Information Technology and Information Systems for Business Essay

Information Technology and Information Systems for Business - Essay Example It also highlights the limitations of this project as well as advantages and disadvantages of implementing this technology in a retail business. Those companies who have already carried out the implementation process of RFID tags into their businesses are taken into account during this report. Conclusion is drawn from the research and recommendations have been made at the end of the report as to whether the company should go for applying RFID tags into their business or not. The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether it is feasible for Naisten Pukutehdas to embed RFID tags in the products of all of its stores. This prospect has disadvantages and advantages as well but the pros of this proposal weigh better. It will provide customer satisfaction, a greater, better, newer and easier experience for the customer, optimization of the business, speed benefits to the business and loyal customers. In these challenging and turbulent times, where people find it difficult to risk new technology, this proposal intends to increase the market share of the company as well as to expand the market on cost which is relatively low. The examples of other companies who have successfully gone through this procedure have been discussed and the good and bad of this technology has been discoursed as well. The company of Naisten Pukutehdas started at the end of 1910 when young and vivacious Aino Rosendahl’s ambition of doing a sewing business was put into practice. Since then there has been no looking back. The apparel line includes clothes for young girls and women, ranging from sports, casual dresses, jeans and the famous pants for women and girls. After passing several consequential years, the company just celebrated their 90th anniversary in the spring of 2009. With 11 personal stores in Finland and 2 in St. Petersburg, NA aims to establish Finnish fashion internationally and

Constructivism Approach Essay Example for Free

Constructivism Approach Essay For purposes of discussion the Constructivism Approach is chosen to further dissect the importance of communication in law enforcement. There are various communication strategies around however, Constructivism seems most ideal for the communication requirements of highly stressful situations present in law enforcement. The Constructivism Approach to communication was first introduced by Jesse Delia in 1982 (Bentley). The approach is based on the 1967 Jean Piaget’s learning theory of constructivism. The learning theory proposes that people are able to form meaning in situations by applying known information structures stored through past experiences. In other words, this theory proposes that a person, through influences of culture, experiences, beliefs and background form information structures that serve as the framework for responding to situations. Additional information may be acquired but this frame of thought usually remains constant. Using this as basis for his approach, Delia describes Constructivism in communication as being rooted individually and constructed socially. This approach poses that a person makes sense of the world though systems of personal constructs (Constructivism). It is the ability of one to align culture, cognition and communication in responding to situations. Constructivism of Delia is essentially concerned with the cognitive processes that precede the actual communication (Delia, O’Keefe and O’Keefe). The approach looks into the exchange of information between the communicator and the receiver and the multiple truths that go along with it. A healthy exchange therefore depends greatly on the ability of the communicator to send information that a receiver can creatively interpret and understand with consideration to complexities of messages (Delia, O’Keefe, and O’Keefe). Constructivism further poses that meanings evolve and change (Bentley). Through social interactions, constructs are created and impressions and interpretations are learned. Meaning in this instance is socially shared. Both communicator and receiver are influenced by a small portion of their personal constructs in interpreting events. The constructivist believes that the complexities in interpersonal cognitive exchange is highly dependent on how advanced a person’s social-cognitive functioning is. Essentially this proposes that the more a person develops sophistication in cognitive functioning, the more likely this person will be able to stir the flow of communication towards a more substantial route. The constructivist also believes that the construct system of a person generates â€Å"communication-and goal-oriented beliefs† (Delia, O’Keefe and O’Keefe). These beliefs provide a guided discernment of situations to form a strategic behavior towards them. And since communication is basically a field that is founded on persuasion, acquiring a sophisticated construct system is imperative. At the same time a person possessing complex cognitive functioning is most likely to produce person-centered messages that create a more engaging exchange between two people. This is beneficial when applied to situations that prove to be tense or at the least taxing. The precept of Constructivism as an approach to communication is that it is socially developed however individually founded. People develop their set of constructs based on their exposure to culture, beliefs, experiences and background. These constructs are relative to the person and are as diverse as the general population. Having said that, how then would Constructivism help in law enforcement? In the previous paragraphs several examples of recent documentation of police brutality were sited. There are several common threads in these examples. However, three of the most common of these threads will be discussed for this paper. First is race. Many of these recorded incidents involve racial minorities. The United States plays host to many adult immigrants, often who are unable to speak English. Moreover, usually immigrants build their own communities wherein the use of their mother tongue is prevalent. Therefore, older immigrants have a more difficult time adapting to the new language. Interaction with other races becomes an ordeal.

