INTERNATIONAL TRADE Essay

1. Who benefits from the government policies to (a) promote production of ethanol and (b) place tariff barriers on imports of sugar cane? Who suffers as a result of these policies? ANS: Benefiters in promoting production of ethanol: -Corn producers. They get subsidies from the government and get a free way of marketing from the government. The government promotes consumption of ethanol, ethanol is produced out of corn, so indirect marketing for corn farmers that will get more demand out of policies that promote ethanol. -Ethanol sellers. -People all around the world. As to be seen in the direction of global warming, you can say that using ethanol is better. But using ethanol leads to increasing food prices. So there is a negative and a positive side. -Businesses. If farmers get subsidies from the government they can lower their price. If farmers lower their price, the production to produce ethanol becomes cheaper thus making ethanol cheaper. Businesses that use ethanol will have a cheaper price, reducing costs and increasing profits. -The Government. In a democratic society we are seeing right now that a lot of people go green. When going green the government is trying to let you know that he cares about the world and he wants to make it better. It is a win win situation because there are no people in our opinion that are opposed in going green, but they are a lot of followers and possible followers that support an environmental friendly world. Benefiters in placing tariff barriers on imports of sugar cane: -The Gove rnment. They get all the money out of these tariffs. Sufferers as a result of these policies: -Countries that produce sugar for a living. Profit goes dramatically down when talking about a 25 to 50% import tariff. -Countries that set import tariffs for sugar. Countries that produce sugar can have put import tariffs themselves as protection against the country that has an import tariff on them. And countries that produce sugar can consider other possibilities when exporting their product to another country. They can acknowledge that it is not in their best interest to produce products to a land where import tariffs are so ridiculously high. They can see other possible solutions. 2.  One estimate suggests that if food prices rise by one third, they will reduce living standards in rich countries by about 3 percent, but in very poor ones by about 20 percent. According to the International Food Policy Research Institute, unless policies change, cereal prices will rise by 10 to 20 percent by 2015, and the expansion of bio-fuel production could reduce calorie intake by 2 to 8 perc ent by 2020 in many of the world’s poorest nations. Should rich countries do anything about this potential problem? If so,what? ANS: Rich countries should not give any subsidies to the bio-fuel corn farmers. They should decrease import tariffs so that it can be cheaper for countries that produce sugar (and so they can make bio-fuel out of sugar) thus increasing the amount of sugar that countries can export. They should develop new ideas in how they can attack environmental changes through cost-effective ways. 3. The argument for giving subsidies to ethanol producers rests upon the assumption that ethanol results in lower CO2 emissions than gasoline and therefore benefits the environment. If we accept that global warming is a serious problem in itself, should we not be encouraging government to increase such subsidies? What are the arguments for and against doing so? On balance, what do you think is the best policy? ANS: When the government started to subsidies farmers who grow crops. So they could turn them into bio – fuels ( primarily corn and soy beans ). More farmers where now planting crops, because then they got subsidies from the government. It’s also very good for th e environment. But it also has a negative side. When more farmers where planting crops. There was an dramatic effect on the demand for corn and soy beans. It increased very fast that in 2007 the U.S was responsible for half the global increase for the demand on crops. But when this happened the high tariffs where shutting out producers of the product sugar cane. So they could compete with the other products because the prices were so high. And that’s very unfortunately because sugar cane is an more friendly environment material than crops and soy beans. I think the best policy is to reduce the high tariffs on the other products. Because the sugar cane is even more environment friendly. And isn’t that what it’s all about, reducing the global warming effect. So I think they should drop the high tariffs and introduce the sugar cane.

Hsm/230 Week 9 Checkpoint

Capstone Checkpoint week 9 HSM/230 Capstone Checkpoint week 9 Many issues are becoming problems for seniors, one of these issues is the possibility of losing one of the most important assistance programs that human services has to offer, the Medicare and Medicaid assistance programs for health and well-being of the seniors in California. This issue has been relevant for many years; however in recent years the California Legislature has been unable to successfully plan a budget that would be considered sound. Thus, at this point the legislature is considering cutting some of the programs of human services or cutting back on the funding to these programs. According to Diane Rowland ScD. and Barbara Lyons, PhD. (1996). Without Medicaid’s assistance, the cost of basic medical care can impede access to care and erode financial security for low income elderly people. This is now a problem, for example my mother has a social security benefit of 650. 00 a month, and if she had to pay her medical care and prescription out of this income, her income would only be 300. 00 a month. This is more than twice the poverty level today. This is of great concern to human services agencies in the United States. Most of the elderly have paid into these programs for many years, expecting assistance as they retired; however, this is eroding away. In order to rectify this issue, California along with other states facing this issue, needs to come up with a balanced budget that does not exceed the income they are receiving at the time of the budget making process. The legislature cannot â€Å"expect† to make a different amount than what is in black and white. To predict that they would be making a larger amount only makes the budget worthless, a budget would need to be accurate and overspending must stop in order to rectify this situation. If I were in charge of this type of program, I would look into privatization of a portion and look for subordinates that would be willing to donate, or fund this program for the poor elderly of the United States. Also I would look into how many actually are citizens that are receiving this benefit without payment into the program. This is a huge issue, many illegal immigrants are receiving these benefits and have never paid into the program, therefore are actually ineligible for the benefit. I would propose that these recipients be placed on the welfare program for illegal immigrants and taken off of the assistance for the poor elderly clientele. Is this ethical, I think so, I do not think it is ethical for one to receive benefits if they have not met the criteria or prerequisite to receive this benefit.

Business Research Project Essay

Serenity Stay Long Term Care is a Specialty Hospital located in Memphis, Tennessee. The company is a 50 bed facility that caters to patients on ventilators, patients needing physical therapy, and patients needing wound care. The facility has been losing a lot of good Register Nursing (R.N.) personnel and Human Resource thinks that it is because of the long 12 hours days required to work. To provide outstanding care to our patients Serenity Stay must find a way to keep good R.N. personnel. Serenity Stay Long Term Care Hospital and Human Resources should focus on the following research question, is working 12 hours’ worth the risk, because it is overworking the nursing staff? Or should management look at changing the hours to benefit staff needs, which could possibly reduce a drop in loss of staff? The first thing we will look at is to see if o12 hour shift are causing our nursing staff personnel to be overworking nurses at Serenity Stay is causing a drop in employment. Secondly we will look at is if working the 12 hours shift is not the cause of loss of nursing personnel. Team A plans to test weather keeping a 12 hour shift or going back to an 8 hour shift will help keep the nurses happy. We will conduct surveys, talk with other facilities that are experiencing the same issues, and talk with the staff involved. If working 12 hours shifts appear to be the problem, then we could look at going back to 8 hour shifts, Townsend, T. (2013). Are twelve hour shifts safe? Retrieved fromhttp://www.american nurse today

Report about my industrial placement Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Report about my industrial placement - Essay Example Starbucks coffee is popular in all customer types, irrespective of what age group customers belong to. Customers love to spend not only leisure time but important business decisions are taken while sipping Starbucks coffee. Market for retail coffee is highly competitive but the only competitor from revenue earning perspective has been Nestle S.A. Competition in the coffee industry is determined by the price and quality of products against the product range. Thus, from earning potential angle, Starbucks is second only to Nestle S.A. The table below shows that the product line breadth of Starbucks is high relative to its competitors like Dunkin Donuts and McDonalds showing moderate breadth while other competitors including Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, Kraft Foods, Inc. And Nestle S.A. are low in product line breadth (Brown and Nwabueze, 2011). Table1: Direct Competitors to Starbucks Firm Product line Breadth Revenues (2010) in Millions % of Total Group Revenues Starbucks High 10,707 27% Dunkin Donuts Moderate 5,500 14% McDonald's Moderate 2,400 6% Green Mountain Coffee Roasters Low 803 2% Kraft Foods, Inc. Low 3,100 8% Nestle S.A. Low 17,700 44% Source: Harold Brown 2011 Competition in the coffee retail segment is going to be severe with all the leading players bent on capturing new global markets. Starbucks is very well positioned with networked marketing, technology usage, Starbucks rechargeable payment cards and mobile apps for quick and easy order placing and payment (Brown and Nwabueze, 2011). Starbucks has successfully adhered to its policy on corporate social responsibility by identifying coffee farmers as critical partners in the growth history of the company. Starbucks has evolved and strengthened its relationships with all stakeholders and partners, including customers, employees, suppliers and communities over the years (Harnrungchalotorn and Phayonlerd, 2010). The organisational chart of Starbucks has gained significant growth by 1991 with the incr ease in profitability. It prompted Schultz to initiate a new employee programme for the long-lasting success of the Company – a stock option plan for all employees. The purpose was to create a link between their positive role and the rising market value of the Company. Stock options were awarded on the proportionate basis to base pay. Yet another programme, the Bean Stock, was offered for employees benefit. Even part-time employees could also benefit from this programme of the Company. It helped the Company to recruit motivated people with above-average capabilities and good work habits not only due to its fringe benefit programme but also its pay scale. Starbucks has experienced low turnover rates relatively to other companies because of its initiatives for creating a good work environment. The competitive retailers had high turnover rates for store employees in the range of 150 to 400% a year while the turnover rates for Starbucks’ baristas were near to 65%. For the position of store managers, the Company turnover rate was near to 25% relative to approximate 50% for other chain retailers. Schultz’ management of Starbucks through the values and principles has increased the brand performance in the desired way. Employees feel high on morality. There is respect for all, irrespective of the designation one holds. One can see the impact of increased level of

