BUS IP2 Unit 5 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

BUS IP2 Unit 5 - Essay Example The company has diverse operations, which are undertaken in the global market and have been found to influence operations and contribution to the firm’s profit. The company also implements diverse hedges against risks associated with exchange rates. However, there are effects of increase and decrease in the dollar’s exchange value on the firm’s profitability. The company has also established schemes to reduce the effect of the dollar exchange to the business operations. General Motors Company Introduction There are various multinational companies in the United States (U.S) that have been found to focus on diverse fields of operations. These companies have been analyzed and found to influence process involved in growth and development in diverse nations positively. This has also been found to create a conducive environment for improvement of individual’s living standards among individuals from diverse communities in the nation. Therefore, strategies have be en implemented to enhance operations undertaken by the Multi-National Enterprises in U.S. General Motors is one among the MNE’s in U.S dealing with automotive. ... However, it has been noted that the American dollar has been weakening over the years, and individuals from other nations have travelled to the U.S as foreign currency is also appreciating. Currency denominations have been found to vary, and this influences export and import price rates in different nations. Therefore, the company managers have established a method that enables other companies from diverse nations to access various goods and services produced by the company (Sinha & Sinha, 2009). This has been attained by evaluating the exchange rates between the U.S company price rates and the partnering nation. The company lowers the price rates of its revenues and costs to nations that have been considered as developing. Also, they should have a greater range of currency difference with the American dollar. This has helped influence development of diverse nations, despite the fact that, the nation is considered to be developing. Nations that are equal and exchange their currency a t fairly same price with the Americans have goods and services offered to them at relative same prices as the export price in the U.S. This has helped the company manage its prices, and reduce cases of loss being experienced in the organization (Feldstein, Hines & Hubbard, 2007). Therefore, the GM Company managers have used schemes that have been considered effective and efficient in ensuring individuals from diverse nations gain access to various spare parts and vehicles at prices that are considerably low and affordable based on their denominational currency. Operations undertaken by MNE's with multiple foreign operations include engaging in productions that

The Role of Government in Policy †Making Essay Example for Free

The Role of Government in Policy – Making Essay The public policy making process often takes place in a policy environment that is broad and comprises of both official and non-official players. Civil society groups that are organized comprise the membership of non-official players. Such groups include women’s lobbies, business associations, labor unions and church organizations.   On the other hand, positions of the formal state are often occupied by the official players.   These positions derive their guidance and means of exercising their authority from the constitution that exist in the country. In addition; it is the political community that describes the formal state positions. A steady transformation which most of the time has been unnoticed has been taking place in the American government and debates have marginalized the previous institutions and processes and public policy has recently been centralized on the new processes especially the non-governmental ones.   By performing the desired work for the people, responsibility has mostly been shared by the American government as well as non-profit organizations, various levels of government and the private companies (Kettl, 2000). The process of policy making often starts with unexpected occurrences and mechanisms that are triggering and this leads to disturbance of the daily routines that take place in the environment.   This process is the responsibility of policy makers who occupy the pivotal positions as concerns power.   These people (policy makers) are often under pressure as they are faced with a variety of competing interests in their quest to come up with informed decisions concerning policies so as to improve the existing conditions and their tasks may become difficult especially in societies where there exist open public expression of opinions and conflicts, for instance the United States (Kettl, 2000).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The shaping of public policy takes place under various institutions and levels of government such as the judiciary, legislature, bureaucracy, President among others.   The legislative plays various roles and tasks in shaping public policy.   Ã‚  The legislature plays the task of formulating policy proposals so that various existing problems can be solved.   Policy formulation consists of factual, the theoretical and value premises.   In an organizational setting, policy formulation lies with the administration of such organizations that are charged with the responsibility of coming up with rational, goal-oriented and responsible policies that could be useful in solving various organizational problems. As a result, these policies when applied by organization result in efficiency in these institutions.   In addition, organizations can then be said to posses drives, values and skills in decision making processes, problem formulation, evaluation and agenda setting.   The legislature’s other role is making of the laws that affect the entire nation positively and at the same time ensure that the interests of their constituencies are met through their representation with the objective of improving the existing quality of life for citizens (Long, 1996). The judiciary on the other hand has actively been active in the process of policy making in United States.   The administration of education, penal, environmental protection, welfare and mental health policies has mainly taken place as a result of the participation of the courts in their formulation.   Courts also play the role of perceiving crimes that have been committed and judges have the responsibility of monitoring the various activities that are conducted by institutions.   In certain circumstances, courts have also attempted to carry out restructuring process in these institutions so that change in their policies as well as processes is implemented (Kettl, 2000).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The Salvation Army is a religious based organization, registered in the United States of America, with different goals and objectives.   Although the principle objective of the organization is to spread Christianity, the organizational policies and governance is firmly embedded in the US constitution.   Therefore, the organization is obliged to obey all statutes under the US constitution (Ellickson, 1996).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   For instance, the Salvation Army is required to operate under the associations act whereby elections for some posts in the organization, are supposed to be conducted as provided for in the law.   In addition, the organization operates with a fiscal budget which is subject to auditing as provided for in the law.   Therefore, the Salvation Army strives to meet all government legislations making it a law abiding organization.   By doing that, the Salvation Army upholds basic tenets which ensure that every citizen enjoys their fundamental rights as provided for in the constitution (Ellickson, 1996).   Additionally,   the organization participates in promoting good governance, especially through its corporate social responsibility arm which extends assistance not only to Americans who are needy but also the organization has been in the fore front in promoting bilateral relations through bilateral aid to developing countries. In conclusion, it is evident from the discussion above that the legal process and especially the judiciary in United States of America, plays a significant role in governance.   For an organization like the Salvation Army, the legal process offers the necessary benchmark against which such an organization lays its policies.   Finally,   for law and order to be realized every organization, irrespective of its ideological leaning must uphold the constitution. Reference    Ellickson, R. C. (1996). Controlling Chronic Misconduct in City Spaces: Of Panhandlers, Skid Rows, and Public-Space Zoning. Yale Law Journal, 105(5), 1165-1248. Retrieved August 11, 2007, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=od=5000328549 Kettl, D. F. (2000). The Transformation of Governance: Globalization, Devolution, and the Role of Government. Public Administration Review, 60(6), 488. Retrieved August 11, 2007, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=od=5001131131 Long, N. E. (1996). Public Policy and Administration: The Goals of Rationality and Responsibility. Public Administration Review, 56(2), 149-4. Retrieved August 11, 2007, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=od=5000345114

Judiasm & Rastafarianism: A study of the Falashas Essay -- essays pape

Judiasm & Rastafarianism: A study of the Falashas In this research paper I will discuss the ethnic groups of Africans in the Caribbean and Jews in Ethiopia. Jews in Ethiopia call themselves Beta Israel which means `house of Israel.' They are also known as the Falashas. Falasha means `stranger' or `immigrant' in the classical language of Ethiopia (the Ge'ez tongue). I will also describe the culture of the African people displaced into the Caribbean who identify themselves as the Rastafarians and the connections I have made between them and Judaism. I believe that these connections between Judaism and Rastafarianism are more than just similarities that can be found between any two Bible- following religions. I choose the Falashas as the topic for personal, religious and spiritual reasons. I was born into a Jewish household, rich in the traditions and customs of my Hebrew ancestors. I grew up however in the Caribbean, home of the unique culture known as the Rastafari. Throughout my life I have felt a deep connection between Judaism and Rastafarianism. In this paper I seek the origins and history of the connection that I feel in my heart. I believe that the Falashas are the bridge between these two cultures. The connection of the Rastas to Ethiopia is a deep and mystical one. It would take hundreds of pages to illustrate the connections of this culture to Israel. In briefly describing their culture I attempt to illustrate what sparked my attention about the similarities between Jews, Falashas, and Rastas. The Rastas believe that they are originally and ancestrally Ethiopians. They were stolen from their homeland in times of slavery and brought to the `New World'. To say the least, the Rastafarians believe in many of the similar ... .... Leonard E. The Rastafarians. Boston: Beacon Press, 1977. Messing, Simon D. The story of the Falashas,"Black Jews"of Ethiopia. Brooklyn, N.Y.: Balshon Print. & Offset Co., 1982. Campbell, Horace. Rasta and Resistance. New Jersey: First Africa World Press Edition, 1987. White, Timothy. Catch A Fire. New York: Henry Holt and Company, 1994. Steve Barrow and Peter Dalton. Reggae - The Rough Guide. London: Rough Guides, 1997. Chevannes, Barry. Rastafari - Roots and Ideology. New York: Syracuse Univ. Press, 1994. Rapoport, Louis. Redemption song: the story of Operation Moses. San Diego: Harcourt, 1986. Laing, Arlene. Introduction to Jamaica. URL:"http://lamar.colostate.edu/~laingg/" Eznoh, Michael. Jammin Reggae Archives. URL:"http://www.niceup.com/" Bob Marley - The Unofficial Home Page. URL:"http://www.won.nl/dsp/usr/svketel/Music/bmarley.html"

