Home Depot and Lowes Essay

Case Summary Value Line Publishing analyst, Carrie Galeotafiore had followed the retail building-supply industry for approximately three years. Within a week the investment-survey firm will be publishing Galeotafiore’s quarterly findings on the industry along with the five-year financial forecast for the industry’s leaders, Home Depot and Lowe’s. In an effort to increase their top and bottom-lines, Home Depot and Lowe’s have implemented strategies like improving customer service, attracting professional customers, and introducing a more favorable merchandise mix. Combined sales from the two companies accounted for more than a third of the industry’s sales. In the mean time, smaller hardware stores struggled to remain in the game. Galeotafiore reports shows confidence in the methods Home Depot deployed to achieve their goals and attributed Lowe’s margin expansion to their thrust into the major metropolitan markets. This case will mainly focus on the strategic issues involved with Home Depot and Lowe’s, the industry trends, the financial outlook for the respective companies, and whether or not Galeotafiore has the depth of knowledge and experience to make a correct call on the companies’ performance.Finally, the report will be substantiated with financial ratios comparing one company with the other, showing possible alternatives and proposing recommendations. Case Analysis This segment will narrow down the major issues of the case, along with the quantitative perspective showing historical trends and the projected level of economic activity. In 2001, the Economist Intelligenc Unit (EIU) estimated the retail building-supply industry to be approximately $175 billion with stores similar to Home Depot and Lowe’s capturing one third of the 51% of sales in their category. Despite the slump in the economy in 2001, growth was at 4.2% which representd a decline from 7.7% in 1998. Strategic issues for Home Depot and Lowe’s Home Depot’s CEO, Bob Nardelli’s goal was to increase their margin through declining cost in product review, opening more tool-rental centers and improving purchasing aspects. All of the above were an effort to remain  competitive. Galeotafiore stated in her report that stores which provide programs similar to the Service Performance Improvement offered by Home Depot tend to fear better in operating margins, inventory turnover and productivity, than the do-it-yourself establishments. Jefferies’ analyst Donald Trott downgraded Lowe’s, due to a declining housing-market bubble and, based on an opinion that their stock price was richly valued compared to Home Depot’s. However, on the brighter side, Lowe’s management told analysts that over the next two years, it expected to maintain sales growth between 18% and 19% and over the next three years from 2002 to 2004 it is expected to open 123, 130 and 140 stores respectively entering metropolitan m arkets with populations over 500,000 like the Boston and New York markets.