Public goods Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Public goods - Essay Example The democrats who urge the government to ensure that there is equality in education for the benefit of the future economy support this strategy (Kaul, 1999, p.23). The provision of education as a public good has resulted to the increment of taxes, since the government has to increase taxes to earn more revenue that finances the public schools. The increment in taxes as the government tries to provide more resources in the education sector is criticized since the quality of education available is depreciating annually. The critics argue that education is a social good or a quasi-public good thus it is not the sole responsibility of the government to provide it (Kaul, 2003, p.17). This essay tries to identify the best way to offer education. It reflects on the negative constriction of offering education as a public good while giving other positive ways of ensuring quality education, lower expenditures or taxes and higher revenue to the government. The major negative effect of education as a public good is that the government expenditure increases and taxes increases since the government uses public finance to either offer strict free education as is the case in U.S. elementary and high school education or when it offers subsidiaries or vouchers to finance education (Kaul, 2003, p.56). This affects all the citizens as huge sums of public finance are allocated for education in the expenses of other important issues that are more important to the society for instance health sector may receive inadequate funds (United States Congressional Serial Set, 2011). The essence that education is not a pure public good proves that consumption of education would not decline even when offered as a private good since the parents know the importance of education and would work harder to ensure their kids achieve education from private schools. The essence of education as a public good faces the same problems as other public good in the sense

Cleaning Oil Spills with Magnets Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Cleaning Oil Spills with Magnets - Assignment Example The EVTN voraxial oil separator development by Fort Lauderdale uses the centrifugal by the gravity force to separate two or more different liquids. It was used during the 2010 BP Oil Spill, with effects such as the provision of industrial and environmental separation technology, the development of the company for both sells and manufactures, and the establishment of the Florida precision aerospace company. The long-term effect of this oil spill, which is considered as the largest accidental marine oil spill in the history of the petroleum industry, is hydrocarbon poisoning in the environment. However, it also paved the way for the establishment of the Exxon- Valdez voraxial separator. The long-term effects of magnetic soap are a high rate of marine and birds survival, the establishment of the industrial chemist, and the use of electrical melting point, and conductivity to clean the environment.

Social Contract Theory in business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Social Contract Theory in business - Essay Example How should a manager look at this Weiss (2005) describes the Stakeholder Theory (behind Jane's statements) as having become an established framework in identifying and examining the impact of organization action. It posits a model in which "all persons or groups with legitimate interests participating in an enterprise do so to obtain benefits, and there is no prima facie priority of one set of interests and benefits over another" (Donaldson and Preston. In Weiss 2005). It is based on the idea that the enterprise exists to serve the many stakeholders who have an interest in it or who in some way may be harmed or benefited by it. The model rejects the idea that the enterprise exists to serve the interest of its owners, be it maximizing their wealth or some other reason for being in business. The flaws in the conceptual and empirical foundations of theory has cracks that serious questions can be raised concerning the utility and validity of any moral conclusions or prescriptions it offers (ibid). According to Younkins (1997), the stakeholder theory has merit as a management strategy. As an ethical theory, however, the emphasis on stakeholders is problematic as it erroneously suggests that corporations are possessions and servants of larger society. This theory is said to misinterpret Kant's principle because what Kant actually said was that every human being is entitled to be treated not merely as a means but also as an end in himself. Further, stakeholder theory implies a multi-fiduciary approach that goes against the idea of free markets, property rights, and the special moral responsibility of management to the stockholders. On the other hand, Social contract theory (which Brett seems to espouse) advocates a free market economy supposed to result in the best product at the best price, serving the common interest. It, therefore, counts every corporation to be bound by social responsibilities and put in the hands of the people the power to permit their operations (Roddy 2005). Social contract theory holds that obedience to law is required of anyone who would enjoy its protections and advantages. An example of this is said to be accepting a court's decision in your favor to mean also accepting the one against your interests. Only in this way will others agree to abide by rulings when the decision of law favors you to their disadvantage. By refusing to sacrifice your own interests in some cases, you risk going it alone in what is called the "state of nature" which is considered a terrible alternative (ibid). Hasnas (1998) goes back to presenting three current leading normative theories of business ethics as the stockholder, stakeholder, and social contract theories. Accordingly, the stockholder theory is the oldest of the three, but out of favor with many contemporary business ethicists. To them, the stockholder theory represents a disreputable holdover from the bad old days of rampant capitalism. In contrast, the past decades has seen the stakeholder theory gain much popularity that it may be considered the conventionally-accepted position within the business ethics community. In recent years, however, the social contract theory has been cited with considerable acceptance and might accurately be characterized as challenging the stakeholder theory for preeminence among normative theorists. What is the stand of the manager then Hasnas (1998) presents a contrarian review of these normative theories,

A long Way Traveled Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

A long Way Traveled - Research Paper Example As the saying goes ‘you won’t know where you are going until you know where you are coming from’. However, when we understand history- in this case; Native American History it would mean that we understand and accept each other. Native Americans in general are known to be earthy people who are one with mother earth and they believe that every living thing on earth should be respected. Their history depicts, a vibrant culture and history and is also responsible for the early development of the Americas. The Navajo Nation Reviewed literature declares the Navajo tribe one of the largest reservation in America with an area covering an estimated 27 000 square miles. The area covers portions of Arizona and New Mexico, and a small part of southeastern Utah. Presently the capital of the Navajo nation is found at Window Rock in Arizona. The Navajos populous is said to be over 200 000 people, landing them the title of the largest Native American tribe in the United States. Furthermore, they are noted to be bilingual as they speak both their challenging and native Navajo language and also English. This noble Indian tribe lived in the South Western part of the United States. This definitive set of people refers to themselves as ‘Dineh’ which means â€Å"the people†. ... gnition as warriors from the Spanish and other surrounding Indian tribes because the Navajos raided the Spanish settlers often to get their horses for hunting and fighting. The Navajos grew corn, beans and squash in fields that the Spanish term as ‘Nabaju’, which when translated means â€Å"great planted fields†. According to the said source; by the year 1750, the Navajos were living in valleys and mountains around the canyon de chelly in north eastern Arizona.1 They adopted a new life style being sheep herders and gave up hunting. Today Navajo tribes can be found in scattered locations in Arizona and New Mexico in houses called Hogans which are very easy to assemble. Before, their Hogans were made with supporting poles that were covered with mush and brush. Then they transformed to more stable Hogans made from logs chinked in mud in a circular shape.2 Culture of the Navajo Nation The culture of the Navajo people is quite exciting. They hold fascinating beliefs an d engage in colorful ceremonies. They believe that the spiritual and the physical world blend together as one. The ‘Yei’ (holy ones) as they are known live in the four sacred mountains in each of the four directions that marks the boundaries of the Navajo land. The navajopeople.org website argues that the Navajos are highly ceremonial second to some of the Pueblo groups. Almost every act of their life; example, building a Hogan, planting crops and so on is ceremonial in nature, each being carried out with songs and prayers. The said source also declared that â€Å"the Navajo dead are buried by others than immediate relatives in unmarked graves. No ceremonies are held, for the dead are considered evil and are feared. The hogan in which death occurs is forever abandoned, often burned. Sometimes a hogan is

