J. Reuvid (2007) describes merger as a transaction in which both companies agrees to combine and form a new business entity which will issue new shares and on the other hand cancelling all the old individually issued shares. Mergers usually give an impression of equal share of both parties involved in the merger but quite often one company actually enjoys dominance in term of equity and majority in board of directors. Usually big businesses are predator and smaller ones are known as victim in all most all transitions. Mergers can face three kinds of scenarios or situations which are beautifully explained by Weston, J.Fred (2001) in his book Mergers and Acquisitions. According to W.J.Fred the first category is synergy or efficiency in which the efficiency level with combined operation is greater than the sum of efficiencies produced by these two businesses individually. The second category points out the situation when bidders overpay due to Hubris and the value of business remain unchanged. Third category talks about the situation when total value of business is decreased due to mistakes made by mangers or agencies. All these three situations lead the business towards new directions. Acquisition Mergers and acquisitions are the terms usually used simultaneously. In mergers two companies join together to do business under single business entity but in acquisition, business purchases the other business entity as whole or part of it as explained by Sherman, Andrew J. et al (2005). They claim that companies do it for many reasons like in 2005 Proctor Gamble acquired Gillette company, Inc. to expand its access to consumer products and some companies acquire other businesses to get access to foreign markets. Usually acquisitions occur to obtain financial or strategic goals. Stanley F, Reed ( 2007 ) defines acquisition as a process by which assets or stocks or both of an organization or business are bought by other organization or business. After acquisitions the buyer becomes the owner of stocks and assets and the target or acquired company lose their ownership. Its kind of generic term which explains the transfer of ownership. Its more common then mergers as theres no occurrence of successive mergers. Need of Mergers and Acquisitions Why businesses engage in mergers and acquisitions, what are the main reasons, what are the forces working behind this activity which been very popular in last 2 decades? For almost all businesses the ultimate objective is maximizing profit. Keeping in mind this objective studies shows that traditionally there are two causes of why businesses go for mergers and acquisitions. First one is financial in which prime objective is increasing the share holders value and second one is based on managerial motive which focuses on knowledge, growth, sale, performance etc. Studies on this subject shows number of reason behind these MAs and the factors involved behind this activity, all will be analysed from various perspective. MAs are borderless as explained by Sturgess, B. ( 1989 ) in Booming International Mergers and acquisition . Sturgess describe that mergers and acquisitions can be of local nature or it can go across borders. He explains that local firms can go abroad to acquire foreign businesses or foreign businesses who merge or acquire domestic business. These MAs can provide short term finances to companies as described by Fluck and lynch (1999). If the firm is unable to finance profitable projects due to one or other reasons they go for MAs to acquire these funds required to finance the big project which will eventually increase shareholders value. The managerial motives under which mangers try to increase their powers or gains and address other issues like maximizing growth, increasing sale volume etc has been explained by Napier, N.K et al (1989) in Communication during mergers: the experience of two banks very elaborately. Apart from the traditional motives the academic, researchers and other people involved in this process has begun to think other reasons and causes of MAs brought in by the rapid changes in the business over the time. One of them is Angwin (2001) who states that the firms go for MAs to avoid the fear of being taken over or being destroyed by other large firms. To exist they simply want to be merged or acquired by other firms where they can remain operational and in the market. The other reason what he describes is as public motive in which companies merge or been acquired to increase the performance and shareholders value which allow them to gain all competitive advantages to remain active in the todays competitive markets. Some time companies reach to their maturity with becoming more bureaucratic, leaving fewer opportunities for the individuals. According to Lenvinson (1970) MA can help such companies by bringing new ideas, enriched working culture, attitude and fresh knowledge. If such companies will not address there obsolescence on time then they will lose their competitiveness and soon will vanish from the market. Vermeulen and Barkema (2001) also claim that MA can be very helpful in bringing up up-to-date knowledge and techniques in the businesses to survive in the market in long run. The new knowledge can be of in different field of operation in which company is not engaged yet but in near future this might be the key knowledge in surviving in business world. All the causes and reasons behind merger and acquisitions can be categorised into seven heads and are known as theories of mergers and acquisitions. These theories can be easily understandable with the help of a diagram as below and can explain the facts which are active behind almost all MAs. Efficiency theory explains mergers as the way of getting synergies into three main heads which are financial, managerial and operational. For example if we look into the financial head then we consider that the financial efficiency after merger should be greater than the sum of individual financial efficiencies. But this theory has been criticised by Montgomery and Sing ( 1984 ). They claims that in any efficient capital market such synergies like financial synergy cannot be achieved then how businesses can go for mergers only on this ground. According to monopoly theory the businesses go for mergers and acquisitions to improve and increase the competitiveness but this competitiveness may not be achieved as criticised by Revenscraft and Scherer (1987). He claims that the monopoly theory is comparatively weaker than efficiency theory due to the unfavourable results on businesses. According to Trautwein, F. ( 1990 ) Raider theory is basically a form of acquisition in which a takeover bid is made to gain the control of shares. Theoretically its not a complex theory as frequently cited in business literature claimed by Thomas Straub ( 2007 ) in Reasons for frequent failure in mergers and acquisitions. He states that this form of MAs is regarded as peoples outcome in which these peoples or raiders attempt to get some of the wealth of shareholders for which they have made bid. Next comes the valuation theory In which Trautwein, F. ( 1990 ) claims that mergers and acquisitions are carried out by top management, the people who have more accurate and true information about the real value of the business. This information is more authentic than the information taken from the investment or stock market. According to the empire building theory the managers are more concerned to maximize their use and thats the only aim in their mind and thats why they plan a merger or acquisition. The process theory try to explain mergers and acquisitions as the result of decision made by the management which may not be rational as management did not considered the alternatives and have not done any deep analysis. Without a deep and thorough analysis management cant reach on a decision of that critical nature. The economic disturbances like recent credit crunches actually modify and reshape the behaviours and expectations of individual, individual who made the decision of mergers ad acquisitions. So with the change of economic environment many firms go for alternatives and amongst these alternatives MAs is more popular thats why the business engage in this critical manoeuvre. Trautwein, F. ( 1990 ) Main causes of failure of MAs Most of the researches and reports shows that almost 60% MAs end up in disaster. There are plenty of reasons of these failures and some are explained by Robert F. Bruner ( 2009) in his books Deals from Hell: MA Lessons that Rise Above the Ashes. He summed up these reasons in six main heads. People involved in these deals were unable to take