Educational Studies (Primary) with Art Essay

‘Art is a time traveller; art is an omnipresent teller of story. It’s more effective than CNN, the BBC and Sky News put together. Art is all the poems read, at all the funerals and weddings that happened, on every day of every year of your life, from every class, gender and sexuality of human being. The freedom to write is a sign of a free society. Art is the greatest symbol, the greatest expression of freedom. No wonder writers are a threat to repressive regimes; it’s because of the greatness and importance of books. Art bridges the gap between the spiritual world and the physical one; at times of great need, trauma, loss, celebration, union, hope, introduction, we need the bridge, we need art. It’s why there is song, it’s why there is poetry, it’s why there is dance, and it’s why there is music. What can art do? Art can save lives; people need the bridge over their troubled waters, because art is life. This is not an exaggeration; take away those songs those poems, paintings and music and leave citizens bereft of expression. Art offers a quality of life and of experience, a fundamental  power of art is to articulate. If aliens visited us, they would get a truer representation of the human being through art than through anything else. Art is as close to the environment as human beings can get. What art can do is what it does. I have seen homeless men and women speak, who have not spoken before, due to some unspeakable trauma. I have seen poems bring the invisible into focus on national radio. I have seen crying children smile. I have seen poems change lives. It’s why poems are read at weddings, funerals, births, on royal occasions and personal occasions, when soldiers are at war, and in peacetime. We turn to art because it is the greatest expression of humanity avail able to all.’ (Sissay, L., 2010) The essence of good art teaching is to harness the creative ability, which is already part of every child. We are catalyst, enquirer, developer and delegator to the creative young minds we try to teach. (Barnes, R., 2002, p.180) This art assignment will analyse a piece of work by chosen artist Judy Pfaff and her role in my project called ‘Dancing at the edge of chaos’, aimed at KS2 children, which consists of four developmental workshops, with the theme of ‘installation art’. (Appendix A-D) Judy Pfaff was born in 1946 in London, England. Her impressive career spans more than thirty-three years of making art across the globe. She began as a painter at Yale, but soon became recognised for her highly original sculptures laden with emotional impact. Pfaff explores space and matter and all that lies between painting and sculpture, two dimensions and three dimensions. Her work is laced with an intense physicality and exhilarating sense of chaos that continues to evolve throughout her art. Besides the ambitious sculpture installations for which Pfaff is renowned, she is a talented engineer, builder, welder and fabricator who tackles huge projects hands-on from start to finish. Her repertoire includes drawings, collages, prints and mixed media constructions, as well as highly complex multi-layered prints. Her prints incorporate collage elements and cut  papers. She employs a variety of media including photogravure (a method of printing high quality images in large editions, using photographic and etching techniques) encaustic (hot wax painting), lithography (a method of printing that used from a flat stone or metal plate with grease and water) silkscreen, woodcuts and more. (The College of Saint Rose, 2009) The artist has presented more than one hundred and fifty solo exhibitions and has participated in more than two hundred and fifty group and traveling exhibitions in the United States, Europe and South America. Pfaff has influenced younger artists either whom she has taught over the years or who have seen her work in hundreds of venues throughout the world. Pfaff sums it up: ‘†¦you should be allowed to test murky, unclear, unsure territory or all you have left are substitutes that signify these positions. Having it all together is the least interesting thing in art, in being alive.’ (Prince, S. E., 2008) The piece of art I have chosen as a starting point for four-lesson scheme of artwork is Judy Pfaff’s â€Å"N.Y.C- B.Q.E†. (Appendix E) Judy says, I think there’s always a melancholy in the work, though everyone has always thought of my work as being very happy, or jaunty, or- what’s that word I get- an explosion in a glitter factory. There’s always something that seemed carefree, easy-going. I can hardly remember that. I mean I can have a good time and I can be light-hearted. But there’s another quality that will get in, especially with the latest works. (Art 21, 2001) I found artist Judy Pfaff extremely inspiring because she has created huge amounts of diverse artwork throughout her career. She is a very ambitious artist with vigorous vision, which is echoed through her highly intense sculptures. Her work is never just about a particular element such as abstract form, rather an environment to be explored and experienced. Her  style of work links well with the project because the idea was to encourage the children to be spontaneous and to develop a skilful, yet sensitive use of materials, rather than just filling the space without a narrative. This element of extemporaneity and walking into a space and not knowing what will happen is exactly how Pfaff likes to work. Her installations are not simply just about scale and even though they appear to be quite chaotic, Judy plans with her assistants to figure out what they want to do with materials they haven’t worked with before. Assistant Ryan Muller at Judy Pfaff’s studio in Tivoli, New York talks about what he has learnt by working with Judy, As an artist myself, she has taught me a lot just about working on scales and persevering. She is in the studio constantly. She said a lot of her work gets done after we all leave. A lot of us will always be making theses images for her to work with; twisting the steal and giving her imagery to use and then when everybody has gone she has processed it all. She is in love with her work and that is inspiring. (Art 21, 2011) Despite Judy Pfaff’s set of diverse skills, to create one of her impressive installations involves a team of very skilled individuals. I was able to adapt some of the processes Judy Pfaff uses to create her installations, to be suitable for KS2 children, by planning activities which are accessible to them, so they could do the cutting, constructing, building, gluing, joining and engage with materials they had not used before, in a safe and stimulating environment. Once the children had been introduced to Judy Pfaff and some of the methods used in installation art, they were able to start straight away with experimenting with materials and creating their own installations. It was important to pitch the activities at the right level in each workshop, including starting small and building up to working on a large scale, all the time building their confidence and skills with the materials. All the materials I chose were easy to get hold of such as the cardboard boxes and wooden blocks, safe to use and stimulating enough for the children to engage with. The installation â€Å"N.Y.C – B.Q.E† is so complex  with so much to see; I found it enabled me to plan for many different art activities because it has so much scope. Pfaff’s dynamic, energetic, large-scale works incorporate many different media. However, I chose to gear the project to the handling materials aspect and getting the children involved in very hands on activities using their senses. Viktor Lowenfield, one of the great innovators in the field of art education, said, in his book Creativity, Education’s Stepchild: A Sourcebook for Creative Thinking: Creative persons, we find, are among other things unusually sensitive to what they see, hear, touch, etc. They respond rapidly to the â€Å"feel† and grain of a piece of wood, the texture and flexibility of clay, things often hidden. On the 28th October 1988 Angela Rumbold presented a speech to the ‘National Association for Education in the Arts’ whereby she said, Art, especially the teaching of it to young children, can enrich life by bringing to our attention the quality of such enlivening experiences. Through art, children can retain that sense of wonder and delight which all too easily becomes lost as later concerns of adult life take over. Without art and design, we lose the freedom to express out innermost thoughts and fears. Children’s knowledge and understanding of artistic and historical moments would be limited to the gamut to which their home life exposes them. (Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, 1989) I wanted the children to experience some hands on building and constructing using a range of three-dimensional objects. â€Å"N.Y.C – B.Q.E† gives you a strong feel of being on the beach and by the sea, with light and life moving all around you which was my inspiration for the 30ft sandpit, which the children explored and created installations using more natural materials in  the third workshop. Pfaff’s work is full of life and inspired me to be quite ambitious with the planning, as I wanted to include a wide range of activities, which involved the children being actively engaged with materials and taking responsibility for decisions. My aims involved developing the children’s knowledge and understanding of colour, texture, space and composition by providing them with first hand experiences of experimenting with materials, investigating how it can be used and challenges where the child’s thinking and planning can clearly be seen. According to Margaret Morgan, County Art Adviser for Suffolk, ‘Experience and discussion of natural and manmade stimuli is crucial if the children’s awareness of form, feel, texture, pattern, weight and temperature qualities is to develop.’ (Morgan, M., 1988, p.82) Planning: central to all effective teaching, whatever the subject, is planning, asking the important questions such as, ‘What do I want the children to learn in this session? How can that learning be best achieved?’ Clear, appropriate learning intentions, setting yourself and the children challenging, engaging and achievable targets, reliant on an understanding of the children’s needs and abilities and the resources available, is essentially what teaching is all about. (Skelton, T., & Joy, E, 2001) While I was planning I drew inspiration from the key elements inherent to art education, which Margaret Morgan recommended in her book, ‘Art 4-11’: * Sensory experience: during the four workshops, the children used their senses to explore different types of materials and build installations in different environments. They carried out activities concerned with ‘feel’ and ‘touch’, which together will raise their visual awareness and the exploration of form, space and texture. * Ability to work independently and develop ideas, isolate problems and deal with them: In the last workshop the children were in charge of a particular area to set up ready for the  final exhibition. They had the responsibility of arranging an installation to make it fit with another in the setting. During all four of the workshops, the children were continuously developing ideas through practical handling of materials. * Practical experience and awareness of the potential line, shape, colour, pattern, texture, tone and form; of tools and materials and media; and of communication by graphic means: This was one of the most important outcomes for the children to achieve by the end of the project, as throughout they were handling a range of tools and materials in order to raise their awareness of their qualities and how they can be used in art. * Ability to enjoy and respond critically and intelligently to art and design forms, past and present: The children were introduced to the notion of installation art in the first workshop, where they were asked to share their immediate responses to it and explored how it was made and what it was made from etc. They also engaged with the work of Judy Pfaff and were asked some questions about their reaction to it and how it made them feel, what it made them think about and what it represents to them. The children also kept sketchbooks throughout and were asked to make comments about anything to do with the project, to encourage them to reflect on their own work and any particular skills they learnt. * Ability to use language in describing processes, developing discussion and evaluating ideas: Throughout the project the children were encouraged to discuss their ideas and what they were doing during the process of developing their work; by revisiting the element of space and composition, I hoped to expand the children’s vocabulary surrounding installation art and the features that were dominate in Judy Pfaff’s work. They also engaged in discussions within their groups when selecting materials and constructing their installations. (Morgan, M., 1988, p.110) Pfaff enters an exhibition space not knowing exactly what will happen. She must rely on her knowledge, skill, and experience to carry her through; this ethos was one I wanted the children to try and adopt, so when it came to the final exhibition they would feel confident enough to make a installation out of a new set of materials. The design of Pfaff’s ‘N.Y.C – B.Q.E’ opens the doors to many different possibilities for activities for KS2 children  because there are many aspects that go into her installations; I was able to discuss the use of colour, texture, space, and arrangement in Judy Pfaff’s work and how the children incorporated these elements into their own work. In every workshop I shared the image ‘N.Y.C – B.Q.E’ because I found it so cluttered and detailed; every time I looked at the image, I saw something different. Therefore I tried to encourage the children to study the image and stimulate fresh ideas and build up their language in art. Margaret Morgan states that the teacher should try to encourage children to look at, touch and feel items. (Morgan, M., 1988) This is exactly what I wanted the children to do throughout all the workshops to help build up skills and extend their experience of handling materials. As the workshops progressed, the aim was to try to build the children’s confidence and experience so more interest would build up during each activity. In all of the workshops, it was important the children used all their senses to explore the range of materials, so they could experience the materials and gain insight into their qualities, which would impact their decisions of choosing particular materials and design choices for their installations in the later stages. Throughout the project, the children were faced with all sorts of challenges such as painting, drawing, modelling, construction and textiles. My approach was to section off part of the hall, ensuring adequate space for each group of children to work with a collection of acquired items with potential for construction such as bricks, wood blocks, rope, plastic, metal etc. The children were introduced to the materials and reminded about the need for safe handling and mutual sensitivity. I reminded the children to respect each other and the things they had. The very nature of the range of materials continually triggered new ideas and associations such as creating homes in an imaginary environment, when the children were using the cardboard boxes and woodblocks. In addition, this approach provided the children with valuable experience of the potential usage of materials, an understanding of appropriate qualities and the importance of safe handling of tools and equipment. According to Rob Barnes, who presents many current and important issues in art education in his series of books called ‘Teaching art to young children’ states, ‘Expressing feelings and ideas in a visual way is a question of making judgements about things like colour,  scale, texture, shape and drawing.’ Children need to experience using and handling materials in order for them to understand their qualities.’ (Barnes, R., 2002, p.160) Some of the skills and tools involved in the project, such as joining using glue guns, cutting using Stanley knifes, experimenting with materials and their potential usage, arranging different types of metals and objects through trial, error and success which varied in weight and textures, taking responsibility for creating a sketch book, using the HD cameras and editing films using ‘I-movie’ on the MacBook pro’s and working in large scale groups meant it was more suitable for KS2 children. In comparison to the expectations in art and design of children in KS1, the activities seem to be a step higher in all areas. The National Curriculum states, in ‘Investigating and making art, craft and design’ in KS1 the children are expected to represent observations and make artefacts whereas in KS2, this develops into using a variety of methods and approaches to communicate observations, ideas and feelings and as the children were developing their creativity through more complex activities, increasing their critical awareness of the purpose of installation art and evolving their confidence in using materials and processes to communicate what they see, feel and think, these learning objectives seemed more appropriate. (DfEE, 1999) ‘N.Y.C – B.Q.E’ is a perfect example of Judy Pfaff’s controlled chaos in her artwork. Judy Pfaff controls the chaotic look to her installations. However, the chaos of all the qualities in her installations look like they may have all just been arranged in an attention-grabbing way but there is a reason behind all the commotion. This concept inspired the title for the project: ‘Dancing at the edge of chaos’. I tired to emphasise this idea of ‘controlled chaos’ when I presented the children with a random box of materials to have a go at making an installation, in groups. The children’s starting point would have been quite chaotic because all objects and materials started in a heap on the floor; the challenge was to arrange them into a visually exciting installation, some of which they might not have worked with before. Rob Barnes highlights, When children or teachers are involved in the process of making choices, they are inevitably manipulating thoughts and ideas. It takes little imagination to realize that one of the rewards of teaching art is to become just as interested in what children discover as they are. (Barnes, R., 2002, p.194) The main focus of the project was giving children the opportunity to handle and explore a wide range of materials, which they might not have used in a creative manner before. Michael Boyd, Artistic Director of the†¨Royal Shakespeare Company says, No child can absorb a fine culture of art without seeing a great deal of it and doing enough of it to realise some of the processes involved. Art is one of the antidotes of life which becomes increasingly busy and exhausting, yet far less humanly productive or satisfying. (Arts council England, 2010, p.7) Introducing the children to installation art allowed for the materials to be used and handled in a more stimulating way just like artist Judy Pfaff. Judy Pfaff has worked with an eclectic and unusual range of materials and moves back and forth easily between two and three-dimensional work, creating art that is complex and unique. These dynamic, energetic, large-scale works incorporate many different media. It was important to create opportunities for the children to see how Judy Pfaff might have constructed her work and manipulated materials and to raise their awareness of the different processes used in her work. Pfaff’s working process is spontaneous and highly physical. Throughout this project, the children have been encouraged to be very expressive with their thoughts and feelings, so they create work that is personal to them. Peggy Davison Jenkins, author of Art for the Fun of It, has said, Creativity is not so much an aptitude as an attitude.   The meaning and significance of each stage of scribbling still needs to be further studied. One thing is clear: children need to produce their own art, and they don’t benefit at all from completing adult -made projects. When pushed to do something they are not ready to do, they suffer by stifling their own needs. (Jenkins, D., P., 1980, p.70) I have tried to emphasise that the development of the work is just as important as the final piece because the children are constantly evolving their skills and making the work is all part of the experience. According to writer and poet Blake Morrison, Art can do many things: entertain, instruct, console, inspire, enrage, transform. It teaches us things we can’t be taught in any other way and makes us see things we wouldn’t otherwise see. It slows us the illusion of escaping our daily lives while simultaneously taking us deeper inside ourselves. (Arts council England, 2010, p.20) Educators are aware that children have different learning styles, a concept which has had a profound impact on thinking and practice in education, developed from Howard Gardner’s theory of Multiple Intelligence. (Learning Styles Online, 2012) In art, the teacher will discuss concepts verbally, write information and draw illustrations on the board, and allow children to manipulate materials; therefore every kind of leaner should be able to access the concepts being presented. ‘The arts have an important role to play in refining our sensory system and cultivating our imaginative qualities.’ (Barone, T., & Eisner, W., E., 1988) In short, art enlarges the imagination and allows us to experience the qualities of sound, sight, taste, and touch increasing children’s perception in the arts, rather than simply recognising them. Susan Striker has written an array of books, which discuss the positive influence of a child’s artistic growth on their  intellectual and emotional development, and offering activities to facilitate artistic skills. She highlights that ‘Children are developing visual impressions when they read, and verbal and symbolic skills when they draw, paint and sculpt.’ And later argues, ‘A child who is exposed early to positive creative art activities, and who is allowed to develop freely and naturally, will take to writing very easily when the time comes.’ (Striker, S., 2001) Councilor Mick Henry, Leader of Gateshead Council speaks about why art is important to him: Art has the ability to change and improve lives. This could be through taking part in a single art workshop session and making something for the first time, being at a concert by your favourite performer, or band, walking in the park and encountering a beautiful sculpture, or visiting a museum or gallery and seeing something precious or unexpected. Any of these simple activities can be transformational for the individual concerned. †¨ (Arts council England, 2010, p.12) Creative activities confront how we feel about things. Expressing a mood, emotion, or temperament through art becomes as valid as responding to another person, a moving sight, or a meaningful experience. Both responding and expressing through art puts us in touch with qualities which are part of what makes us human.