Stakeholder Analysis of Wal-Mart

Stakeholder Analysis of Wal-Mart A long-range strategic planning is so important to an organization because if you fail to plan, change in your business can be tough to handle and ultimately you are planning to fail. Strategic planning is one of the only ways a top management team can plan for economic, demographic, competitive, technological, and regulatory changes that affect the way your organization operates. The firm must engage in strategic planning that clearly defines objectives and assesses both the internal and external situation to formulate strategy, implement the strategy, evaluate the progress, and make adjustments as necessary to stay on track. TASK 1.A: IDENTIFY AN ORGANIZATION OF YOUR CHOICE WHICH YOU WILL DISCUSS AS AN EXAMPLE IN THIS ASSIGNMENT AND GIVE YOUR REASONS FOR CHOOSING THIS ORGANIZATION. Wal-Mart will be taken as the organization of my choice to discuss through the various aspects of this assignment. Wal-Mart is the leader in retailing industry with fiscal revenue of $244.52 billion in 2003 making it the worlds largest corporation. Mike reports that Wal-Mart as of 2002 had 1,283,000 employees growing at 11.2%. The above data explains that strategy of Wal-Mart is extraordinary which manages and operates over 4150 retail facilities globally. The key components of Wal-Mart (The Value Chain), which offers cheap prices than its competitors includes firm infrastructure like frugal culture, no regional offices and pleasant environment to work. Managements take lots of visits and it is learnt there are no rehearsals before any meeting which is usually scheduled on every Saturday. In any organization, human resource is the key to development and Wal-Mart efficiently manages its sources. Wal-Mart terms its employees as associates. Manager compensation is linked to the profit of store operated by him, within promotions, compensation offered to associates depending on companys profits and al so offered some incentives on their performances. The workforce at Wal-Mart is not unionized as the company takes all the measures of their benefits and provides them training on related issues. Technology plays a vital role in development of the organization and Wal-Mart is well equipped with technological innovations like POS, store performance tracking, real time market research, satellite system and UPC. Wal-Mart procurement measures like hard-nosed negotiations, partnerships with some vendors, centralized buying, planning packets, etc. helps at large the cause of providing the goods and services on cheap prices. The other factors that increase the margin of profit for Wal-Mart are inbound logistics with frequent replenishment, automated DCs cross docking, pick to flight, EDI, hub and spoke system. Wal-Mart strategy of operation is innovative with big stores in small towns with monopoly in the market at low rental costs, local prices, concentric expansion, merchandising in brand name, private labels, little space for inventory, store within store, etc. In relation to marketing and sales, merchandising is tailored from locals, spent less on advertising and the prices are fixed low and it depends on the store manager to fix the latitude of pricing. All the above factors combined together form the key components of Wal-Mart which not only increase the margin of profits through bulk sales but also boost the confidence of the customers with services like point of sale information system and everyday low prices. TASK 1.B: WHO ARE THE MAJOR STAKEHOLDERS OF YOUR ORGANIZATION AND WHAT CONSIDERATIONS SHOULD BE MADE TO ENSURE THEIR (STAKEHOLDER) PARTICIPATION IN DEVELOPING MANAGEMENT STRATEGY Stakeholder Analysis of Wal-Mart In determining the public affairs strategy of Wal-Mart, there are many groups and individuals who have a stake in what Wal-Mart does. These stakeholders can be divided into two groups: the market and non-market stakeholders. The market stakeholders are those groups and individuals who have an economic stake in what the company does. The non-market stakeholders are those groups and individuals who have a non-economic stake or political stake in what course the company takes. Market Stakeholders 1. The Stockholders The first group that has an economic stake in what Wal-Mart does is its shareholders. These are the people who actually own shares of Wal-Mart and therefore are interesting in seeing a return on their investment. They hope the value of their stock will rise and they will see dividends. According to the 2001 Annual Report, last year, Wal-Mart paid out $.24 per share in dividends (Annual Report 2001, 45). 2. The Wal-Mart Executives The top executives of Wal-Mart also have an economic stake in the company just as the regular stockholders do. Many of the top executives received stock options are part of their salary. Obviously, they want their stock value to rise because a large part of their compensation comes from how well the Wal-Mart stock is doing. 3. The Employees While some of the employees may have stock in the company, many of them have an economic stake in the company just because their job is their primary source of income. They want Wal-Mart to do well because then they will keep their job and their source of income. Their financial compensation from Wal-Mart sustains them. Wal-Mart employs more than 885,000 people nationwide (Reid, 1) 4. The Communities where Wal-Mart is located Each of the communities that have a Wal-Mart located in it has a stake in how well the company is doing. Many of these communities rely on Wal-Mart not only for jobs but also for a place to purchase many of their day to day necessities are a low price. Without Wal-Mart in these communities, there would be people without jobs and families paying higher prices for the goods that they need. 5. Consumers Consumers have a stake in how well Wal-Mart is doing. According to the 2001 Annual Report, Wal-Mart is the countrys largest grocery retailer (Annual Report 2001, 7) and therefore many people rely on Wal-Mart for their groceries. 6. Non-profit Organizations Many non-profit organizations have an economic or market stake in how well Wal-Mart is doing. The Wal-Mart foundation provides many non-profit organizations with funding and if the company is not doing well, the Foundation is not going to do as well either. According the Wal-Mart Good Works Foundation, 97 percent of their funding goes to non-profit organizations in the communities where their stores are located. The Wal-Mart Good Works Foundation provides funding to programs that deal with community, education, environment and children. Therefore, if a Wal-Mart is located in a certain community, the non-profit organizations can look to the Wal-Mart foundation as a possible source of funding. (www.walmartfoundation.org) 7. Other Retailers Other retailers have a stake in how well Wal-Mart is doing and how much they are expanding. If a Wal-Mart moves into a community, changes are the other retailers in that community, especially if they are privately owned are going to lose money and may even be forced to close down. Because Wal-Mart is the largest retailer in the United States and number 1 on the Fortune 500 list, they have the ability to lower their prices and therefore can force other retailers out of business because they cannot match Wal-Marts low prices. 8. Online Retailers Like other retailers in communities where there is a Wal-Mart, online retailers also have a stake in how well Wal-Mart is doing. Wal-Mart totally revamped their website in 2000 in order to make it a more profitable part of their retail empire. Wal-Mart, unlike many other e-tailers closed down their website in September 2000 in order to revamp their site. While Wal-Marts online sales only represent a small portion of their overall sales, the website is a low cost way for Wal-Mart to deliver goods to consumer who lives in communities without Wal-Mart stores. (Business Week 11/6/00,2). 9. Gasoline Retailers In 1996, Wal-Mart made its first partnership with the gasoline industry. Today, Wal-Mart has contracts with companies such as Murphy Oil USA, Sunoco, and Tesoro Petroleum. Wal-Mart contracts with these companies and leases real estate on their lots in order for the company to offer gasoline at Wal-Mart stores. Both the oil companies who have contracts with Wal-Mart and local gas stations have a stake in this. The local gas stations often cannot compete with Wal-Mart in either price or convenience. Over the next year, the oil companies that contract with Wal-Mart plan to expand to offer cheap gasoline at more Wal-Mart locations. For example, Murphy plans to expand to 600 Wal-Mart sites by 2003 and the other gas retailers have similar plans. (Reid, 5) Non-Market Stakeholders 1. Labor Unions Labor unions have a political stake in Wal-Mart has a strict policy about not having their workers unionized. Wal-Mart takes the position that they are better able to take care of their employees and provide them with the best benefits and compensation plans. Wal-Mart does not want interference from unions. Recently, Wal-Mart was charged by the National Labor Relations Board with violating federal law by keeping employees from holding elections and joining the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union. (NY Times, C2) 2. International Retail Stores One of Wal-Marts key policy issues has been to move into the international retail market and open stores in other countries. Last year, Wal-Marts International Divisions sales increased by 41 percent (Troy, 47). Currently, Wal-Mart has stores in Chine, Korea, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Argentina, Germany, Canada and Mexico (Thau, 9). Wal-Mart must work closely with Public Relations firms in those countries in order to make sure there is no backlash against them moving into other countries. They must also be careful to follow the laws of each of those countries when they open new stores. Wal-Mart has been careful in moving into the international markets. They have acquired companies already well established in those countries and have made sure that 90 percent of their international products are locally sourced (Thau, 9). 3. Politicians Politicians have a non-market stake in Wal-Mart for several reasons. First of all, politicians may or may not want Wal-Mart opening in their district. On one hand, it may be good for the community. However, if it is a district with a large union presence, the politician may not want Wal-Mart is that area. Also, politicians may rely on Wal-Mart for campaign funding. Last cycle, Wal-Marts political action committee, Wal-Mart Stores Inc PAC for Responsible Government contributed $752,500 to various committees and candidates during the 2001 cycle. TASK 1.C: WHAT ARE THE KEY CRITERIA THAT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED WHEN REVIEWING MANAGEMENT STRATEGY OPTIONS? Key Points to make Planning Effective 1. The Success of planning depends upon the effectiveness with which the forecast has been made. If the forecast is accurate, there is every possibility that the plan will be success. 2. Flexibility must be introduced in the plan whenever necessary so that the employees can work with sustained interest and effort. The management shall not use pressure tactics and force employees to work for the sake of attaining the daily or weekly targets. 3. All the members concerned with the organization must be involved in the task of preparing the plan. The viewpoints of the employees, who are actually going to perform the tasks, must be secured and their ideas may be incorporated in the plans, if found suitable. 4. The plan should not be prepared to focus on the financial goals of the business alone. It must have something for the employees. There must be some provision in the plan to reward efficient workers. Some inducement is necessary in the plan to motivate the employees to work harder. 5. The plan must be realistic. It should take into account the capabilities of both the managers and the employees. Both shall not be required to work beyond their capacity. In other words, the plan must not expect too much out of every person. 6. The plan must be communicated effectively to all the subordinate staff. Their consent may also be obtained. The successful implementation of the plan depends on the extent to which subordinates participate willingly in the performance of the tasks. 7. A co-ordinated effort on the effort on the part of every department is required for the success of the plan. To achieve this, the departments concerned shall work with proper understanding. Additional steps that can be followed to avoid obstacles in planning. (There should be no ambiguity in the objectives that are laid out. They must be clear and achievable. Use of information should be put in place. Management Information System can be used. Managers should sport a dynamic outlook and they should have that mindset of moving towards achieving the objectives All plans designed can have some amount of flexibility built into it. All resourcing required for the plan should be done upfront leaving on surprises at the end. The importance of having a Cost-Benefit analysis cannot be ruled out. This must be done. TASK 1.D: DESCRIBE A SITUATION WITH YOUR CHOSEN ORGANIZATION WHERE A POTENTIAL STRATEGY MIGHT BE DEVELOPED TO RESOLVE AN ISSUE. PRODUCE AN APPROPRIATE STRATEGY AND INDICATE ITS RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS. A strategic goal of Wal-Mart is to expand. It has done so successfully. Looking at the facts and figures clearly shows the corporations dominance and power. Currently the corporation employs over 1.3 million employees, one million in the US alone. The company owns over 4000 stores worldwide. Over 1,200 units (stores) are in operation internationally. Domestically, Wal-Mart is the largest US retailer, employing around 1 million people. It has over 3,000 stores and outlets, and 77 distribution centers. The company serves more than 100 million customers weekly in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and several nations around the world. (www.walmart.com, Fact Sheet Wal-Mart at a Glance, 2002). Internationally, the retailer operates in Mexico, Canada, Argentina, Brazil, China, Korea, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Its expansion strategy internationally has been aggressive and powerful. The latest expansion strategy is for the company to gain entry into a nation by corporate takeover of a national retailer. Once the company is bought, Wal-Mart converts the stores into Wal-Mart stores. Three countries, all with no previous Wal-Mart stores, became part of the corporations international presence when domestic retail chains were overtaken. In 1994, Wal-Mart bought 122 Woolco stores in Canada; today there are 196 units in Canada. In 1998 Wal-Mart bought the Wertkauf store with 21 units, now there are 94 Wal-Marts in Germany. In 1999, Wal-Mart acquired the ASDA chain with 229 units in the UK. Today, the UK has 252 Wal-Mart stores. (www.walmart.com, Fact Sheet on International Operations, 2002) This particular strategy, of corporate takeover, puts the company at an advantage when it enters into a new market. In one stroke, a large competitor is eliminated, and at once, Wal-Mart has real estate and employees, and a massive presence in its targeted location. This is an effective use of the companys size and wealth, as few if any competitors are able to do this effectively. The company builds up brand familiarity, while retaining the old familiar outlets. Gradually, as the local Wal-Mart stores begin to make money, and local management assess their competition environment, the