Monday, September 30, 2019

Analysis of the Fragments from ‘The Passionate Year’ by James Hilton Essay

The fragments from ‘The Passionate Year’ written by English writer James Hilton is under our interpretation. The problems of teacher and pupil are touched upon in these passages. Here we can read about the problem of a new teacher and how children rag him. But a teacher can have a strong will and won’t let his pupils make jokes at him, how to manage them. The author of this story is omniscient, he goes through the psychological characterization, and using the third person narration, tells us a straight-form story about a young teacher, Kenneth Speed, who is the central character, who came to his new class and had been warned about the children’s possible misbehaviour. The story is set in a class-room and this is a realistic setting. The plot of the story is simple and the story is divided by the author to two parts: ‘Speed in class’ and ‘The conversation between Speed and Clanwell’. But I want to offer the further division: the first part can be subdivided to three more – ‘Speed’s expecting worse’, ‘Misbehaviour’ and ‘Punishment’. I think such a division of the story to logical parts was made to form the matches: the first sub-part is the opening, the second is the climax (the passage telling about laughter), and the third is the denouement. The last part which is separated by a line, is the closing paragraph added to the fragment of the story in order to come to the conclusion that the victory over the children was full and Speed had passed his ‘ordeal’. At the beginning of the fragment Speed is in nervous condition which is expressed by the epithets: ‘nervous’, ‘an atmosphere of subdued expectancy’, ‘keenly conscious’; similes: ‘as if he were sitting on a powder-magazine ’. To show the atmosphere after Speed’s confusion with the names, the author uses rhetorical exclamatory sentence, even with inversion in it. And then goes Speed’s flashback to his past. Elliptical sentence (‘in hot indignation’) is used to show how really indignant Worsley was. The closing paragraph contains metaphor (‘ordeal’). There are also repetitions in this extract of the word laughter (‘roared with laughter’, ‘went away laughing’ ). The tonal system of the story is ironic and humoristic, though there are some points of tense there.

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Prove or conversely disprove the inverse square law Essay

My aim of this experiment is to prove or conversely disprove the inverse square law, which simply states that the intensity of any point source, which spreads its influence equally in all directions without a limit to its range, will decrease in intensity inversely proportional to the square of the distance. Background information Research As first proposed by Isaac Newton when proposing his universal law of gravitation it became clear to him that the intensity of gravity would decrease according to the inverse of the square of the distance. This is the heart of the inverse square, which states for any point source, which spreads its influence equally in all directions without a limit to its range, will obey the inverse square law. Quite simply the inverse square law states that for sources emitted from a point the intensity will be deduced as the inverse of the square of the distance. You double the distance you reduce the intensity by a factor of 1/4. This has applications in electric fields, light, sound, gamma radiation, and gravity. All of these are expressed in the medium of a field. To explain the properties involved in a field it is useful to use the idea of flux. When water flows form a ‘source’ to a sink it is transferred at a certain rate, or flux. The flux density will be the mass of water per second crossing a unit area perpendicular to the flow. We can think of energy density in a similar way. Energy flux density is normally referred to as intensity. Field strength and energy flux density are related. The strength of a field will fall off proportionally. The idea of flux can be applied to fields in which there is no obvious evidence for anything actually being transferred, such as static electrical fields, gravitational fields and magnetic fields. The mathematics that model flux are the same whatever the field. Generally this can be summed up in a formula which states the intensity at a point on a sphere of influence will be deduced by the source strength divided by 4 times pi times the radius squared, where this is the surface area over which the initial source has spread it’s influence. I = S / 4? r2 This formula manifests itself in a variety of ways when put into context. When applied to gravity the formula to show the acceleration due to gravity at the surface of a body is, 4? GM = Intensity at the surface of sphere of influence. Where G is the gravitational constant, M the mass of the object, and r the distance from the centre point. By cancelling out the 4? section we are left with the more elegant formula, GM = acceleration due to gravity r2 Where acceleration due to gravity would be equivalent to the intensity of the source. As the distance is doubled, the intensity is reduced by a factor of 4. So theoretically gravity obeys the inverse square law. When applied to sound we get the formula, P = I 4? r2 Where P is the source power, I the intensity at surface of sphere, and r the distance from the source power. So again we see that as we double the distance we reduce the intensity by a factor of 4. The differce here that as sound is not of ethereal nature it is affected by its surroundings and only works without reflections, or reverberations. The behaviour of point charges in an electrostatic field will obey coulombs law, which in turn obeys the inverse square law. The formula here is, Q = E 4 0 r2 Where Q/? 0 is the source strength, E is the strength of the electrostatic field, and r is the distance. So again we see that as the distance is doubled, the intensity of the field is reduced by a factor of four.