Forms of business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Forms of business - Essay Example There are no consultations involved in the decision making process. Moreover, tax preparation process is very easy since the business is not taxed separately and the tax rates are lowest of the business structures. According to Pride, Hughes & Kapoor (2012), owners of the business are always free to mix business or personal assets. Unfortunately, sole proprietorship involves unlimited personal liability since there is no legal separation between the owner and the business. The owner of a business can be held responsible for the debts and obligations of the business and the risk extends to any liability incurred by employee actions. Raising capital for sole proprietor is always not easy because stock in the business cannot be sold and the investors cannot invest in them. Additionally, sole proprietorship seldom survive the death or disability of the owners Partnership Partnership involves relationship between two or more people coming together on a trade and every person contributes m oney, property, labor, or skills. It is also worth noting that every partner shares in the profits and losses and as much as it is strongly recommended, it is regarded very risky to operate without. There are three types of partnership arrangements including general partnerships, limited partnerships, and joint ventures. General partnership requires that profits, liability and management issues are equally divided amongst the partners and incase of unequal distribution, the proportion set is documented in the partnership agreement (Pride, Hughes & Kapoor, 2012). On the other hand the limited partnership enables partners to have limited liability d input as far as management decisions are concerned and the limits are based on each partner’s investment portion. Finally, the joint venture work almost like the general partnership but is always active for a short period or may be for a single project. Partners include their individual share of income or loss on their personal tax returns and their taxes generally are annual return of income, employment tax, and estimated tax. Partnership involves shared financial commitment due to the advantage of pooling resources to obtain capital and this may help in securing credit. Furthermore, partnership involves complementary skills derived from the partners’ strengths, resources, and expertise. Partnership may also attract highly motivated and qualified employees due to incentives such as offering opportunity to employees to become members. However, joint and individual liability acts as a disadvantage where partners are liable for their own actions and for business, debts, and decisions made by other partners and the personal assets for partners may be used to satisfy the partnership debts. Decision making process may also not be easy exposing partners to disagreements amongst partners. Corporation Corporation is a complex form of business and is an independent legal entity that is owned by shareholders and is held legally liable for the actions and debts of the business. Incorporating corporations is very costly due to the administration fees, complex tax and the legal requirements making it suitable for established and large companies. According to Pride, Hughes & Ka

What did the Greeks ever do for us Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

What did the Greeks ever do for us - Essay Example The dictionary typically defines philosophy as â€Å"the love of or search for wisdom or knowledge† or â€Å"as the theory or logical analysis of the principles underlying conduct, thought, knowledge and the nature of the universe† (Neufeldt, Goralnik, 1994, p. 1015). With such a general definition, one might begin to understand the complexities involved in studying philosophy as it seems to encompass just about all knowledge pursuits. Perhaps part of the confusion in trying to define the term can be found in the early days of the science when it applied almost universally to all avenues of knowledge in ancient Greece. The term itself derives from an ancient Greek word that translates to â€Å"love of wisdom† (Wikipedia, 2005) and it is through several early Greek thinkers that we have arrived at the perceptions we now foster. Although philosophy and its early proponents have had a huge impact on the shape of modern Western thought, for the purpose of brevity, th is paper will only discuss how some of the key Greek philosophers have influenced modern conceptions of ethics and morality in a very general sense.Within this discussion, it is important to understand that the definition of ethics as it is considered by philosophers does not merely constitute a choice between right and wrong behavior.

Persuasive Oral Presentation about paparazzimedia ethics in Hong Kong Essay

Persuasive Oral Presentation about paparazzimedia ethics in Hong Kong - Essay Example Sometime this year, there were a group of activists that were fighting for the right to preserve a certain historical site in Hong Kong. The group went to the site and stayed there for some days with very little attention from the local media. However, a certain politician realized that there was an opportunity to garner public attention through the activists. Consequently, he called some members of the press informing them that there would be a fight between some activists and the police at a specified time. (Mei Ning & Cottrell, 2008) Ten minutes before the set time, local pressmen were presented with their cameras; the police had already arrived. At the set time, the politicians arrived with the small group of activists. The police confronted them immediately and the demonstrators also put up some resistance. All this time, the ensuing activities were being recorded. After ten minutes of this, the policemen, politician, members of the press packed up their belongings and left; a classic case of doctored stories. The activists were at least content that their case would be aired on the nine o'clock news. Ladies and gentlemen, this extreme case demonstrates just how absurd our media has become. Isn't it time that we began discussing such lack of professionalism More importantly, isn't it time for us to think of ways in which we can change such depictions What really is freedom of speech In my view, Hong Kong Media have overstepped their boundary. In case you are not convinced about this issue yet, here are some incidences that reinforce my earlier sentiments. In the year 2002 during the month of October, well known gossip magazine East Week splashed naked pictures of actress Carina Lau in the edition. They claimed that these were photos of the actress at that time when she had been arrested some twelve years go. Actress Lau was clearly in anguish and distress but this did not stop East week from publishing this shocking images. In response this sheer lack of humanity, angry protesters marched to the streets of Hong Kong claiming that local tabloids lacked moral substance. Most of them wondered 'what had happened to media ethics' while it may be true that you as the media authority did something in response to these acts your actions were not solid enough. Through your actions, this magazine company was closed for one year. But shortly after, the company was reopened and is still back in business. I ask you, 'How many more Car ina Lau's do we have to witness before we can instate radical changes in our local media In close relation to this incident was a publication made by Next Magazine. The group had displayed pictures of the dead corpse of a woman at the bottom of Sheun Chi building. (Mei Ning & Cottrell, 2008)Not only were these pictures quite disturbing but they were worsened by the alleged causes of the death. The magazine claimed that it was the husband of the deceased who had been engaging in acts of promiscuity that had propelled his wife to suicide; they claimed that he had been engaging in extra marital affairs with prostitutes. Instead of sympathizing with these distraught family members, the media was fuelling their anger and remorse. What was more devastating about the media handling of this case was that some media companies paid the deceased wife's husband to take meals and