Business Plan for E-business Essay

ABC Company is an aboriginal products company offering Australian aboriginal artists’ materials and products, such as painting, boomerang and other handicrafts. Based on the internet, ABC Company also provides timely information about Australian aboriginal culture like their history or daily news. It is the responsibility of ABC Company to support the development of indigenous people’s culture and improve their living quality in the same time. The Market ABC is at the forefront in an exciting and growing market. We focus on the market of Australia and extend to the tourists and Australian indigenous culture lovers. Most aboriginal products stores do not supply the sufficient and related knowledge of aboriginal culture. And our special supporting stagey helps communities get $1 from our sales every $100 for the sake of attracting more aboriginal artists enter the business. It is a different point from other current there is no such e-business company like XX operated today. The Organization ABC is owned and operated by our group members. Since our company is operated online, our management team is the group of our four founders. It is founded on the idea that maintaining satisfied customers is essential to the bottom line. With this in mind, our team will be working hard to ensure that all of their customers’ expectations are exceeded in all transactions. To maintain a presence within the art and craft community and close relationships to customers and also our suppliers —–aboriginal people, we will focus more on the professional knowledge of Australian indigenous culture and encourage local communities to join us. Financials The sales growth will be conservative in the first year as when our focus is on the advertisement and make our products well known by potential customers. It is estimated that the sales increase in a 33% phase from second year of business operation. The marketing costs will remain the 10% of total sales. And we may consider company expansion if projected sales met or exceeded our target. 1. Company Summary ABC Company is founded in September of this year in UNSW. The company will offer a variety of products and services of aboriginal culture. In order to have sufficient information and resources of aboriginal culture, we will cooperate with some institutions and communities. For the aspect of products, we will offer aboriginal art such as artefacts and painting which are brought from eBay, institutions such as Tandanya in Adelaide and personnel (Tandanya 2013). Moreover, we will provide aboriginal culture and its history on the website. The resources of those will be picked up from variety of institutions, communities and government’s website. For the first three years, we will focus on the business on the website. Therefore, customers and visitors can experience aboriginal culture on our website 24 hours, seven days a week. When our business is stable, we will expand our services and establish a physical store in Alice Spring. The mission of our company is to become the best platform which spreads aboriginal information and provides products. 1.1. Market Niche In the recent market in Australian, indigenous arts occupy a small part. In the recent years, the sale of aboriginal art is $8m every year, which is equivalent to sale 11 years ago (Rothwell 2013). One reason is that people has few opportunities to engage the aboriginal culture. Moreover, few places have aboriginal arts. Most of arts are sold in the regional institutions and cultural centre, and are offered on few numbers of website. The mission of our company is to be the best platform to provide aboriginal culture and arts. Therefore, we will spread indigenous culture firstly through our website so that more people are familiar with their culture. Moreover, we will offer a variety of products on the website such as gifts and painting. The range of price is from about $50 to thousands of dollars. After getting information of the product, customers could purchase the arts what they are interested in. There are two characteristics of our products. Firstly, we are not only sell aboriginal arts, but share the information and background of each art. Therefore, customers could understand the meaning of it. Secondly, as we stock artwork from institution and artists, the price could be lower than other stores. Therefore, our products have high quality with a lower price. 1.2. Social responsibility of our business There are two main social responsibility of our business: spreading the culture and facilitating the economy. As we share aboriginal culture on our website, more people will familiar with its culture. Therefore, our first social responsibility is to spread aboriginal culture. For example, we will share information about meaning of painting, dancing and their music instead of merely selling products. Culture is a part of fortune for a country. Therefore, it is necessary to prevent it from disappearing. Additionally, we will help some communities and extract $1 from our sales every $100. As we stock some artefacts from communities, it will increase the sales of them. Moreover, we will donate for the community to help it spread aboriginal culture. As a result, it probable creates more job opportunities for aboriginal as more people are interested in its culture. 2. Our service and product Our company will provide a series of services and products on the website. For the aspect of service, we will divide into three stages. In the first stage, we will share information about aboriginal culture and artwork. The profile of artists and their painting also is offered. In this stage, we will focus on spreading the culture of aboriginal. In the next stage, when our business is stable, we will expand our service to day tour that visits physical museum and institution. For example, in South Australia, we will have a day tour to Tandanya to watch a show and have a workshop in Brambuk in Victoria. In our final stage of service, we will offer an opportunity to experience ancient Aboriginal rock art paintings, music, dance and storytelling in Northern Territory (Cultural Tour, 2013). In order to achieve it, we need find more partners with us to organize the planning of travel. For the aspect of our product, we will focus on selling them on our website in the first three years. In the meantime, we will establish a small physical store in Alice Spring. We will offer several products such as artefacts, artwork, crafts, glass and didgeridoos. Every product will attach profile of artist. As we purchase some artefacts and paintings from artists, there will be some unique artworks on our website. Therefore, it is a good choice for gifts to your friends, and good collections for collectors. Moreover, we also have some books about aboriginal culture that will be sold on our website. 3. Market Analysis In recent years, the consumptions of aboriginal culture products (arts, paintings, craft and so on) are decreasing in both Australia domestic and international markets. However, it does not mean that the value of have dropped a bit. ABC Company aims to expand the market size of the indigenous products in Australia markets and international markets by selling indigenous tourism products; in the meantime, increasing the value of indigenous tourism products by spreading the Australia aboriginal culture information online. The Company will market to four primary customers: 1. Tourists. 2. Amateur artists and crafters, including collectors and hobbyists. 3. Professional artists. 4. Businesses, such as architects, graphic designers, or direct mail advertisers. In the meantime, customers who are interested in aboriginal culture are also our potential customers. 3.1. Target market segment strategy 1. Tourists. In general, tourists normally visit the physical stores near the attractions. However, tourists’ purchase amounts are limited to size, material, and there are strict regulations of overseas travelling. Therefore, it is necessary to have partnership between travel agencies and light companies, by sending advertisement via email to the tourists. Then tourists can order indigenous tourism products from overseas or even order the products while they are in Australia before their returns. 2. Amateur artists and crafters, including collectors and hobbyists. In general, most part of this segment will be targeted in low and mid-price level of our products compare with the profession artists. However, we will also consider some customers from this segment are eager to purchase the high-price level products. 3. Professional artists. Considering professional artists not only need to purchase the products, but also need to get regular customer service. Our business will try to set up connections between professional artists and indigenous tourism products services. For the business, such as architects, graphic designers, interior designers, or direct mail advertisers, we will provide large amount order discount for the business oriented purchases or group-buying. 3.2. Service business analysis Our company is an online business store sells indigenous tourism products from Australia to worldwide. Currently customers can buy indigenous products from the stores which are located around the famous attraction sights. However, due to the strict regulations of overseas travelling, some indigenous tourism products are restricted by the materials, amount, and size. Therefore, some customers prefer to order indigenous tourism products online. Our products include: artworks, Didgeridoos, paintings, dolls, books, clothes, and some special order products, etc. 3.2.1. Competitions Besides the traditional attraction sights stores, there are two main competitors in Australia, Alperstein Designs and Spirit Gallery. Alperstein Designs entered the marketplace in 1996 and open online in 2013 (Alperstein Designs, 2013), it is Australia owned business. Alperstein Designs manufactures and designs products for gifts and indigenous tourism industries. Alperstein Designs has its own creative team, and works with Australia artists and designers in order to produce unique products. The products are manufactured in Australia and Asia. Alperstein Designs provides wholesale service nationally and internationally, it also has private label service for the customers who have exclusive desires. Spirit Gallery is located in The Rocks Centre. It was established in 2002 as a small Aboriginal art & crafts store in the heart of historic Rocks area of Sydney Australia (Spirit Gallery 2013). The products include: aboriginal arts, carvings, boomerangs ceramics, glassware basket weaving, bark paintings, and didgeridoos. Spirit Gallery also presents exhibitions for local aboriginal artists. 