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Best Snack Foods

Running head: PROBLEM SOLUTION: BEST SNACKS INC. Problem Solution: Best Snacks Inc. University of Phoenix Problem Solution: Best Snacks Inc. Over the last few years Best Snacks has been faced with declined sales, decreased market shares as well as steadily decline stock market prices. As a result of these changes, Best Snack is currently no longer on top of the snack food industry. The current CEO Elizabeth Fairchild, has enlisted the assistance of Vice President of Organizational Development Sabrina McKay to help change the creative and innovative culture. The purpose of this paper is to provide solutions to the issues facing Best Snack that will allow the company to regain the new one spot in the snack food industry. The solutions will focus on the overwhelming need for a return to creativity and innovation into the organization. Describe the Situation Issue and Opportunity Identification The snack food industry is consistently changing and evolving. Best Snack currently has not been able to keep up with the competition. Several issues will need to address before a turn around can begin. The issues with Best Snacks are lack of creativity and innovation, which has led to the decrease sales, decreased market share and decreased profits. The time is now for Best Snacks to adopt a culture that fosters creativity and innovation or jeopardize losing even more. A full outline of the issues facing Best Snack is outlined in Table 1. As a result of the survey, Best Snack has several opportunities to address with the employees. Much of the research on innovative companies points to the importance of management practices that support creative employees and their ideas† (Best Snacks, 2009, p 4). Becoming a learning organization is one of the opportunities for Best Snack. Becoming a learning organization will encourage the changes that the CEO wants to implement. As the employees become more skilled and start to use those skills the creativity and innovation will be reinforced and become a vital part of the company’s organizational culture. Senge’s principles for designing a learning organization emphasizes the importance of building shared vision, by which he means building the ongoing frame of reference or mental model that all organizational members use to frame problems or opportunities and that binds them to an organization† (Jones, 2004, pg 379). Stakeholder Perspectives/Ethical Dilemmas Each stakeholder has their one ideas of how they relate to Best Snacks. The key stakeholders are the customers, the management team, employees and the shareholders. Each stakeholder has some investment in the success of the company and each stakeholder wants a high return on his or her investment. The investment and values of each key stakeholder is identified and explained in Table 2. The management team is looked upon by the employees, shareholders and the customers to make the decisions that will ensure the success of the company. These decisions include fostering an environment that fosters creativity and innovation to keep the company competitive. The employees are looked upon by the management team to provide creative and innovation ideas that can control cost and maintain product lines. The stakeholders look to the management team and employees to work in a manner which uses the Capitol in the best manner. The stakeholders want a decent return on their investment and want to know that the management team is managing their capitol effectively. The customers want to know they are receiving value for their money as well as purchasing from an honest and reputable company. Frame the â€Å"Right† Problem Best Snacks will provide all employees opportunities to grow and develops skills related to creativity and innovation. As the employees use these new skills, Best Snack will be come an organization that will lead the snack industry in using creativity and innovation to materialize the company’s strategic plan of increased market share, increased sales and increased stock prices. Describe the â€Å"End-State† Vision Best Snack has an upward climb to becoming number one in the snack food industry again. Major changes will need to be made and the best method for Best Snacks will be to incorporate radical innovation into culture. The company will need to evaluate both the business model as well as technology to see what improvements can be made. This will be a first in the snack food industry and will position Best Snack a true leader in the industry. The next step is to increase creative thinking and innovational skills on all levels of the organization. By looking at both internal and external sources for creativity and innovation Best Snack will have a consistent flow of creative and innovative ideas for developing and marketing products. The need for new products and marking ideas is essential to increase sales, market shares and stock prices. Identify the Alternatives and Benchmarking Validation â€Å"Making decisions on a product enhancement requires communications between many parts of the organization, including R&D, manufacturing, marketing and sales, and finance, as well as processes and criteria for making the decisions† (Davila, Epstein, & Shelton, 2006, p 120). Best Snacks R&D department is currently not producing the type of ideas that will lead to new innovation products required to keep the company competitive. By creating an outreach program Best Snack R&D department will be in contact with fresh and innovative ideas. â€Å"By 2000, it was clear to us that our invent-it-ourselves model was not capable of sustaining high levels of top-line growth. The explosion of new technologies was putting ever more pressure on our innovation budgets. Our R&D productivity had leveled off, and our innovation success rate—the percentage of new products that met financial objectives—had stagnated at about 35 percent. Squeezed by nimble competitors, flattening sales, lackluster new launches, and a quarterly earnings miss, we lost more than half our market cap when our stock slid from $118 to $52 a share† (Connect and Develop: Inside Procter & Gamble's New Model for Innovation 2006). This served as a major wake up call for Proctor and Gamble so the company began looking at university and government labs to create partnerships to assist both parties in product research and design. Proctor & Gamble soon realized that this process was paying off because of the best ideas had come from the partnerships outside the company. Lafley made it our goal to acquire 50 percent of our innovations outside the company. The strategy wasn't to replace the capabilities of our 7,500 researchers and support staff, but to better leverage them. Half of our new products, Lafley said, would come from our own labs, and half would come through them† (Connect and Develop: Inside Procter & Gamble's New Model for In novation 2006). With this new change in obtaining ideas, it was important that the culture of the company changed as well. As Best Snacks is looking to make changes to product line, the company could benefit from creating partnerships with universities and even individuals looking to sell product ideas. Procter & Gamble has created a website in which individuals can log in and provide new ideas. Best Snacks could add a link to the company website that could serve the same purpose. The link on the website could be a cost-effective way to begin to obtain new ideas. If the website generates valuable suggestions, then the outreach program can be expanded as-needed. The solution of a culture change and using an out reach program is the best solution for Best Snacks as it will lead to continued growth and development for the company. Evaluate the Alternatives Best Snack has attempted to use incremental innovation without much success and the CEO see this and is aware of the need for radical innovation and increased creativity. â€Å" She determined to make Best Snacks the first consumer snacks company to make radical innovation and creativity a vital part of the organization’s culture† (Best Snacks, 2009, p 1). The company will need to embrace the need for a culture change and work toward more products that will reach the target customers. Innovation and creativity is exactly what Best Snacks needs to regain the top position in the snack industry. The company will need to educate the employees and train them to think creativity and identify innovative thoughts. This can be accomplished by the management team identifying the behaviors of other creative and innovative companies. Once these behaviors are identified, the next step is to incorporate these behaviors in the daily routines. These steps set the ground work to empower the employees to introduce new products. Narrowed List of Alternatives When looking at the list of alternatives presented in Table 3, the best alternative solution is to look at gaining outside partnerships to assist the R team in providing new ideas. Before this solution can work the culture will need to shift to encourage creativity and innovation from all employees. The employees need to understand that the external ideas are not to replace the internal ones but to enhance the brainstorming sessions. The next best solution would be to create a learning organization. All of these steps are necessary as Best Snacks focuses on shift to a company known for innovation and creativity. Identify and Assess Risks Best Snacks needs to understand that each solution carries a different set of risks. It’s important these risks are taken into consideration before any decision is made. The current risk that needs to mitigate is the declining sales, declining market share and declining stock prices. Table 4 provides the risk and consequences of the each of the proposed solutions and most important it provides ways to lower the risk of each solution. The management team will need to have solid techniques in place to help the employees more toward the new organizational goals. Make the Decision When evaluating all of the solutions provided, Best Snack would benefit from all of the solutions in some manner. By developing the partnerships with local colleges, shifting the culture to foster innovation and creativity by implementing the behaviors of that lead to creativity and innovation will help to transform ideas to new product lines. The first step is to contact the local colleges to create internships program. This program will consistently provide the R department access to new ideas. The R team can take the ideas and brainstorm how to implement the ideas. The downside of this solution is that the R department may not take the ideas seriously and not focus enough attention to the development because of resentment. The second and third alternative is change the culture to foster creativity and innovation by identifying the behaviors of other creative and innovative companies. These two alternatives are interrelated as before one can occur the other needs to occur. The shift of culture will be hard from several of the employees because of resistance to change. The management team will need to provide change management training to employees because the future of the Best Snack is full of consistent change. The final alternative is to create a learning organization. As Best Snack is making the other adjustments to the business model, the company will have no other choice but to implement organizational learning. The benefit to this alternative is that the company will be consistently looking for new ideas and products that new learning will be required of each employee. As the employees learn and share new skills the company continues to learn and grow and in turn the product line will continually evolve to meet the demands of the customers. Develop and Implement the Solution Sabrina McKay the Vice President of Organizational Development has a full slate to ensure that all of the pieces are in place. Sabrina’s first action item is to identify the leadership behaviors are required to lead the company. These behaviors will be identified within two months. Once the behaviors have been outlined, over the next three months the review of the current management process will be evaluated. During this evaluation, the necessary changes will be outlined. During these evaluations, the management team will be review all polices and procedures to benchmark against the new set of behaviors and processes. The management team will have two months to complete this evaluation. Once the changes have been outlined, a new training program will be created by Sabrina and this should take approximately nine months to create and provide the training to all associates. While the training is being conducted Sabrina will also be working on the creativity and innovation plan. This plan will include the partnerships with local colleges. Sabrina will have eight months to create and identify the best college to use for the program. Once the partnerships and training is complete the management team can continue to outline the strategies for supporting the employees in all of the new endeavors. The support for the employees is vital to the whole plans success. The project will be reviewed every six months to ensure adequately progress. Evaluate the Results The focus for Best Snack is to become the first company in the snack industry actively using radical innovation in the organizational culture. The plan that was outlined in Table 6 and Table 7 has the project completed within the next 12 months. The changes that will be made during this time will need to be consistently reinforced by management. It is also very important that management support the employees as training and change is provided. This is the time for management to increase the trust factor between management and employees. As the trust increases, creativity will also increase. The employees’ surveys will be used to measure how well the management team is nurturing the increased creativity and innovation. Once partnership program is in place, Best Snacks will have consistent flow of ideas for the R team to brainstorm and transform into new products. As the R team is brainstorming both internal and external ideas this lead to additional ideas. Within a year, the R team will be able to provide more marketing ideas and products in a more efficient manner. Best snacks will a 30% increase in new products in one-year. The increase in products will start to increase company sales, market share and stock price within the year. With the consistent new ideas, increased creative and innovative thinking, Best Snack will see consistent growth over the next few years. Conclusion Best Snack has become very dependent on incremental innovation and the low risk factors that when change is urgently needed it is hard to stray from it. Best Snack is trying to become a leader in the industry but is stuck therefore the need to shift to radical innovation. The second level at which systems interact with learning is through their own improvement and the improvement of organizational processes. During the execution of a particular project, there is learning about the process itself that is captured. In other words, there is learning not only about the particular innovation, but also about how the company can improve its innovation processes† (Davila, Epstein, & Shelton, 2006, p 218). For Best Snacks to maintain the new competitive edge it is important to continue to foster the communication as well as the concepts of creativity and innovation. Best Snacks is now in a position to use the knowledge of the past to create a better future for the employees, customers and shareholders. References Davila, T. , Epstein, M. , & Shelton, R. , 2006. Making Innovation Work: How to Manage It, Measure It, and Profit from It, 1e. Jones, Gareth R. , 2004. Organizational Theory, Design, and Change, 1eChapter 12: Decision Making, Learning, Knowledge Management, and Information Technology. P&G’s New Innovation Model 2006 retrieved April 10, 2010 from http://hbswk. hbs. edu/archive/5258. html University of Phoenix, (2009). Best Snacks Scenario Inc. Retrieved March 21, 2010 from University of Phoenix rEsource Center. Table 1 Issues and Opportunities Identification |Issue |Opportunities |Reference to Specific | | | |Course Concept | |Business Model Change to drive |The CEO Elizabeth recognizes the company’s need to make|Davila. , Epstein. , & Shelton | |innovation in the following areas: |some innovated changes. The changes to the business |2006, p. 32 | |Value Proposition |model will help Best Snack Foods become more | | |Supply Chain |competitive. The first change will be to look at the | | |Target Customer |value of the items for sale and make the necessary | | | |adjustments to provide more value to the consumers. | | |The next step is to look at the supply chain and make | | | |the necessary adjustment. The changes should provide | | | |product to Best Snacks at a quick and lower price so | | | |that cost savings can be passed on to the customer as | | | well as increased margin for the company. The final | | | |step is to determine the target customer for the new | | | |product or the enhanced product. Best Snack foods to | | | |look at what areas that they have no presence and what | | | |areas they need to increase product presence. This | | | |will determine which customers they are not reaching | | | |and then can determine value of reaching out to a new | | | |demographic. | | |Technology Change to drive innovation |The CEO Elizabeth recognizes the company’s need to make|Davila. , Epstein. , & Shelton | |in the following ways: |some innovated changes. According to the survey the |2006, p. 5 | |Product and service offerings |associates believe that management does not quick | | |Process technologies |decision regarding new products. The company has | | |Enabling technologies |introduced only five new products in three years. The | | | |company needs to determine what products they want to | | | |improve on or, which new items to produce. This new | | | |products could also require some changes in the | | | |technologies. The company has just implemented an | | | |automotive packing system and will need to find other | | | |technologies that will help decrease cost associated | | | |with production. The nest step will be for Best Snack | | | |food to look communication between vendors. The close | | | |relationship can also help to reduce cost. | | |Organizational |The executive team should begin to outline the learning|Jones 2004, p. 376 | |learning The process |for the individual through the University. Once the | | |through which managers |learning continues with the individual, the new | | |seek to improve |knowledge will begin to have an impact on the group and| | |organization members’ |when the group is learning the whole organization is | | |capacity to understand |learning. Best Snack needs to outline training classes| | |and manage the organization |for all levels of the company. As the company | | |and its environment |continues to learn the groups and individuals will | | |so that they |begin to look deeper into process to determine ways to | | |can make decisions |streamline and reduce cost. This is creating an | | |with continual organizational |environment that fosters creativity. This will so help| | |effectiveness. The following are |to decrease the fear of taking risk within the company. | |types of organizational learning | | | |Exploration | | | |Exploitation | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |Organizational decision making is the |This is what the executive team is currently working |Jones 2004, p. 368 | |process of responding to a problem by |on. The CEO has outlined the problem, which is the | | |searching for and selecting a solution|company is not as competitive and innovated as the | | |or course of action that will create |competition. As a result of these issues the company | | |value for |is beginning to suffer financially. The executive team| | |organizational stakeholders. |is working to find the proper solution that will | | |This type of decision model has five |provide increased profits and margins for Best Snacks. | |different models | | | |Rational Model | | | |Carnegie Model | | | |Incrementalist Model | | | |Unstructured Model | | | |Garbage Can Model | | | |Decision making drives the operation | | | |of an organization. At the | | | |core of every organization is a set of| | | |decision-making rules and routines | | | |that bring stability | | | |and allow the organization to | | | |reproduce its structure, activities, | | | |and core competences | | | |over time (Jones, 2004, p. 375) | | | |Learning in a innovative organization |Sabrina will be able to provide this characteristic to |Davila. , Epstein. & Shelton | |has the following characteristics: |Best Snack foods once she is has completed her new |2006, p. 212 | |Process learning is linked to |assignment. The first step that she has completed of | | |strategy |the employee survey is an excellent start to determine | | |Systematic approach to complex |the current state versus the new look of the company. | | |organizational dynamics |She is also looking at the values and the mission of | | |Shared vision |the company. Both of these will more than likely be | | |Flexibility and agility |updated to reflect the new strategy. Once the new | | |Timely anticipation of challenges and |strategy is determined the company will be working | | |threats |toward a common goal and will be able to foster a | | |Collaborative and challenging |creative environment. The company currently has a Best | | |environment. |Snack University for the students but the courses are | | | |not mandatory. The company should look at requiring so | | | |many hours a year so that each employee can continue to| | | |improve upon there skills. | | Table 2 Stakeholder Perspectives and Ethical Dilemmas |Stakeholder Perspectives and Ethical Dilemmas | |Stakeholder Groups with Competing Values | | | | |The Interests, Rights, and |The Ethical Dilemma Based on the Competing | |List: Group X Values of Each Group |Values | |versus Group Y | | | |Executive Management vs. Employees |Fairness, accountability and social responsibility |The employees completed a survey and it is up | | |The interest of employees revolves around Best |to the Management team to make the right | | |Snacks ability to provide job security, market share|decision with the answers. It is important the | | |security and on the job training to improve job |management use the information to provide the | | |skills. The Executive management has the |necessary program to the employees and support | | |responsibility to implement the organizational |growth and development. | | |changes in order to maintain competitive. | | |Executive Management vs. Shareholders |Increased return on investment, |The main interest is the history of innovation,| | |Loyalty, respect, responsibility and reputation of |market shares, stock performance, operating | | |company. |profit, return on investment, and | | | |profitability. The shareholders are fearful | | | |about their investments not increasing and the | | | |shareholders want to know that the capitol is | | | |being managed properly. If the capitol is being| | | |managed properly then there should be a return | | | |on their capitol. | |Executive Management vs. Customers |Customer is interested in cost and quality. The CEO Elizabeth Fairchild has meeting with | | |The customer is also wanting accountability and |customers to talk about values and how they | | |honestly from the executive team. |compare to the competition. The customers are | | | |expecting that the company to take their | | | |answers and work to make the necessary changes. | Table 3 Analysis of Alternative Solutions [pic] Table 4 Risk Assessment and Mitigation Risk Assessment and Mitigation | |Alternative |Risks and Probability |Consequence and Severity |Mitigation Techniques and | | | | |Strategies | |Identify and individual and |Ineffective due to lack of |According to the survey results, |Management team will communicate | |organizational behaviors that |participation and rejection by |the employees do not believe that |how creativity and innovation will | |foster creativity and |employees – high |improved innovation and creativity|assist the company to reach the new| |innovation |There is littler or no growth – low |is achievable –high |goals | | |Inadequate management of strategies |Will not have immediate impact on | | | |structures, or cultures – low |product improvements, finance or |The management team will also need | | | reputation-medium |to understand all of the dynamics | | | | |that affect growth. | |Create organizational learning |Employees are hesitant to follow the |Increase turnover as employees |The CEO and | | |organizational learning system- high |will not make necessary changes – |management team will need to | | | |medium |define and communicate the | | | | |organizational learning process. | | | | | |Adapt a culture that focuses on|Creation of goals for employees to have|Will not address all of the |The management team will focus on | |creativity and innovation |continuous learning – medium |important issues. – high |creativity when outlining the new | | | |The major issues will still need |vision of the company | | | |to be addressed | | |Create partnerships with |Current employees will resent the ideas|This will generate new ideas that |The management team must | |colleges to generate new and |from the outside -high |can be implemented by the current |communicate the program and foster | |creative ideas. |R&D team with the necessary |the culture to accept the ideas as | | | |modifications to fit the needs of |if they were generated from the | | | |the company. – Low |inside. | Table 5 Pros and Cons of Alternative Solutions |Alternative |Pros |Cons | |Create organizational learning |All departments will be on the same track |The training can be c ostly and be hard for some| | |toward the new goals. employees to make changes | | | | | | | | | |Adapt culture that focuses on creativity and |Company will operate more efficiently due to |The current culture may be too strong to allow | |innovation |all of the new changes in operating models and |the shift in focus and implement the new ideas | | |technology |and concepts | |Identify individual and organizational |Increased competences for employees that can |Products are not improved | |behaviors that foster creativity and innovation|improve product lines |Products may no longer meet the needs of the | |and implement the necessary changes | |customer | | | | | | | | | |Create relationships with colleges to generate |New ideas that are not bound by boundaries from|Current team members might feel threaten by | |new ideas |the culture of the company |ideas | | |The customer is provide suggestions to improve |Students that create ideas may not be involved | | |value or products |in w hole process. | | |Ideas that are generated can be modified by the| | | |R&D team to fit the business model | | Table 6 Optimal Solution Implementation Plan Action Item Deliverable |Timeline |Who is Responsible | |Proposal for new employee training |9 months |Sabrina McKay, VP of Organizational | | | |Development | |Organizational strategies for supporting the |12 months (continual) | Executive Management Team | |employees | | | |Creation of Creativity and Innovation Plan |8 months |Sabrina McKay | |Review of all policies and procedures |2 months | Executive Management Team | |Identify leadership behaviors |2 months |Sabrina McKay | |Identify management process |3 months |Sabrina McKay | Table 7 Evaluation of Results End-State Goals |Metrics |Target | |Best Snacks will be the first snack company to |Innovation and creativity will become a |With in a year, radical innovation will be | |implement radical innovation and creativity as|integral part of the companies ongoing |encouraged regularly. | |part of the companies organizational culture |processed | | |Best Snacks encourage creative thinking on all |Best Snack will now be known as a cutting edge |All employees will be trained on creativity and| |levels by using new skills |innovation organization |innovation skills within one year. |The development of new products will be more |With in a year, Best Snacks will see an |The will be a 30% increase in new products | |innovative resulting in an increase in sales, |increase in development of new products as a |within one year. | |market share and stock prices. |result of new ideas from both internal and | | | |external sources | | |The executive management team will create an |The results of the assessment show that |Full employee involvement with in 4 months. |assessment to increase creativity and |management is following the new organizational | | |innovation throughout the company |plans for the company. | | |Best Snacks will become number one again and |Best Snacks leads the industry with creative |Within one year, Best Snacks will have | |will remain competitive due to organizational |and innovation products and will increase |increased profit margins and increased | |changes |revenue and operating incomes |creativity. |