company begins to redesign the acquired stores to look like Wal-Marts, it then begins to build new and larger stores in that new market. Wal-Mart is now the largest retailer in Canada and the UK. TASK 2: DEVELOP VISION, MISSION, OBJECTIVES AND MEASURES TASK 2.A: FOR YOUR CHOSEN ORGANIZATION, LIST THE DOWN ITS ETHICAL, CULTURAL, ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND BUSINESS OBJECTIVES. HOW ARE THESE INFLUENCED BY THE CURRENT BUSINESS AND ECONOMIC CLIMATE Visioning Creating shared understanding of future possibilities A strategic vision is usually thought to be solely future oriented. A vision provides an organization a forward looking, idealized image of itself. Moves outside the usual assumptions. Concentrates on the end goal, not the means to reach the goal. Followers gain ownership by developing the means (action plan). An alternate view from the field of organizational learning expands this to shared vision, which also includes a present component. Vision is not a destination, but an intangible structure that surrounds us and guides our daily activities. From this perspective, a shared vision is a form of self-identity. This definition of vision is a collective belief in what the organization can become. In this way it is similar to a truly desired wish for the future. The difference, however, is in how we mold ourselves to adapt to the environment without expecting to be able to change the environment itself. Yes, there is an implicit assumption about the future. However, if the vision is sufficiently broad it will suffice for providing a framework for current decisions. Granted, all decisions are made in the present. Yet, to work toward something grander than the present employs some probability of future outcomes upon which to make decisions, all other things being equal. Regarding feedback loops for control, such feedback can be employed for both corrective action and vision revision (interesting combination of words). If the feedback indicates a problem in the implementation and nothing amiss in the expected vision then the strategy and/or tactics can be altered to get back on track toward the vision. And if there is an indication that the vision is no longer realistic there is no problem with a shift in vision to a more workable vision. Normal planning cycles allow for such a step on an annual basis, which is probably too long for planning within a dynamic environment. But this gets back to the dynamics of the planning process itself. This approach to using feedback is similar to the use of a tracking ratio to serve as a warning system for a forecast that is no longer adequate to the current reality. Implications What is unique about the organizations self-concept of itself? Something that would be missed if the organization were not to fulfill this vision. What issues might arise among different stakeholders as this vision is realized? Are organizational practices aligned with the vision? Are desired actions reinforced by performance metrics? Putting an organization mission vision in place requires working at all levels of the organization. Oftentimes, the effort is only made at the top of the organization with the expectation that employee commitment will follow. Instead, limited compliance is accomplished, at best. It is recommended that a specific change program be put in place to develop a shared vision and common understanding of the groups mission. Mission The mission is the ultimate purpose for why the organization exists. Essential components of a good mission statement include: Brief and easily understood by everyone. What goods and services (beyond the basics) For Whom market segmentation (geographic, sociological, financial, ethnically) How market strategy, distribution strategy. Present and future possibilities. Why basic reason the organization exists. Distinctive competency. Driving Forces. Driving Forces Products and/or services offered Market served Technology Low-cost capability Operations capability Method of distribution sale Use of resources Profit (return on resources) à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ TASK 2.B: DESCRIBE THE ROLES OF VISION AND MISSION STATEMENT OF YOUR CHOSEN ORGANIZATION The corporate mission can be stated as follows: As Wal-Mart continues to grow into new areas and new mediums, our success will always be attributed to our culture. Whether you walk into a Wal-Mart store in your hometown or one across the country while youre on vacation, you can always be assured youre getting low prices and that genuine customer service youve come to expect from us. Youll feel at home in any department of any storethats our culture. The company has three Basic Beliefs or core philosophies Sam Walton built the company on. Those beliefs are: (1) Respect for the Individual, (2) Service to Our Customers, and (3) to Strive for Excellence. Respecting the individual is a call for treating their employees well and pushing them to excel in what they do. The commitment to their customers is a goal whereby the stores respect a pricing philosophy to always sell items as low as they can while providing excellent customer service. The third belief is to strive for excellence, that is to expand the store, innovate, reach further in to new markets and to grow. (H. Lee Scott, 2002, www.walmart.com) Other beliefs include, exceeding customer expectations with aggressive hospitality such as using door greeters. The store also features patriotic display and themes in its US stores. Another goal for the company is to support efforts in the local community via charitable contributions. Wal-Mart identifies several affiliations with charities such as the United Way and the Childrens Miracle Network (www.walmartfoundation.org). The Sundown Rule is a corporate directive whereby all Wal-Mart employees, be they store associates, management, or corporate staff, must reasonably answer a customers or supplier request or question within 24 hours. The Ten Foot Rule states that store employees must greet, smile, and attend to a customer in a store when within 10 feet of them. Its a type of aggressive hospitality policy. Wal-Mart also compels its staff to engage in morning cheers where they recite company sayings. A final, yet important rule, which is a strong part of the corporate culture is Sam Waltons Pricing Philosophy which underlines the company strategy of selling items for less then their competitors, always. (www.wal-mart.com, corporate culture). TASK 2.C: INDICATE HOW IT IS POSSIBLE FOR AN ORGANIZATION TO EVALUATE THE ACHIEVEMENT OF ITS OBJECTIVES Implementing: Every company will have its own strategy but it is the operation which puts in to practice. You cannot, after all, touch a strategy; you cannot even see it ; all you can see is how the operation behaves in practice. The implication of this role for the operations function is very significant. Support: It must develop its resources to provide the capabilities which are needed to allow the organization to achieve its goals. Example: If a manufacturer of personal computers has decided to compete by being the first in the market with every available new product innovation, then its operations function needs to be capable of copying with the changes which constant innovation will bring. It must develop or purchase processes which are flexible, enough to manufacture novel parts and products. Driving: The third role of the operations part of the business is to drive strategy by giving it a long-term competitive edge. The both short term and long term success can come directly from the operations functions. An operations function which is providing both long and short term advantage is driving business strategy by being the ultimate custodian of competiveness. Effective operations management: Operation plays these roles within the organization can be judged by considering the organizational aims or aspirations function. The model traces the progression of the operations function from which it is largely negative role of stage 1 operations to it becoming the central element of competitive strategy in excellent stage 4 operations. Stage 1: internal neutrality: This is the poorest level of contribution by the operations function. The other functions regard it as holding them back from competing effectively. Even good organizations can be let down by their operations function and the resulting publicity can be damaging. Stage 2: External neutrality: The first of breaking out of stage 1 is for the operations function to begin comparing itself with similar companies or organizations in the outside market. By taking the best ideas and norms of performance from the rest of its industry, it is trying to be externally neutral. Stage 3: Inernally supportive: These operations have probably reached the first division in their market. They may not be better than their competitors on every aspect of operations performance but they are broadly up with the best. Stage 4:externally supportive: The third stage is taken to be as the limit of the operations functions contribution. TASK 3: PLAN FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF THE STRATEGY TASK 3.A: DISCUSS HOW A TIMETABLE FOR STRATEGY IMPLEMENTATION CAN BE DETERMINED. INCLUDE A SAMPLE TIMETABLE, TO INCLUDE KEY MILESTONES AND THEIR TIMINGS As an example, let us take the strategic planning and implementation of a university learning programs. Following is a sample table that gives detailed timeline in achieving a specific strategic goal that have been set. [pic] TASK 3.B: HOW MIGHT THE DISSEMINATION PROCESS BE USED TO HELP AN ORGANIZATION GAIN COMMITMENT TO ITS STRATEGY AND THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THIS Ten Elements of an Effective Dissemination Plan After you have developed your dissemination policy statements, you are ready to turn your attention to more specific dissemination planning. Remember that your dissemination planning should start at the beginning of your research activities, not at the end. While some details of the dissemination effort will be suggested in your original proposal and refined as you progress through your research, your dissemination plan goals and objectives should be clarified at the beginning of your research project in consultation with your NIDRR project officer. This approach will allow you to meet your dissemination challenge in a timely manner. 1. Goals: Determine and document the goals of your dissemination effort for your proposed project. 2. Objectives: Associate each goal with one or more objectives that clarifies what you are trying to accomplish through your dissemination activities. 3. Users: Describe the scope and characteristics of the potential users that your dissemination activities are designed to reach for each of your objectives. 4. Content: Identify, at least, the basic elements of the projected content you have to disseminate to each of the potential user groups identified. 5. Source(s): Identify the primary source or sources that each potential user group is already tied into or most respects as an information source. Consider ways to partner with these sources in your dissemination efforts. 6. Medium: Describe the medium or media through which the content of your message can best be best delivered to your potential users and describe the capabilities and resources that will be required of potential users to access the content for each medium to be used. 7. Success: Describe how you will know if your dissemination activities have been successful. If data is to be gathered, describe how, when, and who will gather it. 8. Access: Describe how you will promote access to your information and how you will archive information that may be requested at a later date. Consider that most people will use your project-related information when they perceive a need for it not necessarily when you have completed your research project. 9. Availability: Identify strategies for promoting awareness of the availability of your research-based information and the availability of alternate available formats. 10. Barriers: Identify potential barriers that may interfere with the targeted users access or utilization of your information and develop actions to reduce these barriers. The dissemination and implementation of the strategic plan is a great time to actualize organizational values and improve internal processes. Once a strategic plan is established, the organization must keep a close watch on its progress or the plan and the goals will collect dust. It is usually not enough to meet a few times a year unless there are very few goals or the goals are basically to maintain the status quo. In general, it is best that those responsible plan a regular meeting schedule in order to maintain momentum and discuss issues as they arise. The processes around monitoring the implementation of the plan, disseminating the plan, developing the Action Plan, and so forth should be designed with the organizations values as guiding principles. If possible, they should also incorporate solutions to any other organizational culture issues that were discussed during the strategic planning process. If solutions were not generated, the implementation processes should at least be designed with these issues in mind, with the intention of finding solutions at a point in the near future. A good strategic plan must involve an examination of your organizations values and internal process challenges (every organization has them). Often a strategic plan will expose problems that were hidden. This is a good thing. But only if you take control of them. The Action Plan must include steps to address mismatched organizational values and culture, starting with the implementation process. TASK 3.C: DESCRIBE THE IMPORTANCE OF MONITORING AND EVALUATION OF A NEW STRATEGY. OUTLINE HOW THIS MIGHT BE ACHIEVED Many strategic plans end up collecting dust on a shelf. Monitoring and evaluating the planning activities and status of implementation of the plan is for many organizations as important as identifying strategic issues and goals. One advantage of monitoring and evaluation is to ensure that the organization is following the direction established during strategic planning phase. Note that plans are guidelines. They arent rules. Its alright to deviate from a plan. But planners should be aware of the reason for the deviations and update the plan to reflect the new direction. Responsibilities for Monitoring and Evaluation The strategic plan document should specify who is responsible for the overall implementation of the plan, and also who is responsible for achieving each goal and objective. The document should also specify who is responsible to monitor the implementation of the plan and made decisions based on the results. For example, the board might expect the chief executive to regularly report to the full board about the status of implementation, including progress toward each of the overall strategic goals. In turn, the chief executive might expect regular status reports from middle managers regarding the status toward their achieving the goals and objectives assigned to them. Key Questions While Monitoring and Evaluating Status of Implementation of the Plan 1. Are goals and objectives being achieved or not? If they are, then acknowledge, reward and communicate the progress. If not, then consider the following questions. 2. Will the goals be achieved according to the timelines specified in the plan? If not, then why? 3. Should the deadlines for completion be changed (be careful about making these changes know why efforts are behind schedule before times are changed)? 4. Do personnel have adequate res