4. Business Strategy Summary 4.1. Competitive edge Instead of merely selling indigenous tourism products, ABC Company aims to spread Australia aboriginal culture and history. This point is different our business from many of our competitors. ABC Company’s target markets are not only large consumers, but also have different price levels from low to high, in order to fulfil all kinds of the customers’ requirements. 4.2. Marketing strategy Our marketing strategy will focus on customer loyalty, partnership, and online promotion. ABC Company will make partnership between aboriginal institutions and communities, travel agencies and flight companies. For the institutions and communities, we could provide teaching instruments for educational needs in order to achieve the promotional goals and special discounts for students and teachers via email. In the meantime, we can get potential customers and aboriginal culture and history information from them. By working partnership with tourism agents, our business can attract customers by sending emails. Moreover, we could also provide discount deals to the customers who used partner travel agencies and flight companies. Our online promotion will rely on social networks such as, Facebook page, Twitter page, and Aboriginal culture and history videos on YouTube. Our company also have the search engine support from Google. All our promotion plans are based on the Internet, since we are an online store. 4.3. Sales strategy The purpose of our company is to provide the friendliest online shopping experiences for our customers. First, we design and refine our website to make sure it is user friendly. Second, provide secure online payment by using Paypal. Third, provide fast and accurate delivery by working with TNT, UPS, and FedEx. Fourth, we provide the best return/exchange policy to build trust with our customers and maintain retention and loyalty. Most importantly, we will also help some aboriginal communities and extract $1 from our sales every $100. 4.3.1. Sales forecast The following table and chart highlight forecasted sales. 5. SWOT and Competitor Analysis 5.1. SWOT Analysis Strength Our company provides not only a variety of aboriginal products but also offers the services of aboriginal culture. Besides, the social responsibilities which improve the traditional culture play a key role in the objective of our company. Comparing with other aboriginal products suppliers, we do not rely on the big production of manufactory chain. Instead, we stock artwork from our local institution and artists. In the meantime, the price could be lower than other similar stores. All in all, the most strength in our company is the unique and special quality with a lower price. Weakness The weakness of our company is the volume production in the short term. Since our suppliers are the aboriginal people from the local community and institution. It is difficult to replenish our stock as we required. Moreover, the professional knowledge of aboriginal culture and communication to the people is another challenge for us. Opportunity The aboriginal art has become more and more significant in Australia’s tourist trade. People from all over the world begin to focus on the traditional culture when they travel to Australia. Although there are many stores especially in tourist attractions, the lack of aboriginal culture information has confused the customers and they cannot understand the reason they buy this work of art. It is an opportunity for us to bring the aboriginal culture to the Internet from physical world. Threat There are amounts of aboriginal culture shops today and the aboriginal show that will attract more customers and tourists. However, our business cannot show the real perform to our potential customers. There are two main competitors for our company: Alperstein Designs and Spirit Gallery. 5.2. Competitor Analysis Our Company vs. Alperstein Designs For Alperstein Design, there are several advantages compared with our company. First, it has its own creative team; therefore, it could have its unique products. Moreover, it provides private label service for customers who wants exclusive products. Therefore, Alperstein pay more attention on different kinds of high quality products. For our company, even though we do not have creative team, we provide a variety of services and products which are collected from different institutions and personnel. Overall, the price of our products will lower than Alperstein and we provide information of aboriginal culture as well. Our Company vs. Spirit Gallery For Spirit Gallery, it is a brick-click company which means both physical and online business are operating. Moreover, it will provide detailed information about Didgeridoo. Spirit Gallery also presents exhibitions for local aboriginal artists. Though we do not have a gallery for business, we provide particular aboriginal information not only focusing on Didgeridoo, but different kinds of artists and culture. Therefore, compared with Spirit Gallery, our company pay more attention on spreading information on the website. As a result, our business is more convenient for customers searching information and products. 6. Financial Plan 1. Sales growth will be conservative in first 12 month as it takes time for us to advertise and make our products well known by potential customers. It is estimated that the sales increase in a 33% phase from second year of business operation. 2. Marketing costs will remain the 10% of total sales. 3. We may consider company expansion if projected sales met or exceeded our target. 4. There would be a physical store in Alice Spring after three years in order to attract more tourists and present our arts work in more comfortable ways. 6.1. Important Assumptions 1. All the assumption is based on the fact that the investment of this business is from founders’ savings. 2. Assume the overall economy of the world especially tourism marketing is stable so that economic situation would not affect business operation dramatically. 6.2. Projected Profit and Loss Several important assumptions are made to calculate the projected profit and loss: 1. Sales are estimated in a conservative basis, while expenses are estimated above average to maximum values. 2. First years sale will be relatively low as it will take time to be well known by potential customers in order to reach the optimal sales target. With the consideration of first year operation, the sale of business is conservatively assumed at $102,000 in year 1 following by $128,000 and $170,240 in second and third year with gross margin ratio at 59.90%, 60.80% and 57.98% respectively. The net profit for each year stays at $20,596.36, $26,788.61 and $37,678.14 while the net profit to sales ratios are 20.19%, 20.93% and 22.13% accordingly. The further detail information can be referred to Appendix 1-1. 6.3. Projected Cash Flow In terms of the cash flow statement, the sales are main sources of cash inflow, and it increases in the same pace with business expansion. It is based on the assumption that there is no issue on collecting cash from sales. On the other hand, most cash spending is due to paying to aboriginal artists, sponsor contribution to aboriginal communities and utility bills. As showing on Appendix 1-2, the net cash inflows for first three years are at $17,351, $14,222 and $11,426 respectively. 6.4. Projected Balance Sheet Referring to Appendix 1-3, the net worth is steadily growing in first three years. Though there will be a physical store in Alice Spring to present our products and attract new customers, our business is primarily focusing on online buyers. Therefore, most assets are current ones. Furthermore, profits generated from business operation are determined to be retained for future business risk safeguard and opportunities capture. 6.5. Break-even Point Analysis For the purpose of break-even analysis, several factors are assumed as the fixed costs. It includes marketing costs ($5,000), Depreciation ($2,000), utilities ($2,000), Insurance ($400) and other costs ($120) with a total amount of $9,520. Gross margin of first year at 59.90% is extracted as the benchmark to calculate break-even point. As a result, our business needs to make $15,894 sales to be break-even. 7. Recommendation and Conclusion There are many places need to be improved and modified in the future. Firstly, about 60% of operating cost is the cost of rent; therefore, it will save much money if we can cut this cost. One of the effective and efficient ways is to get a closer supply chain relationship. The optimal situation is called just in time that we can acquire the product when we need it as soon as possible. We do not need a facility and staffs to stock and manage our product consequently. Furthermore, it is necessary to corporate with various partners such as culture institution, travel agent, museum and artists. It is easy to manage and corporate with our partners in the first three years. However, we need more partners when our business is stable such as travel agent. Therefore, the more partners we have, the more benefits we get. Additionally, a user friendly interface will encourage customers staying on our website. In order to achieve this, it is imperative to hire website designer or use tools such as WordPress (WordPress 2013). In conclusion, the mission of our company is to be the best platform spreading aboriginal information and providing products. We will offer a variety of services and products both on the website and physical stores for different customer segmentations. As a result, it will facilitate the economy of aboriginal and social stability. 8. Reference List: Alperstein Designs 2013, Alperstein Designs, viewed on 30th September 2013, http://alpersteindesigns.com.au/. Cultural Tours 2013, Territory Discoveries, viewed on 1st October 2013, http://www.territorydiscoveries.com. Rothwell, N, 2013, ‘Plunging sales crisis for indigenous art’, The Australian, viewed on 29 September 2013, http://www.theaustralian.com.au/. Spirit Gallery 2013, Spirit Gallery, viewed on 30th September 2013, http://www.spiritgallery.com.au/. Tandanya, 2013, ‘National aboriginal cultural institute inc.’, viewed on 29 Sep 2013, http://www.tandanya.com.au/. WordPress 2013, Themes directory, viewed on 1st October 2013, http://wordpress.org/themes/. Appendix Appendix 1-1 Profit and Loss