Friday, September 27, 2019

Internship Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Internship - Essay Example In addition, the communication goal entails having proficient skills in the written materials that I pass on to other departments. It is vital that this goal was achievable. This regards the fact that it possessed direct and achievable procedures in attaining its proficiency. In building the same, it was the same to build on a feasible rapport with the employees and mangers. This became the fundamental idea in highlighting the vital strategies in enhancing communication. This relates to the idea that communication is vanity without a core rapport with the partners in the same. The goal was to make the employees friends. In this sense, I could articulate proper responses and communication to fellows. To begin with, proper listening skills were vital accompaniment of communication. This occurred from the realization that individuals pay attention to those who conduct the same (Buhler 78). This means that communication was a means to achieving other objectives of affectivity in relationships. Listening was essential for manifesting caring nature in the conversations. More essentially, daily conversations contributed to enhancing relations and communication skills. The practical way of achieving the same pertained to asking relevant questions. In addition, gratitude was an essential way of engaging others in building one’s communication skills. Since the HR department dealt with employees’ welfare, it was vital to express appreciation for their work. This was an essential way of creating response scenarios with employees. More essentially, it was vital to express appreciation in amiable ways. This pertained to avoidance of sarcasm in the same scenarios. In close relation to the same, expression of empathy helped build communication platforms with employees. It creates mutually benefitting scenarios for constructive communication. Additionally, humor was a superb skill of enhancing communication. It was an

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Joe Orton and the Counter Cultural Movement in the 60's Essay

Joe Orton and the Counter Cultural Movement in the 60's - Essay Example The hardship during the days of the Second World War gave birth to the newest possible philosophies that state it is obvious to follow the trend of open market economy with all its perception of high yielding materialism. This hard cored materialism and pro life oriented attitude was previously known in the western world but now it came into a maximized form which sociologist refer as a pro active action against the mass destruction and insecurity of the last great war. The latest philosophy was to obtain as much as possible that life has to offer. Every social aspect changed with it and along with it changed the world around them. Plays and writer were no different. Colours became more vibrant and approach became more outrageous to keep up with the society. Joe Orton's plays were a product of this period. The funny side of this approach was however different from the basic perception of the life styles of the 1950's through the later 1960 were a confluence of conflicting philosophies. ... (Fletcher, 135-9) It is a well known fact and it has been shown time and again by many literary historians and researchers that the main targeted audience were the baby boomers who had all the opportunities to take all the advantages of almost any and every marketing gimmicks. But Joe Orton's plays had their own vibes even though they supported the antiestablishment norms of the time. Joe Orton was born in 1933 at Leicester and is famous for his social satires in modern playwright history. His career actually span only five years from 1964 to 1967 but within this short time he amused, shocked and outraged the audience with his prolific sense of black comedies that are predominantly scandalous in nature. His major plays include The Ruffian on the Stair, Entertaining Mr Sloane, Loot, The Erpingham Camp, The Good and Faithful Servant, Funeral Games and What the Butler Saw. During his short term as a successful playwright Joe Orton depicted in his plays what was going around in the outer world but he presented them in his own unique manner. (Fletcher, 221-26) Entertaining Mr Sloane was first presented on 1964 and this play appears to be a sexual innuendo with the treatment of a dark presentation. Here we find the characters indulge themselves in murder and rimes associated with murder with little or no repent at all. The sexual approach appears to be reflecting the course of action of the 1960s and ethical values are just not entertained at all. More in alignment with the context of the antiestablishment principals the characters are not will the authority to bring or reach to the aspect of justice but they are more concerned with the living and tend to extract the most out of