quick and prompt decisions and actions as they were unable to clearly understand whats happening. The reason of there confusion is that the deals are so complicated and shows a blurry picture. Problems of one department or area would travel to other parts of business as flexibility was at its lower level. Problems were not cordoned off and it effects the whole environment. Some weak decisions and choices were made by management which exposed the risks of the emerged firm. Te new firms cant avoid exposed risks which caused a failure. These choices or decisions were either deliberately or mistakenly made. The decision makers were prejudiced by the pasts successes, cost effectiveness, over optimism and pride which led them towards wrong choice or activity. Companies were not doing businesses as usual. Errors and problems were common and business environments were lacking of something of important nature. The operational teams collapsed or became ineffective. The reasons behind this collapse or ineffectiveness were existence of different working culture of acquirer and target, problem related to political issues and to much stress on operational team individuals. All these problems broke down the operational teams which resulted in failure. On the other hand Gerhard, P ( 2002 ) claims that the main factor of failure of MA transactions are overestimates of revenue , cost synergies and post-transaction integration efforts which are too slow and having low capacities and are not aggressive enough to address these areas effectively. He explains that these causes are the main problem with MAs which leads these transaction in disaster or some time in total failure. What is Strategic human resource management.(HRM) The concept of HRM was developed in USA in 1960s and 1970s with initial academic work done by different authors and then it spread around the world and been adopted by almost all organizations around the world. Brewster (1994, pg.1) The concept of Strategic human resource management or SHRM can be traced back in in1980s and has been distinguished from traditional personnel by virtue of the way in which the former ignored , but the later embraces strategy Guest (1993, Pg.213). This integration of strategy make it distinctive from all personnel management forms as concluded by Purcell ( 2001, Pg.59) In following words. The integration with strategy is central to all models of HRM and virtually all authors are agreed that this is the distinctive feature of HRM, compared with personnel. Under this concept the HR strategies are integrated with business strategies to achieve the organizational goals. Under this integration, the strategies developed and implemented, lead the organizations t o achieve the set goals and objectives very effectively. Its a conceptual approach, in which strategists find an ideal point where in long run human resources should be and how to get there. It also explains how a more strategic approach can be adopted by the members of HR on daily basis to monitor that the HR strategies are assisting overall business strategy and they are adding value in it. Armstrong, M ( 2008 ) Earlier concept of SHRM was developed from the two models presented by Harved Business School in 1980 in which business strategy has been integrated in HRM. These two models are known as Harved Matching Model and Harved Framework Model. This was the first time when Mission, Organisation Strategy and HRM were identified as the key player in the success of business. Later on these key players were integrated together to give the right tack to an organisation which leads towards success, effectiveness and competiveness. (Jain, P. (2005) The activities which directly or indirectly influence the individuals behaviour to formulate and implement strategically, what ever business needs. As it is a conceptual framework in which individuals are directed strategically to achieve the set goals in most effective way. Schuler R. S (1992) defines SHRM as all the activities affecting the individuals behaviour in an attempt to develop and put into the practice the strategic requirements of the organisation. This academic Schuler, R.S et al ( 2001 .pg 127 ) further explains that by strategic we mean that HR activities should be systematically designed and intentionally linked to an analysis of the business and its context. Its a combination of two concepts, HRM and strategy. HRM models are used by focusing on strategy and these models are integrated with businesss overall strategy as explained by Armstrong, M ( 2006 ) in his Handbook of Human Resource Management Practice. This concept deals with the key philosophies of strategy like strategic intent, competitive advantage, strategic fit and strategic capability etc. He further explains that Strategic HRM is an approach which leads businesses to formulate and implement policies, programmes and practices related to employment relationship, resourcing, performance management, reward etc. These policies and decisions are made on the overall intentions and plans of organization. Some academic claims that HRM and strategic HRM are almost identical concepts as Mathis Jackson (1985 Pg.3-4 ) define HRM as the strategic planning and management of human resources for an organizationHRM is more broadly focused and strategic in nature. Four meanings of strategic HRM has been described by Hendry and Pettigrew (1986 ) as The use of planning , A rational way to the design and management of personnel systems which are based on an employment policy and human strategy along with philosophy. HRM activities are matched with overall organisational strategy. To achieve competitive advantage ,human resources are viewed as strategic resources The definitions and statements which explain SHRM, given by different authors and researchers, clearly shows the growing need and importance of strategic HRM in business world. Day by day businesses world is becoming more complex and competitive and strategic HRM can play a vital role in ensuring competitiveness as Jain, P ( 2005 ) claims that today the human resources are viewed as the potential contributors in the achievement of organizational goals with the help of available energies and talent these people have. These resources should have four qualities to maintain their competitiveness as suggested by Boxhall, (1996). These suggested qualities are That they must increase the value of activities. Rarity and uniqueness must be established. Hard to copy And hard to be replaced by other alternatives like technology. The people are the assets to the organizations and these assets should be used strategically to achieve competitive advantage and business goals and objectives in long run. Strategic HRM addresss some of the critical issues in organizations which deal with the change in culture, structure and knowledge management and how it can be used effectively. Theses changes can increase the organizational effectiveness and performance. It provides efficient way of matching activities and resources to the future requirement of the organization. It Guides how peoples skills and abilities can be developed over the time and how the change can be managed. Human capital requirements and development of process capabilities are focused under strategic HRM. Different approaches and models of Strategic HRM Human resources play a critical role in the successful achievement of goals and objectives of an organization. The vital importance of managing human resource and strategically deploying these resources can be well understood by the statement of the Managing Director of British Chrome and steel in 1998. He stated that There is no other source of competitive advantage! Others can copy our investment, technology and scale but NOT the quality of our people. Steve, B. ( 2000 ,pg 222 ) As the importance is apparent so these resources should be controlled effectively to get the maximum results. To find out how these resources can be used so effectively and strategically different gurus and academics of this subject have presented couple of theories, frame works and models. These Gurus and academics have also described how these approaches and models of strategic HRM can be developed and implemented though implementation of these HR strategies is not that easy as HR mangers need to realize the Strategic human resource requirements not only in numbers but also attitudes, behaviours and commitments. Alan, P. ( 2007, pg.271) These models and approaches can be categorised into two types: General and Particular approach to the practices of strategic HRM. Universality, Contingency and Configurational , are the thr