Boost Juice in Germany

In International Human Resources Assessment 2 – Group Presentation Boost Juice Expatriate Program Challenges in Germany March 23, 2010 Authors: SindooraNiranjan, 110024230 Maggie Sinclair, 110058024 Kai Zhi Lee, 100111728 Ke Yu, 100070856 Harnie Kumaraguru, 110026969 Word count: 1105 (excluding external referencing) Introduction The concept of Boost brand was created in 1998 when the founder, Janine Allis, realized the fashion of the juice bar when on holidays in the United States. She researched the growing demand and found a huge market opportunity for a healthy fast food alternative in Australia. The first boost juice bar was formed in 2000 located in Adelaide (Boost Juice 2011). The company has expanded internationally with 200 stores in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East through the way of Franchising. This report will analyse and discuss various potential human resource issues when considering the deployment of an Expatriate to Germany to support expansion. In particular, the issues faced by the organization within the five arenas of recruitment and selection, training and development, cross-culture, performance management, and compensation. 1. 1 Expatriate Recruitment & Selection Involvement of the expatriate’s spouse in any pre-assignment, on-assignment and post-assignment training and support, particularly in language and cultural training (Salas et al. 2006; Shen 2005; Morgan et al. 2004; Scholes 2003; Mendenhall & Stahi 2000, Yavas & Bodur 1999) is essential. A spouse’s attitude and predisposition can influence the willingness of a dual-career expatriate to accept international assignments. Expatriates are less likely to agree to relocate and/or experience higher failure rates if experiencing these family stresses. (Harvey 1997; Andreason 2008). In order to prevent expatriate failure, Boost must select candidate with high emotional intelligence (EI) and personality characteristics of openness and sociability (Jassawalla, Truglia & Garvey 2004; Caligiuri 2000, Yavas & Bodur 1999). Conducting behavioural interviews will be deemed suitable to determine the EI of candidate (Goleman 2004, Truglia & Garvey 2004). 1. 2 Recruitment and Selection in Germany Another challenge Boost Australia will have in selecting the right expatriate is choosing a candidate that will have the ability to adjust existing recruitment and selection processes to German Culture. Boost shall recruit older, preferably female employees (Thevenon & Horko 2009) or foreign migrants (Royle 1999) instead of usual young and energetic employees (Datamonitor 2008) as German youngsters under age 21 are rarely involved in unskilled employment due to its structured regulation and training culture (Roberts, Clark & Wallace 1994). KSAs (knowledge, skills & ability) but not psychometric tests shall be used in selection process because German may perceive latter as violation of privacy and inaccurate performance predictor (Steiner & Gilliland 1996; Papalexandris & Panayotopoulou 2004). . 1 Training and Development Training and developing expatriates in areas of language skills, cross-cultural training, company policies and general skills related to the host country, before sending them abroad for their placements, would prove to be greatly beneficial for both the expatriates and the organization (McCaughey & Bruning 2005; Mayrhofer & Scullion 2002; Global Relocation Services 2004). It will support cross-cultural adjustment by increasing the awareness of the norms and behaviours appropriate to the host country and provide the skills for the expatriate to operate more effectively in the unfamiliar host culture (Caliguri 2002; McCaughey & Bruning 2005). As well, support the challenge of coping with differences in lifestyle and language barriers while living and working in Germany (Sims & Schraeder 2004; Welch 2003). Additionally, providing them efficient international performance appraisals can induce positive behaviour increasing the growth of productivity in an organization through staff satisfaction and allow it an added competitive advantage in the global business environment (McCaughey & Bruning 2005; Caliguri 2002). On an international scale the organization should have knowledge of the German culture, ? nd efficient partners to aid in customizing a common training effort to speci? c regional and participant differences, and remain globally consistent in terms of course content and criteria for evaluation (Chang 2009). Programme designers should modify communication to accommodate cultural differences and consider trainees’ level of acceptance, conduct a thorough training-needs and audience analysis, and include members from Germany on the design team (Chang 2009; Shen & Brant 2009; Jassawalla, Traglia & Garvey 2004). 3. 1 Cross-Culture issues Attention must be given to the communication styles for Australian expatriates when they are sent to Germany. German employees tend to be stiff and deficient in sense of humour in business situation (McDonald 2000). The more serious a situation, the more seriousness is necessitated. Also, Teamwork in Germany is regarded as a group of individuals working for a specific leader towards a recognizable goal (Dunkel & Meierewert 2004; Murakami, T 2000). Every employee has a well-defined role and to cross line would arouse confusion. Another important point of emphasis is on the business structure. Most of the power in German companies is the charge of few senior managers. The management board is the final decision-maker on policy matters which affect management. Under board level, companies tend to have a strictly hierarchical approach within which individual’s specific role and responsibilities are tightly defined and allocated. When Australian expatriates deal with the issues of German employees, the cross-culture variation should be treated seriously (Templer 2010). Less humour used in the business circumstances could be beneficial for solving issues. Furthermore, for teamwork projects, German employees should be encouraged to set more clearly objectives in order to achieve the best esult. Lastly, incentive policies should be made so that employees can take active measures to serve for Boost Juice in the hierarchy structure. 4. 1 Performance Management Performance Management System (PMS) is a strategic HRM process that enables the MNC to evaluate and continuously improve individual, subsidiary unit and corporate performance against clearly defined, pre-set objectives that are directly linked to international strategy (Halachmi 2005 ) (Agunis 2009). Hence Performance management is considered as one of the critical function of HRM as it helps in appraising individual’s performance. However, there are certain issues that a company may face when internationalising its operations (Shay and Baack 2004). In case of Boost Company, challenges faced during implementation of PMS can be divided into two categories; 1) Issues faced during implementing PMS programme for its expatriates such as; * Who conducts Performance Management for the expatriate (Shih, Chiang & Kim 2005). Providing timely and regular feedback (Shih, Chiang & Kim 2005). * Issues relating performance criteria (Shih, Chiang & Kim 2005). 2) Issues faced when implementing PMS in its HCN (Germany) * Cultural adaptability (Waal & Counet 2008) (Ferner et al 2001). Analysing the issues faced by Boost, it can be said that International Performance Management system are affected by various host contextual and firm specific factors such as the political, economic, internatio nal strategy, stage of internationalisation etc (Shen 2004). Therefore MNC’s when expanding their operations beyond borders should consider such factors to formulate and implement effective international performance management policies and practices. 5. 1 Compensation Compensation is a powerful tool that can further an organization’s strategic goals and at the same time has a large impact on employees’ attitudes and behaviours. (Festing et al, Dec 2006). It is imperative to both the company’s bottom line and the individuals involved that it is perceived to be done fairly and clearly communicated (Sims & Schraeder, 2005). Boost must determine the right compensation approach that will meet the needs of its financial goals as well as be an incentive to attract and retain best incumbents (Wentland, 2003; Sims & Schraeder 2004; Zingheim & Schuster, 2001; Dwyer, 1999) It must be: * competitive * consistent * cost-effective The Balance sheet approach was selected as best suited for this expatriate program. Knowledge and skill set required are equal to parent company, so it was viewed as most fair and equitable approach to maintain the purchasing power of both their team in Australia and those on international assignments. Sims, Schraeder 2005) It is the best approach to be perceived equally by the expatriate to be adequate and meet their needs of competitiveness and consistent for their expected behaviours. (Suutari,V, & Tornikoski, C 2001) The final confirmation to ensure Compensation is aligned appropriately, reducing potential early expatriate failure is that both parties have a clear understanding to wh at is in and what is out of the package and perception of adequate compensation is equal. Conclusion International Human Resources has progressed rapidly and is penetrating at institutional, national and international levels. Simultaneously multi-national and international companies today are faced with the complexity of cross-cultural issue due to globalization (Pranee 2010). In summary this report clearly demonstrates the importance of human resource management (HRM) to be included at the forefront of any consideration to enter the global arena. Underestimating these key areas reviewed as well as other HR practices will cause concern and risk increased potential failure of any expatriate program. Reference List Aguinis, H 2009, Performance Management, Pearson Education, New Jersey. Andreason, AW 2008, ‘Expatriate adjustment of spouses and expatriate managers: an integrative research review,’ International Journal of Management, vol. 25, no. 2, pp. 382-395. Boost Juice 2011, franchise info, viewed at 20th February 2011, < http://www. boostjuicebars. com> Caliguri, P 2002, ‘Global competence: What is it, and can it be developed through global assignments? ’, Human Resources Planning, vol. 24, no. 3, pp. 27 – 35. Caligiuri, PM 2000, ‘Selecting expatriates for personality characteristics: a moderating effect of personality on the relationship between host national contact and cross-cultural adjustment,’ Management International Review, vol. 40, no. 1, pp. 61-80. Chang, WW 2009, ‘Cross-cultural  adjustment in the multinational  training  program’, Human Resource Development International, vol. 12, no. 5, pp. 561 – 569. Counet, H, Waal, A, A 2008, ‘Lessons learned from performance management systems implementations’, International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, vol. 58, no. 4, pp. 367-390. Datamonitor 2008, Boost Juice bar case study: Marketing smoothie bars as a healthy alternative to coffee shops, Datamonitor, pp. 1-12. Dunkel, A & Meierewert, S 2004, ‘Culture Standards and their impact on teamwork — An empirical analysis of Austrian, German, Hungarian and Spanish culture differences’, Journal for East European Management Studies, vol. 14, no. 3, pp. 147-174. Ferner, Anthony,Quintanilla, Javier, Varul & Matthias Z 2001, ‘Country-of-Origin Effects, Host-Country Effects, and the Management of HR in Multinationals: German Companies in Britain and Spain, Journal of World Business, vol. 36, no. 2, pp. 1-107. Global Relocation Services 2004, Global relocation Trends 2003/2004 Survey Report, viewed 18th February 2011, . Goleman, D 2004, ‘What makes a leader? ’ Harvard Business Review, vol. 82, no. 1, p. 82-91. Halachmi, A 2005, ‘Performance measurement is only one way of managing performance management’, International Jour nal of Productivity and Performance Management, vol. 54, no. 7, pp. 502-516. Harvey, M 1997, ‘Dual-career expatriates: expectations, adjustment and satisfaction with international relocation,’ Journal of International Business Studies, vol. 8, no. 3, pp. 627-658. Jassawalla, A, Truglia, C & Garvey, J 2004, ‘Cross-cultural conflict and expatriate manager adjustment: an exploratory study,’ Management Decision, vol. 42, no. 7/8, pp. 837-849. Mayrhoefer, W& Scullion, H 2002, ‘Female expatriates in international business: empirical evidence from the German clothing industry’, International Journal of Human Resource Management, vol. 13, no. 1, pp. 815 – 836. McCaughey, D &Bruning, NS 2005, ‘Enhancing opportunities for expatriate job satisfaction: HR strategies for foreign assignment success’, Human Resource Planning, vol. 8, no. 4, pp. 21 – 29. McDonald, G 2000, ‘Cross-cultural methodological issues in ethical researc h’, Journal of Business Ethics, vol. 27, no. 3, pp. 89-104. Mendenhall, ME & Stahi, GK 2000, ‘Expatriate training and development: where do we go from here? ’ Human Resource Management, vol. 39, no. 2, pp. 251-265. Morgan, L, Jie, W & Young, ST 2004, ‘Operational factors as determinants of expatriate and repatriate success,’ International Journal of Operation & Production, vol. 24, no. 11/12, pp. 1247-1261. Murakami, T 2000, ‘Trade Union Strategy and Teamwork: The British and German Car Industry’, Labor Studies Journal, vol. 24, pp. 35-52 Paplexandris, N & Panayotopoulou, L 2004, ‘Exploring the mutual interaction of societal culture and human resource management practices: evidence from 19 countries,’ Employee Relations, vol. 26, no. 5, pp. 495-509. Roberts, K, Clark, SC & Wallace, C 1994, ‘Flexibility and individualism: a comparison of transitions into employment in England and Germany,’ Sociology, vol. 28, no. 1, pp. 31-54. Royle, T 1999, ‘Recruiting the acquiescent workforce: a comparative analysis of McDonald’s in Germany and the UK,’ Employee Relations, vol. 21, no. 6, pp. 540-555. Salas, LN, Hess, KP, Paley, M & Riedel, S 2006, ‘Expatriate preparation: a critical analysis of 25 years of cross-cultural training research,’ Human Resource Development Review, vol. 5, no. 3, pp. 355-388. Scholes, S 2003, The expatriate manager in South Korea: cross cultural communication, viewed 2 February 2011, < http://www. international-business-careers. com/international_career_expatriate_resources_2. html>. Shay, JP & Baack, SA 2004, ‘Expatriate assignment, adjustment and effectiveness: An empirical examination of the big picture’, Journal of International Business Studies, vol. 35, no. 2, pp. 216-232. Shen, J 2005, ‘Towards a generic international human resource management (IHRM) model,’ Journal of Organisational Transformation and Social Change, vol. 2, no . 2, p. 83-102. Shen, J & Brant, L 2009, ‘Cross-cultural training on expatriate performance in Australian MNEs’, Human Resource Development International, vol. 12, no. 4, pp. 371 – 386.

Marketing Jugo in Maldives

Marketing Jugo in Maldives

Womens roles in American society

Womens roles in American society have been changing since America was founded, but some of the most profound changes have taken place between the 1950s and present day. The films Mildred Pierce, Pleasantville, and Breakfast at Tiffanys all deal with these changes that women have made. In the 50s, women were supposed to be housewives and werent expected to work outside of the house. Many women were also thought of as property of men in the 50s and had very little individuality because of this. As the years past, women attempted to break this mold and women have changed countless amounts since the 1950s. The women of today and the women of the 50s have many similarities, but the women of the 50s struggled to define women and built todays women from scratch. The early 1950s in America had a strange idea for women, the film Mildred Pierce deals with these ideas. Mildred is a housewife, who wants to become independent and make something of her life. She leaves her husband to pursue a career of her own. Mildred finds that Americans in that time dont have much respect for an independent woman. Mildred has a business idea and gets two men to fund her idea. Her business is very successful, but she is funded, Mildred isnt really independent. The film portrays Mildred this way to show the attitude of Americans in the 1950s. Mildreds business becomes very wealthy, but her investors, who are men, sell her out and she loses everything. The film had a very negative attitude towards women and tries to portray them as nothing but housewives. After Mildreds business is sold, she is bankrupt and isnt sure what to do. Mildreds desire is crushed and she considers returning to her husband and living with Americas role for women! . Mildred Pierce is the beginning of womens changing ro