Performance-Enhancing Drugs Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Performance-Enhancing Drugs - Essay Example Nowadays, sportsmen and women will go to extreme lengths to improve their athletic abilities (Mottram 18). Many sports personalities admit that the competitive desire to be victorious is unusually severe. Apart from the pleasure of benefiting individually, sports individuals share a dream to participate in large sporting events, high class teams, and the young athletes pursue the school scholarships. The common, competitive situation, made by the human culture, has caused the widespread use of performance-enhancing drugs such as stimulants, sedatives, lean mass builders and painkillers among individuals taking part in sporting activities (Bahrke and Yesalis 8). The people who use the substances for enhancement may appear to have acquired gains that are physical. There has not been a thorough study on the long-term effects of performance-enhancement drugs, but evidence suggests that the short-term effects are destructive with numerous consequences like loss of scholarships, medals, el igibility, side-effects, and sometimes death. This paper will look at the performance-enhancement drugs that should be accepted in sports, and whether creatine should be illegalized in Major League Baseball Several performance enhancement drugs should be legalized in sports, they include: Lean Mass Builders This are the types of performance-enhancement substances that are used to amplify or facilitate the enlargement of lean body mass and muscles, and from time to time to lessen fats in the body. These drugs may include several human hormones, anabolic steroids, and Chromium Picolinate. Chromium Picolinate, for instance, helps an individual to make use of the body glucose. It helps an individuals’ body to access fats and convert it to energy. This drug is more useful to people who have additional body fat and they would like to lose it (Mottram 23). Stimulants They are used to stimulate an individual’s mind and body to function at the top level by increasing energy, aggression, and focus. The examples are amphetamine and caffeine. Caffeine has been for a long time been used as an aid for muscle endurance by many athletes. Caffeine lengthens the duration of fatigue that occurs in the muscles at the heightened power levels. Nowadays, caffeine is a performance-enhancing drug that is not listed as illegal for use by sports personalities. In addition it is proven that stimulants can promote endurance, enhance accuracy, and improve reaction time. The dose of caffeine and the athlete’s condition and exercise determine if the person’s performance is enhanced or not (Mottram 26). Painkillers Painkillers cover up pain that is experienced by the sportsmen so that they can keep on performing and competing without their normal pain limit. Painkillers used in sports vary from over-the-counter administered drugs to prescriptions that are powerful, such as narcotics and NSAIDs (Mottram 28). Sedatives The drugs in this category are mostly used by people who take part in sports which have the need for being steady, accurate and overcome too much discomfort and nervousness. Examples include valium, alcohol, and marijuana (Jeffrey, Jose, and Douglas 34). Diuretics These are drugs that remove water from the body. Diuretics are most often used in different t ypes of wrestling and contact sports because the sportsmen have to conform to weight restraints (Jeffrey, Jose, a

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Mat lab Speech or Presentation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Mat lab - Speech or Presentation Example The dots correspond to each x and y coordinates defined. The next line defines y as a function of x. Next, we highlight the two variables we have just defined in the workspace then click the button. The resulting graph is shown below: 2. Problem two is easier as we already have a bisection method program from our previous exercises. We only have to make the necessary changes on that program to answer question 2. The equation to be used is Notice that all terms on the right side of the original equation was moved to the left so that the equation is now equal to zero (since we are looking for a point that lies in the x-axis). To give us an idea about the location of this point, we can plot it the same way we did in question 1 then choose an interval in the x-axis that encloses this point. Thus we input the following codes on the command window and click the plot button: as this is the function that we need to integrate, then use the value of d computed from question 2. Since we need to compute for the percent relative error, we include a code in the program that calculates the exact answer to be able to compare it with the approximated

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Media items related to gender, sexuality and the body Essay

Media items related to gender, sexuality and the body - Essay Example Sexuality is anchored on physical and biological differences that make males and females different. The media use their content with sexuality and gender to influence, educate or inform their audience. Sexuality in advertising entails the use of erotic or sexual words or phrases, images in advertising to appeal to buyers and increase the chances of selling the product. Analyses of media content indicate that most of the content presented portrays issues relating to gender, sexuality and the body with all of these displaying sexual activities explicitly or implicitly. For example, over 80% of all movies from a cable TV stations have sexual content. Over 50% of the music shown in the television portray sexual feelings and impulses with minority displaying provocative clothing and body movement that are sexually arousing. Sexual messages in most television shows are universally presented in a positive light towards gender and sexuality. In most media gender and sexuality has been exploi ted consciously and unconsciously in media items such as; advertisements, promotions, magazine articles, newspaper articles, blogs, and websites. The gist of this paper is to collect and analyse media items related to gender, sexuality and the body. Blog sexinadsmedia.blogspot.com, 2009, Sexuality in media/advertisement , viewed 18 April 2012, . This is a blog article which details the media use of sexuality in advertising, and it discusses a study carried on the use of sexuality in media. It is now news that sexuality had been used in advertising as early as 1800s when physical attractiveness and sexuality started having a great impact on society. Sexuality was used in advertisements in forms of wood carvings and other illustrations of attractive naked women, from the waist up. In 1885 W. Dukes & Sons Tobacco Company could insert trading cards featuring attractive and provocative women into tobacco packages (sexinadsmedia.blogspot.com. 2009, p. 1). Sexuality has from then proved to be substantially effective tool that can change the sales trend in many companies. The blog article refers to the most striking twentieth century advertisement by Woodbury’s Facial Soap, which was based on sexuality. The history of this company has it that in early twentieth century, its sales were plummeting, and it used a doctor’s face on wrapper as its advertisement tool. Later, the company switched to sexuality advertisements by inserting romantic paintings of, young appealing women, and immediately the sales escalated for the following years. Coupled with these images of sexuality was the sexual slogan â€Å"A Skin You Love to touch†, which has attraction and appeal to sexy women (sexinadsmedia.blogspot.com. 2009, p. 1). The blog article agrees with the fact that sexuality is a transforming tool depending on which product is being advertised. The study on the effect of sexuality in advertisements proves that sexy ads attract more people than nonsexual ones . In most sexuality advertising, 51% females are used, and only 15% males are used (Huston, Wartella & Donnerstein 1998). The twist of the writer is the fact that sexuality in general has become a controversial issue in print media advertising

Monday, September 23, 2019

Analysis of Boeing Aircraft Companys supply chain management Research Paper

Analysis of Boeing Aircraft Companys supply chain management - Research Paper Example government in 1978 as well as the European Union’s adoption of a mutual airspace, the airline industry has witnessed even worse situations. Recently, a large number of low carriers have penetrated the airline market globally. It is also securing the departure of legacy carriers, which have been regarded as household names for the past few decades (Topham, 2013). In the past three decades, the airline industry has grown at a steady pace, and is forecasted to do so in the coming future. RPK (revenue passenger kilometers), an indicator of a passenger paying for a single kilometer has grown threefold in the last thirty years. Most of the forecasts pertaining to the industry today reveal that both RPK’s as well as revenue ton kilometers, which represents the RPK’s freight version will double from the expected GDP growth of 3 percent (TradeGov, 2009). Presently, the large commercial aircraft (LCA) fleet, which is airplanes having more than 300 seats and over is approximately 16,000 and rising. The anticipated capacity to cope with the growth in traffic by the year 2023 is about 35,000. About 70 percent of these airplanes are nonexistent and will be produced by Boeing, Airbus, as well as other companies in the LCA industry. With respect to the present list prices, the aircrafts will demand additional buildup of assets amounting to approximately $1.6 trillion (TradeGov, 2009) (U.S.InternationalTradeCommission, 2009). This paper will undertake an analysis of the Boeing Aircraft Company based on its supply chain management. The LCA industry serves as the major supplier of assets for the airline industry. The major competitors in this case include Boeing Company and Airbus S.A.S. the two companies are offered support by their respective governments in diverse ways. This situation is indicative of the airline industry’s national flag carriers. The assistance that the government provides to these companies in characteristic of two major factors. Firstly,