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

Writing an Essay :: Writing an Essay

Here, I will reveal the methods and tactics to writing an effective analytical essay or evaluative article. Even if you already know how to write a well-structured essay, you may wish to refresh your knowledge and reaffirm what you already know. There are three key parts to an essay: the introduction, body and conclusion. The Introduction Deal with the introduction first of all. The introduction has to have these elements: the question, the answer, the preview of the essay and some scope or parameters. What is the question? This is called your Knowledge Based Problem, or simply the question that you need to find an answer to. What is the answer to your Knowledge Based Problem or question? This is called your thesis. Sometimes called merely an answer, your thesis is the key answer that sums up your entire case in one simple strong sentence. What am I going to talk about in the essay? Here is where you advertise what you want to speak and write about in the course of your essay. What are the definitions and parameters of the terms in your essay? There are two important elements here. One: â€Å"definitions† meaning that you define the words such that you can write your essay. Two: â€Å"parameters† meaning the things that you are not going to talk about or the restrictions of your essay. The Body The body of the essay comes next and many people actually don't know how to do this properly. They actually write whatever they want and whatever comes to their mind. This is incorrect. Here's how you actually do write the essay body to make your writing good and clear. A topic sentence is a sentence that sums up your paragraph and makes a key argument or key idea. You need a topic sentence because this is what you promised to write about. Explain what you mean by the topic sentence and give more details and more information. Sometimes you need to define words - so just do it here in the body as well. Give an example or examples. Tell the reader what the example means or what the examples mean. Summarise your paragraph or argument after doing that. Answer the question using your topic sentence once again at the end. You do this systematic and methodical approach for each and every paragraph. The Conclusion There are only three things you do at the conclusion of your excellent essay and nothing more, if you want a structured and clear essay.