Gender and Globalization Essay

Globalization and its Impact on Women’s education Worldwide Globalization is defined as the worldwide movement toward financial, economic, and communication integration. Globalization has improved the lives of women worldwide, especially the lives of women living in developing countries. However, women remain disadvantaged in many aspects in life including health, employment, rights, and education. In this essay, I will discuss the impact of globalization on women worldwide, mainly on their participation in education. Although many advantages were gained, there is still worldwide inequality in education. According to the UNESCO, inequality in education is directly connected to poverty (Globalization 101)[1]. Studies have shown that more female children are not attending than male children in poor areas. Sub-Saharan Africa, Western Asia, and Oceana still face challenges reaching gender inequality for primary education. On the other hand, the Caribbean, Eastern Asia, and Latin America have more female students than male students going on to secondary education. In extremely poor or rural areas, females are less likely to have any type of education. In many of the world’s poorest countries located in Sub Saharan Africa, the Arab States, and West Asia the education of females in many is not valued because they are expected to contribute more at home, while males should gain skills to work and support their families. According to the UNESCO, the elimination of inequality in education would help lessen poverty in general. Also, female education has indirect effects for society such as improved fertility rates, improved child health, and improved educational opportunities for everyone in the household. In addition, increased skill levels allow women to participate more in the economy, which will increase the economic prosperity of the family (Globalization 101)[1]. Although globalization has opened markets worldwide, increased profits, and created more jobs for all countries and citizens, this neo-liberal model has increased poverty in many parts of the world and deepened the inequalities within the nations. Globalization has caused the rich to be richer and the poor to be poorer. Globalization mainly affects women because majority of the world’s poor are women (Shortchanging women WEDO)[2]. Also, structural adjustment policies with their elimination of subsidies, attendant price increases, and social services decreases, have increased the vulnerability of women and children where the distribution of the provision of health care and education favor income earning adults or men. Structural adjustment causes women hold responsibility of dealing with increased priced and income decrease. With increased unemployment and decreased wages for men, the responsibility is placed upon the women and children to take part of economic activity in order to support the household. In Peru, One study found that the effects of economic crisis and structural adjustment led to a significant increase in poverty. Structural adjustment policies and other forms of neo-liberalism are a major factor behind the â€Å"feminization of poverty†(Moghadam 1999)[3]. Although globalization offers women great opportunities, women are faced with equal new challenges. Women are still disadvantaged in many areas in their lives such as education. Gender inequality in education is still occurring in many developing countries, and it is directly connected to poverty. It is believed that eliminating gender inequality in education would lessen poverty. Neo-liberalism and structural adjustment are aimed to make economic and financial improvements worldwide, however, they are said to be a major factor behind women’s poverty in many areas in the world. In conclusion, Globalization with all its advantages to women’s education, it shares equal disadvantages and challenges that many women around the world will continue to face everyday. Works Cited: [1] http://www.globalization101.org/uploads/File/Women/Women2011.pdf [2]http://www.wedo.org/wp-content/uploads/shortchanging-women-factsheet.pdf [3]http://jwsr.ucr.edu/archive/vol5/number2/v5n2_split/jwsr_v5n2_moghadam.pdf

School Nursing and Asthma Program by S2M Assignment

School Nursing and Asthma Program by S2M - Assignment Example S2M indicates that dissemination of information in the meeting will be done with discussion and showing of PowerPoint slides (Melynck & Fineout-Overholt, 2011). S2M also has carefully planned further dissemination to nursing conferences, city meetings, and through a newspaper article in the city. S2M also points out that disseminating the plan requires engaging the attendees by using the Kotter and Cohen Model for change, by reaching out to people’s emotions, rather than through a list of boring facts. The importance of the subject is in the fact that asthma is a leading cause of morbidity, and this should make people stand up and take notice. Most likely, finding stories that pull at heartstrings, regarding students with asthma, who have passed away because of lack of care by those around the children, will get people’s attention. It will, indeed, require commitment on the part of all adults concerned, both at school and from the parents (CPS, 2011). Therefore, S2M is correct that this is a very important issue to be addressed in the schools, and also requires planning, not only for health and medical instruction of school sta ff but of laying in of suitable medical products. Conducting an initial pilot plan will be a good idea, using several schools with a nurse and fully stocked medical center, to take care of issues as they arise. The nurse and the principal can also help with recording the events, what problems they encountered, and make suggestions for adjustments at the end of the pilot program run. Charts and spreadsheets will help in information gathering, plus a database of the medical inventory, in place before the pilot program starts, will give a pretty good idea of how much it costs to outfit the medical center, and what final costs are in implementation (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2011).S2M might consider that school nurses should be required to show evidence at the beginning of every school year, that they have obtained ongoing education, particularly in the issues of child asthma in school. While one can assume that nurses will continue with their education, the lives of school children are in their hands and, therefore, appropriate eviden ce will not only protect the children if they need help but also protects the school system as well (NASN, 2014). S2M has made an excellent case for the asthma project and developed a very good dissemination plan for its delivery. Â  

Timberland Case Study Paper Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Timberland Case Study - Research Paper Example It is for this reason that the CEO of the company recommends the creation of a model that brings an era whereby â€Å"under the model, creating commercial value and social value, commerce and justice were â€Å"inextricably linked†Ã¢â‚¬  (Austin, Leonard, and Quinn, 2004, p. 1). Reading through the case study, it could be noticed that there is the likelihood that there could arise a subsequent problem that has to do with the implementation of the designed model. This problem is projected in the face of having to satisfy the stake of all stakeholders to accepting the innovative business model as the most suitable for the present needs of the company. Identified "stakeholders" The running of any public interest organization such as Timberland can never be complete in the absence of a well regulated and coordinated effort among some key players, commonly referred to as stakeholders (Maremont, 1993). The term ‘stakeholders’ is used to refer to these players because with their roles in the organizations, they could be said to be people who can legitimately claim stakes in the successful running of given organizations. In other words, the roles of each stakeholder are so important that eliminating the functions of one of them could cause the doom of the company involved. A critical review of the case in which Timberland finds itself brings out who the company’s stakeholders are and the roles played in the successful story of the company over the years. Employees, consumers, customers, partners, the community and the investment community all come together to act as stakeholders of Timberland (Austin, Leonard, and Quinn, 2004, p. 11). Employees of the company act as the engine of production, whose tasks include the need to ensure that there is an adequate supply margin to the demand chain on the company (Esposito, 2001). Customers and consumers are the financial lifeline to the company, whose purchases account for the company’s reven ues. Partners and the investing community also play important roles in fueling the company with fiscal resources though they come in as beneficiaries in the long run. The community, on the other hand, is an important stakeholder in the social justice phenomenon; as the community ought to benefit exclusively from the company without any thought of reciprocate in return. Important Target Groups Still on the commerce and justice vision of the company, there are some key target groups that ought to be considered in the rendering of the innovative business model of the company. Apart from the stakeholders who have been mentioned earlier as employees, consumers, customers, partners, the community and the investment community, suppliers and the government are two other important target groups. The justification in considering suppliers as important target group comes from one major factor and that is, Timberland as a company does a lot of outsourcing in the procurement and acquisition of r aw materials for its operations. This, therefore, means that for a lot of times that the company will be in the quest to go into production in order to meet demand from customers and consumers, the company would have to fall on its suppliers (Ducharme, 2002). It is for this reason that the role of suppliers as important target group cannot be underestimated. With government, not much needs to be said to justify its role as an important target

JVA Corporation Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

JVA Corporation - Assignment Example Organizations that lack proper PMS are unable to fulfill their commitments and even compromise on quality of their goods and services which can significantly impact their relationship with their customers (Performance Appraisal, 2011). Likewise, ineffective PMS will not be able to give confidence to employees as they will see that they are not being rewarded for their contributions and they will be unable to develop important skills required for performing their job with zeal and enthusiasm (Armstrong & Baron, 2005). Since economic recession has impacted working of all organizations, it has become important for them to take appropriate measures that will help them in enhancing their performance and cut back costs (Performance Management, 2012). Organizations have to make choices among various options such as close down their operations, cut down salaries of employees, lay off workers and many more; JVA Corporation will have to review its PMS so that it can make the right decision for its business operations and ensure that it is able to generate enough profit for its ongoing survival in the market. Considering the scenario of JVA Corporation, the most ideal strategy is the second one as it will allow it to ensure that people are secured about their jobs that they will not be made redundant. The strategy suggested for implementation by Human Resource Director is that every six months, performance and revenue will be reviewed so that decision about cutting or increasing pay can be effectively made. During these reviewing periods bottom line will be revisited as well. Employees will be motivated that they can get raises in their pay twice a year if they perform well. Implementation plan for PMS Since JVA Corporation has been losing money in the last couple of years due to economic recession, it will have to cut back perks and amenities that are offered to the employees. Before making any adjustments in compensation packages, heads of respective departments will ha ve meeting with their departmental employees so that they convey the changes being made in PMS. Along with modifications in their pay packages, JVA Corporation will be able to save 2-3% of their net income; in order to raise salaries and wages, employees will have to meet demands of enhancing their performance so that they are eligible for pay increases. With this strategy, employees will be affected to a greater extent as they will be suffering from incentives such as pay raises, auto insurance, transportation cost and many more. However, workers’ morale will get boosted as they will realize that the company will not lay off the workers and they will not lose their jobs. JVA Corporation can be affected by implementation of the strategy because some employees might be reluctant to such impositions which will affect their motivation level and they will be discouraged to enhance their productivity; as a result of this, employees might get de-motivated. In order to boost the mor ale of such employees, HR staff will arrange counseling sessions with them so that they can tell them the reasons of making such changes and help them in developing their potential skills. One point needs to be clarified that strategy implementation is temporary and

V Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Professionalism and Clients Interests - Essay Example Chartered Surveyors have the contractual obligation to meet the demands and expectations of their clients as stipulated in their engagement contract provided however that these demands and expectations are within the ambit of the law. Should conflict ensue, the chartered surveyor’s duty does not end with a recommendation of appropriate measures to his client to abide with the dictates of the law and implement processes to correct or rectify any variance, delinquency or transgression. The chartered surveyor is likewise mandated by RICS’ code of conduct to ensure that the correct resolution as provided for by the provisions of the law is followed according to the letter of law, rules and regulations. The fiduciary obligation of chartered surveyors to their clients is that all the recommendations and findings that the surveyor will make are in accordance and congruent with the letter of the law.  Ã‚  The chartered surveyor should be the advocate of the code of conduct of his profession as he adheres to these standards, it follows that his actions are strictly guided by the regime of his profession as well as his own moral beliefs and principles. Although the chartered surveyor has an obligation to his client, such responsibility is secondary to the duty of the chartered surveyor to the public’s welfare. The chartered surveyor’s primary goal should also include the maintenance of the integrity of his industry and ensure that the norms enunciated in the code of conduct.... The chartered surveyor is likewise mandated by RICS’ code of conduct to ensure that the correct resolution as provided for by the provisions of the law is followed according to the letter of law, rules and regulations. The fiduciary obligation of chartered surveyors to their clients is that all the recommendations and findings that the surveyor will make are in accordance and congruent with the letter of the law. The chartered surveyor should be the advocate of the code of conduct of his profession as he adheres to these standards, it follows that his actions are strictly guided by the regime of his profession as well as his own moral beliefs and principles. Although the chartered surveyor has an obligation to his client, such responsibility is secondary to the duty of the chartered surveyor to the public’s welfare. The chartered surveyor’s primary goal should also include the maintenance of the integrity of his industry and ensure that the norms enunciated in th e code of conduct are obeyed with utmost fidelity. The professional’s best service to his client is to translate such requirements in accordance with governing laws, implementing rules and regulation. Obligations and Contracts Surveying is one of the professional services that can be procured through a regular engagement contract with a certified or chartered surveyor. As in other contracts, a contract to engage the services of a chartered surveyor shall include the scope and terms of reference of the services covered. This contract shall govern the relationship of the chartered contractor and the client. The terms of reference shall list all of the services, duties and

Federal Government Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Federal Government - Essay Example After the great depression, however, when people were starved and had lost most of their properties, people believed that the Federal Government through its structures ought to provide necessities to its population. In as much as the then leadership under Roosevelt focused on fighting the great depression, and heeded the cry of various organized corporations and labor unions, the belief among the citizens was that such strategies were aimed at assisting bankers, large farmers and employees who belonged to certain unions. In a rather unfamiliar manner, even those who had been benevolent supporters of the strategy rebelled including Huey Long, who was the then senator for Louisiana. Such moves prompted the government to take charge of certain responsibilities including creating a social security fund project for the elderly and compensating workers who lost their jobs. Amidst all the challenges that existed nevertheless, the United States did not refuse to believe. And in as much as some of their recovery strategies stalled, the nation adopted mechanisms that has made it become a model nation to the whole

Strategic Management Plan Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Strategic Management Plan - Research Paper Example The core competencies of the company have also been discussed so that measures can be adopted in order to enhance the core skills and expertise of the company. The basic business strategies of the company have also been discussed and the new strategies were designed keeping in mind the basic strategies. An organization chart has been shown to have a clear idea regarding the hierarchy of the company. The significant role played by Information Technology (IT) in the company has been discussed and the advantages of it have also been highlighted. The study also throws light on the fact that the company actively uses the IT which makes the operations of the company much easier. It has also been seen regarding the advantages that can be derived from IT to help people access information about medicines and other related topics quite easily and that too without needing a prescription. The need for control systems in the company for quality check and the need for a crisis management plan have also been discussed. ... Strategic planning is a tool of management which facilitates an organization to keep its energy focused, make sure that the employees and other members are working keeping in view the common goal of the organization and assist to evaluate and amend the course of the organization in reacting to the environmental changes. Strategic planning is a closely controlled endeavor to generate basic actions and decisions that would help in shaping and directing an organization (Namac, 2009). Strategic planning is known to be a ‘game plan’ that helps in achieving competitive advantage and fetch in high profits. Therefore, it can be understood that strategic planning is an indispensable part of every business, irrespective of the size of business. Large businesses have more time and resources to dedicate to strategic planning whereas small businesses have the advantage to act quickly and be in close contact with the stakeholders (May, 2010). Strategic plan of an organization is consi dered to be the base on which each and every activity of business can be linked and associated with (Lawlor, n.d). To get a proper understanding, a strategic plan will be designed for the organization, Pfizer and the vital elements of the particular strategic plan will be discussed. Overview of the Company Two cousins named Charles Erhart and Charles Pfizer established Pfizer in the year 1849. It is a pharmaceutical company that is devoted towards developing and finding out improved ways to treat and resist disease. The company aims at improving well being and health of people across the globe. The company operates a website of medicine safety where all kind of queries related to medicines are answered and allows people to access information regarding important

Adultery and inappropriate relationships among the ranks in the Army Research Paper

Adultery and inappropriate relationships among the ranks in the Army - Research Paper Example Female and male veterans are reported to confirm reports of rampant sexual trauma during their service in the military. The military has been reluctant to take action against these allegations. Military officials are said to have received over 3000 reports on sexual assault in the year 2011. However, reports indicate that only 191 cases have successfully been convicted in the court-martial. This has encouraged the outrageous behavior in the military circles. No wonder, the majority sexual predators are repeat offenders. Sexual assailants in the military are said to be unaware of the impact of their actions to the lives of the victims. This essay seeks to explore the issue of adultery and inappropriate relationships among ranks in the military. Many people believe that sexual ethics in the military fall under personal choices and should never be governed by the military. Research shows that most people believe that extramarital affairs should not be punishable in the military. A poll indicated that 49 percent of Americans believe that adultery should be allowed in the military. The argument in based on the fact that adultery is a personal choice regardless to whether it is right or wrong. Most of the people who back adultery in the military use the natural law theory (Mitchell, 1998). The argument suggests that the essence of having sexual urges is to explore sexual relationships with multiple partners (Brinson, 2008). The natural law suggests that it is natural to fulfill the sexual urges and desires. Multiple cases have been reported dealing with cases of immorality in the military. Army major John Lonhouser, Air force General Joseph Ralston and General David Petraus are representative of what is happening in the top ranks of the United States military. The junior ranking troops imagine that the drill sergeants live in an insular world. The junior officers believe the word from their commanders is final. As a result, they suffer from rape and sexual assaults w hile serving in the United States military. Most of these troops suffer retaliation after reporting these cases (Brinson, 2008). Sexual assaults have resulted to demoralization of the United States military, especially those who have fallen victims. The military is expected to be a moral leader in the United States. Research indicates that there is a culture of condoning military adultery and improper sexual relationships in the units of the United States army. However, the rules tend to be different for the generals (Mitchell, 1998). According research, consensual sex seems to be widely tolerated in the United States army. The media seems to put top generals into limelight. However, the military structures, culture and attitude is accustomed to sexual offences (Valente & Wight). Soldiers are known to work in extreme conditions (Brinson, 2008). They spend most long period of time away from their families. This has been attributed to the multiple cases of adultery in improper relatio nships among the ranks in the army. The department of defense has conducted large-scale surveys with regard to adultery and improper relationships in the coast guards, Marine Corps, navy army and air force active-duty personnel (Mitchell, 1998). Research confirms the women and men experience gender-related discrimination which has been in the rise in the last one decade. For long, sexual harassment had been termed as a problem facing the military women. However, men are increasingly becoming targets of improper relationships at an alarming rate. The military culture and gender based imbalances while on active duty have been cited as some of the causes of adultery and improper relationships among the military personnel. The military environment provides the sexual offenders

Article Critique Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 6

Article Critique - Essay Example To comply with the requirements of writing a critique, one selected the topic which covers the rationale for federalism (why federalism?) and provide insights regarding personal reaction and opinion on the points that were discussed to determine if these points were appropriately supported. Why Federalism? The authors effectively presented a discussion on the topic (why federalism?) by first establishing the rationale for unification. Other terms that were successfully defined included: nation, confederal system, unitary system, self-government, and federalism (Greer, Schiller and Segal 75-77). The expertise and authoritativeness of the authors on the subject have been established in their capacities as professors of political science. As such, provisions of meanings of terms were validly presented through the knowledge they have gained from previous academic pursuits and in their respective professions as educators. In another perspective, the authors used a fairly comprehensible an d straightforward language that aids the students, who are the primary audience, in gaining awareness and knowledge on the subject of discussion. Through the provision of clear examples where students could effectively identify and relate to, the authors thereby are effective in language use and structural presentation. Difficult terms or vocabularies that need to be expounded were effectively provided meanings in straightforward and easily understood manners. Also, by citing other authoritative discourses authored by experts on the subject, Greer, Schiller and Segal (2012) established support and increased credibility on the topics being discussed. For instance, in defining the term ‘federalism’ which is crucial in this section, Greer, Schiller and Segal (2012) made reference to a policital scientist, William Riker, whose definition was explicitly disclosed therein. Likewise, through presenting a visual comparative illustration of conferedal, unitary and federal system s, as Figure 3.1 (Greer, Schiller and Segal 76), students were illumined on the similarities or disparities of one system of government from the other. Visual representations and illustrations are effective means to enhance understanding on topics that could be challenging to comprehend through purely written literary discourse. In subjects such as political science and history where students expect a lot of reading and discussion, as well as references to historical backdrop, using visual aids and illustrations become a welcome and helpul respite. The sources of other secondary references that provided support to the authors’ contentions were cited in two ways: through immediate citation with references under figures or visual illustrations; and through an author index where supercripts where initially added in citations through the text. In expounding on the subject of why federalism, for instance, the authors made reference to only one citation, from the work of William Ri ker in his definition of the term ‘federalism’ (Greer, Schiller and Segal 76). Despite the lack of other citations, the authors used other means of support through the provision of historical narration, examples, and statistics, as deemed applicable: for instance, citing the experiences of participants in the 1787 Constitutional Convention, specifically located in