Facts You Should Know About the Holocaust

Facts You Should Know About the Holocaust The Holocaust is one of the most notorious acts of genocide in modern history. The many atrocities committed by Nazi Germany before and during World War II destroyed millions of lives and permanently altered the face of Europe.   Holocaust Key Terms Holocaust: From the Greek word holokauston, meaning sacrifice by fire. It refers to the Nazi persecution and planned slaughter of the Jewish people and others considered inferior to true Germans.Shoah: A Hebrew word meaning devastation, ruin or waste, also used to refer to the Holocaust.Nazi: German acronym standing for Nationalsozialistishe Deutsche Arbeiterpartei (National Socialist German Workers Party).Final Solution: Nazi term referring to their plan to exterminate the Jewish people.Kristallnacht: Literally Crystal Night or The Night of Broken Glass, refers to the night of November 9-10, 1938 when thousands of synagogues and Jewish-owned homes and businesses in Austria and Germany were attacked.Concentration Camps: Although we use the blanket term Concentration Camps there were actually a number of different types of camps, with different purposes. These included extermination camps, labor camps, prisoner-of-war camps, and transit camps. Introduction to the Holocaust Adolf Hitler, chancellor of Germany, is welcomed by supporters at Nuremberg in 1933. Hulton Archive/Stringer/Getty Images   The Holocaust began in 1933 when Adolf Hitler came to power in Germany and ended in 1945 when the Nazis were defeated by the Allied powers. The term Holocaust is derived from the Greek word holokauston, which means sacrifice by fire. It refers to the Nazi persecution and planned slaughter of the Jewish people and others considered inferior to true Germans. The Hebrew word Shoah, which means devastation, ruin or waste, also refers to this genocide. In addition to Jews, the Nazis targeted the Roma, gays, Jehovahs Witnesses, and the disabled for persecution. Those who resisted the Nazis were sent to forced labor camps or murdered. The word Nazi is a German acronym for Nationalsozialistishe Deutsche Arbeiterpartei (National Socialist German Workers Party). The Nazis sometimes used the term Final Solution to refer to their plan to exterminate the Jewish people, although the origins of this are unclear, according to historians. Death Toll According to the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, up to 17 million people were killed during the Holocaust, but no single document exists recording the total number. Six million of these were Jews- approximately two-thirds of all Jews living in Europe. An estimated 1.1 million children died in the Holocaust. Number of Holocaust Deaths The following statistics are from the U.S. National Holocaust Museum. As more information and records are uncovered, it is likely that these numbers will change. All numbers are approximate.6 million Jews5.7 million Soviet civilians (an additional 1.3 Soviet Jewish civilians are included in the 6 million figure for Jews)3 million Soviet prisoners of war (including about 50,000 Jewish soldiers)1.9 million Polish civilians (non-Jewish)312,000 Serb civiliansUp to 250,000 people with disabilities196,000 to 220,000 Roma1,900 Jehovahs WitnessesAt least 70,000 repeat criminal offenders and asocialsAn undetermined number of German political opponents and activists.Hundreds or thousands of gays and lesbians (might be included in the possibly also 70,000 repeat criminal offenders and asocials number above). The Beginning of the Holocaust On April 1, 1933, the Nazis instigated their first action against German Jews by announcing a boycott of all Jewish-run businesses. The Nuremberg Laws, issued on Sept. 15, 1935, was designed to exclude Jews from public life. The Nuremberg Laws stripped German Jews of their citizenship and prohibited marriages and extramarital sex between Jews and Gentiles. These measures set the legal precedent for anti-Jewish legislation that followed. Nazis issued numerous anti-Jewish laws over the next several years. Jews were banned from public parks, fired from civil service jobs, and forced to register their property. Other laws barred Jewish doctors from treating anyone other than Jewish patients, expelled Jewish children from public schools, and placed severe travel restrictions on Jews. Kristallnacht: The Night of Broken Glass Shattered fronts of Jewish-owned stores in Berlin after Kristallnacht. Bettmann/Getty Images   Overnight on November 9 and 10, 1938, the Nazis incited a pogrom against Jews in Austria and Germany called  Kristallnacht  (Night of Broken Glass, or literally translated from German, Crystal Night). This included the pillaging and burning of synagogues, the breaking of windows of Jewish-owned businesses and the looting of those stores. In the morning, broken glass littered the ground. Many Jews were physically attacked or harassed, and approximately 30,000 were arrested and sent to concentration camps. After World War II started in 1939, the Nazis ordered Jews to wear a yellow Star of David on their clothing so they could be easily recognized and targeted. Gays and lesbians were similarly targeted and forced to wear pink triangles. Jewish Ghettos The Lublin Ghetto in Poland. Bettmann/Getty Images After the beginning of World War II, Nazis began ordering all Jews to live in small, segregated areas of big cities, called ghettos. Jews were forced out of their homes and moved into smaller dwellings, often shared with one or more other families. Some ghettos were initially open, which meant that Jews could leave the area during the daytime but had to be back by a curfew. Later, all ghettos became closed, meaning that Jews were not allowed to leave under any circumstances. Major ghettos were located in the cities of Polish cities of Bialystok, Lodz, and Warsaw. Other ghettos were found in present-day Minsk, Belarus; Riga, Latvia; and Vilna, Lithuania. The largest ghetto was in Warsaw. At its peak in March 1941, some 445,000 were crammed into an area just 1.3 square miles in size. Regulating and Liquidating the Ghettos In most ghettos, Nazis ordered the Jews to establish a Judenrat (Jewish council) to administer Nazi demands and to regulate the internal life of the ghetto. The Nazis routinely ordered deportations from the ghettos. In some of the large ghettos, 1,000 people per day were sent by rail to concentration and extermination camps. To get them to cooperate, the Nazis told the Jews they were being transported elsewhere for labor. As the tide of World War II turned against the Nazis, they began a systematic plan to eliminate or liquidate the ghettos they had established, by a combination of mass murder on the spot and transferring the remaining residents to extermination camps. When the Nazis attempted to liquidate the Warsaw Ghetto on April 13, 1943, the remaining Jews fought back in what has become known as the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising. The Jewish resistance fighters held out against the entire Nazi regime for 28 days, longer than many European countries had been able to withstand Nazi conquest. Concentration Camps Although many people refer to all Nazi camps as concentration camps, there were actually a number of different kinds of camps, including concentration camps, extermination camps, labor camps, prisoner-of-war camps, and transit camps. One of the first concentration camps was in Dachau, in southern Germany. It opened on March 20, 1933. From 1933 until 1938, most of the people held in concentration camps were political prisoners and people the Nazis labeled as asocial. These included the disabled, the homeless, and the mentally ill. After Kristallnacht in 1938, the persecution of Jews became more organized. This led to the exponential increase in the number of Jews sent to concentration camps. Life within Nazi concentration camps was horrible. Prisoners were forced to do hard physical labor and given little food. Prisoners slept three or more to a crowded wooden bunk; bedding was unheard of. Torture within the concentration camps was common and deaths were frequent. At a number of concentration camps, Nazi doctors conducted medical experiments on prisoners against their will. Death Camps While concentration camps were meant to work and starve prisoners to death, extermination camps (also known as death camps) were built for the sole purpose of killing large groups of people quickly and efficiently. The Nazis built six extermination camps, all in Poland: Chelmno, Belzec, Sobibor, Treblinka, Auschwitz, and Majdanek. Prisoners transported to these extermination camps were told to undress so they could shower. Rather than a shower, the prisoners were herded into gas chambers and killed. Auschwitz was the largest concentration and extermination camp built. It is estimated that 1.1 million people were killed at Auschwitz.

Andy's Recipe in Leadership Theory and Practice Case Study

Andy's Recipe in Leadership Theory and Practice - Case Study Example This fact shows that Andy has an excellent relation with his customers. An ability to relate well with customers is indeed a proven factor that contributes to success in business; this point is supported by Boynlon and Zmud in their article â€Å"An Assessment of Critical Success Factors†. In this article, Boynlon and Zmud argue that without skills in relating with customers well, one cannot expect substantial success in business. Thirdly, Andy’s restaurant business is successful because of Andy’s competent leadership skills. One of Andy’s main leadership qualities is his ability to deal with his employees (managers), despite their various weaknesses. All the three managers of his restaurant business, i.e. Kelly, Danielle, and Patrick, have weaknesses that affect their performance in the business, but, despite these weaknesses, Andy is able to deal with them and to coach and to teach them to be better leaders. Andy’s strategy of management is that f ocusing on the strength, rather than the weaknesses of his employees. Focusing on the strengths, rather, than the weaknesses of employees in business management is actually one of the best management models and it helps to prevent crisis between the managers and their employees (Daniel &Ronald, 1961). In the case study that we have read, we learn that helping people to become the best that they can is the goal of Andy for his restaurant employees. Andy’s focus and commitment on improving the leadership skills of his employees, therefore, is one of the main reasons behind Andy’s successful restaurant business. Lastly, Andy’s restaurant business is successful because of honesty and good ethics in business. In the case study that we have read, we learn that Andy does not engage in any unethical practice like raising the prices of his items unfairly, with a view of raising the profits of the business. Andy says in the case study that you succeed in business by being what you should be.

Kandase Week 1 Business Work 1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Kandase Week 1 Business Work 1 - Essay Example A disadvantage of living in a capitalism society is that there is greater inequality of wealth in such a society. Jean-Paul is proud of living in Belgium which operates under socialism. In such an economy everyone contributes to the wealth being of the whole. The Belgium government has done a much better job than the United States of using the governmental resources in order to provide benefits for the people. The United States wastes billions of dollars each year to support the military instead of using that money to help the poor Americans in its territory. Belgium does not waste money on excessive military spending, instead the taxes people are charged are used for social causes. A con of living under socialism is that it is harder to accumulate wealth or become rich in this society. Overall the economy of Belgium has done a good job at generating resources for its people evidenced by its high gross domestic product per capita of $38,200 (Culturegrams,

Domestic materials compactor Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Domestic materials compactor - Research Paper Example The capacity is however designed to meet the requirements it is meant to work. Normally, a kitchen would not have as much as 60 cans unless on special occasions. The capacity is actually sufficient to its intended purpose. However, the provision which allows the pod to slide in and out makes increasing capacity where there is need to do so. It would simply require a larger pod probably protruding externally or downwards to increase its height. The need for a cleaner and environmentally friendly way of waste disposal is a necessity in the modern homes where space is an issue of concern (GliÃ… ¡ović and Ã… ½arko 5). There are several areas of client needs that are sufficiently addresses by the manufacturing system, including, hygiene, space, and aesthetic quality. The system ensures that waste disposal is done is a hygienically friendly way rather than have wastes loitering here and there. By compressing the cans, lesser space is required to dispose a higher volume of wastes and as such disposal space is saved. Additionally, the system allows items to be separated in an environmentally friendly way in readiness for disposal. In terms of aesthetic quality, one needs not ask much. Other than the carefully designed shape, the system is built of stainless steel and plastic which are well brushed ensuring it looks amazing great when placed in the kitchen. The pods as well as made to have a great aesthetic finish and would fit the kitchen just like other good looking appliances would. Another aspect of manufacturing sufficiently addressed by this product is convertibility and quality (Gupta 221). With regard to quality, the product is outstanding. The materials used are relevant; it looks good and completes its functions effectively. Additionally, considering its multiple fit-in parts and compartments, the product can be converted as the user deems appropriate let alone mention that it can be modified to perform other functions such as storage. It is