Northern Cascades National Park :: essays research papers

The purpose of this paper is to give you some background information on Northern Cascades National Park and to talk about the management techniques the park uses to preserve it. Northern Cascades National Park became a national park on Oct 2, 1968, when Lyndon Johnson sighed the North Cascades Act. Twenty years later congress designated 93% of the park as a Stephen Mater Wilderness. When congress declares an area as â€Å"wilderness,† it provides extra protection against human impact. Northern Cascades National Park is mostly used for backpackers and mountain climbers, who have little impact on the park. There is one gravel road open to the public that is in the park, but very few people utilize it. Each year Northern Cascades National Park receives about 400,000 visitors for recreational purposes. Native Americans were amongst the first to use this area. Four Indian tribes inhabited the Cascades; the Upper Skagits, Sauk, Suiattle, and Swinomish who were attracted to this area for its plentiful resources. By the 1770’s there was Euro American presence in the Cascades. The Euro Americans used this area to get furs and pelts for trading. The beaver, wolf, and grizzly bear were the most sought after pelts in the cascades, do to their abundance. Later many would come to mine the cascades, but there wasn’t much of what they were looking for. Northern Cascades National Park is about 684,000 acres and encompasses Ross Lake and Lake Chelan National Recreation Area. In today’s society there are very few wilderness areas that aren’t impacted by human activity like Northern Cascades National Park. Many areas within the park have had little human intervention. In many areas of the park the only human impact is coming form air and water pollution, which doesn’t sound good. But this is still a lot less impact than other parks receive. The Cascades stretch as far south as California and continues north to British Columbia. The cascade mountain range didn’t used to be part of North America, but millions of years ago it attached itself do to accumulation of sediment, colliding tectonic plates, and volcanic activity (www.north.cascades.national-park.com/info.htm). The Cascades is one of the youngest mountain ranges in the world and one of the fasting growing. Depending where you are in the park the climate can dramatically change. From the hundreds of small lakes and rivers that sculpt the lowlands to the mountain tops that reach up to 1000