Upton Sinclair Essay Example for Free

Upton Sinclair Essay Upton Sinclair was born on September 20th 1878, in Baltimore Maryland. His life was spent alternating between politics, writing and in civil rights movements. His first major book was written in 1903 Manassas, but it is The Jungle that would throw him into instant fame and make known his stand in the complications brought forth by capitalism. He was a socialist and tried running for office in 1906, having a go at the congress in New Jersey through the socialist party of America where he lost slightly. His literary works are full of critical writings where he would mirror authoritatively many of the issues affecting the Americans. He was a socialist and was always at clash with conservative politicians who were painting him as a violent communist despite the fact that he had denounced communism. His writings are not only political or social but he also gave a shot at psychic (William J. helm, 1994). His most recorded success in elections was in 1934 when he was nominated to run in office, this time not with the socialist party but with the Democratic Party. He was however to lose as his most conservative people in California could not buy his political ideas. The communists thought of him as a capitalist while the capitalist believed he was a communist and was out to change the state for the worse. An analysis of his accomplishments would reveal that they did not lie in politics but in his advancement of civil rights. His notable achievement however is in the labor movements. His writings and campaigns were strong injection to the labor unions. This shall remain the focus of this paper as it seeks to establish the impact and significance of Upton Sinclair on the American workers and the labor movements. Of particular interest in this paper will be his novel The Jungle and its impact of food legislations. The epitome of Upton Sinclair criticism of the capitalist system in the United States can be captured in The Jungle. It is here that he exposes many of the social evils that were being perpetuated in the society especially against the low-income earners. It exposes many scandals that before had remained hidden from the public’s eyes while at the same time urging for change (Jon Blackwell, n. d). The story is based on an emigrant family that moves to the United States, Chicago, in search of the American dream and prosperity only to be raped by the ruthless capitalist system. The whole family has migrated in to Chicago in the hope of a better life but the unscrupulous employers including corrupt officials gives the family no piece and they start dying one after the other. The working conditions of the stockyards in Chicago are intolerable. The situation is exacerbated by rampant corruption that thrives. For one to get something done, it is a must that an official be bribed in the process. The key character in The Jungle is one Jurgis and it is through him that the woes of the workers are brought to the fore. His family is on the verge of extinction as a string of deaths have caught the family. He is a troubled man and totally devastated by the employers and the farmers who keep turning employees away. This novel is a clear attack of industrialization and the intense mechanization of America. It portrays the fast waning optimism of people especially the workers who have to survive a life of bondage and wage slavery. The spotlight of the jungle is on the hard conditions that workers in the Chicago’s meat factories have to undergo. Workers of all ages including women and children are being exploited. It gives a vivid account of how farmers were being ground after having fallen accidentally in to the processing tanks with the full knowledge of the owners of the factories. The Jungle caused a major row pitting the public, the government and meat processing factories. The cleanliness of the meat was in question. This novel had exposed much of the evils and the malpractices that were being subjected to the workers. Sinclair intent and purpose of the novel was mostly to be centered on the woes of the workers, it was just that the publics attention become focused more on the hygiene of the meat. The Meat Inspection Act for example was passed after this novel had brewed enough uproar. To Sinclair, The Jungle did not just contain empty words, but they had to be followed up by real actions. He sent a copy of the book to the then president, Theodore Roosevelt. His was not on the hygiene of the meat but rather was on the wage slavery now dominant in American factories. The workers were being mistreated and poorly paid. However the authority’s attention was not on the â€Å"wage slavery† but on the meat quality and hygiene. The working conditions of the workers were ignored and instead the investigators focused more on the cleanliness of the processing factories. This would lead to his famous statement later to the effect that his works were intended to strike at the care of the matter and rather not the â€Å"stomach† this indicates the passion through which Sinclair was committed to securing the welfare of the workers to a point that he would confront the powers that were there then. Roosevelt only agreed to respond to the meat factory allegations after immense pressure from the civil societies including Sinclair himself. His efforts to secure the rights of the workers and improve their welfare can be seen in his campaigns for the seat of governor of California. His political ideology was being centered on the workers. His EPIC movement (End Poverty in California) was promising to alleviate the situation of the workers (Deibre Donahue, 2006. ). The Flivver King, a story of Ford America a book by Upton Sinclair in 1937 also roused and sensitized the workers on the woes facing them in their workplaces. It traces the origin of the Ford Motor Company and how after it was established it was treating its employees well as it only employed qualified workers, its focus in on the scientific management of the Ford Motor Company factories. After sometimes, the Ford Company took to breaking down the labor and introduced specialization meaning that even the low skilled workers could do the job with low pay (http://www. amazon. com/flivver-king-story-ford-america/dp/0882860542). This book traces how the Ford Company has over time phased out the skilled labor and in its place with the low skilled people and exploiting them. The workers in the Ford Company would wish to start a union but there were set backs as Ford’s â€Å"spies† are working to undermine their efforts each time they try to congregate. It explores how Ford was transformed in to selfishness by maintaining the same small pay but continuing to wreak billions. This book was of great significance as it led to great inspirations to the workers and also led to the formation of the United Autoworkers Union. It would result to a wave of workers movements and unionization that hit the big companies in the 1940s. It indicates the harsh realities that the workers had to contend with as they tried to form unions that would collectively agitate for their rights (Philip S. Foner, 1964). Upton Sinclair works are popular not for their qualities as novels but for their social impact. He is able to capture workers conditions and the low pay that characterized their remuneration. In the jungle he gives the heartrending details of stories of the workers who fell in to the vats and not being retrieved in time, they would die in there with no efforts by the factory owners to retrieve the bodies. These books went a great deal in inspiring the formation a workers union. By focusing at the problems facing the laborers, they were able to bring them together under a communality of purpose. The situation as it was in the factories for example in the, Ford Company, was that the owners were not taking any efforts to coalesce the workers interests lightly. The confrontations between the two would sometimes turn bloody. Unlike the communists who were expecting to push the ideas of the workers suffering down their throats, Sinclair takes a far much smoother approach through a well-researched story. The inspiration of Sinclair’s works upon the foundation of the workers union in America cannot be underscored. They made a great deal in presenting the reality in the factories. The United Workers Union is one such labor movement alongside others that were directly inspired by the novel on the Ford Company. Reference William J. helm, 1994. Upton Sinclair: overview. In reference guide to American literature 3rd ed. Edited by Kamp. St James press. Amazon Com, 1996. The Flivver King: A story of Ford –America. Retrieved on http://www. amazon.com/flivver-king-story-ford-america/dp/0882860542 Jon Blackwell. 1906: rumble over ‘The Jungle’ retrieved on 24/11/07 from http://www. capitalcentury. com/1906. html Jacob powers. Upton Sinclair, the flivver king. Retrieved on 24/11/07 from://upinmichagan. org/ver-sinclair. html Deibre Donahue, 06/23/2006. ‘Radical’ Life, times of Upton Sinclair USA TODAY. Retrieved on 24/11/07 from http://www. usatoday. com/ife/books/eviews/2006-06-21-radical-innocent-x. htm Philip S. Foner, 1964. History of the labor movement in the United States. International publishers co.