Sunday, September 22, 2019

Kant & Deontology Essay Example for Free

Kant Deontology Essay When people think of Ethical Theory then the word morals, respect, and honesty seem to come to mind. Kant devised an ethical theory that is broken down into major elements to explain what he believes is ethical for society to believe. This is where the act of good will comes to existence and the nature of a person’s demeanor comes into how he or she decides what is the right or wrong thing to do. When the laws are put into place to help people know what society has decided what is ethical. Next, would be the decision making process of doing what is right or wrong. Looking at personal gain is not morally correct and having no respect for what is right is hard for a person to decide. He or she must have the decision making process developed or taught to ensure successful outcomes in ethical dilemmas. The major elements of Kant’s ethical theory is a person should not use another as a means to satisfy a personal desire and that morality is based on universal rules much like what is referred as the Golden Rule. The principles of Kantianism have hypothetical and categorical imperatives. We have a duty to ourselves and to others and while we have the ability to rationalize, our actions are not always rational. When using another as a means it should be without coercion or lying and the end should be such that they would be willing to being used. Actions requiring the use of deception are wrong and unjust. One does not make false promises. â€Å"For Kantians, respect for another person is fundamental. The fact that we are rational is of infinite value: we can plan, choose, and anticipate our future. † (Stairs, 1997.Pg 4). In Kantianism, justice ranks higher than happiness and if the act is not unjust then it is not immoral or wrong. Kant thought of â€Å"good will† as a deed done for wise regulation motives from a purpose of responsibility. This instructs and benefits as a categorical imperative for all ethical judgments rather than speculative or relying facts (Deontology Kant, 2005). Kant’s theory is basically an example of deontological, which judges morality by reviewing the nature of actions and the will of agents rather than goals obtained. The system of deontology is supported by rules and principles, which verify decisions. Kant proposed the categorical imperative, the views that every person should act on only those methods that he or she, as a wise person would direct as popular laws to be pertained to the whole of mankind (Ethical Theories Approaches, 2001). Imperative includes treating others how he or she as a person wants to be treated basically respecting others. Categorical imperatives are essentials: * Actions pass or fail * No grey areas * But the cracks appear in unlikely places (Deontology and Kant, 2005). In the decision making process within the Kantian approach, ethical decisions are based on his or her sense of duty. The word duty is derived from the Greek word Deon (deontological). Duty refers to the acts of a person based on the principles of morality. In this decision making approach a person must make decisions based on what is right rather than the good consequences that will follow. A person must make the morally right decision regardless of the good or bad outcome. Categorical imperative is what determines whether an act is morally right or wrong. The requirements of categorical imperatives are that moral principles are applied by respecting humanity. All humanity is to be respected and no one is allowed to be exploited. In this deontological point of view a person should act rational person and make self-imposed decisions. In conclusion, Kant wants people to understand how to understand the ethical theory that society should follow. If a person is looking for something in return for doing a good deed it is not considered a good deed. If he or she does unto others how they want to be treated then that is the moral duty to do right by everyone. Good will is an important ethical element in Kant’s theory because if a person is not willing to do for others and not expecting anything in return then the nature of things will be chaotic and order will be lost. This is where the decision making process comes into play meaning if society chooses to help others without thinking of what is in it for them than good will has happened. Nature is where everything comes in balance and works in harmony with one another. People are part of nature and following the elements of ethical theory is essential to everyday living in order to live in a peaceful world. Reference Stairs, A. (1997). Kant’s Ethical Theory. Retrieved from https://www. stairs. umd. edu/140/kant. html Ethical Theories and Approaches. (2001). Ethical Theories and Approaches. Retrieved from: http://techsci. msun. edu Deontology and Kant. (2005). Business and Ethical Thinking: An Ethic of Duty. Retrieved from: www. bola. biz.

Saturday, September 21, 2019

Wisconsin Fast Plants Brassica Rapa

Wisconsin Fast Plants Brassica Rapa In Module 1, we used plant genetics of the Wisconsin Fast Plants, Brassica rapa to study transmission genetics. Brassica rapa was used since it is a model organism. A model organism possesses life cycles and characteristics that make them exceptionally suitable for transmission genetic study, including a short generation time, manageable numbers of progeny, adaptability to a laboratory environment, and the ability to be housed and propagated inexpensively (Pierce, 6). Brassica rapa possesses all of the necessary qualities to be a particularly good candidate for our experiment. Brassica rapa yields seeds from the moment it is a seed in about 34 days (Lauffer, 18). The relatively short life cycle and other model organism traits make Brassica rapa relatively easy to manage in a classroom setting. However, there are setbacks in using Brassica rapa, including parthenogenesis where there is a production of viable seeds without a male parent to contribute pollen. This serves as a possible p roblem in analyzing the offspring because the progeny will have characteristics identical to the female parent. However, with a short life cycle, manageable progeny, and adaptability to laboratory conditions, Brassica rapa serves as a good model organism to study transmission genetics. By examining the phenotypes of Brassica rapa to determine the possible genotypes of the plants, Gregor Mendels basic principles of heredity of transmission of genetics from parent to offspring are being studied. Mendels observations in his experiments involving pea plants revealed that the phenotypes of the plants may be used to predict the geneotypes of the plants. Mendel only used absolute characteristics in examining the plants of interest such as color, size and shape instead of quantitative characteristics. This makes the determination of the genotype straightforward, consistent and objective. However, the genotype does not solely determine the phenotype of the plant. A given phenotype arises from a genotype that develops within particular environment (Pierce, 46). The genotype determines the boundaries for development but how the phenotype develops is also determined by other genes and environmental factors. Several genotypes with the known phenotypes of interest of Brassica rapa are known. The stems of Brassica rapa may be purple or non-purple. The purple color results from the pigment anthocyanin and is a controlled by the dominant allele, ANL. Anthocyaninless mutants of Brassica rapa fail to produce anthocyanin pigments (Burdzinski, 1). The anthocyaninless plants therefore have non-purple stems and are controlled by the recessive allele, anl. The anthocynanin pigment is extremely important in plants because the presence of anthocyanins that provide the colour palette for the breeder (Delpech, 207). The colors produced by the pigment guides the pollinator to the source of the pollen to ensure the process of pollination. In addition to the color of the stem, the trichomes on the plants are another characteristic controlled by genes. The presence of hair is most notably present on the upper portion of the stem and on the leaves. The characteristic for hair is controlled by the dominant a llele, HIR while the characteristic for being hairless is controlled by the recessive allele, hir. Another characteristic used to study the genetics of fast plants is the color of the leaves. When the leaves appear dark green, it is a result of the plant producing a significant amount of chlorophyll. The plants with dark green leaves are controlled by the dominant allele, YGR. On the other hand, plants with yellow-green leaves produce less chlorophyll and are controlled by a recessive allele, ygr. The final trait used to determine the possible genotypes of the fast plant is stem height. When a plant produces four to ten times less of gibberellic acid than a standard plant, the stems of the plant does not elongate as much and the plant appears dwarf. The plants with gibberellic acid deficiency are thus short and are called Rosette-Dwarf. The dwarf characteristic is controlled by the recessive allele, ros. On the other hand, plants that produce up to twelve times more gibberellic acid than the standard plants have stems that elongate more than usual. The tall stems are controlled by a recessive allele, ein. When a plant produces the average mount of gibberelic acid, it is average in height. With these known phenotypes and genotypes, it is possible to predict the genotypes of plants by examining their observed characteristics. Since the phenotype of plants are affected by both genetic and environmental factors, it is important to house the plants with sufficient light and water. The timing of seed germination is highly sensitive to several aspects of the seed maturation environment, including water availability, soil nutrients, photoperiod, temperature and light quality (Dechaine, 1297). Therefore, it is important to keep the plants hydrated during flowering, fertilization and seed development so that the plants can yield high levels of seeds. It is also important to provide sufficient water and light to the seeds for successful germination. Effective fertilization and germination of the plants are necessary in determining the genotypes of the parents. Without the observable phenotypes of the progeny, the genotypes of the parents would remain unknown. By analyzing the phenotypes of the parent Brassica rapa plants along with their given corresponding genotypes, cross-breeding the plants would yield progeny with observable characteristics that will determine the genotype of the parents. If the cross-breeding is carried out successfully with negligible parthenogenesis, the unknown genotypes of the parent plants can be known after the crosses. Materials and Methods Materials A group of seven Wisconsin Fast plants were assigned to the group for identifying phenotypes and possible genotypes. A set of four pots, each pot with two plants, labeled as red were assigned to the group for the cross. Stakes and metal wires were used to secure plants in place. Pollination bags and chenille rods were used in the pollination process. Filter papers and petri dishes were used to germinate the seeds. Throughout the entire process, white light and water was used. Methods We obtained a group of seven Wisconsin Fast plants. The plant labeled as #1 was told to be the wild type stock or Standard that was used to which the other plants were compared. The height of the Standard plant was measured and the shape and color of the leaves and stems were observed and noted. In addition, the trichomes, or hairs on the leaves and stems were also observed and recorded. We then observed and recorded the observable traits seen in the remaining six plants relative to the Standard. After recording the observations of the phenotypes of all seven plants, we referenced the genetic stock description list in the manual of Module 1 to assign a name to each Wisconsin Fast Plant. The genetic stock description list includes a description of whether the observed phenotype is the result dominant or recessive alleles. Based on the given information, we were able to determine to possible genotypes of the Wisconsin Fast plants. A set of four pots color coded as red was assigned to the group. Each pot had two plants: one with either recessive or dominant genotype and one with unknown genotype. We placed a stake next to each plant and gently looped the attached metal wire around each plant to secure it in place. A pollination bag was then gently placed over each pot. The pots were placed into a large tray and placed under white light. The trays were filled with 1-2 inches of water twice a week. After several class periods, the plants had flowers. We pollinated the plants using a chenille rod by gently touching the anthers of one flower on Plant 1 with the tip of the rod to collect the pollen grain and delivered the pollen grain to the stigma of a flower on Plant 2 in the same pot. Similarly, we gently touched the anthers of one flower on Plant 2 with the tip of the rod to collect the pollen grain and delivered the pollen grain to the stigma of a flower on Plant 1 in the same pot. We repeated the process for the other three plant pots. The pots were returned to the large tray and were continued to be watered twice a week. Approximately twenty days after pollination, we stopped watering the plants and they were allowed to try for about five days under white light. Then, the seeds were collected by rolling the dry pods between the hands. The collected seeds were placed in a petri dish with a moist piece of filter paper. The petri dish was constantly kept under white light for one week and watered twice a day so that the filter paper remained moist. After one week, the seeds had germinated and the seedlings phenotypes were observed and recorded.