Illiegal Immigration Essay Example for Free

Illiegal Immigration Essay As time has passed and millions of immigrants have come to the country, the United States still maintains a welcoming attitude towards new immigrants. However, with such a vast amount of foreigners who desire access into the country, entry into the United States has become much more complex since the days of Ellis Island. As a result, this new century has with it a new kind of immigrant: the illegal immigrant. Desperate to become a part of the booming American culture, thousands of immigrants have begun to enter the United States illegally. Ignoring the laws set forth by the American government, these immigrants enter the country and unnoticeably merge themselves into the culture of the United States. With the influence of several factors such as large borders and unruly citizens who refuse to uphold the law, the government essentially allows these individuals to enter the country and actually cause some major damage. Ultimately, as the United States’ government is unable to fully enforce the policies of immigration, illegal immigration is further enhanced and permitted, thereby creating more problems within the United States’ framework that threatens the well being of the country and its people. In order to get the disadvantages that have developed as a result of illegal immigration, it is crucial to also understand the evolution of immigration policies throughout the history of the United States. Looking back in the time period of Ellis Island, there were only a handful of policies and restrictions in allowing immigrants into the country. The majority of immigrants in the late nineteenth century arrived in the country on boats. According to most information, the individuals who were denied entry to the United States and immediately sent back to their homeland were those who were seen as criminals, anarchists, or carriers of disease. These restrictions address one central purpose: to ensure the well being and protection of United States and its citizens. In essence, the goal to protect the country and its people has not changed and still lives on within the current policies. As in the late 1800s, almost any given foreigner has the ability to become a legal resident, or a citizen of the United States. However, the process by which a person can become a legal resident is much more complicated than it has been in years prior. In order to become a temporary or permanent resident of the United States, individuals must endure the long application process to receive a visa or green card. Any foreigner living within the United States who does not possess such a legal document is considered an illegal immigrant, and, by law, should be deported to their own country. Also, as the United States has no tolerance for illegal immigration, any individual found illegally crossing the borders is also immediately deported. With a much stricter system of entry and residency, many people argue that today’s government has developed a very efficient and proactive policy of immigration. While this policy is extremely strict on paper, one question arises: Is the government actually enforcing these policies? In order to answer this question, it is important to examine illegal immigration and its presence in the United States. Currently, the number of illegal immigrants in the United States stands at an estimated 12 million and rising. With such strict policies in place by the government, how so many undocumented immigrants can enter the country each year is unclear. Firstly, it is necessary to understand that there are two different types of illegal immigrants. There are immigrants who actually come to this country legally via visa or green card, but become illegal by over-staying their visas or green cards. The other type of illegal immigrant is an individual who simply illegally crosses the border and enters the country without contacting the United States’ government in any way. With the current laws and policies regarding immigration, it is fair to say that the government has a much better and easier time tracking and enforcing laws upon immigrants turned illegal, simply due to the fact that the government is aware of their presence in the country. However, the other type of illegal immigrant is more difficult to track because the government is ignorant of their presence in the country. While considering the presence of illegal immigrants within the United States, certain factors that inevitably undermine and inhibit the United States’ immigration policies begin to emerge. First, considered the third largest country in the world, the United States has many borders and areas of entry into the country. Considering its size and huge expansion of borders, the United States has an immense amount of areas that it needs to protect form illegal entry. Let’s be real, with such large borders, there is no way to fully protect and prevent illegal immigration entirely. Despite major improvements in border control, including armed patrolmen and high-reaching metal fences, the border is just too large, and many immigrants still enter the country illegally. In fact, according to Wayne Cornelius, the distinguished director of the Center for Comparative Immigration Studies at the University of California at San Diego, out of the 1. 5 million immigrants who enter the country each year, 500,000 of them are undocumented. Due to the many illegal immigrants who unnoticeably cross the borders, the United States government is unable to enforce its immigration policies, such as distributing visas or deporting illegal immigrants, and is forced to permit these immigrants to live within the country.

The Child Abuse Prevention Social Work Essay

The Child Abuse Prevention Social Work Essay Abuse is a word that has several connotations associated with it. There is a multitude of ways abuse can be carried out, and its consequences or effects can range in an unlimited number of possibilities. Abusive cases regarding anybody should be taken very seriously and with compassion (when it comes to the victim). However, the abuse of a child, especially in a sexual way, is the most dangerous and horrendous form of abuse and can lead to a cycle of abuse later on. Children are typically defenseless and because they are so young and still developing, it is harder for them to understand what is going on and how to deal with it. In some cases, a child who has been sexually abused will absorb some of these characteristics and even abuse others as they get older because it is how they grew up and all they know. Child sexual abuse is extremely detrimental as it can cause long-term issues for life. For this reason, the group decided to cover the topic of preventing child abuse because prevention is the best cure. Prevention of child abuse has to be the number one step that society takes, so that an innocent life will not be unnecessarily disturbed or in the worst cases, ruined. In my section of child sexual abuse, I define prevention in more than a sentence because there are many techniques for preventing child abuse and there are a number of circumstances where prevention can be applied. Our presentation by topic follows in this order: Types of Abuse, Preconditions for Child Sexual Abuse, Children at Risk, Effects of Child Abuse, Sexual Abuse Trauma, Treatment Programs, and lastly Preventing Sexual Abuse. The first point of my presentation includes defining what prevention is and means in the context of child sexual abuse. When we think about the word prevent, it seems pretty simple: stop something from happening. Preventing child sexual abuse is not always this simple though. Those that abuse children sexually have a disorder and have something seriously wrong with their mental processes. Even if a person has been treated for abusive behavior and appear to be normal, there is always a chance of relapse just like with former drug users. That desire to do what they like to do never fully disappears, no matter how well they have rehabilitated, and this is an unavoidable obstacle for recovery even after prevention. The very best way for preventing child sexual abuse and a future child sexual abuser is by the practice of good parenting or guardianship. Children with responsible and loving guardians are less likely to be abused because their guardians are cautious and protective of them. A child with these circumstances are also vastly less likely to abuse as they get older because they are brought up in a proper environment with good role models to follow. It is a common misconception a child is more likely to be sexually abused by a stranger rather than by a family member or someone trusted by the family. In reality, 30-40% of reported child sexual abuse concerns a family member, and about 50% of sexually abused children are molested by a person the family knows (darkness2light.org). This means that only 10% of children who have been sexually abused are abused by strangers, so it is critical that prevention starts in the home. Another thing to think about is that these statistics only involve reported cases. A child is more likely to reveal information about abuse committed by a stranger than by a parent, relative, or family friend. With that said, the likelihood is probably even higher that a child will be sexually abused by someone they know rather than by a complete stranger. Another reason why it is so important that prevention of child abuse starts in the home by the guardians is because 70% of reported sexual assaults are carried out on individuals seventeen and younger (darkness2light.org). The reason for this of course is that kids under this age are vulnerable and less aware of the dangers people may pose. They also have a harder time understanding why something like this could be happening to them. For all children to have responsible and protective guardians would be to live in a perfect world and this is unfortunately impossible. Sometimes a good environment at home is unrealistic, and extra preventative measures must be taken to stop or at least correct a sexually abusive situation. Society as a whole must come together to create an environment outside of the childrenà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s nuclear home. If a child is being sexually abused in their home and then come out to an environment with no helpful recourses or information available to them, they stand no chance. That is why it is crucial for places such as schools, hospitals, religious places, or wherever else it may be, to educate children on what is right and wrong as far as how they should be treated. As hard as it may be to understand, children who are abused by their parents or close ones will usually still love them and feel deeply attached, so they will be scared or hesitant to report abuse in fear of disappointmen t, worse treatment, or even abandonment (childabuse.gov). By educating children on the subject and by making them understand that it is not their fault, it is possible to create a place where the child feel comfortable enough to be honest and forward. On top of the places mentioned previously, there are also numerous recourses available specifically designed for preventing and educating when it comes to child sexual abuse. Programs like NCTSN (National Child Traumatic Stress Network) can educate parents on how to prevent their child from being abused and what signs to look for if they have been. Websites such as darkness2light.org has a list of national and local programs that deal with everything from prevention to rehabilitation. By typing in à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Child Sexual Abuse Preventionà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  in google one can clearly see that there is no lack of resources out there. There are thousands of programs designed to specifically prevent sexual abuse of a child, and even help restore the lives of those that have been taken away from abuse. There is even a national hotline, 1-800-4-A-CHILD, with operators and counselors committed to helping these victims. From my project research and experience, I became more knowledgeable in the ways sexual abuse of a child can be prevented, and how individuals as well as society as a whole can help children who are already being abused. Sexual abuse, especially on a child, is in my opinion one of the worst and immoral things you can do as a human being. I learned that the people who commit this type of abuse to this demographic are often deranged and have no control over their compulsive desire to commit these atrocities. The very best thing we can do to prevent this type of destruction to a childà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s life is to start with care and preventative measures inside the home and to implicate these measures outside the homes in public places as well. More than anything, I learned that prevention of this is not a simple task. It is almost impossible to protect a child inside their own home with abusive parents, if there is no evidence and the child is silent about the situation. We must all w ork together to put the knowledge out there for children on when they should go for help.