Nursing and Mrs. Newman

Mrs. Newman has been experiencing hoarseness and a change in her voice, but she did not seek medical help until she began to have difficulty swallowing. After being seen by her healthcare provider, she is scheduled for outpatient surgery for a direct laryngoscope to obtain a culture and take a biopsy. Mrs. Newman arrives at the outpatient surgical department at 6:30 am and is escorted to her room. The admitting nurse begins her assessment; 1. Which question is most important for the nurse to ask Mrs. Newman? A) Have you had anything to eat or drink since midnight?B) Are you taking any medications? C) Have you smoked any cigarettes in the last 24 hours? D) When was the last time you drank any alcohol? The admission nurse completes the admission assessment and starts an IV. Mrs. Newman is taken to the operating room for the biopsy. Sifter the procedure, Mrs. Newman is admitted into the PACU. 2. Which intervention will the PACU nurse implant first? A) Check the healthcare providerâ€⠄¢s prescriptions B) Monitors Mrs. Newman’s pulse OX C) Contain Mrs. Newman’s vital signs D) Assess Mrs. Newman’s gag reflex After 2 days Mrs.Newman calls the oncologist and reluctantly agrees to a total laryngectomy. Mrs. Newman comes to the oncology office to meet with the oncology nurse specializations to discuss the preoperative and postoperative care. Mrs. Newman tells them that she is very scared about having this surgery. She says that she has no questions about the medical aspects of the procedure, but states she is concerned about how her life will change. She tells the nurse she realizes she need to have the surgery but is ambivalent and doesn’t know is she will be able to go through with it after all. . Which nursing intervention is most helpful to mars Newman? A) Refer mars Newman to a psychologist to discuss her fears about having this surgery B) Give Mrs. Newman literature provided by the American cancer society C) Ask Mrs. Newman if she wou ld like to talk to someone who has had this surgery D) Tell Mrs. Newman iota is OK to be scared and hold her hands Mrs. Newman is concerned about singing in the country and western club and asks the ONS â€Å"how long do you think it will be before I can sing with my band again† 4. How should the ONS RESPOND?A) Request that the oncologist visit with Mrs. Newman and explain the procedure to her again B) Explain that her vocal cords will be removed, and that she will not be able to sing C) Reassure her that she will be able to sing with the band, but her voice may be different D) Ask Mrs. Newman if she understands what a total laryngectomy is The ONS has given verbal and written information to Mrs Newman answered any questions and is completing the physical assessment 5. Which question is important for the nurse to ask Mrs. Newman?A) When did you first notice any hoarseness in your voice? B) How long did you say have you been singing w/the band? C) How much alcohol do u drink a week? D) What foods are difficult for you to wallow? Mrs. Newman reports that she drinks occasionally, mainly on the weekends with friends. The nurse is more concerned that Ms Newman smokes one pack of cigarettes a day. She discusses this issue with mars Newman, who says â€Å"Don’t worry about my smoking. I will never smoke another cigarette again† 6. How should the nurse respond to help Mrs.Newman in her attempt to stop smoking? A) I know it will be hard and I am very proud of u B) You will kit be able to smoke after urn surgery C) anyone else in urn household smoke D) What steps is u going to take to stop smoking? Mrs. Newman discusses the surgery with her family and a woman from a laryngectomy support group. Mrs. Newman decides to go ahead and he a total larygectomy. 7. A referral to which member of the indiciplinary team will be most important for mars Newman prior to surgery: A) Case mangerB) Social worker C) Physical therapist D) Speech therapist The speech the rapist discusses with mars Newman alternative tech inquest for restoring her speech after surgery. Selection of the best techniques varies from person to person depending on their age and personal preferences. Esophageal speech is popular among laryngectomies because it costs less and can provide a more normal sounding voice than some of the other options. 8. Which statement describes esophageal speech?A) Generator held to the neck creates vibrations those form words when the client speaks B) Swallowed air used to create around and words in a controlled belch C) Vibration and sound are used to form words by occluding a valve over the stoma D) A handheld device delivers tone via a plastic tube that is inserted into the mouth After discussing her options with a speech therapist mars Newman demonstrates her ability to use esophageal speech she comments† I used to hear my son and his friends rack like this. Won’t he be surprised? Two days later, mars Newman is admitted to t he hospital accompanied by her husband and her two grown children.She is in the preoperative holding area. 9. Which interventions will the nurse implement? A) ask mars Newman if she has any concerns about the upcoming surgery B) Notify the surgeon that mars Newman has been admitted to the hospital C) Reassure mars Newman that her family can stay with her until surgery D) Retrained if mars Newman has any problems hearing or writing Mrs. Newman shares with the nurse that she is scared that no one will help her if she needs help and that she will not be able to talk anymore. 10. Which intervention should the nurse implement? A) Assure Mrs.Newman that someone will be with her at all times B) Provide a bell that she can ring as another means of communication C) Show her how to work the nurses call light and have her perform a return demonstration D) Tell her that whiles her fears are justified; she should not try to worry. Following a seven –hour surgery mars Newman was first plac ed in the PACU, before being transferred to the intensive care unit. 11. Which nursing intervention should the ICU nurse implement? A) Discourage coughing for the first 24 hrs B) Notify the healthcare provider during roundsC) Determine when mars Newman received her last antibiotic D) Assist mars Newman to gargle w/warm salty water The nurse is completing the shift assessment and notes that Mrs. Newman has white and dark brown patchy areas on her tongue and oral mucosa. 12. Which action should the nurse implement? A) Document this finding and take no action B) Notify the health care provider during rounds C) Determine when Mrs. Newman received her last antibiotic D) Assist Mrs. Newman to gargle with warm water, salty water Because of the cancer mars Newman is at risk for potential complications, such as neck would fistula and carotid arty blowout 13.When anticipating these possible complications, the nurse should place which equipment at miss newness bedside? A) Several packages of s terile 4Ãâ€"4 gauze B) Two non sterile hemostats C) A syringe filled w/calcium glaciate D) The intensive care unit crash cart While assessing mars Newman, the nurse notices that Mrs. Newman’s blood pressure is 92/60 and her pulse is 112. Mrs. Newman reports feeling very tired. 14 What action should the nurse implement first? A) Check mars Newman’s pervious vital signs B) Suction mars Newman tracheotomy C) Administer oxygen via nasal cannula D) Slip a gloved hand under the client’s neckThe nurse also calls the nurses’ station and requests a CBC stat 15 which laboratory result consistent w/blood loss through hemorrhaging A) A hematocrit 40 % B) Erythrocyte sedimentation rate 8 mm/hr C) Red blood cell count 5. 2 million/mm^3 D) Hemoglobin 11. 3g/dl. Mrs. Newman’s gag reflex has returned and she is preparing to eat her first meal. 16 which action should the nurse implement A) Place cold packs around the clients neck prior to eating B) Remind her to pl ace the food on the front of the tongue and flex her head backward to swallow C) Ensure the client has a variety of thin liquids to drink D) Provide Mrs.Newman with soft foods when eating for the first time after surgery 17. What action should the nurse take regarding Mrs. Newman’s concern? A) Explain to the client that this is normal following this type of surgery B) He the client smell a variety of aromas to ensure that the client cannot smell C) Reassure he client that these senses will return after post-operative edema subsides D) Notify the healthcare provider about these findings when making rounds Mrs.Newman has a tracheotomy that has an inner canola. The nurse is performing routine tracheotomy care 18 Which action should the nurse implement first? A) wash the flange of the outer cannula with normal saline B) Pour hydrogen peroxide and normal saline into separate containers C) Cleanse the inner cannula using a small pipe brush D) Remove the tracheotomy dressing with cl ean disposable gloves What should the nurse do before inserting the inner canola? A) Tap or shake inner cannula to remove excess moistureB) Dry the outside of the inner cannula with non sterile gauze C) Remove the outer cannula, reinsert the inner cannula, then place back into stoma D) Clean it w/hydrogen peroxide An unlicensed assistive personnel UAP is assisting the surgical floor nurse w/morning care for mars Newman 20. Which task should the nurse delegate to the UAP? A) Empty the Foley and record the output B) Clean Mrs. Newman’s bathroom C) Change the intravenous bag on the pump D) Perform the routine tracheotomy careThe charge nurse notices that the primary nurse caring for mars Newman is cutting 4Ãâ€"4 gauze to use as a tracheotomy dressing 21. What action should the charge nurse implant? A) Praise the primary nurse for using a cost saving technique B) Instruct the primary nurse not to cut gauze for the tracheotomy dressing C) Take no action since Mrs. Newman is the p rimary nurse’s responsibility D) Determine why commercially prepared dressings aren’t being used The night nurse is preparing to administer the 12:00 midnight dose of gentamicin, an intravenous amino glycoside antibiotic that was started when Mrs.Newman was in the PACU. The nurse notices the empty IV antibiotic bag that was administered during the day shift is labeled ampicilllin. The nurse checks the medication administration record and realizes client does not have a prescription for ampicillin. 22. Which action should the night nurse implement? A) Notify the pharmacist about the medication error B) Complete a medication error report c) Call the day nurse to determine what occurred D) Asses Mrs. Newman’s white blood cell count WBC The next time the nurse enters Mrs. Newman room Mrs.Newman writes on the communication inboard is there something wrong? I heard someone in the hall say something about me receiving the wrong medication? 23. How should the nurse resp ond? A) Please don’t worry about anything. I am sorry you overheard that conversation B) No Mrs. Newman you did not receive the wrong medication C) C) You are concerned that you might have received the wrong medication D) you were supposed to receive gentamcin but you received ampicillin 24. Which intervention should the nurse provide to Mrs. Newman?A) Insert a suction tube into the stoma while applying suction, the remove while twisting the tube B) Take a deep breath, occlude the tracheotomy with urn finger cough and remove your finger C) Insert a small amount of sterile normal saline into the stoma and cough in a normal manner D) Take a deep broth in through the nose, cough and expel the secretions through the tracheostomy The nurse is discussing activities of daily living with Mrs. Newman. Which instruction should the nurse include? A) Caution Mrs. Newman to take only tub baths B) Encourage Mrs.Newman to use aerosol deodorants C) Advise Mrs. Newman not to wear any types of perfumes D) Explain the need to wear a plastic bib when showing 26. Which intervention has highest priority to discharge? A) encourage the client to wear attractive coverings over stoma B) Ensure that Mrs. Newman carries a special identification card C) Stress the importance of returning to as normal a lifestyle as possible D) Discuss the importance of attending support group meetings Mrs. Newman is being discharged home today after five days in the hospital.Mr. Newman stops the nurse in the hallway and says that he is really scared about taking his wife home 27 what is the best response by the nurse? A) Have you discussed your fears w/ur wife B) It sounds like you can’t take care of her C) I know this must be very scary but u and ur wife are strong D) Let’s sit down and discuss what u are worried about Mr. Newman hesitantly shares with the nurse that he is afraid to touch his wife How should the nurse respond? A) Would u like to talk to your wife’s doctor, I c an call him for u?B) You can touch ur wife all u want, u will not hurt her C) You are worried about touching ur wife but she needs ur support right now D) Tell me more about what you mean by touching ur wife A home healthcare nurse has been assigned to care for Mrs. Newman and is making the initial visit. After completing the admission assessment the home healthcare nurse develops a nursing care plan for Mrs. Newman 29 of the nursing diagnosis included in Mrs. Newman’s careplan, which one has the highest priority? A) Deficient of knowledge B) Anticipatory grievingC) Ineffective airway clearance D) Impaired verbal communication Then home healthcare nurse is discussing the plan of care with Mrs. Newman and her husband, she instructs them to keep the rooms humidified at all times. Mr. Newman asks why this is important. 30. Which explanation should the nurse provide? A) It will decrease the amt of foreign material that enters the stoma B) Humidified air decreases the need for ora l fluids C) Humidified air will keep mucous membranes and secretions moist D) The lower airway responsible for humidification was removed during surgery