Sunday, November 10, 2019

Structure and Culture of Small Medium Enterprises

‘The category of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is made up of enterprises which employ fewer than 250 persons and which have an annual turnover not exceeding 50 million euro, and/or an annual balance sheet total not exceeding 43 million euro.’ (Definition, 2011) Above explained is the new definition reconstructed by European Commission based on the developments to business environment. This was published in the year 2005 in their website further talking about the importance of SME’s to the European community in the report they issued. Looking further into how and why SMEs plays a major role in the business environment the report explains that, the 25 million SMEs provides 75 million jobs covering 99% enterprises in 25 European union countries. Nonetheless, SMEs has to face difficulties in capital and other important factors such as investment loans especially during the early stage which makes it less stable and short period existence for these types of businesses. (Introduction, 2011) However, some determined minds working through this field tend to survive the obstacles faced in the early stage and carry on with the other phases. Usually SMEs have less than 250 employees. This small community also has to have an intranet among them to be updated and connected to each another. One of the most common tools is paper based communication. Paper based communication requires plenty of paper, more procedure, and more time, which is less reliable and difficult to manage. It also has its advantage of having long time proof of records. But that is not the basic factor highly prioritized in today’s business world. As alternatives keeps the place tidy and stores the record internally in any hard disk or any software. Most importantly, company records are much safer where there is more IT involved. Though, communication is a basic factor in every business organization, not every company has established the latest technology of communication. Different industries or companies have communication process based on their level. Like, huge companies use modern and efficient and/or costly ways of communication whereas; small and medium enterprises (SMEs) use alternative modes which are cheaper and more procedure involved means of communication. This report is based on SME’s highlighting their ways of communication with their stake holders and most importantly, upon how they can improve the method of communication with lower cost. Instead of complicated communication systems these SMEs also could rely on more efficient ways which is more IT related. Among every possible upgrade the key factor for SMEs would be to analyze and go with the minimal cost plan. Executive Summary The introduction of the report explains about what exactly are SMEs. This highlights upon the business culture and structure also the methods they could apply in order to upgrade the existing techniques for an easier method of communication. Alongside, coming up with low cost upgrades as SMEs would not have huge amount in their turnover, moreover it would not be valuable for them for spend abundantly on communication within the organization. Hence, I have shared some opinions which they could rely on and at the same time which would fix into their budget. The report further gives explanations on how the SMEs could grow in its scale by following some method to aware the customers of its existence. And what other IT related yet cheaper ways in which they could keep records like, stock, daily sales and attendance. As far as record keeping is concern in a business organization, SMEs also needs to maintain daily stock report and sales report in a daily basis in order to avoid stock imbalance. If stock is not handled well as a daily/weekly, at the end of the year, missing stocks would be numerous and mysterious. This is going to be a hard task for the company to investigate specially for SMEs. The options elaborated in the report helps to identify some different techniques which help to standardize the majority of work done within the organization. The methods are been separately explained on how each can be utilized and the outcome result of it. Most of it talks about the efficient and effectiveness brought by using the methods. Like how to computerized the stock report and the result in quick search of a transaction or any stock details. Also methods on how the SMEs can reach their customers by spending the least amount on advertising. Structure and Culture of an SME SMEs are usually sole traders who have no more than 250 employees and less turnover of Rs50 million and below. (Fernando, R. 2003) The organizational behavior within the SMEs is less formal than of a larger organization. There are no specific standard followed by the employees. Where attendance maybe the only effective factor for any employee. These types of businesses are usually referred as bureaucratic organization, where the manager/owner has high authority in decision making in every aspect without any recommendation and knowledge by the staffs. For instance, owner decides how a shift would work; if/whether the interior has to be changed and to recruit more staffs and so on. Also he plays the leadership role in deciding how to contact with the customer. Like, if the purchase bills has to be made or not and if so how; printed receipts or manual. Taking a look at why smaller and medium enterprises have a less formal routine is due to cost cutting, result in manual work with cheaper materials to work and also they do not keep a record of day to day business other than the cash-flow. Cash flow records are also maintained in a log book where the cashier list down the items sold, each one separately till the end of the day. And what if a customer needs the receipt? They get a manual receipt with company stamped and purchase details hand written by the cashier, costing more time work and procedure. Meanwhile, the owner keeps a record of bulk purchase in his logbook noting it down after every purchase. This kind of record keeping is difficult to maintain if they want to find something quickly. Moreover, human errors and easy going behavior of a staff may lead to mysterious results of stock imbalance. The external communication; customer communication is preferably poor in SMEs as they do very less advertisements and direct approach to the customers are almost nil regarding its existence. Most of its customers may not know if they have a new stock or introduce a new brand and so on. To be in contact more with the customers is the only way a business can run successfully. But as I have mentioned earlier that SMEs would not prefer any expensive methods of communicating within its organization, below are some upgrades they could bring on in order to connect with the customers and have more efficient way of communicating within the organization. Additionally, some advanced system to keep record. Improved procedure within the business Method 1 Though it has been a tradition to SMEs to keep paper records, they could switch to more IT based information storage. The owner could purchase sales software which is user friendly and easy to train cashiers and/or related department like stores. The registration of the software can be made annually with an annual payment method based on the license to use it. Thus, stock can be maintained in this specific platform at the same time encoding items can result for easy access. Sales software would not be of high cost as it has to be paid annually and