Evaluating the styles of leadership

Evaluating the styles of leadership In operation of an organization, leadership styles of the leader have significant influence to the efficiency and quality of work done. When leaders demonstrate an effective and consistent leadership style, he could easily encourage his subordinates to do better to achieve better results. Therefore, in the first part of this report, we will consider about different leadership styles of Mark and Forgan, through which we can easily see the influence and impact that the different leadership styles can create over the activities of the organization. The leadership theories and evaluate the styles of leadership Leadership style strongly affects on how people work, how the company achieves the delegated goals and how people are willing to dedicate their experience, knowledge and passion for the company. There are many dimensions to leadership and many possible ways to build up the best leadership style. But the first way is to learn and then, cleverly apply in the practical situation of the company. A leader should have the ability as well as behavior. They must understand the role and its mission not only to the group, both the company and themselves. For work, leaders need to know to select the qualified members, and then take measures to encourage them to work efficiently. The working group is inevitable conflicts will occur so the task of a leader is to know how to keep peace between group members. Clarify the issues to find solutions. Role for task of managing is encouraging and look for information about the groups task then diagnostic solutions, the opportunities, threats when perform ing this task.Next followed by consultation with other members. The last one is evaluation to choice the best method to solve this task. For individual, the leaders also need to achieve their own goals for personal development. Then get feedback from others about the strengths and weakness, counseling you and drawing on experience as well as goals to training. There is also a contingency approach to leadership. A contingency approach to leadership is mention about the ability to lead influence others of leaders. This ability is influence by these factors: Personality, leadership style and leader position of the leader. The abilities, experiences and preference of leadership style of subordinates The requirements and level of complication of tasks. Effectively communicate visions, goals and values to colleagues and promote understanding of how delegated objectives support these. A vision is an idealized picture of the future organization and it expresses the organizations reason for existence. Visions grab people and then bring them into the fold. When a leaders vision is effective and strong, employees and stakeholders get caught up in what they are doing, absorb the vision, and commit themselves to the goals and the values of the leaders. The roles leadership is importance who influences the others to contribute voluntarily to the achievement of group task in given situation. They is to direct the group toward their goals .In currently, they set up a vision, goals, object, task for group. In currently, leadership set up goals for group. According to Mark and Forgan, we can conclude the objective and vision of Mark and Forgan for the team operation as follow: Vision: As the company prepares to launch a large scale state of the art residential apartment block, help team members develop their own capabilities. Goal: the goal to achieve sales of eighty percent of the units available, trying to finish the job finished on time. Value: Mark summoned the team to his office for a big dressing down for failing to hit the target. Never once did he commend them for their effort, for braving the weather, for going without food. How Mark and Forgan promotes understanding of how delegated objectives support the vision, goals values Objectives are the elements which can decide the organization to be or not to be. Objectives play a supreme important role in managing and making an organization profitable. Its like a lighthouse which tells the company where to go and if we dont know where we are going, then the company cannot develop. Pre-set objectives provide a basis for planning and management control related to the activities of the organization. When objectives have been set, emphasized and stated clearly, then its communicated to all members of the company. Objectives at different levels within the company contribute to alternatives for decision-making. If the goal to achieve sales of eighty percent of the units available, then the team leader will analyzed his team to know what his teams strengths are and what his teams weaknesses are. Then he will understand the situation of his team and find out the solutions for achieving the objectives. When he understands every detail of his team, he will communicate to his people better, letting them understand the goals, vision and values of the company. Then team members will be aware of their tasks and responsibilities. Pre-set objectives provide guidelines for the team leader in decision-making and justification for actions taken. They help to develop commitment of individuals and groups to the activities of the organization. They focus attention on purposeful behavior and provide a basis for motivation and reward systems. Enthuse and motivate colleagues to achieve objectives Motivated employees help organizations survive. Motivated employees are more productive. To be effective, managers need to understand what motivates employees within the context of the roles they perform. In a team, the leader has to understand employee motivation and motivation theories to carry out the relevant methods to motivate their team members. The motivation methods of team leaders are part of motivation culture of the company. Efforts of staff will help a company attain their goals and objectives, the individual employees also have objectives in their life and it is different from the companies objectives, it means that the staff must be motivated to satisfy their objectives which effect to the companies goal. There are four forms of power that companies of Forgan anh Mark can use to motivate staffs by empowering them: Information: giving the information for staffs so that they can change their way of doing things. The next thing is: empowering them, the motivation for the change would be intrinsic and the decision is made independently. Expertise: this demonstrates how to perform a task. The staffs see the task and decide whether he is able to do the task or not. Personality: the staffs will change in behaviour when they hear the request from the leader, it is intrinsically motivated, and the staff is independent of the leader. Moral power: the leader has communicated a shared set of values and obligations for staffs. These values can be a mission statement or vision. (Course Book, p.109, 110) Promote confidence among colleagues to engage with change The change is necessary if that organization does not operate efficiently. When the organization should adjusts to fit environmental context. If not changed, they will not work properly with the old method again. To promote confidence among colleagues, Mark and Forgan should pay attention on how to prepare a effective team because the an effective team will affect well to work performance, decision-making, cohesiveness among members and so on, The effects will help promote the confidence among colleagues. Mark and Forgan should focus on the issues below involve increasing cohesiveness among members within on the team to they can be more confident when having changes within the organization. Clear objective and agreed goal: that means Mark and Forgan should give the members within a team a specific quantitative goals and objectives, such as, required level of performances, the deadline for the competing the work and so on. It will effective to the members behaviour upon the works. It will effect to the member effort for doing required works. Beside, the members will be lack of vagueness in getting requirement and quality of work, so the members will feel more confident when they work, and the belief of members to the company will be improve Openness and confrontation: Mark and Forgan should create more opportunities to the members within the team can interact together. It will help for the members can study skill and experiences together, they will develop and improve thanks to the interaction. Therefore, they feel more interested and confident in the work Support and trust: a supportive environment can create more than interest in the team, the members will be more trust upon the success of work, and the support from the superior will help the members prevent many problems such as, missed deadline, weak accountability, cost overrun and so on of which will create the worry when they do the work. appropriate leadership: this relates to members motivation, Project managers who should exchanges and takes the members views into account will create much motivation because the members feel respectably Regular reviews: Mark and Forgan need to know what the members need and they need to provide it. Besides, they should usually observe the members action to can evaluate, praise and reward valuable to their contribution and efforts Individual development: working environment, it is important element that effect to the members confident, if the company have working environment bad, not only the members feel depressed, but also they will feel worried that whether they are until suitable for the changes, Sound inter-group relationship: when individual members within the team become familiar and acquainted then the connection between individual members is easier, they are easy to connect and exchange information together to get good solution to problems. Individual members will be more excited and motivated when they do the task  [1]  . All the elements above will make the members feel that they work for good company with good environment in which they feel interested in the work and create more opportunities for their the development. Empower colleagues to present their own ideas, develop their own ways of working within agreed boundaries and to provide a lead in their own areas of expertise Empowerment can occur in all organizations and management will empower employees based on the level or degree of their responsibility and authority will provide the employee or group. There are many different levels to empower; it depends on the expertise or experience of each individual. Leaders should choose the right time and empower them in the appropriate areas. Mark and Forgan should believe in their abilities. Everyone has different abilities and if they have the opportunity to express it, it will make them confident to offer their ideas. They are highly competent. When members work together they have team spirit. Mark and Forgan can empower supervisory and management levels in this way can reduce the work of leaders and everyone feels responsible for the job. So, when they are empowered, they are free to make their ideas under the trust of leaders. Mission leaders will be provided directly to employees to make it. it makes self-employed persons in communication with the leaders, they can contact directly with the leaders. It leads to the idea of workers can not go through intermediaries that staff will present ideas in meetings. Employees can decide for them self and feel the flexibility in their work. Mark and Forgan should understand the needs of the people, when empowered; the workers will feel responsible for the job and achieve the g oals of the team. In group, encourage employees to find what they achieved and how they can achieve. They will freely develop new technologies to achieve this goal. Empowerment can bring more success to the team of Mark and Forgan. Moreover, given the right to make the confidence to show that the growth of ideas, creativity, flexibility, understanding of their own region. (Course Book, Working with and leading people, page, 73) Plan or analyse work activities using appropriate objective-setting techniques and processes Target task, goal or standard can be achieved in a reasonable amount of time expected and the resources available. Setting goals it means making plans to do the work: target plan can comply with the objectives of work, standing aims and objectives, outputs or improved targets, the development objectives. Working planning is an importance process which is the tool accomplish target. It helps Mark and Forgans company identify activities and objective. The first steps of planning process