Families And Sibling Abuse Understanding The Unthinkable

Families And Sibling Abuse Understanding The Unthinkable Abuse, whether it be physical, emotional, or sexual, can infiltrate a family setting and alter the dynamics greatly. Within a family there are different relationships and bonds, and each one of those relationships may have a different motive and form of abuse within it. A type of abuse within a family that does not receive much attention from society is abuse by siblings. In general, abuse within a family is thought of as a parent abusing a child and asserting their authority in such a way, but the matter of abuse by a sibling is also very important to understand and there are many implications of such abuse. This research paper will address the importance of sibling relationships to further understand the implications that come about from abuse within them, what healthy sibling relationships should look like, the commonality of different relationships of siblings having incest, types of family configurations where sibling abuse is present, and the treatments of siblings that abuse a nd are victims of abuse. Four articles will be used to understand the issue, Sibling Family Practices: Guidelines for Healthy Boundaries (2009) , Sibling Incest: Reports from Forty-One Survivors (2006), Making Sense of Abuse: Case Studies in Sibling Incest (2006), and Treating Sibling Abuse Families (2005). Abuse is a very powerful word that comes with many connotations. The actual definition of abuse has problems with it because it is not universally accepted and the perceptions of abuse from individual to individual vary greatly. Everyone has their own personal opinion on what abuse consists of and in general it is typically thought of as causing harm to another person. Abuse is an issue that has many intersecting factors and many layers that are rooted deep in relationships. One type of abuse that is of great importance, as are the others, is sibling abuse. Sibling abuse is abuse that is perpetrated by one sibling to another and may be physical abuse or sexual abuse, known as incest. The importance of this type of abuse is that it is not given much attention in society and it is difficult to comprehend. Society does not recognize sibling abuse as easily as it will recognize abuse between intimate partners or even abuse between parents and their children. Due to the lack of awareness it is very important to understand what a healthy sibling relationship is, cases of sibling abuse, and treatments of the siblings. By looking at four articles, a view of the issue will come into focus and some light will be shed on the issue of sibling abuse. In Johnson, Huang, and Simpsons research, Sibling Family Practices: Guidelines for Healthy Boundaries, (2009) surveys help conclude what is socially acceptable and what is not within a family. The survey was taken of five hundred people and their opinions generally corresponded. The research showed that when it came to hygiene, bathing together is acceptable for children younger than five if they are of the same gender. If the children are of different genders, the research shows that it is acceptable for children younger than four to bathe together. Showering is a similar issue, being acceptable for same gendered siblings that are younger than six and acceptable for different gendered siblings younger than four and a half years. The data also reflects adults opinions regarding affection, with the statistics on kissing being 37% saying siblings should never kiss on the mouth and 23% of people saying they should kiss at all ages. (Johnson, Huang, Simpson, 2009). Hugging is widely acce pted between siblings. Caffaro and Caffaro address healthy sibling development in Treating Sibling Abuse Families (2005). Caffaro and Caffaro lend a look at the development of sibling relationships, explaining that sibling ties begin in childhood with parents writing the script. (Caffaro Caffaro, 2005). It is common for parents to assign roles for their children without actively meaning to do so. Siblings are often raised being in a natural competition with their sibling and trying to live up to the label that has been placed upon them by their parents. An example would be labeling a child as the smart one and their sibling as the polite one. These two children would compete against each other to keep their title from the other and would also strive to maintain their title, forming it into their self-identity. Carlson, Maciol, and Schneider conducted research in Sibling Incest: Reports from Forty-One Survivors (2006) in order to get a concise picture of sibling sexual abuse. The research was conducted using thirty-four women and seven men and the majority of the forty-one participants were of white. The study conclusions found that three of the males initiated sexual behavior with their sisters and the other men were victims of sibling incest that was brought on by brothers of theirs. Four women of the study were victims of sibling incest because of their sisters and the other thirty women were sexually abused by brothers. The research from this article clearly shows that males are the most common perpetrators of sibling incest and women are more likely to be the victims, but men are also sometimes the victims of sibling abuse brought on by brothers. Corresponding with this data, Caffaro and Caffaro found that sixty-three percent of the women in their study were victims of incest due to th eir brothers sexual assault. In contrast to the prior study, Treating Sibling Abuse Families (2009) found that the second most common form of sibling incest is from one brother to another, the next most common being sisters sexually abusing their brothers, and the least common form being sisters sexually abusing their sisters. (Caffaro Caffaro, 2005). As discussed earlier, it is difficult for society to see all of these cases as abuse and incest because of the difficulties there are in defining abuse and there are also different views between families of what is acceptable and normal. In Making Sense of Abuse: Case Studies in Sibling Incest (2006), Bass, Taylor, Knudson-Martin, and Huenergardt discuss the possibility of abuse being seen as normal within a family. The research done in the article is case studies that follow two Latin American families where sibling incest was present. One of the families viewed abuse as normal and used secrecy as a way to maintain the abuse. Also, the family did not see outside systems as positive and held the opinion that the systems were invading their personal lives. The second family in the research differed from the first in the way that they viewed abuse as a mistake and unacceptable and they used secrecy to protect rather than perpetuate abuse. The second family also differed in seeing outsi de systems and legitimate and, although the systems caused some hardships, they saw them as appropriate and not intrusive as the first had. (Bass, Taylor, Knudson-Martin, Huenergardt, 2006). Treatment for sibling abuse may begin with what is referred to as a Sibling Abuse Interview, or SAI for short. (Caffaro Caffaro, 2005). The SAI functions by asking questions of all family members about the relationships that are currently between the siblings and also the history of those relationships. The SAI asks questions that deal with abuse and trauma and also points out areas of family resilience. Treatment is usually similar to treatment of other forms of abuse, but the therapy is slightly modified. There are two different perspectives when it comes to sexual abuse of children and they are the Child Protection Movement and the Feminist Movement. The Child Protection Movement holds the philosophy that the child victim is the most important at that time and that the entire family is responsible for protecting that child and providing them safety. The ultimate goal of the Child Protective Movement is to reunite the family with a healthier way of living. The Feminist Movement fa vors advocacy over all others. This perspective feels that it is necessary and most beneficial for the victim to have an advocate on their side that is determined to establish protection for that child in the present and the future as well. The Feminist Movement supports family reconciliation, but it does not hold it as a top priority. (Crosson-Tower, 2010). These two theories produce different forms of treatment and have different strategies for treating the victims of incest. Both hold the victims protection above all else but they differ in terms of what is best for the child, whether it be healthy family practices or advocacy for the victim. The four studies discussed help to give a broad understanding of sibling incest, from the healthy sibling relationships that are used as basis, what sibling incest can be interpreted as in terms of common types, family influences on sibling incest regarding their mindsets, to the treatment and outcomes of sibling incest. The studies were largely consistent and all painted pictures that corresponded with one another. There were some minor discrepancies in findings, such as the commonality of different forms of sibling incest, but in general the larger messages were all the same. The implications of the research presented is a better awareness of sibling incest and the ability to recognize red flags when they are present. Sibling incest is more prominent than society likes to think and without understanding sibling incest, it is difficult to prevent it from happening. With understanding, family structures that allow for incest can be recognized and sibling incest can hopefully be dimin ished.

The Scarlet Ibis by James Hurst Essay -- James Hurst Scarlet Ibis

The Scarlet Ibis by James Hurst Foreshadowing, symbolism, and image are all elements which compose style.   All are very important; foreshadowing adds suspense, and symbolism contributes to interpretation.   Image contributes "visual aids" which, also, aid interpretation.   In this classic short story, "The Scarlet Ibis," by James Hurst, foreshadowing, symbolism, and image combine to create a true literary masterpiece. Foreshadowing is one of the elements of style which make "The Scarlet Ibis" great.   For example, the author states, "The last graveyard flowers were blooming, and their smell drifted [through] our house, speaking softly the names of our dead."   This passage clearly foreshadows the death of Doodle.   Also, Hurst comments on Doodle's full name, "William Armstrong," that "such a name sounds good only on a tombstone," again foreshadowing Doodle's death.   Later, Doodle's cries of "Don't leave me!   Don't leave me!" are a parallel to the moment when the terrified little boy once again cries out, "Don't leave me!" when his older brother does actually leave him.   Moreover, Aunt Nicey says... ...n image of desolate grief that the lone brother feels for his lifeless sibling.   Image is truly the most important element in the style of this story. In "The Scarlet Ibis," foreshadowing, symbolism, and image are demonstrated to their full potential.   The frequent foreshadowing hints darkly at Doodle's death, and the unmistakable symbol of the scarlet ibis for Doodle heightens the effect of the image created when the brother huddles over his "fallen scarlet ibis."   Foreshadowing, symbolism, and image really contribute to this story's unique style.