Friday, September 20, 2019

Effect Of Media On The Childhood

Effect Of Media On The Childhood Childhood representations are derived from media as well as policies and laws, the two being interrelated. Media images produce influential perceptions about children that may be translated into ideologies and through the same laws and policies influence childrens well being and material needs. Media also highlights that the identity of childhood as a social construction is very different to adulthood. It is depicted as marginalised and incapable. With the introduction of many forms of technology in the past 20 years it is not surprising that media now plays an even greater integral role in shaping childhoods, mine being no exception. All this power exerted by media calls for some form of analysis. In other instances, the childhood figure is overlapped with that of animals, which is evident in the film, LEnfant Sauvage (1969), where Victoire, the wild boy, adapted himself to an uncivilised situation (Mills, 2000). The notion of innocence of children is commonly portrayed in childrens books and films such as Little Lord Fauntleroy, where Cedric symbolises innocence and beauty. Children are deemed to be protected from secret knowledges, namely sexuality and death. In fact, until recently, girls were portrayed as asexual and ignorant of sex (Humphries, Mack Perks, 1988). In contrast, the premature exhibition and sexualisation of young girls and the need of protection of their innocence is highlighted in the film Painted Babies (1993), a film about young girls in beauty pageants (Robinson Davies, 2008). The notion children as vulnerable and in need of protection, is outlined in Dickens Oliver Twist, where Nancy saves Oliver from Bill Sykes physical abuse. The abduction and consequent murder of the young James Bulger is another shocking example vulnerability of children. On the other hand, children are also characterised as being autonomous. In Harry Potter, Harry epitomises this perception in literature in his fight against evil. The feisty independent character Anne Shirley in Anne of Green Gables is another example. Girl power was more related to popular music with phenomena such as the Spice Girls who promoted this neo-liberal feminist identity in teenage girls in the 90s. The novel Coral Island depicts children as apprentices where they develop skills, realise their dreams, and move on to adulthood. However, contemporary Prose fiction works portray children as a distinct group from adults. These works are realistic, sometimes dark, and child-centred exemplified by by Roald Dahls Matilda and Anne Finnes Madame Doubtfire. The images of children presented by the media are multi-faceted and sometimes contrasting, evident in the film Leon, where Mathilda, is portrayed as mature and independent but still perceived as a vulnerable child in need of protection in Leons eyes (ICS, 2010). It should be questioned as to how accurate cultural artefacts actually are. In childrens literature, Hunt implies that authors depict childhood as they perceive it, and therefore not a true reflection. Childrens books are therefore likely to portray attitudes to childhood rather than any individual or culturally agreed childhood (Hunt, 2009). Its power was in the image it left behind, imitated by some children in real life. Nowadays, children are not as influenced by contemporary literature. They have become more knowledgeable and sceptical, the so-called active reader. Texts for these children have lost their power (Hunt, 2009). Readers and viewers may interpret messages in different ways according to their identities and divisions such as age, gender, social class and ethnicity. Globalization of media brings about a certain degree of standardization whereby children in different parts of the world are being exposed to the same stimulus and subsequently start showing some common tra its. Moreover, media itself exercises a degree of control on how messages it delivers are interpreted. This is called the hypodermic syringe model. Messages are not only delivered but new meanings are produced bringing about the double hermeneutic phenomenon. Representational practices play a crucial role in influencing the material lives of children. Prominent music artists have used media to promote the awareness of different races, The most well-known event was Live Aid in 1985 highlighting the plight of starving children in Africa. Media can be a strong influence on health issues in children, evident in the recent significant increase of the illness anorexia nervosa in girls may have been as a result of T.V. and magazines portraying a very slim figure to be the accepted image as well as the explosion of obesity in children. It is estimated that 20 % of children in UK are overweight (James James, 2004). Consequently there is now a drive from all concerned to promote more healthy-eating programme such as Jamie Olivers T.V. series. The film scum by Alan Clarice 1979 portrays how a borstal in UK further brutalises young offenders. Its huge cultural impact was a contributory factor in the 1982 reform that replaced borstals to youth custody centres This is an example how the media can influence the institutions of the State (Mills, 2000). Todays children are more independent, inquisitive, creative, and can use media effectively, forming part of the net generation of childhood. In fact Katz (1997) regards these children able to create their own cultures and communities (Buckingham, 2009: 126). The use of internet is invaluable for these children in the field of education and research. Also, through the introduction of social networks, they are able to communicate freely with one another. There are also some concerns, as children are at risk of exposure to pornography, violence and cyber-stalking. Also, it is argued that they tend to spend more time confined to their room resulting in less family integration. A study between childrens everyday activities and the media showed that among media, television was the prime mover in families lives. This was done through quantitative and qualitative methods using questionnaires, interviews, as well as new methods (Tufte, 2003). Media technology is also influenced by gender and class identities. This is highlighted by the fact that the majority of computer games are played by boys and also that, middle class children have more access to computers than their working class peers. Over the years, different media has shaped my childhood, such as television programmes, magazines, music, the internet, pamphlets, books and billboards. As a young child, Care Bears and Barney, were amongst my favourite programmes. These were education and instilled in me the values of caring and tolerance. Other films include Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella, by providing images of princesses and happy endings which have caused me to dream as a child. Another character worth quoting is Miss Honey in the book Matilda by Roald Dahl who presented as a role model. In fact, at seventeen years of age, I decided to become a teacher, and have always strived to be kind and gentle just like Miss Honey. A Maltese media campaign to keep the environment clean, symbolised by a small hedgehog, Xummiemu, was set up, when I was growing up. These billboards, posters and magazines influenced me in respecting the environment. Messages on billboards such as the advert Smoking kills, on our main roads, had put me off smoking completely and never smoked a single cigarette in my life. As a teenager, the internet was used as a useful source of information in my school assignments. Through MSN Messenger and Skype, I have stayed in touch with my friends and relatives who live abroad. The internet is unique in that it is an interactive form of media allowing childrens global communication and the promotion of their creativity and spontaneity. I feel close to this culture which is critical of what media portrays even when the same media seems to have taken over our lives. Word count: 1,347 References Buckingham, D. (2009). New media, new childhoods? Childrens changing cultural environment in the age of digital technology in M. J. Kehily (Ed.), An introduction to Childhood Studies (2nd Edition) (pp. 124-138). Berkshire: Open University Press. Humphries, S., Mack, J. Perks, R. (1988). A Century of Childhood, London: Sidgwick Jackson. Hunt, P. (2009). Childrens literature and childhood in M. J. Kehily (Ed.), An introduction to Childhood Studies (2nd Edition) (pp. 50-69). Berkshire: Open University Press. ICS (2010). Sociology of Childhood, Study Guide 1. Glasgow: ICS. James, A. James, A. L. (2004). Constructing Childhood: Theory, Policy and Social Practice. Basingstoke: Palgrave MacMillan. Katz, J. (1997). Virtuous Reality: How America Surrendered Discussion of Moral Values to Opportunists, Nitwits and Blockheads like William Bennett. New York: Random House. Mills, J. Mills, R. (2000) Childhood Studies: A Reader in perspectives of childhood, Routledge, New York. Mills, R. (2000). Perspectives of Childhood in J. Mills R. Mills (Eds.), Childhood Studies: A Reader in perspectives of childhood (pp. 7-37). London: Routledge. Robinson, K. H. Davies, C. (2008). SHES KICKIN ASS, THATS WHAT SHES DOING! Deconstructing Childhood Innocence in Media Representations. Australian Feminist Studies, 23, 343- 358. Tufte, B. (2003). Children, media and consumption. Advertising Marketing to Children, October-December, 69-76. Discuss the role family plays in shaping childhood. Give examples of cultures within a family structure and reflect on your own culture. There is general consensus that family does shape childhood from the first minute its parent(s) start to interact with it in the context of a wider culture. (Gittens, 2009: 36). The family is the foundation of social stability and the primary means of social reproduction. This institution moulds the child through education, morals, values beliefs (James James, 2004). Family besides the traditional nuclear family also includes lone parent, gay/lesbian, extended families, and cohabitation. Indeed, the family is instrumental in shaping the child to become an integral part of society (ICS, 2010b). Childhoods are dependent on the identities and positions of the childs family, as these will have different structures, resulting in different experiences (ICS, 2010a). In recent years delayed child bearing means that children are less likely to share the companionship of siblings or wider kin. Single parent families are the second highest risk factor, after unemployment, for children to live in poverty (Clarke, 1996). Lower social class, unemployment, alcoholism, and drug abuse have serious consequences on childrens well-being in the shape of poverty, poor social conditions, mental health problems and physical abuse. Children from minor ethnic families may be disadvantaged as a result of poorer housing conditions and lower pay as well as an increased prevalence of chronic diseases such as rickets and T.B (James James, 2004). Also, parents lifestyles may affect childrens lives directly. Smoking in families is detrimental to childrens health, significantly increasing asthma in their children. Nowadays, most parents work leaving less time to prepare meals, which may result in children eating more junk food. Armstrong, Hill and Secker (2000) argue the beneficial effects of parental affection on the childs well-being. In comparison family breakdowns, increasing in number, are a cause of stress and mental problems in children (James James, 2004; Armstrong et al., 2000). Childrens identity is seen as a passive experience of being parented. Children possess a Double Status; the kinship status as the child and the age-based status as the minor. The link between womanhood and childhood is focused on childrens needs discourses (Lawler, 2000). According to research, the function of the family is specific to the fulfilment of gender-based roles, where females are a source of care and expression, and males the main source of income (ICS, 2010a: 15; MacNaughton Smith, 2009). Parents act as role models by setting examples which are crucial in shaping childhood. Children also learn gender roles from the family. For example, if cooking is done only by the mother they might associate it exclusively with females (MacNaughton Smith, 2009). State laws and policies use the family to implement and control children. The state also uses the family as an ally in the battle for social control (James James, 2004: 191)) and increasingly regulates childrens lives (James James, 2004). Development of family friendly employment practice through social benefits, results in more stable families, better support of children during their education, and reduced levels of delinquency (James James, 2004). The child is regarded as the object of legal rulings with childrens rights generally overruled by their parents claiming to act in the best interest of the child, thus their agency being denied (James James, 2004: 201). The effective voice of children in family proceedings is well documented, both in the Children Act and the UNCRC. However, the implementation to date is another matter, even welfare professionals view children both as carefree and powerless (ICS, 2010b: 45). In fact, family law in England and Wales classifies a child as a person with a disability (James James, 2004: 200). In every culture lies marriage, residence, family size and composition, family status and role, family power and authority, family communication that are quite universal. These elements of family structure in vary from one society to another (Uddin, 2009: 438). The representation of the family structure in Western culture is usually portrayed as a nuclear family composed of two siblings. This model is still portrayed as ideal according to mainstream parents websites such as bounty.com. Media has always portrayed an image of the Western family. Nowadays, it brings us a variety of different family structures including gay couples and single parents. In Muslim cultures, there are clearer gender demarcations where all family affairs are decided by the senior male member, leaving other family members fully dependent on their decisions without any say (Uddin, 2009). The male is usually the bread winner whilst women take on the emotional role such as child rearing and household chores (Uddin, 2007). Another feature of this community is the large family size, thus an extended family structure is adopted to ensure adequate family support. Family structures in Muslim Western communities vary from those in more traditional societies as the former face lifestyle choices which are not available to the latter. Middle-class, though not working-class, Muslims have expectations and a level of education comparable to non-Muslims (Abbas, 2003; Ahmad, 2001). Muslims regard their Islamic faith as fundamental to their identity. However, Sikhs and Hindus consider education to be their main priority, allowing greater occupational opportunities, class mobility, integration and acceptance (Abbas, 2003). On a more personal note, I grew up in a traditional Maltese Roman Catholic nuclear family consisting of four members; my parents, my older sister and myself. This is the most common structure in Malta. My father is a doctor and my mother is a housewife who gave up her job as a secretary to raise us. My parents raised us striking a balance between being open to change but holding onto the strong values of Maltese culture and Roman Catholic beliefs. These beliefs form an integral role in our way of life and shape our views on family. Family authority has always been shared between my parents. However, they have always valued our opinions, even as children. This has created an open communicative relationship between us. The family has influenced many aspects of my life. Due to my large extended family, I grew up surrounded by younger children, playing with and teaching them. This sparked my interest in teaching Early Years. The short distances facilitated the formation of strong family bonds. We live in a typical neighbourhood where people lend a helping hand when needed, though can be nosy. Despite Malta being a small island, we are not insular as we are influenced by other cultures, namely British and Italian. We are multi-lingual and have a Western outlook. We are also influenced by foreign family ties, my grandmother being British. Our culture motivates us to maximise our potential by pursuing a higher education, particularly a University degree. Opportunities are few and competition is high. Ambition is instilled from an early age, and expectations are high. I form part of a very close- knit family which is dependable and supportive. We consider this to be our role and responsibility to each ot her. I enjoy the security and stability of our family whilst still enjoying my independence and autonomy. All the aforementioned aspects are crucial as the resources and environment of the family have a direct influence on how children and adolescents deal with emotions, relationships as well as their potential for future success (Wen, 2008). Nonetheless, it is fundamental to perceive the child as an individual actor whose needs must be considered in the context of their own childhood and not merely as an extension of the needs of all of those who share the status of being children. Word count: 1,241