Beowulf a Epic Old English Poem

Beowulf a Epic Old English Poem The following article is from the 1911 edition of a famous encyclopedia. BEOWULF. The epic of Beowulf, the most precious relic of Old English, and, indeed, of all early Germanic literature, has come down to us in a single MS., written about A.D. 1000, which contains also the Old English poem of Judith, and is bound up with other MSS. in a volume in the Cottonian collection now at the British Museum. The subject of the poem is the exploits of Beowulf, son of Ecgtheow and nephew of Hygelac, king of the Geatas, i.e. the people, called in Scandinavian records Gautar, from whom a part of southern Sweden has received its present name Gotland. The Story The following is a brief outline of the story, which naturally divides itself into five parts. Beowulf, with fourteen companions, sails to Denmark, to offer his help to Hrothgar, king of the Danes, whose hall (called Heorot ) has for twelve years been rendered uninhabitable by the ravages of a devouring monster (apparently in gigantic human shape) called Grendel, a dweller in the waste, who used nightly to force an entrance and slaughter some of the inmates. Beowulf and his friends are feasted in the long-deserted Heorot. At night the Danes withdraw, leaving the strangers alone. When all but Beowulf are asleep, Grendel enters, the iron-barred doors having yielded in a moment to his hand. One of Beowulfs friends is killed; but Beowulf, unarmed, wrestles with the monster, and tears his arm from the shoulder. Grendel, though mortally wounded, breaks from the conquerors grasp, and escapes from the hall. On the morrow, his bloodstained track is followed until it ends in a distant mere. All fear being now removed, the Danish king and his followers pass the night in Heorot, Beowulf and his comrades being lodged elsewhere. The hall is invaded by Grendels mother, who kills and carries off one of the Danish nobles. Beowulf proceeds to the mere, and, armed with sword and corslet, plunges into the water. In a vaulted chamber under the waves, he fights with Grendels mother and kills her. In the vault he finds the corpse of Grendel; he cuts off the head and brings it back in triumph. Richly rewarded by Hrothgar, Beowulf returns to his native land. He is welcomed by Hygelac, and relates to him the story of his adventures, with some details not contained in the former narrative. The king bestows on him lands and honors, and during the reigns of Hygelac and his son Heardred he is the greatest man in the kingdom. When Heardred is killed in battle with the Swedes, Beowulf becomes king in his stead.After Beowulf has reigned prosperously for fifty years, his country is ravaged by a fiery dragon, which inhabits an ancient burial-mound, full of costly treasure. The royal hall itself is burned to the ground. The aged king resolves to fight, unaided, with the dragon. Accompanied by eleven chosen warriors, he journeys to the barrow. Bidding his companions retire to a distance, he takes up his position near the entrance to the mound - an arched opening whence issues a boiling stream.The dragon hears Beowulfs shout of defiance, and rushes forth, breathing flames. The fight beg ins; Beowulf is all but overpowered, and the sight is so terrible that his men, all but one, seek safety in flight. The young Wiglaf, son of Weohstan, though yet untried in battle, cannot, even in obedience to his lords prohibition, refrain from going to his help. With Wiglafs aid, Beowulf slays the dragon, but not before he has received his own death-wound. Wiglaf enters the barrow and returns to show the dying king the treasures that he has found there. With his last breath Beowulf names Wiglaf his successor, and ordains that his ashes shall be enshrined in a great mound, placed on a lofty cliff, so that it may be a mark for sailors far out at sea. The news of Beowulfs dear-bought victory is carried to the army. Amid great lamentation, the heros body is laid on the funeral pile and consumed. The treasures of the dragons hoard are buried with his ashes; and when the great mound is finished, twelve of Beowulfs most famous warriors ride around it, celebrating the praises of the bravest, gentlest and most generous of kings. The Hero. - Those portions of the poem that are summarized above - that is to say, those which relate the career of the hero in progressive order - contain a lucid and well-constructed story, told with a vividness of imagination and a degree of narrative skill that may with little exaggeration be called Homeric. And yet it is probable that there are few readers of Beowulf who have not felt - and there are many who after repeated perusal continue to feel - that the general impression produced by it is that of a bewildering chaos. This effect is due to the multitude and the character of the episodes. In the first place, a very great part of what the poem tells about Beowulf himself is not presented in regular sequence, but by way of retrospective mention or narration. The extent of the material thus introduced out of course may be seen from the following abstract. When seven years old the orphaned Beowulf was adopted by his grandfather King Hrethel, the father of Hygelac, and was regarded by him with as much affection as any of his own sons. In youth, although famed for his wonderful strength of grip, he was generally despised as sluggish and unwarlike. Yet even before his encounter with Grendel, he had won renown by his swimming contest with another youth named Breca, when after battling for seven days and nights with the  waves  and  slaying  many sea-monsters, he came to land in the country of the Finns. In the disastrous invasion of the land of the Hetware, in which Hygelac was killed, Beowulf killed many of the  enemies, amongst them a chieftain of the  Hugas, named Daghrefn, apparently the slayer of Hygelac. In the retreat he once more displayed his powers as a swimmer, carrying to his ship the  armour  of thirty slain enemies. When he reached his native land, the widowed queen offered him the kingdom, her son Heardred be ing too young to rule. Beowulf, out of loyalty, refused to be made  king  and acted as the guardian of Heardred during his minority, and as his  counselor  after he came to mans estate. By giving shelter to the fugitive Eadgils, a rebel against his uncle the king of the Swain (the Swedes, dwelling to the north of the  Gautar), Heardred brought on himself an invasion, in which he lost his life. When Beowulf became king, he supported the cause of Eadgils by force of arms; the king of the Swedes was killed, and his nephew placed on the throne. Historical Value Now, with one brilliant exception - the story of the swimming-match, which is felicitously introduced and  finely  told - these retrospective passages are brought in more or less awkwardly, interrupt inconveniently the course of the narrative, and are too condensed and allusive in style to make any strong poetic impression. Still, they do serve to complete the portraiture of the heros character. There are, however, many other episodes that have nothing to do with Beowulf  himself  but seem to have been inserted with a deliberate intention of making the poem into a sort of  cyclopedia  of Germanic tradition. They include many particulars of what purports to be the history of the royal houses, not only of the  Gautar  and the  Danes,  but also of the Swedes, the continental Angles, the Ostrogoths, the Frisians and the  Heathobeards, besides references to matters of  unlocalized  heroic story such as the exploits of Sigismund. The Saxons are not named, and the Franks appear only as a dreaded hostile power. Of Britain there is no mention; and though there are some distinctly Christian passages, they are so incongruous in tone with the rest of the poem that they must be regarded as interpolations. In  general  the extraneous episodes have no great appropriateness to their  context,  and have the appearance of being abridged versions of stories that had been related at length in poetry. Their confusing effect, for modern readers, is increased by a curiously irrelevant  prologue. It begins by celebrating the ancient glories of the Danes, tells in allusive style the story of Scyld, the founder of the Scylding dynasty of Denmark, and praises the virtues of his son Beowulf. If this Danish Beowulf had been the hero of the poem, the opening would have been appropriate; but it seems strangely out of place as an introduction to the story of his namesake. However detrimental these redundancies may be to the poetic beauty of the epic, they add enormously to its interest for students of Germanic history or legend. If the mass of traditions which it purports to contain be genuine, the poem is of unique importance as a source of knowledge respecting the early history of the peoples of northern Germany and Scandinavia. But the value to be assigned to  Beowulf  in this respect can be determined only by ascertaining its probable date,  origin, and manner of composition. The criticism of the Old English epic has therefore for nearly a century been justly regarded as indispensable to the investigation of Germanic antiquities. The starting-point of all  Beowulf  criticism is the fact (discovered by N. F. S. Grundtvig in 1815) that one of the episodes of the poem belongs to authentic history. Gregory of Tours, who died in 594, relates that in the reign of Theodoric of Metz (511 - 534) the Danes invaded the kingdom, and carried off many captives and much plunder to their ships. Their king, whose name appears in the best MSS. as Chlochilaicus (other copies read Chrochilaicus, Hrodolaicus, c.), remained on shore intending to follow afterward, but was attacked by the Franks under Theodobert, son of Theodoric, and killed. The Franks then defeated the Danes in a naval battle and recovered the booty. The date of these events is ascertained to have been between 512 and 520. An anonymous history is written early in the eighth century  (Liber Hist. Francorum,  cap. 19) gives the name of the Danish king as Chochilaicus, and says that he was killed in the land of the Attoarii. Now it is related in  Beowulf  that Hygelac met his death in fighting against the Franks and the  Hetware  (the Old English form of Attoarii). The forms of the Danish kings name given by the Frankish historians are corruptions of the name of which the primitive Germanic form was Hugilaikaz, and which by regular phonetic change became in Old English  Hygelac,  and in Old Norse Hugleikr. It is true that the invading king is said in the histories to have been a Dane, whereas the Hygelac of  Beowulf  belonged to the Geatas or  Gautar. But a work called  Liber Monstrorum,  preserved in two MSS. of the 10th century, cites as an example of extraordinary stature a certain Huiglaucus, king of the Getae, who was killed by the Franks, and whose bones were preserved on an island at the mouth of the Rhine, and exhibited as a marvel. It is therefore evident that the personality of Hygelac, and the expedition in which, according to  Beowulf,  he died, belong not to the region of legend or poetic invention, but to that of historic fact. This noteworthy result suggests the possibility that what the poem tells of Hygelacs near relatives, and of the events of his reign and that of his successor, is based on historic fact. There is really nothing to forbid the supposition; nor is there any unlikelihood in the view that the persons mentioned as belonging to the royal houses of the Danes and Swedes had a real existence. It can be proved, at any rate, that several of the names are 1 Printed in Berger de Xivrey,  Traditions  Teratologiques  (1836), from  a MS.  in private hands. Another MS., now at Wolfenbiittel, reads Hunglacus for Huiglaucus, and (ungrammatically) gentes for  Getis.  derived from the native traditions of these two peoples. The Danish king Hrothgar and his brother Halga, the sons of Healfdene, appear in the  Historia Danica  of Saxo as Roe (the founder of Roskilde) and  Helgo, the sons of Haldanus. The Swedish princes Eadgils, son of Ohthere, and Onela, who are mentioned in  Beowulf,à ‚  are in the Icelandic  Heimskringla  called  Adils  son of  Ottarr, and Ali; the correspondence of the names, according to the phonetic laws of Old English and Old Norse, being strictly normal. There are other points of contact between  Beowulf  on the one hand and the Scandinavian records on the other, confirming the conclusion that the Old English poem contains much of the historical tradition of the  Gautar, the Danes and the Swedes, in its purest accessible form. Of the hero of the  poem,  no mention has been found elsewhere. But the name (the Icelandic form of which is  Bjolfr) is genuinely Scandinavian. It was borne by one of the early settlers in Iceland, and a monk named Biuulf is commemorated in the  Liber Vitae  of the church of Durham. As the historical character of Hygelac has been proved, it is not unreasonable to accept the authority of the poem for the statement that his nephew Beowulf succeeded Heardred on the throne of the  Gautar, and interfered in the dynastic quarrels of the Swedes. His swimming exploit among the Hetware, allowance being made for poetic exaggeration, fits remarkably well into the circumstances of the story told by Gregory of Tours; and perhaps his contest with Breca may have been an exaggeration of a real incident in his career; and even if it was originally related  of  some other hero, its attribution to the historical Beowulf may have been occasioned by his renown as a swimmer. On the other hand, it would be absurd to imagine that the combats with Grendel and his mother and with the fiery dragon can be exaggerated representations of actual occurrences. These exploits belong to the domain of pure mythology. That they have been attributed to Beowulf, in particular, might seem to be adequately accounted for by the general tendency to connect mythical achievements with the name of any famous hero. There are, however, some facts that seem to point to a more definite explanation. The Danish king Scyld Scefing, whose story is told in the opening lines of the poem, and his son Beowulf, are plainly identical with Sceldwea, son of Sceaf, and his son Beaw, who appear among the ancestors of Woden in the genealogy of the kings of Wessex given in the  Old English Chronicle.  The story of Scyld is related, with some details not found in  Beowulf,  by William of Malmesbury, and, less fully, by the 10th-century English historian Ethelwerd, though it is told not of Scyld himself, but of his father Sceaf. According to Williams version, Sceaf was found, as an infant, alone in a boat without oars, which had drifted to the island of Scandza. The child was asleep with his head on a  sheaf,  and from this circumstance, he obtained his name. When he grew up he reigned over the Angles at Slaswic. In  Beowulf  the same story is told of Scyld, with the addition that when he died his body was placed in a ship, laden with rich treasure, which was sent out to sea unguided. It is clear that in the original form of the tradition the name of the foundling was Scyld or Sceldwea, and that his cognomenScefing (derived from  sceaf,  a sheaf) was misinterpreted as a patronymic. Sceaf, therefore, is no genuine personage of tradition, but merely an etymological figment. The position of Sceldwea and Beaw (in Malmesburys Latin called Sceldius and Beowius) in the genealogy as anterior to Woden would not of itself prove that they belong to divine mythology and not to heroic legend. But there are independent reasons for believing that they were originally gods or demi-gods. It is a reasonable conjecture that the tales of victories over Grendel and the fiery dragon belong properly to the myth of Beaw. If Beowulf, the champion of the Gautar, had already become a theme of epic song, the resemblance of name might easily suggest the idea of enriching history by adding to it the achievements of Beaw. At the same time, the tradition that the hero of these adventures was a son of Scyld, who was identified (whether rightly or wrongly) with the eponymus of the Danish dynasty of the Scyldings, may well have prompted the supposition that they took place in Denmark. There is, as we shall see afterwards, some ground for believing that there were circulated in England two rival poetic versions of the story of the encounters with supernatural beings: the one referring them to Beowulf the Dane, while the other (represented by the existing poem) attached them to the legend of the son of Ecgtheow, but ingeniously contrived to do some justice to the alternative tradition by laying the scene of the Grendel incident at the court of a Scylding king. As the name of Beaw appears in the genealogies of English kings, it seems likely that the traditions of his exploits may have been brought over by the Angles from their continental home. This supposition is confirmed by evidence that seems to show that the Grendel legend was popularly current in this country. In the schedules of boundaries appended to two Old English charters there occurs mention of pools called Grendels mere, one in Wiltshire and the other in Staffordshire. The charter that mentions the Wiltshire Grendels mere speaks also of a place called  Beowan ham  (Beowas home), and another Wiltshire charter has a Scylds tree among the landmarks enumerated. The notion that ancient burial mounds were liable to be inhabited by dragons was common in the Germanic world: there is perhaps a trace of it in the Derbyshire place-name Drakelow, which means dragons barrow. While, however, it thus appears that the mythic part of the Beowulf story is a portion of primeval Angle traditio n, there is no proof that it was originally peculiar to the Angles; and even if it was so, it may easily have passed from them into the poetic cycles of the related peoples. There are, indeed, some reasons for suspecting that the blending of the stories of the mythic Beaw and the historical Beowulf may have been the work of Scandinavian and not of English poets. Prof. G. Sarrazin has pointed out the striking resemblance between the Scandinavian legend of Bodvarr Biarki and that of the Beowulf of the poem. In each, a hero from Gautland slays a destructive monster at the court of a Danish king, and afterwards is found fighting on the side of Eadgils (Adils) in Sweden. This coincidence cannot well be due to mere  chance; but  its exact significance is doubtful. On the one hand, it is possible that the English epic, which unquestionably derived its historical elements from  Scandinavian  song, may be indebted to the same source for its general plan, including the blending of history and myth. On the other hand, considering the late date of the authority for the Scandinavian traditions, we cannot be sure that the latter may not owe some of their material to English minstrels. There are similar alternative possibilities with regard to the explanation of the striking resemblances which certain incidents of the adventures with Grendel and the dragon bear to incidents in the narratives of Saxo and the Icelandic sagas. Date and Origin It is now time to speak of the probable date and origin of the poem. The conjecture that most naturally presents itself to those who have made no special study of the question, is that an English epic treating of the deeds of a Scandinavian hero on Scandinavian ground must have been composed in the days of Norse or Danish dominion in England. This, however, is impossible. The forms under which Scandinavian names appear in the poem show clearly that these names must have entered English tradition not later than the beginning of the 7th century. It does not indeed follow that the extant poem is of so early a date, but its syntax is remarkably archaic in  comparison  with that of the Old English poetry of the 8th century. The hypothesis that  Beowulf  is in whole or in part a translation from a Scandinavian original, although still maintained by some scholars, introduces more difficulties than it solves and must be dismissed as untenable. The limits of this article do not permit us to state and criticize the many elaborate theories that have been proposed respecting the origin of the poem. All that can be done is to set forth the view that appears to us to be most free from objection. It may be premised that although the existing MS. is written in the West-Saxon dialect, the phenomena of the language indicate transcription from an Anglian (i.e. a Northumbrian or Mercian) original; and this conclusion is supported by the fact that while the poem contains one important episode relating to the Angles, the name of the Saxons does not occur in it at all. In its original form,  Beowulf  was a product of the time when poetry was composed not to be read, but to be recited in the halls of kings and nobles. Of course, ​an entire epic could not be recited on a single occasion; nor can we suppose that it would be thought out from beginning to end before any part of it was presented to an audience. A singer who had pleased his hearers with a tale of adventure would be called on to tell them of earlier or later events in the career of the hero; and so the story would grow, until it included all that the poet knew from tradition, or could invent in harmony with it. That  Beowulf  is concerned with the deeds of a foreign hero is less surprising than it seems at first sight. The minstrel of early Germanic times was required to be learned not only in the traditions of his own people but also in those of the other peoples with whom they felt their kinship. He had a double task to perform. It was not enough that his songs should give pleasure; his patrons demanded that he should recount faithfully the history and genealogy both of their own line and of those other royal houses who shared with them the same divine ancestry, and who might be connected with them by ties of marriage or warlike alliance. Probably the singer was always himself an original poet; he might often be content to reproduce the songs that he had learned, but he was doubtless free to improve or expand them as he chose, provided that his inventions did not conflict with what was supposed to be historical truth. For all we know, the intercourse of the Angles with Scandinavia, which enabled their poets to obtain new knowledge of the legends of Danes, Gautar, and Swedes, may not have ceased until their conversion to Christianity in the 7th century. And even after this event, whatever may have been the attitude of churchmen towards the old heathen poetry, the kings and warriors would be slow to lose their interest in the heroic tales that had delighted their ancestors. It is probable that down to the end of the 7th century, if not still later, the court poets of Northumbria and Mercia continued to celebrate the deeds of Beowulf and of many another hero of ancient days. This article is from the 1911 edition of an encyclopedia, which is out of copyright here in the U.S. See the encyclopedia main page for disclaimer and copyright information.