History resoponse Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

History resoponse - Essay Example Most people believed the idea that humans were capable of destroying themselves. This war as referred by some people was indeed a great war. It affected all the nations of the world, from Europe to Africa. Today its effects are still felt. It was mainly among Britain, Austria, United States, Germany, Russia and France. These nations mobilized masses in other countries to fight against their enemies. There was political reformation in the whole world. The war is believed to have been greatly fueled by religious differences. Most of the political reformation was on religious grounds. Serbia matched with Russia as they shared the same doctrines, Croatia joined forces with Austria. Bosnia supported the Ottoman Empire. The war was catalyzed when Germany declared its support for Austria against the Serbs. This angered Russia and awakened British and French. Treaties were formed and the result was Europe being divided into two blocs. France Britain and Russia came to fight against Germany, Italy and Austria. Diplomacy disappeared and it was all about war. The impact of the war was soon to leave a mark in history. The use of chemical weapons adversely affected the human race. Bombs and poisonous gases killed millions of people and the few who survived developed permanent health problems, both physical and mental. Families were shattered and weeping became the norm in the entire world since all nations were affected and its people were being killed. Some of the bombs had far reaching catastrophes as they affected future generations. Children would be born with various defects. The atomic gases affected lifespan of the human race. Those who had greatly inhaled the gases died at an early age. Freedom of speech and expression was lost. Soldiers could not freely give their opinions on various matters especially those that pertained to war. Civil societies lost their voice and they could demonstrate leave alone striking. This resulted to people living in fear

Interview Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Interview - Article Example The City of Newark has explicitly outlined the mayor’s thrust and vision, to wit: â€Å"Elected with a clear mandate for change, Mayor Booker has begun work on realizing a bold vision for the city. Newark’s mission is to set a national standard for urban transformation by marshalling its resources to achieve security, economic abundance and an environment that is nurturing and empowering for individuals and families† (City of Newark: About Mayor Booker, n.d., par. 2) When Smith asked what he thinks is the major societal problems the state is currently facing today, Mayor Booker quickly averred: â€Å"The root cause of all problems is poverty and this should be the main focus of all development programs.† Smith immediately quipped: â€Å"Sir, you have mentioned that poverty is the major problem of the community, how do you define poverty and what specific measuring tool helped you gauge the level of poverty within your jurisdiction?† Mayor Booker, re flecting on the inquiry, answered, â€Å"I had read a book during my theoretical interest and evaluation of community problems. That book written by Goldsmith, entitled Separate Societies that enlightened my awareness on the H’s in categorizing poverty: health, hunger, and homelessness.

History resoponse Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

History resoponse - Essay Example Most people believed the idea that humans were capable of destroying themselves. This war as referred by some people was indeed a great war. It affected all the nations of the world, from Europe to Africa. Today its effects are still felt. It was mainly among Britain, Austria, United States, Germany, Russia and France. These nations mobilized masses in other countries to fight against their enemies. There was political reformation in the whole world. The war is believed to have been greatly fueled by religious differences. Most of the political reformation was on religious grounds. Serbia matched with Russia as they shared the same doctrines, Croatia joined forces with Austria. Bosnia supported the Ottoman Empire. The war was catalyzed when Germany declared its support for Austria against the Serbs. This angered Russia and awakened British and French. Treaties were formed and the result was Europe being divided into two blocs. France Britain and Russia came to fight against Germany, Italy and Austria. Diplomacy disappeared and it was all about war. The impact of the war was soon to leave a mark in history. The use of chemical weapons adversely affected the human race. Bombs and poisonous gases killed millions of people and the few who survived developed permanent health problems, both physical and mental. Families were shattered and weeping became the norm in the entire world since all nations were affected and its people were being killed. Some of the bombs had far reaching catastrophes as they affected future generations. Children would be born with various defects. The atomic gases affected lifespan of the human race. Those who had greatly inhaled the gases died at an early age. Freedom of speech and expression was lost. Soldiers could not freely give their opinions on various matters especially those that pertained to war. Civil societies lost their voice and they could demonstrate leave alone striking. This resulted to people living in fear

30 Year Plan of the Greater Adelaide Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

30 Year Plan of the Greater Adelaide - Essay Example Its key function includes the provision of dynamic target expressions of the region and particular advice with regards to lands that should be allocated as employment lands. The 30-year plan of Greater Adelaide provides directions and policies of land use, which will be incorporated into structure plans, including those of local Development. It provides population growth, employment and housing targets that are specific to each region. Environmental protection is also among the main functions of the 30-year plan for Greater Adelaide by ensuring sufficient plans for protection of the environment. Priorities of the use of land for employment and housing alongside infrastructure and long-term transport plans are set aside. Importantly, the well-developed transport network of the Greater Adelaide owes its success to the towns planning where the bus and train services are balanced and operated by contracting transit companies for effectiveness (Cervero, 1998, p 363). Plans for essential s ervices such as water, health, electricity, and education are also set aside while activities of labor markets, industries, and lands are planned for economic growth. The 30-year plan is generally inclusive of the state competitiveness and productive capacity with regards to the mineral resources and primary productions of the Greater Adelaide. In general terms, the 30 year plan of the greater Adelaide is a blueprint for solving environmental and economic issues that are being faced by the region. Public opinions and views are being.

POLC in the School System Essay Example for Free

POLC in the School System Essay Just like any other organization, a school system would not be able to function properly without an efficient administrator and an effective administration process. In the case of school systems, the administrator would be the superintendent of the school. As the administrator, the superintendent serves as both the leader and the manager of the school. In order to be a successful and efficient administrator, the superintendent should focus on four areas– planning, organizing, leading, and controlling. In the case of planning, the administrator should be able to pinpoint appropriate goals for the whole school system. The goal usually carries prospects for progress, equality, and harmony. As part of the planning process, the administrator should also be able to identify the best courses of action in fulfilling the chosen goals. Such goals should be evaluated at a regular basis so as to assess if they are ion line with the demands of time. After planning the goals and the ways towards its achievement, the administrator should be able to put those plans into action. Organizing is as important as the plan itself. As such, the new administrator should be able to formulate task and authority relations. He should be able to establish an organizational set-up that will allow the school system to efficiently and quickly make the vision, a reality, if he/she may deem the present set-up is inappropriate. As the leader of the school, the new administrator should also be able to influence people- from the students to the teachers, and even the other sectors involved in establishing an effective educational system such as the community, the parents, governmental agencies, and many more. He or she should be able to motivate and unite them, and provide them with a common goal for the educational welfare of the students and for the encouragement of harmony and efficiency of learning and teaching processes. He or she should be able to encourage everyone to work towards a common goal, which is usually the mission and vision of the school. Lastly, after ensuring the plans, the set-up and the people are all set for action; the administrator should be able to control the organization. Control should not be equated with stringent and numerous laws and regulations matched with various sanctions. Instead, it should be associated with the establishment of precise evaluation processes that will allow the administrator to measure and monitor the organization’s development at regular basis overtime, in accordance with the established goals. References: Brennen, Annick M. (n.d.) The Administration of Elementary Schools. Retrieved January 29, 2008 from http://www.soencouragement.org/admin-of-elementary-schools.htm The Management Process Today (n.d.) Retrieved January 29, 2008 from http://highered.mcgraw-hill.com/sites/dl/free/0073011223/317076/samplechapter.pdf