compared to the ease it makes in maintaining the majority of the work. Thus, the SME’s would save much time on stock maintaining in efficient way which is more effective; most importantly, with low cost. Method 2 If sales software is considered as high cost per annum simple spreadsheet documentation can be maintained by help of a Microsoft excel expert. Microsoft excel provides a solution to store and calculate the raw data by customized formulas also with the help of the in-built formulas available in the software itself helps to solve minor calculations. It has the potential to create a spreadsheet of raw data into flowcharts, tables and reports to bring a better understanding. The cells are editable which enables to reenter if any changes have to be made. A sales chart can be made in terms of a day, week, month or a year based on their preference. If a company preferred to list down the sales and the stock details in a daily basis, they could include different days tagged in different tabs. While creating different excel documents for different months. Hence, any record can be searched easily with shortcut keys. Meanwhile the SME can keep a good record also record keeping method would be more efficient. SMEs connecting with customers The reason behind low interaction between SMEs and its’ customer is also is to avoid expenses while running business. Bad assumption of SMEs is that communicating to the customers through advertisements are overheads to the company, in fact the attraction gained by the customers would only cause them to have more trade and eventually more profit. To obtain these, SMEs can integrate with modern and IT related communication system which would cost them a lower rate. Method 1 Not only internet can be used as a tool to market but also mobile advertising can be the best and more direct way of approaching to the customer personally. The company can register corporateSMS service from a local telecommunication centre. It helps to forward the same text message with many recipients at the same time. This service can be used to notify the customers for new stock arrivals and so on. News spreads easily, thus a single text message can reach the news to a family and close friends. Overall another 5-10 people would be aware of the news. This makes the direct communication more useful and effective. Method 2 Online marketing is the leading method in modern community. It has become so common that the SMEs also could hire an UI designer to build a platform for their business on the web. This could provide their information regarding the business and products available. Updating the website helps the customers to be familiar with the present availability. There are many web hosting companies which sometimes charge less than $10 per annum. This is quite very few amounts to spend in order to collect more customer and profit to the business. Method 3 Why spend a cent when you can advertise for free? The organization can created a web page about themselves on social networking sites, most common; the Facebook. Owning a page does not require any payment. Numerous amounts of people can search and go through the page as Facebook is in fact, the top rated social networking site where over billions of active users login almost daily. Hence, the chance of more people viewing the page is high and meanwhile, they get to know about the location, service and products available in the organization. The page can be more attractive if company could share pictures of products to make it more helpful the buyers. The details like, history of the organization, mission/vision/objectives and how the customers can contact can also be also included as more details in the information tab provided. Hence this method of online marketing can help to reach more customers without costing any. Method 4 Apart from advertising to the customer, a proof of purchase is required when a customer makes a transaction. In most SMEs a receipt is not provided unless the customer request for it. Hand written slip with a seal of company is how they usually provide it. In my opinion along with sales software they would be able to link to a POS (point of Sales) centre thus a computer generated receipt can be printed through a receipt printer. This method would help both the customer and company to minimize the time of sales. Recommendation Based on the methods mentioned above, my recommendation on how the SMEs could manage their stock is by using a sales software as this is a computer programmed method the chance of mistakes are less compared to using an excel sheet to write down the records manually. Plus, the purchase bill or receipt can be automatically printed after every sales entry if required which leads to a more reliable and quick sale. Thereby, providing the customer a proof and the system detects a sale been done and automatically adjust the balance amount. In the excel sheet this could also be done using the formulas yet it is not reliable if not well maintained. And in most situations daily maintenance cannot be done since the manual work is larger than the automatic level. In case of the sales software technique the normal selling routine goes parallel with the automatic generating of the stock report. It makes the handling procedure much easier and effective. Talking about the marketing point, since Facebook requires none to create a page in the website, this can be easily done to promote its business. This method is the highest effective way because the website is a well-known platform for almost every region. Hence, people around the world will get to know the company and by chance the SMEs could also grow larger in their business according to the income and time. The second best choice I recommend is to register with corporateSMS and to directly approach for customers. This could be done by introducing a visitors’ book and recording the basic information of the customer like; name, contact and preferred item. While the company receives new stock they could text specific group of people with common interest of item, thus the same message can be delivered in bulk. This kind of advertising is more direct and effective. Conclusion Effective communication is the base of the business. If the communication process is reliable then the company can run smoothly. Running a smooth business requires sufficient ways to overcome any conflicts. Any loop holes has to be fixed; starting with the procedure within the company and how to interact with its stakeholders. If a good policy can be retained then the SMEs would also be a well-established part of the society. Rather, having to discontinue soon after starting the business. The success story comes with strong determination; the willingness of a person is all it counts. The report has been highlighted with few methods to improve the existing nature of the SMEs to produce a better procedure to them for their future. Ways in which they could rely on making more profit by spending a small amount of money. Let me conclude by saying that, in my opinion these methods to upgrade the existing techniques followed by SMEs would help them save more time and minimize errors and mistakes from sales maintaining. SMEs can develop their existing communication process within the organization for an efficient and effective system, where they could easily communicate with its customers also within the business community. The opinions mentioned are of low cost also more efficient and convenient to run a small and medium enterprise for a better communication to the organization.