Threading Introduction in Visual Basic

Threading Introduction in Visual Basic To understand threading in VB.NET, it helps to understand some of the foundation concepts. First up is that threading is something that happens because the operating system supports it. Microsoft Windows is a pre-emptive multitasking operating system. A part of Windows called the task scheduler parcels out processor time to all the running programs. These small chunks of processor time are called time slices. Programs arent in charge of how much processor time they get, the task scheduler is. Because these time slices are so small, you get the illusion that the computer is doing several things at once. Definition of Thread A thread is a single sequential flow of control. Some qualifiers: A thread is a path of execution through that body of code.Threads share memory so they have to cooperate to produce the correct result.A thread has thread-specific data such as registers, a stack pointer, and a program counter.A process is a single body of code that can have many threads, but it has at least one and it has a single context (address space). This is assembly level stuff, but thats what you get into when you start thinking about threads. Multithreading vs. Multiprocessing Multithreading is not the same as multicore parallel processing, but multithreading and multiprocessing do work together. Most PCs today have processors that have at least two cores, and ordinary home machines sometimes have up to eight cores. Each core is a separate processor, capable of running programs by itself. You get a performance boost when the OS assigns a different process to different cores. Using multiple threads and multiple processors for even greater performance is called thread-level parallelism. A lot of what can be done depends on what the operating system and the processor hardware can do, not always what you can do in your program, and you shouldnt expect to be able to use multiple threads on everything. In fact, you might not find many problems that benefit from multiple threads. So, dont implement multithreading just because its there. You can easily reduce your programs performance if its not a good candidate for multithreading. Just as examples, video codecs may be the worst programs to multithread because the data is inherently serial. Server programs that handle web pages might be among the best because the different clients are inherently independent. Practicing Thread Safety Multithreaded code often requires complex coordination of threads. Subtle and difficult-to-find bugs are common because different threads often have to share the same data so data can be changed by one thread when another isnt expecting it. The general term for this problem is race condition. In other words, the two threads can get into a race to update the same data and the result can be different depending on which thread wins. As a trivial example, suppose youre coding a loop: For I 1 To 10 DoSomethingWithI()Next If the loop counter I unexpectedly misses the number 7 and goes from 6 to 8- but only some of the time- it would have disastrous effects on whatever the loop is doing. Preventing problems like this is called thread safety. If the program needs the result of one operation in a later operation, then it can be impossible to code parallel processes or threads to do it.   Basic Multithreading Operations Its time to push this precautionary talk to the background and write some multithreading code. This article uses a Console Application for simplicity right now. If you want to follow along, start Visual Studio with a new Console Application project. The primary namespace used by multithreading is the System.Threading namespace and the Thread class will create, start, and stop new threads. In the example below, notice that TestMultiThreading is a delegate. That is, you have to use the name of a method that the Thread method can call. Imports System.ThreadingModule Module1 Sub Main() Dim theThread _ As New Threading.Thread( AddressOf TestMultiThreading) theThread.Start(5) End Sub Public Sub TestMultiThreading(ByVal X As Long) For loopCounter As Integer 1 To 10 X X * 5 2 Console.WriteLine(X) Next Console.ReadLine() End SubEnd Module In this app, we could have executed the second Sub by simply calling it: TestMultiThreading(5) This would have executed the entire application in serial fashion. The first code example above, however, kicks off the TestMultiThreading subroutine and then continues. A Recursive Algorithm Example Heres a multithreaded application involving calculating permutations of an array using a recursive algorithm. Not all of the code is shown here. The array of characters being permuted is simply 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. Heres the pertinent part of the code. Sub Main() Dim theThread _ As New Threading.Thread( AddressOf Permute) theThread.Start(5) Permute(5) Console.WriteLine(Finished Main) Console.ReadLine()End SubSub Permute(ByVal K As Long) ... Permutate(K, 1) ...End SubPrivate Sub Permutate( ... ... Console.WriteLine( pno pString) ...End Sub Notice that there are two ways to call the Permute sub (both commented out in the code above). One kicks off a thread and the other calls it directly. If you call it directly, you get: 1 123452 12354... etc119 54312120 54321Finished Main However, if you kick off a thread and Start the Permute sub instead, you get: 1 12345Finished Main2 12354... etc119 54312120 54321 This clearly shows that at least one permutation is generated, then the Main sub moves ahead and finishes, displaying Finished Main, while the rest of the permutations are being generated. Since the display comes from a second sub called by the Permute sub, you know that is part of the new thread as well. This illustrates the concept that a thread is a path of execution as mentioned earlier. Race Condition Example The first part of this article mentioned a race condition. Heres an example that shows it directly: Module Module1 Dim I As Integer 0 Public Sub Main() Dim theFirstThread _ As New Threading.Thread( AddressOf firstNewThread) theFirstThread.Start() Dim theSecondThread _ As New Threading.Thread( AddressOf secondNewThread) theSecondThread.Start() Dim theLoopingThread _ As New Threading.Thread( AddressOf LoopingThread) theLoopingThread.Start() End Sub Sub firstNewThread() Debug.Print( firstNewThread just started!) I I 2 End Sub Sub secondNewThread() Debug.Print( secondNewThread just started!) I I 3 End Sub Sub LoopingThread() Debug.Print( LoopingThread started!) For I 1 To 10 Debug.Print( Current Value of I: I.ToString) Next End SubEnd Module The Immediate window showed this result in one trial. Other trials were different. Thats the essence of a race condition. LoopingThread started!Current Value of I: 1secondNewThread just started!Current Value of I: 2firstNewThread just started!Current Value of I: 6Current Value of I: 9Current Value of I: 10

The Stanford Prison Experiment Essays - Psychology, Conformity

The Stanford Prison Experiment Essays - Psychology, Conformity The Stanford Prison Experiment "Evil is knowing better, but willingly doing worse." (Philip Zimbardo) Amongst various famous psychological experiments exist a few infamous and terrifying psychological experiments. Psychologist Philip Zimbardo's Stanford Prison Experiment of 1971 involved 24 innocent, middle-class men and countless acts of dehumanization and brutality. This experiment took place in a mock prison in a basement of Stanford University in Stanford, California. The Stanford Prison Experiment was a study of the psychological effects of becoming a prisoner. This was a touching experiment because it showed how an environment manipulates good-natured people and gets them to commit unforgiving acts. Zimbardo wanted to show what happened when individuality and dignity was stripped away from humans. He wanted to know how individuals would feel if their lives were completely controlled. Zimbardo wanted to investigate the impact of situational variables on human behavior. Zimbardo's aim was to bring forth the reactions of both, the participants and the guards. The experiment included two main variables: assigned roles and changes in behavior. Assigned roles were known to be independent variables. Prisoners were picked up from their homes. Upon reaching the mock prison, the jailbirds were thoroughly searched and fingerprinted. After the jailbirds were dressed in smocks with no underclothes, they were placed in holding cells. In addition, they were given identification numbers and were forbidden to use names. In contrast, the guards were given no special training. Guards had the free right to do whatever necessary to maintain law and order and command respect. The so-called protectors were dressed in identical uniforms, carried whistles and batons, and they wore mirrored sunglasses to make themselves appear less human. The dependent variables were the changes in behavior. Prisoners rebelled by removing their stocking caps, scratching off their numbers, and barricading themselves in cells. After at least 36 hours of the experiment, the pri soners were emotionally disturbed and were crying uncontrollably with rage. Thus, the initially two-week planned experiment was called off after just six days. On the other hand, guards forced prisoners to perform exercises. The guards sprayed prisoners with fire extinguishers, and stripped their prisoners naked. The security officers who were to maintain peace and protect their prisoners promoted aggression between inmates and forced prisoners to defecate in buckets instead of toilets. In addition, they forced prisoners to clean toilets with their bare hands. The researchers created a mock prison in the basement of Stanford University and randomly assigned people as prisoners or guards to note their reactions. Advertisements were placed in local newspapers, offering "$15 a day to participate" (Zimbardo 2) in the experiment. Only "24 male subjects, physically and mentally healthy" (Zimbardo 2), were chosen as the participants of the experiment. Prior to being selected, the participants were randomly divided into two groups; there were 12 prisoners and 12 guards. The Palo Alto Police of Palo Alto, California, "Agreed to arrest' the prisoners" (Zimbardo 2). The prisoners were treated like real-life suspects. They had their rights read and fingerprints taken. Zimbardo acted as the warden for the duration of the experiment. He informed the guards that the guards were expected to abide only one rule: no physical punishment was allowed. Other than that one rule, guards were to do what pleased them best. The guards addressed prisoners by the c aptives' identification numbers. Prisoners had a small chain around one ankle to remind them that they were inmates. Conditions were tough throughout the experiment. Prisoners were supplied with basic sleeping mattresses and simple food. Throughout the experiment, Zimbardo acted as a spectator as well as an observer and note taker. Data collected was both quantitative and qualitative. Video recording equipment was placed behind an observation screen. Within days, the guards became sadistic and the prisoners were recipients of countless beatings and emotional breakdown. A few participants were released early because of extreme stress. Zimbardo continued to overlook the abusive behavior of the prison guards. That is, until "A new assistant professor at the University of California at Berkeley" (Zimbardo 3), Christina Maslach, voiced objections to the conditions of the prison and the continuation of the experiment. The simulation became so real that the experiment had to be shut down a fter only six days rather than the