Essay --

The United States civil rights movement was a constant battle for the rights and freedom of African Americans. Martin Luther king Jr., the leader of the civil right movement, was hosting a non-violent protest in Birmingham city. However, the protest did not go as planned and King was arrested for agitating the public. Many fellow white clergymen were angered and upset over the â€Å"Ungodly† act. As a result,the Clergymen wrote a statement that claimed Martin Luther King Jr. to be an extremist. Martin Luther King Jr. responds to the clergymen’s statement while residing in Birmingham jail by writing a letter using the ethical, emotional, and logical appeals to defend his actions. Martin Luther King Jr. uses the emotional appeal most often than any other appeal and using it to his advantage, he makes it extremely effective in persuading the reader. He uses emotional appeal in many ways throughout his â€Å"letter from Birmingham Jail.† In one of the ways, he uses strong words as one of the most effective ways to relate to the reader and make them feel connected to him. He mentions in his letter that â€Å"When you have seen vicious mobs lynch your mothers and fathers at will and drown your sisters and brothers at whim; when you have seen hate-filled policemen curse, kick and even kill your black brothers and sisters.† Words such as vicious lynch, drown, hate-filled, curse, kick, and kill are all strong words that persuade a negative picture in the readers mind. Such examples he uses to define the evil acts of segregation appeals to the reader as unjust and unfair. King uses most of his emotional appeals from midway through the letter and keeps us ing it until the end. King relates himself to the audience, the clergymen, and shows the similarities ... ...my own hometown, like Paul, I must constantly respond to the Macedonian call for aid† to show how they both were compelled to carry out a message one being the gospel of Jesus Christ and the latter being human equality (p.61). By comparing himself to historical figures he makes numbers of ethical appeals and he builds up the author’s character. His use of great leaders can have a great influence in the reader and have an effect on the emotions of the reader. Martin Luther King Jr. makes excellent use of all three of Aristotle’s appeals to respond to the clergymen’s accusations. However, he took most advantage of the emotional appeal in order to move the reader and to be able to capture the attention of his audience. Dr. King was one of the greatest speakers in history. He was able to move millions of people with his powerful speeches. Once again, he is successful.

Samuel Gander

Samuel Gander Mr. Dunham English 102 April 25, 2012 Farming On a Whole New Level Although people have worked in agriculture for more than 10,000 years, advance in technology assisted with maintaining and protecting land, crops, and animals. The demand to keep food affordable encourages those working in the agriculture industry to operate as efficiently as possible (Newman & Ruiz, pp. 33-47). Almost all people and companies in the industry have many acres of land they must maintain, and it is not always feasible for farmers to take frequent trips around the property to perform basic tasks such as watering soil in the absence of rain.The number of people-hours required to water soil manually on several thousand acres of land might result in businesses spending thousands of dollars in labor and utility costs. If the irrigation process is automated, sensors detect how much rain has fallen recently, as well as whether the soil is in need of watering. The sensors then send this data to a c omputer that processes it and decides when and how much to water. In addition to keeping the soil moist and reducing maintenance costs, computer also can utilize sensor to analyze the condition of crops in the field and determine whether pests or diseases are affecting the crops.If sensor detects pests and/or diseases, computers send a notification to the appropriate individual to take corrective action. In some cases, according to Brewster, the discovery of pests might trigger a pesticide to discharge in the affected area automatically (Agriculture: Expanding and Growing). Many farmers use technology in a daily basis to regulate soil moisture and to keep their crop pest free. With technology, farming can be much more convenient and efficient. ——————————————– [ 1 ]. Barton states the many automated home irrigation system also are programmable and use rain sensor (pp. 67-73)

Food Irradiation Essay

Food irradiation has the longest history, more than 40 years, of scientific research and testing of any food technology before approval. Research has been comprehensive, and has included wholesomeness, toxicological, and microbiological evaluation. Worldwide, 38 countries permit irradiation of food, and more than 28 billion lb of food is irradiated annually in Europe. It is important to note that food irradiation has a pretty remarkable list of national and international endorsements: ADA, American Council on Science and Health, American Medical Association, Council for Agricultural Science and Technology, International Atomic Energy Agency, Institute of Food Technologists, Scientific Committee of the European Union, United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), and the World Health Organization (WHO). Although the US food supply has achieved a high level of safety, microbiological hazards exist. Because foods may contain pathogens, mishandling, including improper cooking, can result in food-born illness. Irradiation has been identified as one solution that enhances food safety through the reduction of potential pathogens and has been recommended as part of a comprehensive program to enhance food safety. However, food irradiation does not replace proper food handling. So the handling of foods processed by irradiation should be governed by the same food safety precautions as all other foods. Food irradiation cannot enhance the quality of a food that is not fresh, or prevent contamination that occurs after irradiation during storage or preparation. But, treating foods with the irradiation of gamma rays offers benefits to consumers, retailers, and food manufacturers such as improved microbiological quality, replacement of chemical treatments, and extended shelf life. The spices and fumigant sprays used on fruits can be limited and eliminated through the use of irradiation. This improves the quality of the fruit. Pathogens in raw poultry or meat can be reduced by a dose of radiation. Also, smaller doses can disinfest grain and produce and can slow down the natural aging of fruit and vegetables. This all results in the reduced use or elimination of chemical treatments and proves that irradiated foods closely resemble foods in their fresh state. Irradiation has been compared with pasteurization because it destroys pathogenic bacteria. Because irradiation does not greatly raise the temperature of the food being processed, nutrient losses are small and are often much less than nutrient losses associated with other methods of preservation, such as canning, drying, and heat pasteurization and sterilization. Proteins, fats and carbohydrates are not notably affected by irradiation. But certain vitamins are sensitive to food irradiation. Yet, nutrient losses can be minimized by irradiating food in an oxygen-free environment or in a frozen state. According to the Ames, Iowa Council for Agriculture Science and Technology Task Force Report No. 115, consumers consistently rate irradiated fruit as equal or better than non-irradiated fruits in appearance, freshness, and taste. With all of the facts listed above, it is obvious that irradiated foods are the best option instead of harmful chemical products. These chemicals’ usage and harm are a result of not using food irradiation to benefit consumers. And in an era of increasing concern about food safety, consumers must understand that irradiation is one method of enhancing an already safe food supply.

Human Capital Management Essay

InterClean has merged with EnviroTech in order to evolve with the industry and providing not only cleaning products, but also solutions and services. This merger is an opportunity for InterClean to reposition itself and expand their understanding of the marketplace, customer’s needs, and to break through into new markets. The company’s goal is to provide a full spectrum of cleaning services and solutions that will become our major avenue for sales. In order to do that the focus needs to be on attracting, retaining and motivating the best talent, which can be done by establishing a superior training plan and offering competitive benefits and compensation packages. Pay System In order to control costs InterClean’s pay system should channel more dollars into incentive awards rather than fixed salaries. â€Å"Such variable-pay systems almost guarantee cost control† (Cascio, p. 417). The pay system for employees will be a pay-for-performance theme with bonus payouts. Not only will this pay plan keep costs lower than other pay plans, but it will also help to encourage healthy competition among employees and increase productivity. â€Å"Almost a third of American workers whose pay is not tied in some way to their performance believe they would be more productive if they had a greater interest in the companies that employ them through benefits such as profit sharing, according to a survey from temporary staffing and outsourcing firm Kelly Services. (Miller, p. 1)† Three Components of the Reward Package Compensation packages include both financial and nonfinancial rewards. The base pay with the bonus payouts would cover the financial rewards. â€Å"Nonfinancial rewards include everything in a work environment that enhances a worker’s sense of self-respect and esteem by others (e.g., work environments that are physically, socially, and mentally healthy; opportunities for training and personal development; effective supervision; recognition) (Cascio, p. 418).† The nonfinancial benefits that will be offered to motivate employees to reach peak performance are a wellness plan (including gym membership), on-site dependent care and flex time. A wellness plan plays an important role into keeping health care expenses down and decreasing the amount of sick leave taken. â€Å"Studies have found that employees that take care of themselves live longer and don’t become sick as easily as their un-fit co-workers. When a company has a healthy staff, they are more productive and their appearance presents a positive image to the consumers (Unknown, p. 1).† InterClean can encourage employees to use gym membership by allowing extra time during their lunch hour for employees to exercise and have enough time to shower, change and get back to the office. Dependent care on-site will decrease employee absences and increase productivity and morale. â€Å"Data from national random sample indicate that providing family benefits promotes a dedicated, loyal workforce among people who benefit directly from the policies, as well as those who do not (Cascio, p. 381).† When a company had loyal and dedicated employees they will have a lower turnover rate, which in the long run will save large amounts of money. â€Å"A study done by Cynthia Ransom and Sandra Burud at the Union Bank in Pasadena, California showed that the bank saved between $138,000 and $232,000 annually in operations due to a reduction in turnover and absenteeism from their on-site daycare program. (Murdock, p. 1)† Flex time References: 1. Unknown, 2010. Gym Memberships as Part of Your Wellness Program. http://www.businessknowledgesource.com/health/gym_memberships_as_part_of_your_wellness_program_028931.html 2. Murdock, K. Februrary 13, 2006. On-Site Childcare. http://www.allbusiness.com/specialty-businesses/women-owned-businesses/387737