identify objective of clearly of company. But in setting up objective process of company, Mark and Forgan shouldnt decide by own ideas that Mark and Forgan should have conference among colleague to share opinion for set up object. Every individual is given targets based on their role and responsibility within the company. Then from those ideas, company set up objective for company. This objective includes desire of company and desire of staffs. The team has to make sure that the predetermined objectives are met at all level (at team level and individual level) Standing aims and objectives: includes quality objectives, issues such as fast and courteous when dealing with customer requirements and quantitative targets so, to have goals, Mark and Forgan need to discuss with employees. In this case, Mark needs some changes in his behavior, and very different styles of leadership. Development goals: The main objective can be divided into team goals and personal goals to try to improve performance and personal skills. Planning will help Mark and Forgan in employee management. Ensure that employees complete its objectives effectively predetermined and ensure the correct time. So, Mark should make a new plan for managing employees so they can promote all of their abilities. Outside the maintenance management plan, Forgan should have personal development goals so that employees can express their abilities. From that, if they understand the responsibilities and duties in their organizations, they can accomplish all the goals of the individual and the aim of the team. The method of setting personal goals and the team will help employees work effectively and encourage staff to work well. Negotiate assignments with colleagues using suitable delegation techniques to motivate and enable colleagues Supervisor negotiate task for staff by delegation techniques. Delegation is a two-way process. Good delegation saves you time, develops you people, grooms a successor, and motivates. Poor delegation will cause you frustration, de-motivates and confuses the other person, and fails to achieve the task or purpose itself. Therefore, they support empower. They are more freedom in work and the right makes decision about resources to achieve goals conveniently. They present easier ideas and do according to own way and own ideas to meet object of company. But in currently, they have more responsibly in their job. Things are motive and enable them to finish task and combine the high performance. Specially, interior decorate need creative themselves and freedom in work with own ways Other things when delegating include: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Qualification of subordinate à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Necessity of employee commitment à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Expansion of employee capabilities à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Evidence of shared values and perspectives à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Sufficient time for delegation Some of the technical delegate suitable for both Mark and Forgan to encourage, enable and duty to negotiate with their colleagues: With Mark With Forgan He needs to determine the time, money, staff, training and resources necessary to complete the task. He can access the current workload of colleagues by reviewing and writing a job description and creating a budget period. He can decide what tasks need to be done and identify colleagues will benefit most from the learning experience. He will clearly describe the assignment, where it fits in the big picture with a colleague who will be responsible for it. He needs to determine the time, money, training and resources necessary to complete the task. When performing this step, Mark and his colleagues will clarify what is needed and that Mark is working in partnership with colleagues to help him success. He will provide feedback and support for his colleagues throughout the process and complete it in on top of the work, while not actually doing it is very important. And he must determine the execution time, so this may be a short-term plans, medium and long term. Besides, it will bring stability in the implementation process. He needs to assess the quality of staff, from which he will select the best person for the job (task), besides; they and their colleagues will need to reach decisions. He needs to better define the resources and support, because it will help and support necessary for employees on the job. Resources will include time, money, staffà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ -Any big changes or small should be exchanged between Forgan and his staff, besides; he had to the objectives of the team set up based on the common goals of their organization. He needs to develop and implement procedures to monitor and support the work of regular employees. The same with Mark, Forgan also need regular feedback on performance and working methods of all employees Review development needs and activities and evaluate the effectiveness of activities In order to become a good leader, we need to have skill in constructing feedback. It will help us expand the options and support the development of colleagues. It not only helps the colleagues realise how effective of their works but also help us understand about the needs and expectations of them as well as their capacities. From there, our colleagues can improve themselves and we can satisfy their needs and expectations. There are 2 kinds of feedback which we can use to review the development needs and activities of each individual or team: Motivational feedback: we use it to reward and reinforce positive behaviours by praising and encouraging what they achieve. The main purpose is about increasing confidence and motivation. Developmental feedback: is given when a particular parts need to improve. This kind is used a lot in schools. It helps colleagues know what competence and knowledge need to increase. For Mark, he must use two on for his team. He must have vision and ability to inspire his team to work for the implementation of that vision. For employees, he should know to encourage them, motivate them their work is good. When tasks are not completed on time, he should be comforted and commended the efforts of his team instead of criticizing them. Besides, he should focus on improving the strategy to fit the employee. Changing working methods is essential to Mark. He must think of the benefits of more staff. For Forgan, he was well Motivation to use feedback. Therefore, his staff works in a good mood. They work becomes faster. However, to achieve the highest efficiency, Forgan should focus on improving understanding and enhance the employees place to work fast and quality. Use suitable methods, with clearly defined and relevant criteria and objectives, to assess the performance of colleagues To evaluate the performance of employees based on clearly defined criteria and the relevant and objective, both Mark and Forgan can use 360 degree feedback. Most of the tools 360-degree feedback was answered by each individual in a personal assessment. That supports each individual to understand the strengths and weaknesses, and to contribute to understanding aspects of their work to professional development. So when using a 360-degree feedback to evaluate the performance of their colleagues, it gives them many positive aspects and many supporters: Provide good feedback from colleagues, who reported the supervisor. This could definitely be an improvement on feedback from a single individual. 360 degree feedback can also be saved (Mark and Forgan) is the time where they can spend less energy to provide feedback as many people involved in the process. Colleague awareness is important and this process helps people understand how other employees view their work. Help colleagues learn how to work more effectively together. Multirater feedback makes colleagues more accountable to each other when they share their knowledge that they will provide input into the effectiveness of each colleague. Each a well-planned process can improve communication and development colleagues. The feedback from a number of individuals in different job functions, discrimination of race, age, sex and so is reduced. Forgan which Mark and execution rate based on our most recent interaction with colleagues is also reduced. Identify factors affecting the quality of performance and use these to provide clear and constructive feedback on performance to colleagues. In an organization there are many factors affecting the quality of work, but I think the main factor affecting the quality of activities including: Management style: the way the administration will work and behave with other employees in his company. A good leader who knows how to give employees the company can fully develop their strengths and create a comfortable working environment and friendly in the process of management. Mark and Forgan if possible to do so, quality will be increased activity. Attitude of members we can see that the attitude of the employees will be affected positively or negatively affected by their work and their behavior at the company and company housing. If an employee has a positive attitude to work, they will create efficiency and quality of work will increase. If an employee has a negative attitude to work, they will create a boring atmosphere in the company, quality of work will be reduced. Therefore, when considering this issue, Mark van to change his attitude to the team. Working environment: the number and quality of implementation will be developed to a high level if the employees in company housing and construction companies working in the best environment. Because each will have different demands on the working environment. Therefore, this requires both Mark and Forgan need to understand and grasp the needs of each member. In this way they can create the appropriate environment for staff and for them to promote all of their advantages. The relationship between the members of the housing companies and construction companies: this is one of the main factors affecting the quality of activities. Because, when working together, the relationship between the members has an important role. + If the relationship between members as well, it will help improve performance quality. + If this relationship difficulties (conflict between members), comments operational quality will be reduced. Consequently, when an opinion on this issue, Forgan has been another success, because he has built good relationships with his team, when working with direct supervision. With Mark, he needs to reassess the relationship with employees, and he should change his views about this relationship. Incorporate results of assessments into personal development plans and other organisational procedures for dealing with performance issues After finishing appraisal process, the manage may complete her report with an overall assessment or the jointly reached conclusion of the interviewer with recommendation for result of appraisal. By assesses potential, potential review is the use of appraisal to forecast where and how fast an individual is progress. They need to ensure that the assessment of their colleagues understood. Besides, they also need to make new plans and strategies to develop appropriate plans for individuals and organizations to carry out procedures for dealing with performance problems of their labor. And then, Mark and Forgan should take the action agreed on the creation and promotion for their employees. When making assessments, both Mark and Forgan should make an assessment of potential for their employees. It includes: Network strength and the weakness in the skills of existing employees and quality. Strategic capabilities and repair, renovation and development. Aspirations and attitudes of employees for career development, staying with the organization and handle responsibility. Opportunities available within the organization, including positions with the ability to manage, shift work, plans and policies to promote wealth for the future. Conclusion After the activity, besides we have enough information for assignment, we have learned and improve about team work. The first thing we learned is good teams has to have a good leader and all members in team have to follow him. This is very important thing. The second thing is we must have good schedule because we also have to the assignment of other subject so if we cannot management time, we will fail all of them. Through this activity, we were practice a lot of theories which we learned in class and we also had more experience in teamwork.