Friday, November 8, 2019

CB †Aziz Essay Example

CB – Aziz Essay Example CB – Aziz Essay CB – Aziz Essay CB – Aziz Name: Course: Date: CB – Aziz Week 1 The main issues of week one include freedom, governments and religion within the first two. The authors included in this week were King James I, James Harrington and John Winthrop. According to John Winthrop, liberty is in two kinds, natural and civil. In this regard, he says that the best way to achieve liberty is by honoring and upholding to authority while James I say it is through honoring the king and his law. The other issue is on governments and their role in ensuring liberty, their advantages and errors as well as solution used to solve the demerits of the ancient governments. Christianity at this time was seen as a source of authority, which is yet another issue. â€Å"†¦ They make and unmake their subjects; they have power of raising and casting down, of life and of death†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (James I 1610 P.4). â€Å"†¦so shall your liberties be preserved in upholding the honor and power of authority amongst you,† (John Winthrop 1645, P.19). â€Å"†¦ Anoth er error of Aristotle’s politics that in a well-ordered commonwealth, not men should govern, but the laws,† (James Harrington 1656 P.23 ). â€Å"the Lord hath given us leave to draw our own articles †¦ to enterprise these actions upon these and these ends, we have hereupon besought Him of favor and blessing,† (John Winthrop 1630 P.17). Week 2 The issues addressed in week 2 include civil governments and their effect on people, its problems, and nature of liberty, the difference between civil and natural governments as well as the best among them and how civil governments are created. The authors writing these articles include John Locke, John Trenchard and Thomas Gordon, John Wise and Sir John Randolph. â€Å"man being born, as has been proven, with a title to perfect freedom, and uncontrolled enjoyment of all the rights and privileges of the law of nature, equally with any other man, or number of men in the world hath by nature power, not only to preserve his property, that is, his life, liberty and estate against injuries and attempts of other men,† (John Locke P.59). â€Å"In most parts of the earth there is neither light nor liberty; and even in the best parts of it they are but little encouraged, and coldly maintained,† (John Trenchard and Thomas Gordon P 87). â€Å"The art of governing is thought to b e the most abstruse, as well as the usefullest science in the world,† (Sir John Randolph 1736 P.97). Week 3 Week three issues are about the British colonizers and their colonist concerning the power the colonizer has as well as the rights of the colonists. The other issue in week three is one tax within the colonies. The British constitutions and its extension to the colonies is another crucial issue, as well as its relation to colonies and sources of rights enjoyed by the colonist, which the article cite as the nature of a man to be free. The final issue of this week was declaration of independence. James Otis cites that, â€Å"A state has no right to make slaves of the conquered. Even when the subordinate right of legislature is forfeited, and so declared, this cannot affect the natural persons either of those who were invested with it, or the inhabitants, so far as to deprive them of the rights of subjects and of men† (1764 P. 154).. Under colonies Thomas Whately says, â€Å"The Revenue that may be raised by the Duties which have been already, or by these [stamp duties] if they should be hereafter imposed, are all equally applied by Parliament, towards defraying the necessary Expenses of defending, protecting, and securing, the British Colonies and Plantations in America,† (1765 P.166). Week 4 Under week 4, articles of confederation were the main issue regarding its ability in forming a sovereign government. The other issue was on the constitution of America and its divisions as well as whether it creates a limited or unlimited government. Additionally, the issues concern the likely consequence if the constitution is not implemented such as territorial war and the bills of rights contained in the constitution. â€Å" each state retains its sovereignty, freedom, and independence, and every power, jurisdiction, and right, which is not by this confederation expressly delegated to the united sates, in congress assembled,† (Articles of Confederation P.332). â€Å"Territorial disputes have at all times been found one of the most fertile sources of hostility among nations. Perhaps the greatest proportions of wars that have desolated the earth have sprung from this origin. This cause would exist among us in full force,† (Alexander Hamilton P.456). When talking about â€Å"ambition must be made to counteract ambition† James Madison meant, â€Å"But the great security against a gradual concentration of the several powers in the same department, consists in giving to those who administer each department the necessary constitutional means and personal motives to resist encroachments of the others,† (496). Week 5 Week five issues are varied as well, including favoring agriculture as opposed to manufacturing as well as the issue of slavery. The main issue is on establishing better economic stands that include why it would be in order to open a national bank or why it would be bad. Finance was another issue where debts are discussed as well. Politics also come into light where debates over political parties are discussed. The idea of a federal government as well, as how it should operate is discussed as well, where the power should be bestowed. â€Å"I consider the foundation of the Constitution as laid on this ground: That † all powers not delegated to the United States, by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States or to the people,† (Thomas Jefferson P.615). Week 6 The main issue of this week is what democracy would be a wise idea, where ordinary people are allowed to make decisions regarding political matters. On this issue, several topics are discussed, including why different people felt democracy would not only fail, but also take away freedom from others. The conditions necessary for democracy to exist are addressed within the articles as well. Other than democracy, the characters of Americans that make them different from Europeans are discussed as well. â€Å"Relying, then, on the patronage of your good will, I advance with obedience to the work, ready to retire from it whenever you become sensible how much better choice it is in your power to make,† (Thomas Jefferson P. 690). Week 7 Week 7 brings to light a topic that was a major issue in America, which is slavery. Issues such as why the policies for abolishing slavery were wrong, why Africans were not right for democracy. Some of the authors see slavery as a bad thing in the society while others view it as right. The bible has been used to discredit slavery as well, showing the difference between people on the issue of slavery and offering Africans their freedom. â€Å"Let them remember, that though our cruel oppressors and murderers, may (if possible) treat us more cruel, as Pharaoh did the children of Israel, yet the God of the Etheopeans, has been pleased to hear our moans in consequence of oppression,† (Walker 1830 P. 965)). â€Å"Had the holding of slaves been a moral evil, it cannot be supposed, that the inspired Apostles, who feared not the faces of men, and were ready to lay down their lives in the cause of their God, would have tolerated it,† (Furman 1823 P. 954). Week 8 The eight week starts with the issue of citizenship for people within America, where Africans are not considered citizens according to some of the writers such as Taney after the declaration of independence. However, others such as Curtis counter his arguments on citizenship for slaves. Slavery issue is reflected again when Abraham Lincoln is brought into light, where he seeks to strengthen federal government when addressing the two sides of the house, conservatives and republicans. Additionally, the issue of southern thinking of secession from United States is discussed in Lincoln’s inaugural message. Finally, the issue of reconstruction is addressed in Lincoln’s second inaugural speech. â€Å"†¦no line dividing local from federal authority, nor anything in the Constitution, properly forbade Congress to prohibit slavery in the federal territory; else both their fidelity to correct principle, and their oath to support the Constitution, would have constrained them to oppose the prohibition,† (Lincoln 1860 1077). References Hammond, S.J., Hardwick, K.R. Lubert, H.L. (2007). Classics of American Political and Constitutional Thought: Origins through the Civil War. Indianapolis, Marion, IN: Hackett Publishing Company.