Global Opportunities for Pounder Bicycle Company Essay

Business firms struggle to remain global in scope and these organizations are faced with several challenges in there contemporary business dealings and there is a requirement for such firms to struggle for there continued existence. Research indicates that business environment keeps on varying as these organizations endeavour to sustain their market share as well as provide quality products/services to there clientele. Business environment entails both internal and external features that may influence upon the expansion and general performance of the business. Contemporary firms are required to construct economic and political links that typically take the structure of transfer of goods, finances and populace across national boundaries. This phase of relationships has in the process witnessed combined sharing of information and philosophies that has led to enhancement in the swiftness of change, ambiguity, uncertainty, and impulsiveness in day to day business undertakings (Lee and Carter, 2005). This paper will therefore examine Australian business environment and particularly examine the current political, economic, social-cultural, technological and legal environmental factors that impacts business entry to Australia. It will further examines the concept of globalization with relevance to Pounder Bicycle Company’s competitors, overall market size, marketing strategies, market entry strategies, project costs and the benefits that the company will attain if it will succeed in Australia. Australia Environmental Analysis Political  Political factors may have a direct and indirect effect on the performance of the Pounder Bicycle Company. Some of the decisions made by the Australian government may impact negatively on the operations of Pounder Bicycle. For instance, the decision to minimize the production and marketing of high performance bicycles to countries believed to be a threat to Australian local industries. This will definitely have huge implications to the company particularly in the marketing of bicycles in Australia. Economic Every business organization including Pounder Bicycle Company is affected by economic factors. Fiscal policy rates, inflation, interest rate policy, cash exchange rates, monetary policy and consumer factors among other economic factors set forth in Australia may have an impact on the company’s undertakings in Australia. Research indicates that the Australian climate of the economy dictates how the consumer behaves in the economy. Australian economy is reported to be in a boom thus there is increased speculation that the company’s customers can obtain the bicycles comfortably i. e. comfortable with the prices of the array of bicycles. Opportunities for the company however exist since Australia government opts cycling of tourists meaning there is market for the bicycles because it supports the economic growth of Australia (Austroads, 1999). Social-Cultural Forces within the Australian community such as family, friends and media will have an impact on how Pounder’s Bicycles will perform in the market. Research reveals that in Australia, many customers have been misinformed to believe that bicycles from Australia only are of quality and of high quality thus those coming from outside Australia may be of low quality. Such social factors affect the customer’s attitude, opinions and interests on how they will approach the Pounder’s bicycles in Australian market. Technological The way Pounder Bicycle Company will operate its business will also depend on technology changes. The internet will boost the company’s chances to meet new markets in Australia and extend its global outreach. However, it can be noted that the company will not require high technological inventions since it will manufacture traditional bicycles and market the bicycles in Australia. Legal  The way the company will operate in terms of operating rules of law in Australia will matter a lot. The company will be engaged in legal business practice of marketing bicycles which is permitted by Australian law. Therefore Pounder Company will not be against the Australian law thus it will be an ideal opportunity for the company to market its bicycles in its new market i. e. Oceania Australia (Cycling Promotion Fund, 2006). Industry Analysis Australia is one of the most powerful nations in the world boasting of a well-built society, politics, customs and economy. It has contributed significantly to the entire economy of Europe and the entire world today over the past. Right from the beginning of European incorporation, it has been a main contributor to the expansion of the European Union and it is looked upon as one of the pillars of the continent and the European Union at large. Australia is vigorously concerned in almost every phase of the European Union and the most outstanding ones are; provision of political leadership, military relations, economies, diplomacy and policy making. Sale of bicycles in Australia is a popular market since many of the individuals living in Oceania use bicycles to travel to workplaces and learning institutions among other places. Research indicates that bicycles in Australia are popular means of transport since many people believe that the use of such bicycles are of great benefits particularly health benefits i. e. by riding bicycles to various places it is a way of exercise thus individuals have no need to go to gyms for further practise. The growth of bicycle industry can be traced back to 17th century in Australia which by then bicycles were the most popular and convenient way of transport in the country. Good economy, stable exchange rates, flexible import duties, better trade tariffs and more importantly, the single currency used by the two countries are factors that promotes international marketing. Europeanization has directly affected the governments of the member states; this means that the developments that Australia has gained so far in culturally and domestically are linked to the European Union’s progress (Hill, 2005). The comments by the Minister of Transport of Australia and Regional Services Mr. John Anderson that the enhancement of the total of secure cycling in Australia will improve the Australian well being automatically indicates that the bicycle industry in Australia is popular and therefore Pounder Bicycle Company has the opportunity to utilize such ready markets in Australia. The minister further believes that a raise in cycling will advance transportation access for lots of the local people in Australia, amplify levels of personal health and also trim down the greenhouse emanations, air contamination and traffic jams. Further more, cyclists and non-cyclists will gain from lesser health expenditure in the society, a smaller amount of traffic on Australian infrastructure and more importantly enjoy cleaner air (Cycling Promotion Fund, 2006). Therefore with such reasons and intentions by the Australian government it implies that cycling is more encouraged and thus Pounder Bicycle Company can venture in Australia since it will face no hostility or lack of market for the bicycles since the government of Australia encourages individuals to use bicycles in their day to day activities. Further, the size of bicycle market in Australia is reportedly to be approximately over a billion dollars at retail level per year; adults in this case are highest buyers or owners of the bicycles as compared to children. Also there are a variety of bicycles being sold by different companies who manufacture bicycles in Australia; many have emphasized on the comfort and speed of such bikes. Therefore with such industry trends in Australia Pounder Bicycle Company will have the opportunity of selling traditional bicycles to Australians since research indicates that such types of bicycles are on the decline (Cycling Promotion Fund, 2006). Market Pounder Bicycle Company should not concentrate on the Australian bicycle market but instead should identify particular market segments which will record high sales of traditional markets. Therefore the company will have not to compete in the entire market but rather identify its strongest segments that will ensure success of the company in Australia. Pounder Bicycle Company should utilize encirclement strategies for winning the competitors in Australian bicycle market. Such a strategy is also referred to as envelopment strategy and it is considered subtle, moderate and a bit non-offensive but dangerous way of offending the rival. Pounder Bicycle Company can utilize two ways using his approach. First, the company can introduce broad range of bicycles that are alike to the competitor’s bicycles and each of these bicycles will get a share of the same market the competitor is currently in. In the long term, the rival will be demoralized, undermined and depressed thus the competitor at large may opt to give up the market. Such technique will ensure that full scale confrontation is avoided between the company and the target competitors in Australia (Brassington and Pettitt, 2000). The second approach that the company may utilize is that approach of market niches rather than concentrating on bicycles themselves. In this approach, the market share is liberated from the target competitor via the expansion of market niches that surround it. With such strategies therefore the company can achieve substantial market share which will eventually leads to success of the company in the long-run (Brassington and Pettitt, 2000). Market Entry Since Pounder Bicycle Company has opted to go international i. e. enter Australian market several market entry strategies are available to the company to utilize. However, such entry strategies differ with cost, risk and the degree of control which can be put into effect over them with particular regards to security of markets i. e. whether it will be successful. Pounder Bicycle Company should utilize the indirect method of entry to Australian market: Under indirect exporting market entry strategy, an exporter can access foreign market free from risks of doing it directly. It will involve Pounder Bicycle Company using independent organizations within the Australia’s domestic markets. The company can do this through various ways; for example, a domestic based export merchants, who will take the title of the bicycles and sells them in Australia, domestic based export agents who sell and market the bicycles on behalf of the company and co-operative organizations who act on behalf of the company. Pounder Bicycle Company should utilize such strategy by either choosing to use one of the above methods of indirect exporting because of the following advantages; communication is very much easy because the exporting company is domestically based and the risks of investing are much lower than coming up with full market in the host country i. e. in Australia (Kotler, Armstrong, Saunders, and Wong, 1999). Project Costs and Financing The whole project of entering the Australian market will require Pounder Bicycle Company to have substantial amount of resources in order to ensure the success of the firm in its business endeavours. The cost of entering the market for instance may be high thus necessitating the company to look for alternative way of sourcing funds. Further the cost of materials to manufacture enough bicycles to be sold in Australia may be high. The company therefore can utilize its own resources i. e. its savings although it should not exhaust all the financial resources in such venture because business entails risk taking. Therefore, the company should opt for loans from financial institutions in order to combine such funds with the internal financial resources that it has. Clear financial forecasting as well as financial cash budgets should be prepared by the company’s management in order to spend the financial resources effectively and wisely. HR Issues and Organization Structure Pounder Bicycle Company will be faced by issue of workforce diversity which is the spread of human labor across the entire globe irrespective of their area of specialization and skills entailed. The existence of the globalization concept have been realized when diverse patterns in workforce are put into consideration. Pounder Bicycle Company will also employ people from the host country i. e. Australia thus the firm will have to adhere to rules and regulations set forth for businesses in Australia regarding employer-employee relationships (Hoyer, 2001). The most excellent means Pounder Bicycle Company can openly develop its financial performance in the industry is to employ, choose and train the right personnel. The most excellent strategic exercise to realize this goal is to carry out what is usually termed as job-fit practice. Such practice is practical to the company since the workforce to be recruited will not be required to undertake further extensive training but carry out their responsibilities right away applying their skills gained somewhere else. Organizational effectiveness can only be achieved if the management of the company is be able to incorporate good leadership, motivation, a well defined organizational structure, forming group dynamics and setting up good structures for communicating in the workplace. Pounder Bicycle Company should formulate a flexible organization structure in the sense that they should be ready to cope with change without affecting their productivity especially when it intends to go international (Cullen and Parboteeah, 2005). Strategic Benefits to Pounder Bicycle Company An analysis of business environment will help the company to know of all the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats that the company will face in there quest to expand to Australian market. Therefore the company will be able to consider the following factors: The speed of entering the Oceania market, flexibility/free and exit barriers, the costs to be incurred when entering Oceania market, the risks inherent in the course of entering the market, period of payback/how quick the firm can start earning the returns or proceeds from such investments and the company’s long run goals among other factors will be clearly known in advance. With ascertainment of the above factors therefore, Pounder Bicycle Company will be able to identify its strategic benefits form any opportunities that exist in the Australian market. For instance, the company will benefit from large market share since there is high demand of bicycles in Australia thus the company will realize substantial revenues because of high sales. The company will also strategize well in Australia thus being able to compete effectively with its both local and international competitors (Lovelock, 2006). Conclusion Business environment keeps on changing because of globalization and the concept of international businesses. Businesses therefore are faced with a lot of threats as well as have a lot of opportunities brought about by such aspects of business world. To attain greater investments and better market opportunities in the international market, it is necessary that primary and secondary market research is done (Cullen and Parboteeah, 2005).