Structure of organization of a clinic Assignment

Structure of organization of a clinic - Assignment Example When laying off employees, treat them with respect, not like they are criminals. Be objective and  prepare  exit  benefits for them guided by the time they have worked for the organization, the titles they  hold  and their outstanding contribution to the organization. Making decisions on lay off and determining which employees and positions to let go, it is  responsible  to protect employee privacy. It is unethical to discuss issues regarding lay off in  common  areas. Documents containing information regarding layoffs must  be  confidential. Changes  introduction  in nursing care delivery In order to  deliver  similar or better services as it was before the downsize, it is necessary to  motivate  the remaining employees so that they may not  feel  overburden. Setting up a new framework on the duties and responsibilities will be  necessary. Employees should be given guidelines on how to cope with the work load. Employees may be required to work in  several  areas. For example, a nurse who used to work in one  ward  may be required to work in two wards. A procedural  framework  may also be  necessary. Services issued by  different  employees may be given by one employee. ... es, CEO,  SVP  Patient services,  SVP  Maternal Child  division, labor and Delivery manager, Maternal Child Manager, Paediatric Manager, Assistant Nurse of Clinical Coordinator, Staff RN, Nursing Assistants and Scrub Technician. Organizational structure is a system ensuring that all employees  get  coordinated to ensure the company achieves its goals. This  organization  structure  is  effective  because all these people oversees and coordinates employees and all the activities of the organization. The board of trustees acts in the best interests of the organization (Nelson &  Whitcomb,  2002). Board of trustees comprises of shareholders who oversee all the activities conducted are beneficial to the organization. The board of trustees exercises their powers for the financial benefit of the organization. Their inclusion in the organization is  crucial. This  organization  is  effective  as it includes a CEO. The CEO is responsible for success of t he organization. The CEO is responsible for Operations, marketing strategy, human resources, financing, hiring, creation of  company  culture, firing, compliance with safety regulations, PR, sales amongst other duties. His/ her responsibilities cannot be delegated. SVP  Maternal Child  division  deals with all programs of reproductive health, making it an essential component of the organization. Labor and  deliver  manager oversees employees in labour and  delivery  department. He/she ensure that patients  get  treatment and taken care of  well. He/she ensures that all operations are running well, in areas experiencing difficulty he finds for solutions. He/ she is responsible for the program and structural development making him or her an  influential  person in the organization structure. Paediatric manager makes sure that all

Discussion 1,2 and 3 for cis classes Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Discussion 1,2 and 3 for cis classes - Essay Example less fluctuating data rates and connectivity .The disadvantages D.S.L line can have are they are wired connections, though the wireless routers can solve this problem but the range of wireless routers is limited to a few hundred meters. Optic fiber: The advantages of fiber optic access are reliable transmission and even in rough weathers it can ensure transmission, however the drawback with fiber optic communication is the availability of infrastructure and is relatively expensive Other sources include Wi-fi from a remote spot, Wimax, advantages to both are ,they provide fast and on the go connectivity, drawbacks can be ,the air medium since transmission is in the form of waves, distortions are likely to be part of system Wimax is a 4th Generation Telecommunication Technology and is acronym for Worldwide Interoperability Microwave Access. It offers number of features and in a way has revolutionized the means of connectivity. Operating in Giga Hertz frequency band, it provides higher data rates, more secure transmissions, less disruptions, it provides data rates as high as 10 Mbps or above ,there are few drawbacks attached to use of Wimax , since all the transmission is based on air waves( unlike D.S.L where optic fiber is used) rough weather can disrupt transmission and can bring about fluctuations .Customer Premises Equipment ( C.P.E) the hardware equipment that is necessary for Wimax connection is slightly expensive .When the source is at a considerable distance from the C.P.E ,loss in quality can be experienced. 3. Explain whether you think professional organizations are embracing Wimax technologies or are reluctant to implement it on a large scale. What is the reasoning for your perspective and what do you feel to be the future outlook on this technology? Large number of organizations and enterprises are fast embracing Wimax as medium for communication and performing daily activities .There are number of reasons to it. The first and foremost is the fast

Team work and organisational success Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Team work and organisational success - Essay Example The teamwork in any organization depends upon the organizational process requirements and organizational structure as well. The team can be classified into the major groups of self-managing teams, quality circles, virtual teams and cross-functional teams among others. There can be teams formed of specialized professionals within an organization according to a specified task. However, it is quite essential that all the team members in a team should have a common goal.With regards to teamwork, certain aspects should be considered as vital by an organization. The members of the organization should attend meetings to make team goals and to discuss the problems associated with the targeted objectives. The personal goals of the team members should be achieved with the virtues of teamwork. Conflict should be avoided in teamwork. Notably, it is also essential for a team to work efficiently in terms that every individual member of the team should play a contributory role to assist the organiz ational growth or attainment of the determined objectives. Team formation takes time and there are certain stages that a team should pass through such as ‘forming’, ‘storming’, ‘norming’, ‘performing’ and ‘dissolving'.Biogenic Plc is an organization which is engaged in producing crop protection products. The total workforce of the organization is 15,000 employees and is scattered in over 80 countries. Biogenic recruits able and motivated employees to form a strong team.... With regards to team work, certain aspects should be considered as vital by an organisation. The members of the organisation should attend meetings to make team goals and to discuss the problems associated with the targeted objectives. The personal goals of the team members should be achieved with the virtues of teamwork. Conflict should be avoided in teamwork. Notably, it is also essential for a team to work efficiently in terms that every individual member in the team should play a contributory role to assist the organisational growth or attainment of the determined objectives (Gibson & et. al., 1980). Team formation takes time and there are certain stages that a team should pass through such as ‘forming’, ‘storming’, ‘norming’, ‘performing’ and ‘dissolving’ that can be well observed from the diagram represented below (Gibson & et. al., 1980). Figure: Stages in the Formation of Team Biogenia Plc is an organisation whi ch is engaged with producing crop protection products. The total workforce of the organisation is 15,000 employees and is scattered in over 80 countries. Biogenia recruits able and motivated employees to form a strong team. For the purpose of in-house training, the organisation often forms a team of the members which covers both technical as well as personal development issues of the employees. There is a team which handles community work as well. For international assignments, teams are formed for the specific tasks, for example, for the development of a new herbicide a team was formed in South Africa. The team members formed for the international assignment are from different backgrounds. The qualification of the members includes PhD in

Marlowe comprehends the fallacy of racism Essay

Marlowe comprehends the fallacy of racism - Essay Example It is evident that Marlow witnesses inhuman slavery exercised by the whites that comprehensively alters his ideologies and beliefs within the society. He states â€Å"A slight clinking behind me made me turn my head. Six black men advanced in a file, toiling up the path. They walked erect and slow balancing small baskets full of earth on their heads. I could see every rib, the joints of their limbs were like knots in a rope; each had an iron collar on their neck and al; were connected together with a chain.† (Conrad 38) Consequently, he says that slaves are identical to animals. This implies that he dislikes Africans regardless of their worth that may be highlighted using diverse approaches. It is evident from the excerpt that slaves are comparable to animals as apparent in the words describing them. It is true that Africans suffer from dehumanization under the control of Europeans leading to de-motivation. The description of this inequality is apparent in striking facial expr essions. This implies that Europeans have conditioned the Africans to disregard the situation. An instance that shows cruelty among Africans is apparent when Marlow meets a neatly dressed accountant. However, his outlook contrasts with Africans surrounding him because they appear frail. Marlow tries to befriend the accountant by spending a significant proportion of time conversing with him on how Africans are inferior. One day while Marlow was conversing with the accountant, a helpless African moaned in pain, an act that agitated Marlow and the accountant. The accountant claims, â€Å"When one has got to make correct entries, one comes to hate those savages to death† (Marlow 48). Surprisingly, Marlow agrees with the accountant’s remarks highlighting his negative attitude towards Africans. Moreover, Marlow and the accountant were unconscious of the horrific situation surrounding them. These persons exhibited immoral tendencies as apparent in their attitude towards Afric ans around them because they believed that such persons were interfering with their culture. This example reveals the indifference amongst whites with regard to the suffering of Africans. This indifference means that the European’s motivation to colonize Africa was not only to gain power and improving culture, but also making money at the expense of Africans. Apparently, the whites forgot their human morals and driven by greed, they treated Africans as animals (Conrad, 87). This novel strongly reveals the malice that Africans experienced under the control of whites. Readers begin comprehending the behavior of whites that appears insensitive especially in Marlow’s encounter with the doctor prior to his expedition in Africa. The doctor wanted to examine Marlow’s skull and inquire fundamental aspects regarding previous mental illness within the family. He seems insensitive regarding Africans and continues to tell Marlow that only an insane individual would desire t o visit Africa, highlighting the extent of disregard for the stature of Africans within the society. The main intention of measuring Marlow’s skull is to notice if there would be any notable difference upon return. It is apparent from such a proclamation that the doctor undermines Africans life when he tells Marlow that the Europeans