Traditional File Systems Essay

Traditional File Systems Essay The traditional filing system (TFS) is a method of storing and arranging computer files and the information in the file (data). Basically it organizes these files into a database for the storage, organization, manipulation, and retrieval by the computers operating system. (DBMS) consists of software that operates databases, providing storage, access, security, backup and other facilities. This system can be categorized according to the database model and the type of computer that they support such as a server cluster or a mobile phone, the query language(s) that access the database, such as SQL or XQuery, performance trade-offs, such as maximum scale or maximum speed or others. Some DBMS cover more than one entry in these categories, e.g., supporting multiple query languages. Meanwhile database management systems are usually accessed in a client-server manner, where the database client and the server are located on different machines (in a local area network). Both systems deal with information management. File-based System File-based systems were an early attempt to computerize the manual filing system. File-based system is a collection of application programs that perform services for the end-users, such as updating, insertion, deletion adding new files to database etc. Each program defines and manages its data. When a computer user wants to store data electronically they must do so by placing data in files. Files are stored in specific locations on the hard disk (directories). The user can create new files to place data in, delete a file that contains data, rename the file, etc which is known as file management; a function provided by the Operating System (OS). Disadvantages of traditional file based system No need of external storage Provides less security. No need of a highly technical person to handle the database. Redundancy is more. Processing speed is high as compared to DBMS Less integrity. High complexity in updating of database. Table 1.1.1 Database Management System The improvement of the File-Based System (FBS) was the Database Management System (DBMS) which came up in the 60s. The Database Management System removed the trouble of manually locating data, and having to go through it. The user could create a suitable structure for the data beforehand, to place the information in the database that the DBMS is managing. Hence, the physical organizing of files is done away with and provides the user with a logical view of the data input. A database is a collection of interrelated information stored in a database server; these data will be stored in the form of tables. The primary aim of database is to provide a way to store and retrieve database information fast and in an efficient manner. Advantages Control of data redundancy Although the database approach does not remove redundancy completely, it controls the amount of redundancy in the database. Data consistency By removing or controlling redundancy, the database approach reduces the risk of inconsistencies occurring. It ensures all copies of the idea are kept consistent. More information from the same amount of data With the amalgamation of the operated data, it is possible to derive additional information for the same data. Sharing of data Database belongs to the entire organization and can be shared by all authorized users. Improved data integrity Database integrity provides the validity and consistency of stored data. Integrity is usually expressed in terms of constraints, which are consistency rules that the database is not permitted to violate. Improved security Provides protection of data from unauthorized users. It will require user names and passwords to identify user type and their access right in the operation including retrieval, insertion, updating and deletion. Enforcement of standards The integration of the database enforces the necessary standards including data formats, naming conventions, documentation standards, update procedures and access rules. Economy of scale Cost savings can be obtained by combining all organizations operational data into one database with applications to work on one source of data. Balance of conflicting requirements By having a structural design in the database, the conflicts between users or departments can be resolved. Decisions will be based on the base use of resources for the organization as a whole rather than for an individual person. Improved data accessibility and responsiveness By having integration in the database approach, data accessing can cross departmental boundaries. This feature provides more functionality and better services to the users. Increased productivity The database approach provides all the low-level file-handling routines. The provision of these functions allow the programmer to concentrate more on the specific functionality required by the users. The fourth-generation environment provided by the database can simplify the database application development. Improved maintenance Provides data independence. As a change of data structure in the database will affect the application program, it simplifies database application maintenance. Increased concurrency Database can manage concurrent data access effectively. It ensures no interference between users that would not result any loss of information or loss of integrity. Improved backing and recovery services Modern database management system provides facilities to minimize the amount of processing that can be lost following a failure by using the transaction approach. Disadvantages Complexity A difficult software. All users must be familiar with its functionality and take full advantage of it. Therefore, training for the administrators, designers and users is required. Size Uses a substantial amount of main memory as well as large amount of disk space in order to make it run efficiently. Cost of DBMS A multi-user database management system may be very expensive. Even after the installation, there is a high regular annual maintenance cost on the software. Cost of conversion When moving from a file-base system to a database system, the company is required to have additional expenses on hardware acquisition and training cost. Performance As the database approach is to cater for many applications rather than exclusively for a particular one, some applications may not run as fast as before. Higher impact of a failure Increases the vulnerability of the system due to the centralization. As all users and applications reply on the database availability, the failure of any component can bring operations to a halt and affect the services to the customer seriously. The difference between TFS and DBMS Balajee B. (2005), There are number of characteristics that differ from traditional file management system to database management system. In file system approach, each user implements the required files for a specific application to run. (Example: in a sales department of an enterprise, one user will be maintaining the details of the number of sales personnel in that department and their grades. These details will be stored and maintained in a separate file. Another user will maintain the salary details of these sales personnel and the detailed salary report will be stored and maintained in a separate file. Although both of the users need the data of the salespersons, they will be having their details in separate files and they need different programs to operate their files.) When such data is isolated in separate files, it is difficult to access data that should be available for both users. This will lead to wastage of space and redundancy or replication of data, which may lead to c onfusion, as sharing of data among various users is not possible and data inconsistency may occur. These files will not be having any inter-relationship among the data stored in these files. Therefore in traditional file processing every user will be defining their own constraints and implement the files according to their needs. In database approach, a single store of data is maintained that is defined once and then accessed by many users, as database belongs to the entire organization and can be shared by all authorized users. The essential characteristic of database approach is that the database system not only contains data but it contains complete definition or description of the database structure and control. These definitions are stored in a system catalog, which contains the information about the structure and definitions of the database. The information stored in the catalog is called the metadata, it describes the primary database. Hence this approach will work on any type of database for example, insurance database, Airlines, banking database, Finance details, and Enterprise information database. But in traditional file processing system the application is developed for a specific purpose and they will access specific database only. But the processing speed in TFS is high compared to DBMS. The other main characteristic of the database is that it will allow multiple users to access the database at the same time and sharing of data is possible. The database must include concurrency control software to ensure that several users trying to update the same data at the same time, it should maintain in a controlled manner. In file system approach many programmers will be creating files over a long period and various files have different format, in various application languages, where duplication of data can occur. This redundancy in storing same data multiple times leads to higher costs and wastage of space. This may result in data inconsistency in the application; this is because update is done to some of the files only and not all of the files. Moreover in database approach multiple views can be created; External view User/Application view, Conceptual view Logical view, Internal view Details about the structure of data and physical storage of information. View is a tailored representation of information contained in one or more tables. View is also called as Virtual table because view does not contain physically stored records and will not occupy any space. A multi-user database whose users have variety of applications must provide facilities for defining multiple views. In traditional file system, if any changes are made to the structure of the files it will affect all the programs. Therefore, changes to the structure of a file will require to change all programs that access the file and whereby data dependence will be lost. But in the case of database approach the structure of the database is stored separately in the system catalog from the access of the application programs. This property is known as program-data independence. Database can also be used for continuous storage for program objects and data structures that resulted in object oriented database approach. Traditional systems suffered from impedance mismatch problem and difficulty in accessing the data, which is avoided in object oriented database system. Database can be used to represent complex relationships among data as well as to retrieve and update related data easily and efficiently. Hence DBMS does not automatically remove redundancies, but help to control redundancy. It is possible to define and enforce integrity constraints for the data stored in the database. The database also provides facilities for recovering hardware and software failures, as it has automatic and intelligent backup and recovery procedures. It reduces the application development time considerably when compared to the file system approach and availability of up-to-date information of all the users. It also provides security to the data stored in the database system and maintains integrity. A highly technical person will be required to handle the database, while for TFS, it is not so. File-based systems are very dependent upon the application programmer. Any required queries or reports have to be written by the application programmer. Normally, a fixed format query or report can only be entertained and no facility for ad-hoc queries if offered. DBMS has data independence. The way information is stored and the way information issued is independent of each other. File-based systems also give tremendous pressure on data processing staff, with users complaints on programs that are inadequate or inefficient in meeting their demands. Documentation may be limited and maintenance of the system is difficult. Provision for security, integrity and recovery capability is very limited. Whereas, DBMS has control over security as it provides tools such as use of User Code, Password / Privileges and Roles to ensure security of data. Data, Field, Record, and File are the main components of Database environment. Briefly explain those. Data Webopedia (Anon., n.d.), Distinct pieces of information usually formatted in a special way. All software is divided into two general categories: data and programs. Programs are collections of instructions for manipulating data. Data can exist in a variety of forms as numbers or text on pieces of paper, as bits and bytes stored in electronic memory, or as facts stored in a persons mind. Strictly speaking, data is the plural of datum, a single piece of information. In practice, however, people use data as both the singular and plural form of the word. The term data is often used to distinguish binary machine-readable information from textual human-readable information. For example, some applications make a distinction between data files (files that contain binary data) and text files (files that contain ASCII data). In database management systems, data files are the files that store the database information, whereas other files, such as index files and data dictionaries, store adminis trative information, known as metadata. Field Webopedia (Anon., n.d.), A space allocated for a particular item of information. A tax form, for example, contains a number of fields: one for your name, one for your Social Security