Wednesday, November 6, 2019

Eight Great Gift Ideas for Your Francophile Friends

Eight Great Gift Ideas for Your Francophile Friends What gifts could you give to your Francophile or France loving friends? Nowadays, with e-commerce, sending the right gift to the right person is so much easier. Yet, there are so many choices out there. Here is my top eight list: 1 – A Book about France Check out your local Amazon store, there are plenty of beautiful books about France.  First, select the â€Å"book† category. Then, you have a lot of choices. To narrow down the searches, look at the options on your left (you may need to press â€Å"see more†). Select: - â€Å"Art and photography† for beautiful books. I love The Louvre - all the paintings, The Best loved villages of France, and Spectacular Paris.- â€Å"Travel guides† to prepare a trip.  - â€Å"Cookbook, food and wine also make a great idea. My husband is a great cook, and his favorite is Mastering the Art of French Cooking - You cannot go wrong with Julia Child! And My Paris Kitchen - Olivier often picks up David Lebovitzs book for inspiration, and all his recipes always turn out perfect - we highly recommend it.- â€Å"Comic book† – what about a French edition of the world-famous â€Å"Tintin† or â€Å"Astà ©rix†?   Then, you can have your book shipped wherever you like, and even have it gift-wrapped. How practical! 2 – A French CD/MP3 or DVD French music is so readily available, both in stores and on the web. Of course you have the classics: Brel, Aznavour, Piaf... but there are many young talents out there: you may have heard of â€Å"Stromae† but he is not the only one (check out â€Å"Zaz†, â€Å"M Pocora† â€Å"Tal†, â€Å"Bà ©nabar†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦) : Check out my Pinterest board â€Å"Les VIP du PAF (Screen and Audio French VIPs) for inspiration, pictures, and videos of who’s hot in France right now. For movies in French, check out Amazon Canada – you’ll pay a bit more for shipping but will have a much larger selection and you are still in the appropriate DVD zone for the US.​ Note: Unfortunately, DVDs are ‘region locked’ and so a DVD meant for the European market will not play on a standard US/CAN DVD player. If this is a DVD for a US/Canadian based friend, make sure it’s â€Å"Region 1† (or that they have a hacked and unlocked DVD player). 3 – A French Audiobook What about learning some French? There are a ton of resources out there, including pricey French learning software (If you are going this way, I recommend Fluenz) and old-fashion dictionaries. You will, of course, find plenty of textbooks on Amazon, but if you ask me, students of French absolutely need an audio support. Audiobooks are convenient; your friend can download them to their smart phone and use them on the go, during workouts or commuting time. If your friends are French or speak French fluently, check out Audible for their selection of audio novels in French. And if your friends are still learning French, then pick a  level appropriate French audio novel or French learning method  on my site, FrenchToday.com. 4 – French Gourmet Food Still on Amazon, check the category â€Å"grocery and gourmet food† and type â€Å"France† or anything special you would be looking for. There is a gift there for any budget. You can also go to your local fine grocery store, and once you look carefully, you’ll be surprised at the number of French food items.   â€Å"Fleur de sel de Guà ©rande† makes a great gift for foodies (this is actually the one Olivier loves), but there are also many French mustards (I love the brand â€Å"Maille†) and spices, cookies, and chocolate. 5 – French Wine Tasting You don’t need to be in France to taste French wines. If you live in a large city, chances are that your local wine store organizes wine tastings. Pay them a visit and ask them if and when they plan on having a French wine tasting. You could even ask them if they could organize one for you and your Francophile friends. Stores are usually very happy to do so and it would be a fun moment, and a personalized gift for your friend. 6– French Perfume and Make-Up Chanel, Dior, Lancà ´me... We dream about these brands but only few people can treat themselves to this kind of luxury. However, many of these brands do have a cosmetic department, and a Dior Lipstick for example is a gift that will most likely impress any lady. You can find them online or in any large department store. 7 – Coupon for a French Restaurant Ok, this one may be a bit on the expensive side. But it’s fun. And if your friends often go to their favorite French restaurant, you can call that restaurant and ask to buy a bottle of wine for the next time your friends go there.   8– French Magazine Subscription There are many French magazines out there, and with Amazon.com, you can get a subscription to a magazine in French right to your door: Vogue, Cuisine et vins de France, Marie-Claire Maison, Photo, Voici or Gala,  they make wonderful gifts because every month, your friend will be reminded of your thoughtful gift. Je mets tous les jours des mini-leà §ons gratuites sur Facebook, Twitter et Pinterest - venez m’y rejoindre! I also wrote many articles about Christmas in France:- 7 Must Know Noà «l Traditions- Christmas in France Dialogue - French English Bilingual Easy Story- Meet the French Santa - French English Bilingual Easy Story-8 Gift Ideas for Your Francophile Friends- Petit Papa Noà «l - The Most Famous French Christmas Song (with a link to a video of my daughter singing it!)-  My enunciated recording of the Catholic mass prayers in French Joyeuses fà ªtes de fin dannà ©e! Happy Holidays!