Thursday, September 19, 2019

A Critique of Thank You for Smoking? :: Critical Essays

A Critique of â€Å"Thank You for Smoking†¦?† Intro: The essay â€Å"Thank You for Smoking,† written by Peter Brimelow, is far from an influential essay on why people should smoke. Through this essay, Brimelow makes an effort to convince the audience smoking is actually beneficial to your health. I find it hard for people to write about what they think are the benefits of smoking when there are so many obvious reasons why you should not smoke. The main audience being targeted in this article is those who already smoke and those who are thinking about smoking. One thing mentioned in the article is the fact that smokers are usually lighter in weight. In my personal opinion, I would rather eat a balanced diet and walk daily rather than walk around with a cigarette in my mouth and risk lung cancer. Inductive or Deductive: When trying to find if an essay is logically stated, you first must find if it is inductive or deductive. This is an example of an inductive essay. What inductive means is that the author goes from using specific samples to generalizations that are drawn from those examples (McFadden). Major Claim: The major claim is usually the topic sentence or main idea in the article (McFadden). Through the major claim, Peter points out that smoking has beneficial factors. He states those who smoke are less likely to get many diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, endometrial cancer, prostate cancer, osteoarthritis, and colon cancer (Brimelow 142). Another example used in this essay is the author’s comparison of driving automobiles to smoking cigarettes. Brimelow states, â€Å"But so is driving automobiles dangerous to your health (over 40,000 deaths a year)† (141). This to me just seems like a completely ridiculous comparison to include in this article, especially when in the prior paragraph he states that there are approximately 400,000 deaths annually, which are smoking-related (Brimelow). Minor Claim: One minor claim pointed out through this essay is how smoking helps to relax people, which is one form of a stress reliever (Brimelow). In addition, smoking is said to stimulate alertness, dexterity, and cognitive capacity (Brimelow). It is true these are all things in which people can benefit from; however, these are far from being favorable enough for people to decide to go light up. Grounds: Grounds include all evidence, facts, and logic used in supporting claims (McFadden).

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

The State of Solar Power Policy And Incentives in Vermont Essay

The State of Solar Power Policy And Incentives in Vermont Vermont has become widely known as a progressive, even cutting-edge state in terms of its public policy. With two out of three of its Congressional delegation officially independent, a groundbreaking civil-unions law, and no fast-food franchises in its state capitol, perhaps that reputation is well-deserved. Energy; its generation, transmission, usage, and impacts upon the Earth, has arisen as a tempestuous, geo-political issue in the past few decades. As the petroleum era explodes (or should we say implodes?), the development and utilization of renewable energy sources has become vitally important for the survival of humanity and all the other species on our shared Earth. So then, how is the tiny green state of Vermont doing in terms of the development of solar energy, one of the central tenets of the renewable energy movement? What policies exist to help direct its agencies and organizations? What financial incentives are in place to encourage a homeowner to invest in solar techno logy and design? In one year, the equivalent of over 5 million kilowatt hours of solar energy hits each acre in Vt. (Vt. Solar Energy Guide, 1993) How well is the government of Vermont motivating people to stick something in front of all that energy? The main agency entrusted with renewable energy in Vt. is the Dept. of Public Service (D.P.S.) formerly headed up by Richard Sedano, now run by Davis O’Brien. This office works with many of the other groups in the state that push for the use of more solar power and other renewable energy sources. From the D.P.S. website we can read former governor Dean’s official Energy Initiative (Dec. 2001): It â€Å"is a long-term vision for Vermont that looks ... ...nd people wanting to help. Although there could always be more money waved around to persuade more people to invest in solar, the state of Vermont seems to be taking forward-thinking, yet cautious, stand in support of renewable energy. Bibliography Renewable Energy Resource Center www.rerc-vt.org Vt. Public Service Dept www.state.vt.us/psd Renewable Energy Vermont www.revermont.org Vt. Energy Investment Co. www.veic.org Burlington Electric Co. www.burlingtonelectric.com 10 % Challenge www.10percentchallenge.org Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy www.dsireusa.org Million Solar Roofs www.millionsloarroffs.com

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Mexico`s Megalopolis` by Jonathan Kandell