Critical Reflection Of Communication Personal Development Essay

Critical Reflection Of Communication Personal Development Essay In 2006, a patient named Robin became pregnant. In the 5th month of pregnancy, the patient began having trouble with diarrhoea and then developed a severe infection in her upper respiratory system. Robins obstetrician immediately hospitalized her and within 24, hours, Robin had a temperature of 105 degrees and was in preterm labour. Just before Christmas, Robin was diagnosed with Acute Viral Pneumonia. After getting permission from the doctor to go home for Christmas, Robin was back at the hospital 15 days later because she was in preterm labour yet again. It was then that Robin was introduced to a gastroenterologist who diagnosed her with Crohns Disease. Robin was immediately put on medications to try to save her and her unborn childs lives. On 3rd February, Robins contractions were five minutes apart but her due date was the 17th of March. Robin came to the hospital and within one hour, I performed an ultrasound on Robin, only to let her know that her unborn baby boy was no longer alive. After the funeral of her son, Robin was diagnosed with Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) in her inner thigh. Reflection: Interpersonal communication skills Listening is an active and basic process that involves not only taking the content of the person speaking by looking at their body language and listening to their words, but also being perceptive. Good listening skills are shown by attending behaviour that is practiced by establishing eye contact, maintain a relaxed posture and sending appropriate messages to the patient through gestures. Attending behaviour works well in that it encourages the patient to verbalise their feelings and ideas freely. During listening, the nurse paraphrases the words of the patient in fewer words so as to make sure that the nurse understood what the patient wants. Paraphrasing is an important part of listening because it exposes and clarifies any mixed or double messages sent when the patient fails to make a direct statement. The third part of listening is clarifying. Clarifying goes beyond paraphrasing with an intention of bringing vague material into sharper focus. Perception checking is an effective p art of ensuring accuracy of a communication because it is a method of giving and receiving feedback from the patient. When helping Robin, I can say that I had effective listening skills. I made a point of listening to what Robin told me and I made sure that when she was talking, I made her feel comfortable and showed that I was interested in what she was saying. Leading is a communication skill that encourages the patient to respond in an open communication so as to invite verbal expression. The helper slightly anticipates what the patient is thinking and where those thoughts are headed. In anticipating these thoughts, the nurse leads the patient so as to stimulate the communication. Leading encourages the patient to retain primary responsibility for the direction of the communication and helps them to be active in the process. Leading also encourages the patient to explore and elaborate on their feelings. One of the tools used in leading is using open questions that can be answered by more than just a yes or a no. Choosing appropriate questions lead to clarification for the patient. Another tool used in leading is by being indirect when leading the patient. Indirect leading keeps the responsibility of keeping the communication going on the patient. Indirect leading allows the patient to control the direction of the communication and protect their ideas. Direct leading on the other hand specifies a topic and the nurse uses suggestions to direct the patient. Direct leading is important in elaborating, clarifying and illustrating what the patient has been saying. In the case of a patient who has multiple problems or is vague, focussing is an important aspect that should be used in leading the communication. Focussing is a way that emphasizes on a certain idea or feeling and helps the patient get in touch with their feelings. I did not use leading skills when communicating with Robin and this is a skill I should in the future. I will enhance my abilities in leading skills by using open questions that will encourage the patients to share their ideas and feelings freely. Reflecting feelings, experience and content of the patient expresses that the nurse understands and wants to perceive the world as the patient does. Reflecting the patients feelings brings those feelings into clear awareness from the vague expressions that they were. Helping the patients to own their feelings is done by identifying both the obvious and subtle feelings that are hidden behind words. In reflecting experience, the nurse broadly observes the patients verbalised feelings and their nonverbal feelings. Like paraphrasing, reflecting content involved repeating the essential ideas of the patient in fewer and fresher words. When the patient is having difficulty in expressing an idea, reflecting content helps the nurse to clarify those ideas. During communication, reflecting helps the patient to recognise and express their feelings effectively. In communicating with Robin, I sounded monotonous and insincere when I began my reflection with saying, It seems you were very upset even after yelling for everyone to get out. In saying this I also said words that that Robin was unprepared for because they had too much depth of feeling. In future communication with patients, I should not read more interpretations into the statement than was intended, and I should use less monotonous words that sound sincere. Confronting the patients is intended to help them recognize what is going on or what the nurse infers is going on. A patient may feel threatened and anxious at first when they are confronted. However, the patient is also grateful for the honesty albeit direct expression that shows that the nurse cares. Confronting the patient presents feedback that is difficult to hear, and as such, the nurse should poses good timing to ensure that the patient is ready for honest feedback. Sometimes I find it hard to confront patients. In Robins case, I was finding it hard to understand and deal with her. I know that confronting the patient is one of the crucial skills that I must poses. I must recognize my feelings as the nurse and share those feelings with the patient. I must be able to involve myself in self-reflection as a form of confrontation. I believe that by practicing, training and observing others, I can develop my confronting skills. Using interpretation helps the patient to see their problems in new ways. Unlike paraphrasing where the patients frame of reference is maintained, in interpreting, the nurse offers the patient a new frame of reference. The nurse adds his or her own meaning to the patients basic meaning. When the nurse adds on to the basic message from the patient, and the patient understands the new idea, then communication is accelerated. Interpreting is useful in helping the patient get a broader perception their feelings. Interpretation is a communication skill that I used with Robin. While talking to Robin, she mentioned that she felt that the nurses around her were angels who lit her fire up in a time when she needed much encouragement. I told Robin that the way I saw it, she could join also become a nurse. Due to the Crohns disease, Robin could only live a stress-free life. However, after living the hospital, the first thing that Robin did was to go to Upper Valley Joint Vocational School where she applied for pre-requisite classes in the Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) program. Robin graduated in November 2009 and has been working in the nursing profession since then. The most important thing that a nurse can do for the patient is sharing simple facts. Informing is a communication skill that is integrated with giving advice. Under some circumstances, where advice giving does not foster dependency and is not arrogant, giving advice can be helpful to the patient. Communication through informing gives the patient a recommended course of action that the nurse has experience with. Through giving suggestions, the patient can decide the course of action that he or she will take. Crisis situations where the patient has to adjust to a readjustment in life are an appropriate situation for giving the patient advice. In Robins case, after she had a stillbirth, I advised her to take her time with her son, Benjamin. I encouraged Robin to spend as much time as she wanted holding the five pound fifteen ounce baby boy. As much as Robin did not want to, I took pictures of robin and Benjamin for the memory album. I knew that that was the best albeit hardest thing ro bin had ever done. Summarising skills involve paying attention to what, how, why, when and the effect of what the patient said. After communicating with a patient, the nurse should try to gather all the ideas and feeling expressed in one statement. Summarising is important in that it gives the patient awareness of progress in exploring ides and feelings, problem solving and learning. In summarising, the communication ends in a natural note that clears a way for new ideas and clarifies scattered ideas. Patients also gain confidence in that the nurse was attentive to them throughout the conversation. The nurse can use summarising as a means to check the accuracy of the ideas and feelings that were communicated by the patient. When communicating with Robin, I did not use summarising skills. In future communications, I should use the ideas from the patients to make a summary of the statements made. Instead of making the summary myself, I could ask the patient to summarize the themes, agreements and plans m ade during the communication. Enablers and impediments to interpersonal communication While communicating with Robin, the physical environment did not pose as an obstacle. However, my discomfort as a nurse was an obstacle when communicating with Robin. This discomfort originated from death and dying in general. I dealt with this discomfort by thinking that it was not my responsibility to communicate with Robin about hospice care and prognosis. My desire to maintain positive thoughts in Robin and her parents was also an obstacle. I would put off discussions about Robins possibility of a stillbirth until I felt that Robin and her parents could handle that conversation. In the future, I will initiate communication on prognosis and hospice care without thinking it is too much trouble. I will also control fear that emerges after telling the patient bad news. The patient can also be an obstacle to effective communication when he or she is unwilling to accept prognosis or hospice care. This unwillingness that was evident in Robins case is ascribed to her non-acceptance of he r sons death and her diagnosis with Crohns disease. In helping with Robins acceptance, I encouraged her by letting her know that I would be there to help her and listened to her. Because this worked well, I will continue being an encouraging factor for future patients. Cultural and social issues did not act as an obstacle while I was communicating with Robin. During Christmas, Robin when home to celebrate the holiday with her family, and when she was admitted back a few days later, I gave Robin a Christmas present that facilitated communication. Conclusion and recommendation Nurses play an important role in communicating with patients because they are always in close contact. A nurse-patient relationship is improved by communication and as such, having effective communication skills is an important factor and a priority for every nurse. I must develop my skills further in leading, confronting and summarising by participating in training activities. By participating in learning activities, I can develop strategies and acquire new skills as well as effectively employ those skills. Another strategy I will use is practicing key skills with actors and simulated patients because I will be able to control the nature and complexity of the task. Lastly, I must use the communication skills acquired in practice.

Doing Business in China :: GCSE Business Marketing Coursework

Doing Business in China How to do Business in China Overview: China remains an untapped market with great growth potential for companies seeking to do business in there. Be aware that the Chinese community is weary of companies entering the country because they believe that most companies are there to make a fast dollar. However, if a western company follows a few simple rules and adheres to some cultural outlines, success in China can be achieved. Culture: Building relationships are crucial in China. Also known as guanxi. It would be helpful to build a few relationships with companies prior to even suggesting that you want to operate in China. A person known to both parties should arrange introductions to a Chinese company. Chinese business people are unlikely to meet with strangers. Westerners will find that production, distribution, and advertising of a product or solution flows easiest once crucial relationships have been built. A large amount of business is conducted at after hour’s entertainment gatherings. Do not hesitate to bring small gifts as mementos of your visit. Learn the language. Although the country has many dialects, Mandarin is the official language of China. Lastly, do not be rigid in your ways. Deals are often delayed in China. Learn to be flexible. Meetings: The first rule of a business meeting in China is to be punctual. If a meeting is set for 8am, then be there at or before 8am. It is customary for the senior member of a group to enter a meeting room first. This member also guides discussion during the meeting. Government: Never underestimate the power of the Chinese government in business. Remember, the communist party is still the biggest company is China. Remember that a network of business executives in China extends not only throughout the corporate world, but also throughout the government bureaucracy. Many Hong Kong entrepreneurs will freely admit that it's important to grease the wheels of government bureaucracy with well-placed gifts and personal relationships with those in power. Proceed with extreme caution when it comes to gifts.