Sunday, November 3, 2019

Strategies for Building Effective Relationships Paper Essay

Strategies for Building Effective Relationships Paper - Essay Example These strategies are developed to increase motivation and work performance of the employees. Strong relationship of company with its organizational members is build by putting many efforts. Good relationship helps to satisfy all the staffs of the company. It facilitates the firm to retain its employees. Strategies in this case are designed by considering employees needs and requirements. In this case study, as a new product development manager I have to implement strategies for improving the condition of my uncle’s business. In my uncle’s business employees play an important role in organizational growth and success. Therefore maintaining a good relationship with them is an important responsibility of the company. Strategies of the company need to be decided according to that. As a product development project leader I have joined my uncle’s business. The company is into mid size manufacturing business. Presently the business condition is very bad. Employees and other organizational members are not satisfying with business functions. I mainly handle operational activities of the company. I have analyzed the company’s situation and have come to the conclusion that revenue of the organization has significantly dropped in past few years. The organizational members of this business did not implement any new ideas in business operation and development process. There is no such project manager present to manage and look after the works of various projects. As a result business functions are not executed properly. Project leaders were there but they left the company because of serious conflict with their supervisors and managers. For all of these reason employees are getting de-motivated in this company and this leads to deterioration of the company . My uncle’s business needs to be organized in an effective way so that the company develops a strong relationship with its

Friday, November 1, 2019

International Business & Strategy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

International Business & Strategy - Essay Example This has been made possible through employing an effective international business strategy, which helps the company to direct their business in the global market effectively with an aim of maximising profits. Carrefour is one of the businesses that employ international business strategy to enable them to achieve a competitive advantage and increase profits in the global market. The company was established in 1958 and it grew into a vast chain after the first sales. Carrefour operates currently over 9,994 stores in thirty-three countries; therefore, expanding the business into the new markets in Botswana will enable the company to increase their profits because the political stability of this country has catapulted the economy into emerging and one of the fastest growing economies. The Potential Target Market for Carrefour’s Future International Expansion Strategy Botswana will be one of the prospective target markets for expanding the business in the future using international growth strategy. Many companies have made significant attempts to expand their business across the globe. This is through employing internalisation or global strategies that will enable them to expand their business and also reach their targeted customers effectively. Mun (2010, p. 42) argues that employing an effective strategy in the global business environment is vital because it will enable an organisation to increase profits. The globalisation is set to continue and this will contribute to new opportunities and challenges for the future generations of entrepreneurs who are seeking to prosper in an increasingly interdependent world. Therefore, Carrefour can use this strategy to expand their business in the future to untapped developing countries such as Botswana. Global retailers have continued to expand their business into untapped markets due to increased technology advancement and increased consumption across the globe. Many international companies such as Carrefour have rea lised the significance of expanding their business into the new market, especially the emerging market; thus, there is a need to also target in the future many developing countries. This is because many global companies operating in developing countries have increased and tapped revenues 2.5 times faster than in their home markets (Doh, Lawton & Rajwani, 2012, p. 23). The research study reveals a wider range of possibilities for vendors seeking to capture an instant impact and a growth advantage in third world countries (Brown & Gutterman, 2003, p. 27). Possibilities do not only flourish in the largest markets in the industrialised nations but also in smaller markets in third world nations; however, third world developing nations have been ranked among the leading nations for retail investment; thus, Carrefour Group should expand their international strategy by expanding their markets to a potential target market in Botswana. Macro-Environmental Characteristics of the Market Organis ations are constantly scanning not only their internal environment but also the external environmental factors that may impact their business performance in the global market. Macro-environment characteristics take into consideration the external factors that may be favourable or unfavourable to business performance. The macro-environment is external forces that result from a