Nowadays, the city of Mexico is one of the largest megalopolises, with enourmopus population density and industrialization rates. Jonathan Kandell in his book ‘I Saw a City Invincible’ provides a wonderful historical excurse in terms of urban, technological and social development in the city. The issue of migration was particularly obvious between the 1940s and the 1970s, when the inhabitants of small towns and rural areas suddenly began to move into the city, searching for their fortunes at factories and plants. As Kandell notes, â€Å"Factories, commerce, and service jobs sucked in hordes of rural migrants who swelled Mexico City’s population from 1. 5 million in 1940 to 8. 5 million in 1970† (Kandell, p. 183). Furthermore, the author describes the stuggle between time-honored Latin American values and globalization trends, brought by the country’s nearest neighbor, the United States. The phenomenon of tourist infrastructure also emerged under American influence: the new cafes and traditional cuisine restaurants were being adjusted to ‘American demands’ and standards (p. 184). In sociopolitical meaning, the country in that period was literally obsessed with social radical views: â€Å"Revolutionary slogans continued to exalt the ideals of land for the rural dispossessed, living wages for the proletariat, and a determinant voice for the state of economic affairs† (ibid). The ambitiousness of Mexican politicians enjoyed stable and sustainable growth between the 1940s and the 1970s, parallel to the growth of ordinary Mexicans’ aspirations, as increasingly more citizens sought rapid career and social protection in the capital. In reality, the needs of majorities were satisfied: there was a plenty of work, due to the development of service and mass-communications spheres, in which females, traditionally marginalized as reliable employees, got an opportunity to find themselves. Due to the fact that by the 1960s, the average Mexican urban family contained no unemployed members (except children), household incomes were growing proportionally to the overall economic and political progress. Nevertheless, the metropolis also experienced certain problems, such as housing crisis: â€Å"In the 1940s and 1950s most migrants settled first in the old downtown tenements [the so-called’ vecindadez] abandoned generations before by the middle class† (p. 185). These quarters seemed completely distinct dimension that in the course of time obtained a kind of autonomy, as such miniature settlements had their local factories, shopping malls, saloons and bars and, certainly, their own markets, which appeared the centers of social life, peculiar ‘offspring’ of Ancient Roman forum or Greek agora. Kandall provides a description of the typical vecindad: â€Å"†¦Tepito was now populated mainly by artisans, vendors, factory laborers, unskilled workers, waiters, office clerks, messengers and porters†, who earned about $20 per month (p. 85). Notwithstanding the rapid economic development, the migrants’ well-being had been very limited up to the 1960s: due to the fact that flat rent was unjustifiably high, the families huddled together in small windowless apartments and could afford meet only once a week. Another apparent trend in urban development was the gradual growth of small enterprises, to which local governments de legated their responsibilities for food, health facilities and education. Nevertheless, the main institutions remained bureaucratic and centralized, so private capital hadn’t enjoyed considerable flow until the end of the 1970s. Due to the fact that the factories of Mexico City were controlled by local authorities, so the working-class suffered from poverty and lack of dwelling conveniences: â€Å"[only] In 1977 Jaras’ dwelling [situated in the typical working-class ‘reservation’] was legally connected to the municipal electricity grid and water system† (p. 90). The present-day ecological catastrophe, notable in Mexico City, is rooted in the negligence, demonstrated by government as well as local enterprises: â€Å"The primitive recycling of garbage, often carried out illegally by small businesses that are unsupervised by the municipal authorities, poses serious health hazards to the population at large† (p. 192). The author notes that the ‘garbage problem’ had remained extremely sharp up to the end of the 1980s. In addition, Kandall addresses the progress of charity and human services: affluent urban entrepreneurs contributed to the development of local communities in the best Mexican traditions: ‘He sponsored local soccer teams, supplied the uniforms and built for playing fields, which he named Rafael Sports center† (p. 194). On Gutierez’ example the author shows businessmen’s [caciques] bourgeois ambitions: after the establishment of the enterprise, they normally tried to penetrate into the city’s or national political arena, so their charity was nothing more than well-planned PR. Human services, although popular in Mexican culture, were institutionalized only in the 1970s, since the religious traditions prescribed that urban dwellers helped their neighbors and compatriots on the voluntary basis, Mexican cultural collectivism was extremely noticeable in the working-class quarters. With beginning of the 1980s, the country was paralyzed by environmental accidents like earthquakes, but the government appeared incapable of handling the resulting problems in a proper way: â€Å"The small parties of left and right were unable to claim the loyalty of potential dissidents†, whereas the young volunteers seemed the major rescuers, which means, Mexican urban citizens were always ready to support each other, and in spite of the pessimistic ending of the article: â€Å"Throughout its existence the city has been scourged by war, social upheaval. Plague, flood, earthquake† (p. 201), its overall context shows that social problems and emergencies haven’t managed to separate the city dwellers, but rather have united them and created a powerful humanistic basis for the reinforcement of Mexico City.

Monday, September 16, 2019

Film Study Prince Essay

(1)According to Prince, what are the three core questions that â€Å"frame the essential attributes of cinema† and why are they important to consider in film studies? (6 points) 1) How do movies express meaning? It is important to consider in film studies because the basic tools of filmmaking help organize design of a film, and the filmmakers are able to express a range of meanings. 2) How do viewers understand film? It is important to consider in film studies because viewers understand film by applying different aspects of their real-life visual, personal, and social experience as well as their knowledge of motion picture conventions and style. Viewers respond to films when watching movies. 3) How does cinema operate as an art and business on a global scale? It is important to consider in film studies because commercial filmmaking operates as part of a global communications industry, which exerts considerable influence on film content and style. At the same time, filmmakers around the world represent their countries, heritages, and styles. Moreover, filmmakers today are greatly affected by the economic and commercial problems. These issues including art and business influence filmmaking greatly. (2)To Prince, what is the difference between film structure and film content? (4 points) Film structure refers to the audiovisual design of a film and some tools and techniques used to create that design. However, film content refers to the description of story, characters and theme of the film. (3)Discuss three factors that make the director the chief artistic authority in the filmmaking process? (6 points) 1) Preproduction is one of the factors because it involves the planning and preparation period such as writing of a script, hiring of cast and crew, production design of sets, costumes, and locals. 2) Production is another factor which includes the work of filming the script and sound recording of the action. 3) Postproduction involves the editing of sound and image in the film, composition and recording of the music score, additional sound recording for effects and dialogue replacement, creation of digital special effects, and color timing to achieve proper color balance in the images. These factors (the production process) make the director the chief artistic authority in the filmmaking process because the director coordinates and organizes the artistic inputs of other members of the production team, who generally subordinate their artistic tastes or preferences to a directors stated wishes or vision. (4)Discuss two reasons why Hunt thinks it’s important to study films. (4 points) According to Hunt, the key reasons to study film are the issues of power and empowerment. Studying film is empowering because the formation of cinema is about identity, such as our self-image, values, beliefs, and world views. When we realize the role media play in defining and shaping our identity, we can begin to more actively take charge of our own identity. (5)What are the three artistic modes of filmmaking and how are they different? (6 points) 1) Narrative fiction mode refers to an historical or cultural event that is familiar to many film-going spectators; however, the characters and the way they act are fictionalized. 2) Documentary mode represents â€Å"real people† participating in â€Å"real life† events; it illuminates the life situation and the situation may represent larger issues and ideas about life. 3) Experimental mode is the arrangement of artistic elements, edit and construct the story in unconventional ways in order to illuminate life experience. (6)Discuss the importance of the shot in the filmmaking process (you can draw from both Hunt and Prince for this answer). (4 points) A shot is important in the filmmaking process because it is the basic unit for constructing a film. A film is built on shot by shot basis like a book is constructed sentence by sentence. Films are composed of many shots that are joined together in the process of editing. In a completed film, a shot is the interval on screen between edit points, and it is important in the filmmaking process. (7)Explain how it is that human beings are able to see still images as moving. (5 points) Under the right conditions spectators will see apparent motion when no real movement has occurred. If a series of closely spaced light bulbs are illuminated in rapid sequence in a darkened room, a spectator will see a single light source moving across the room rather than a series of lights illuminated one after another. This phenomenon is called beta movement. When the intervals between a series of illuminated light are very small, the eye’s motion detectors encode this information as movement. The viewer sees a single travelling light or a galloping horse on screen.

Sunday, September 15, 2019

The Changing Face of Business

Chapter 1 The Changing Face of Business http://www. wileybusinessupdates. com Learning Goals 1 Distinguish between business and notfor-profit organizations. Identify and describe the factors of production. 5 Explain how today’s business workforce and the nature of work itself is changing. Identify the skills and attributes managers need to lead businesses in the 21st century. Outline the characteristics that make a company admired by the business community. 2 6 3 Describe the private enterprise system, including basic rights and entrepreneurship.Identify the six eras of business, and explain how the relationship era— including alliances, technology, and environmental concerns—influences contemporary business. 7 4 What is Business? Profit-seeking activities and enterprises provide goods and services necessary to an economic system. Profit-seeking is the reward for business people who take the risk involved to offer goods and services to customers. See Fortune 500 for a list of major U. S. companies. Factors of Production Natural Resources Capital Human Resources Entrepreneurship Occupational Outlook Handbook The Private Enterprise System CapitalismAdam Smith is the father of capitalism. â€Å"Invisible Hand† Economic system determines business ownership, profits, and resources Rewards firms for their ability to serve the needs of consumers Minimized government intervention Competition is the battle among businesses for consumer acceptance. Basic Rights in a Private Enterprise System Entrepreneurship An Entrepreneur: Is a risk-taker Takes financial, personal, social, and career risks Entrepreneurial thinking is important within large firms. Sees a potentially profitable opportunity Devises a plan to achieve success in the marketplace and earn those profits Fuels the U.S. economy Provides innovation Six Eras in the History of U. S. Business Managing Relationships through Connections Relationship Management Activities to build and mainta in mutually beneficial ties with customers and other parties Relationship management depends on technology. Strategic Alliances and Partnerships A partnership is an affiliation of two or more companies that help each other achieve common goals. A strategic alliance is a partnership formed to create a competitive advantage for both parties (see Amazon). Today’s Business WorkforceDedicated workers who can foster strong ties with customers Capable of high-quality production Able to compete in global markets Technically savvy Changes in the Workforce: Aging Population By 2030, the number of U. S. workers 65 or older will reach 72 million. Many baby boomers are hitting the peak of their careers, while Generations X and Y are launching their careers. Technology has intensified the hiring challenge by requiring workers to have ever more advanced skills. U. S. Census Bureau Changes in the Workforce: Shrinking Labor Pool/Diversity Economists predict the U. S. abor pool could soon fall short by as many as 10 million people. The two fastest-growing ethnic populations in the United States are Hispanics and people of Asian origin. Employee teams with individuals of different genders, ethnic backgrounds, cultures, religions, ages, and physical and mental abilities are more effective. Changes in the Workforce: Outsourcing Outsourcing is using outside vendors to produce goods or fulfill services and functions that were previously handled in-house or incountry. Offshoring is the relocation of business processes to lower-cost locations overseas.Changes in the Workforce: Innovation through Collaboration Younger workers are looking to something other than work-comes-first Telecommuting and job-sharing Part-time and temporary workers are growing Collaboration is replacing working alone Value risk-taking and innovation The 21st-Century Manager Critical-thinking Creativity Ability to lead change Vision Critical Thinking and Creativity Critical thinking is the ability to analy ze and assess information to pinpoint problems or opportunities. Creativity is the capacity to develop novel solutions to perceived organizational problems.Ability to Lead Change Guide employees and organizations through changes Managers must be comfortable with tough decisions. Factors that require organizational change can come from external and internal sources. What Makes a Company Admired? Solid profits Stable growth Safe and challenging work environment High-quality goods and services Business ethics and social responsibility Fortune’s list of Most Admired Companies The Future of Business New Technologies Population Shifts Emerging nations Shrinking Global Barriers Trade, communication, transportation