Shiseido in China

Case- Shiseido: Channeling Cosmetics in China 1. Marketing and distribution channels for cosmetics products performed mainly transactional and logistical function. Distribution channels such as the voluntary specialty chain stores perform transactional function when they buy these cosmetic products from the manufacturer and sell them in their individual stores. They share risk with the producer (Shiseido) as they stock merchandises in anticipation for sales.On the other hand, counters at departmental stores and door-to-door selling perform logistical function, whereby they gather, sort and disperse these cosmetic products at these specific counters. For example, some departmental stores may place all the cosmetics counters together on a single level/ specified area in order to serve its customers better. They can also store these products together at a single venue. Door-to-door selling brings the products directly to the consumers.Facilitating function can sometimes be performed in departmental stores as well, where they highlight the bestselling cosmetic brands/products through their own advertisements. Transactional function is generally more important than logistical function, as the former involves the exchange of value (transaction) of products and money, as well as the potential risk the intermediaries are taking up when they chose to sell these products. If the stock the intermediaries purchased is unsold, they suffer the loss and not the producer.Hence, this function involves tangible gains and losses of the intermediaries, which usually tend to value these aspects more. 2. Channel Length Channel Intensity Creation of the Aupres brand which was sold in 350 departmental stores in 2004 shows the approach of intensive distribution Shiseido undertook, Shiseido in China continued on this approach as it attempted to open specialty model stores for its own brands of cosmetic products (some imported from Japan- Shiseido UV White, and some locally produced bran ds such as WHITIA, ASPLIR) in China.This started in March 2004, which expanded to 800 stores by August 2005, and over 5000 stores by end-March in 2011 due to its success. Channel Type There are various channel types adopted by Shiseido in China. Generally, Shiseido in China is specialised and it initially focused on an exclusive group of consumers through the Aupres brand, which targeted top one percent of Chinese population. Additionally, Shiseido started to expand into medium-priced brands (Za, Pure Mild China, UNO, ASPLIR) and lower-priced brand, DQ, in 2010.It has now changed its target group towards the mass Chinese women and seeks to enhance their beauty and health. It generally segmented its range of products to suit the needs of the different consumer groups (looks for different price range of products). Under store retailing, Shiseido focuses on specialty stores through its voluntary specialty chain stores concept and selling its products through counters in departmental st ores. In 2011, Shiseido has plans to commerce in e-commerce initiatives (non-store retailing) to expand existing points of contact with customers.In 2010, Shiseido also launched a website for Chinese Mail-Order market. Factors influencing channel design and strategy †¢Customer Number/Dispersion The wide range of customers’ purchasing power in China results in the dispersion of consumer segments. -> More brands to target different marketing segments. †¢Market Practices/ Availability of Channels Large number of channels available in China – departmental stores and voluntary speciality stores. †¢Market Penetration and Coverage Initially selective (only in departmental stores) for high end products -> Intensive distribution through specialty stores. Service Quality and Response †¢Resources and Profits Improvements to be made to channel design Current channel design: Indirect channels Marketer/ Producer -> Retailers -> Consumers Shiseido can implement ot her channel designs to broaden its availability to consumers -> Implementing the multichannel marketing Shiseido can start a transactional website to increase sales and target a different consumer group from those who buy its products from retail stores. Eg. Males who find it difficult to purchase cosmetics good from retail stores. Promotional website to provide information about Shiseido’s vast range of products will also be helpful in targeting cross-channel shoppers. 3. What retail strategy does Shiseido in China adopt? How is this strategy related to its segmentation, targeting and branding strategies? Shiseido in China adopted a voluntary specialty chain stores concept and departmental stores promotion as well as drugstores recently for its in-store retailing. This uses indirect channels to distribute its products to consumers.This relates to segmentation as departmental stores and specialty chain stores cater to different groups of consumers because of the different bra nds of products they carry. More high-end and exclusive products are available in departmental stores and specialty chain stores. Medium-priced products specially designed for the China consumer market can also be found in these stores. Lower-priced brand such as DQ, can be found in drugstores instead. Evidently, different brands cater to consumer groups with diverse affluence. Shiseido is using multi-branding strategy to reach out to its consumer market.

Adopting Telemedicine in developing countries

ICTs are technologies that have spread widely and are cheaper for use by the general public. Even though information and communication technologies could tackle some of the heath care challenges that face the modern society, the utilization of ICTs is faced by numerous challenges for social as well as historical transformations that are associated with other natural rights.The case is not different in the field of telemedicine. Telemedicine is an example of ICT that has been used in the world for over forty years. Modern telemedicine applications employ high quality image and video in addition to audio capacities.These technologies range form excellent resolution still images to complex teleconferencing apparatus. Recent developments in ICT are encouraging and they include the use of internet, wireless ICT diffusion, and the exchange of medical information electronically in addition to remote consultations.Infrastructure factures that have an effect on the outcomes of telemedicine in clude: the national ICT infrastructure in addition to the governments preparedness, approach, as well as policies towards information and communication technology. Technically sophisticated telemedicine applications are currently employed across a wide range of healthcare settings.This technology allows medical personnel to transmit images through mobile phones and sophisticated wireless devices (Martà ­nez, Villarroel, Seoane, and Pozo 2005, p. 1).3.1.2 E-Health PoliciesVarious shareholders of the telemedicine sector have numerous opportunities to become deeply involved in the development policies that affect the industry. Shareholders of this sector include vendors of information technology, manufacturers of medical devices, health care professionals, decision makers and the government.E-health policies are set in such a way as to improve network capacity, enhance ability of transcending geo-political, social, economic and cultural obstacles.Policies should be set in such a way a s to allow teleconsultation beyond national borders. Patients in addition to medical care professionals should be offered with a chance of seeking evidence based opinion as well as treatment from overseas through teleconsultation (Lee, Mun, Levine and Ro 2000, p. 28).3.3 Capabilities of health sector institutionThe modern health care system has undergone numerous modifications in order to meet the ever increasing heath needs of the population. One of the modifications is the implementation of telecommunication in health care. All modifications in the health care sector are carried out with the patient being the center of focus.Telemedicine and telegraphy are some of the most recent telecommunication strategies that have been incorporated in the health care sector. Currently, digital images of a patient can be sent over a wireless device to a medical personnel and medical consultations carried out over the internet (Tanriverdi and Iacon, 1998, p, 40).3.4 Analysis of Telemedicine case studies in developing countriesThe emergence to telemedicine is associated with the search for communication-oriented solutions to make it easy for rural populations to access medical services. Telemedicine is considered as one of the most appropriate ways through which contemporary medical services can reach the underserved regions (Lee, Mun, Levine, and Ro 2000, p. 16).Reality has however, gone in a different direction. Extensive studies with telemedicine in developing nations have not yet demonstrated the potential of telemedicine. There are a number of factors that need to be implemented in order that telemedicine services in rural areas become sustainable.A highly robust organizational strategy needs to be implemented, a radio based system should be erected and resources utilized properly; remote maintenance systems should be implemented; a high technological base should be established; and all information and communication should be satisfied through simple and synchronous sy stems (Kifle, Salmon, Okoli, and Mbarika 2008, p. 5).Despite the numerous benefits associated with telemedicine, the program has been slow to come into routine use in both rural and urban zones.4. Evaluation of the current situation of Telemedicine in rural and urban zoneTelemedicine holds a great hope for health care and medical centers both in rural areas and urban centers. Rural areas in particular have for long been faced by shortage of medical personnel, scarcity of means of transportation in addition to other access issues such as unfavorable weather conditions.Telemedicine allows for teleconsultation that utilize a variety of technological advancements such as voice over internet, digital images, digital video teleconferencing, in addition to other emergency services (Martà ­nez, Villarroel, Seoane, and Pozo 2005, p. 70).However, there are various issues that affect the implementation of telemedicine in rural areas. These include: poor infrastructure, limited bandwidth avail ability in network systems, and scarcity of internet providers.Telemedicine is not only about the provision of medical care in the rural areas, but it is very beneficial in linking suburban, urban and inner city medical facilities in a network offering intensive medical care services (Richard 2001, p. 3).4.1 Advantages of using Telemedicine technologiesAn increased use of telemedicine would bring about a number of benefits ranging from enhanced medical care, better utilization of health professionals, increased patients compliance, to enhanced delivery of medical care services outside clinics and hospital setting and in rural as well as the underserved regions.Telemedicine allows for frequent monitoring of vital sign information rather than using periodic visit by physicians. It also improves care of the elderly, physically incapacitated as well as the home bound patients, because it reduces hospital visits thereby increasing convenience and compliance for incapacitated patients.As a result it improves general health of the community and population because it reduces exposure to various illnesses from other patients. It also empowers patients in relation to their own health. It is a source of innovative and creative employment in the health care system.It is a significant strategy of tackling likely future scarcity of medical personnel.   It brings down the rate of death, injuries and infections as a result of medical errors due to inaccurate patient information.Presence of telemedicine programs in rural areas enhances care by reducing transportation costs; deploying medical professionals and specialists; and through providing medical care delivery regardless of geographical barriers (Hein 2009, p. 9).4.2 Challenges of adapting TelemedicineThere are numerous challenges to generating dependable evidence concerning the effects of the use of telemedicine. Scrutiny is rarely carried out as a fundamental part of implementation, and as a result resources are not a bsolutely dedicated to evaluation.However, there are times when resources are dedicated to scrutiny after implementation, therefore prospective gathering of baseline data is impossible. Retrospective gathering of medical data is faced by numerous hurdles in terms of appropriate source identification in addition to collection techniques.These issues make difficult the scrutiny of various interventions, even as the actual nature of evaluation of telemedicine presents further difficulties (Brear 2006, p. 24). Besides evaluation, other challenges that face telemedicine, as indicated by Paul, Pearlson and McDaniel (1999, p 281), include: various social, cultural, economic, technical and organizational hurdles that health care systems must deal with before achieving the full benefits of telemedicine.Other factors that derail the implementation of telemedicine in developing countries are: poor telecommunication and electric power infrastructure; domination in addition to high cost of inter net services; lack of government involvement; difficulties in sustaining implementation of telemedicine; substandard organizational strategies; and user discontent   with low band-width as well as delayed response.Patients, medical professionals and decision makers lack essential knowledge on telemedicine services as well as their potential for medical care. Lack of proper funding is the other challenge that faces telemedicine.Despite its recommendation by the world health organization telemedicine is yet to be realized as a technical service in many national ministries of health (Kifle, Salmon, Okoli, and Mbarika n.d, p. 3).5. ConclusionsIt can therefore be concluded that telemedicine is one of the most significant modern medical strategies that can be employed in tackling the numerous health care challenges that face populations living in both urban and rural areas.   Various benefits of telemedicine include: improvement of patient care, reduction of patient transfers to terti ary health centers and providing physicians a good access to tertiary consultation.Telemedicine improves the general health of the community because it reduces expose to various illnesses from other patients through reduction of hospital visits. There are however, various challenges that are associated with implementation of telemedicine and these include: evaluation challenges, poor telecommunication, misinterpretation of information, and lack of awareness and commitment by the government and decision makers.Telemedicine is faced by various issues including information technology policies, E-Health policies, and data security policies. Even though there are numerous benefits associated with telemedicine, the program has been slow to come into routine practice both in rural and urban zones. Bibliography:Brear, M. 2006, Evaluating telemedicine: lessons and challenges, Health InformationManagement Journal, Vol 35, no. 2, pp. 24Hein, M. 2009, Telemedicine: An important force in the tra nsformation of healthcare,Journal of High Speed Networks, Vol 9, no. 15, pp. 9 –30