number, one for your income, and so on. In database systems, fields are the smallest units of information you can access. In spreadsheets, fields are called cells. Most fields have certain attributes associated with them. For example, some fields are numeric whereas others are textual; some are long, while others are short. In addition, every field has a name, called the field name. In database management systems, a field can be required, optional, or calculated. A required field is one in which you must enter data, while an optional field is one you may leave blank. A calculated field is one whose value is derived from some formula involving other fields. You do not enter data into a calculated field; the system automatically determines the correct value. A collection of fields is called a record. Record Webopedia (Anon., n.d.), In database management systems, a complete set of information. Records are composed of fields, each of which contains one item of information. A set of records constitutes a file. For example, a personnel file might contain records that have three fields: a name field, an address field, and a phone number field. In relational database management systems, records are called tuples. Some programming languages allow you to define a special data structure called a record. Generally, a record is a combination of other data objects. For example, a record might contain three integers, a floating-point number, and a character string. In database management systems, a complete set of information. Records are composed of fields, each of which contains one item of information. A set of records constitutes a file. For example, a personnel file might contain records that have three fields: a name field, an address field, and a phone number field. Figure 1.2.1 Source Author Anon., File Webopedia (Anon., n.d.), A collection of data or information that has a name, called the filename. Almost all information stored in a computer must be in a file. There are many different types of files: data files, text files, program files, directory files, and so on. Different types of files store different types of information. For example, program files store programs, whereas text files store text. What is the Importance of DBMS in a Defense Organization and in an Education Department? Defence Organization Benjamin (n.d.), A Database Management System (DBMS) is a set of computer programs that controls the creation, maintenance, and the use of the database with computers of an organization and its end users. It allows organizations to place control of organization-wide database development in the hands of database administrators (DBAs) and other specialists. As organizations develop with time, their adoption to the latest technologies in the computer field becomes a necessity. A Defence organization is no different. In these turbulent times, when national security is more important, providing all Defence personnel with access to the latest technology and education opportunities not only directly contributes to Defence capability but also improve the defence personnels career development. Hence the importance of a DBMS in such an organization like Defence is vital. Because Database administrators could use this system to configure and operate databases as the software provides high level, privileged database access. But the management should restrict use of this software to authorized personnel. One function of the database administrator is to create particular views of information stored in the database that are unique for each type of user. For example, one officer will have a different view of information in the database than another, say Senior officer. The different user groups will also have different abilities to add, modify, or delete information. The database administrator is responsible for providing users with access to the appropriate level of information. The primary risk associated with database administration is that an administrator can alter sensitive data without those modifications being detected. A secondary risk is that an administrator can change access rights to information stored within the database as well as their own access rights. Database security is the last line of defence. So it deserves greater focus on the protection of private data from both internal and external. The sensitivity and classification of the information stored in the database form the basis for establishing controls. A database that stores confidential information may require a more significant control environment than a database that stores non-sensitive information. Management should consider the security and performance implications of the security options available with modern database management systems. Database security professionals and information security and risk management professionals could adopt a security strategy in DBMS to: 1) Align database security policies with information security policies; 2) Ensure well-defined and formalized database security procedures; 3) Enforce role separation; and 4) Apply advanced security measures such as database auditing, monitoring, database encryption, data masking, and vulnerability assessment to all critical databases that store private data. The DBMS can provide long-term benefits for the Defence organization reducing duplication of data and making it easier for HR to update personnel records. If not for DBMS, each time there was a personnel change, trainers would have to go through their entire content to make the necessary changes. Now, replacing Brigadier Xs picture in the content library with Commodore Ys picture can be automatically replicated through all relevant programs. Thereby reduce its expenditure on storage. But, initial training will be required for all programmers and users. Even though database systems are complex, difficult, and time-consuming to design, there is greater data integrity and independence from applications programs and Education Department Sue Bushell (2004), To improve teaching and learning with the help of modern information and communication technology eLearning is beneficial to education, corporations and to all types of learners. It is affordable, saves time, and produces measurable results. E-learning comprises all forms of electronically supported learning and teaching. The Information and communication systems, whether networked or not, serve as specific media to implement the learning process. E-learning services have evolved since computers were first used in education. There is a trend to move towards blended learning services, where computer-based activities are integrated with practical or classroom-based situations. E-learning is essentially the computer and network-enabled transfer of skills and knowledge. E-learning applications and processes include Web-based learning, computer-based learning, virtual classroom opportunities and digital collaboration. Content is delivered via the Internet, intranet/extranet, audio or video tape, satellite TV, and CD-ROM. It can be self-paced or instructor-led and includes media in the form of text, image, animation, streaming video and audio The definition of e-learning varies depending on the organization and how it is used but basically it involves electronic means of communication, education, and training. Regardless of the definition you chose to use, designers, developers, and implementers make or break the instructional courses and tools. E-learning is simply a medium for delivering learning and like any other medium, it has its advantages and disadvantages. E-learning covers a wide array of activities from supported learning, to blended or hybrid learning (the combination of traditional and e-learning practices), to learning that occurs 100% online. As per wikipedia.org, the worldwide e-learning industry is estimated to be worth over $48 billion US according to conservative estimates. Developments in internet and multimedia technologies are the basic enabler of e-learning, with consulting, content, technologies, services and support being identified as the five key sectors of the e-learning industry. E-learning is naturally suited to distance learning and flexible learning, but can also be used in conjunction with face-to-face teaching, in which case the term Blended learning is commonly used. E-Learning pioneer Bernard Luskin argues that the E must be understood to have broad meaning if e-learning is to be effective. Luskin says that the e should be interpreted to mean exciting, energetic, enthusiastic, emotional, extended, excellent, and educational in addition to electronic that is a traditional national interpretation. This broader interpretation allows for 21st century applications and brings learning and media psychology into the equation. E-Learning can also refer to educational web sites such as those offering learning scenarios, worksheets and interactive exercises for children. The term is also used extensively in the business sector where it generally refers to cost-effective online training There are many advantages to online and computer-based learning when compared to traditional face-to-face courses and lectures. There are a few disadvantages as well. Advantages of eLearning (Anon., n.d) E-learning is beneficial to education, corporations and to all types of learners. It is affordable, saves time, and produces measurable results. Cost effective E-learning is more cost effective than traditional learning because less time and money is spent traveling. Since e-learning can be done in any geographic location and there are no travel expenses, this type of learning is much less costly than doing learning at a traditional institute. Flexibility Flexibility is a major benefit of e-learning. E-learning has the advantage of taking class anytime anywhere. Education is available when and where it is needed. E-learning can be done at the office, at home, on the road, 24 hours a day, and seven days a week. Learners like e-learning because it accommodates different types of learning styles. They have the advantage of learning at their own pace. Students can also learn through a variety of activities that apply to many different learning styles. Learners can fit e-learning into their busy schedule. If they hold a job, they can participate in eLearning right at their desk. If the learner needs to do the learning at night, then this option is available while in their pyjamas and do the learning if they desire. Personalized learning E-learning encourages students to peruse through information by using hyperlinks and sites on the worldwide Web. Learners are able to find information relevant to their personal situations and interest. E-learning allows selection of learning materials that meet their level of knowledge, interest and what they need to know to perform more effectively in an activity. E-learning is more focused on the learner and it is more interesting for the learner because it is information that they want to learn. E-learning is flexible and can be customized to meet the individual needs of the learners. Develops knowledge E-learning helps develop knowledge of the Internet. This knowledge will help learners throughout their careers. E-learning encourages students to take personal responsibility for their own learning. When learners succeed, it builds self-knowledge and self-confidence Disadvantages of eLearning Access One disadvantage of eLearning is that learners need to have access to a computer as well as the Internet. They also need to have computer skills with programs such as word processing, Internet browsers, and e-mail. Without these skills and software it is not possible for the learner to succeed in eLearning. E-learners need to be very comfortable using a computer. Slow Internet connections or older computers may make accessing course materials difficult. This may cause the learners to get frustrated and give up.   Software and files Another disadvantage of e-learning is managing computer files, software comfortability and learning new software, including e-learning. For learners with beginner-level computer skills it can sometimes seem complex to keep their computer files organized. The lesson points you to download a file which the learner does and later cannot find the file. The file is downloaded to the folder the computer automatically opens to rather than a folder chosen by the learner. This file may be lost or misplaced to the learner without good computer organizational skills. High motivation E-learning also requires time to complete especially those with assignments and interactive collaborations. This means that students have to be highly motivated and responsible because all the work they do is on their own. Learners with low motivation or bad study habits may not complete modules and may fall behind Isolation Another disadvantage of e-learning is that students may feel isolated and unsupported while learning. Instructions are not always available to help the learner so learners need to have discipline to work independently without assistance. E-learners may also become bored with no interaction with instructors or classmates.   Without the routine structures of a traditional class, students may get lost or confused about course activities and deadlines. Instructor may not always be available when students are studying or need help Conclusion Today many technologies can be, and are, used in e-learning, from blogs to collaborative software, E-Portfolios, and virtual classrooms. Most e-learning situations use combinations of these techniques. Even though the hardware and software start-up are costly, the advantages are; reduced data redundancy, reducing updating errors and increased consistency, greater data integrity and independence from applications programs, improved data access to users through use of host and query languages, improved data security and availability of facilitated development of new application programs and ability for intensive research are the benefits of DBMS. Task 2 Draw an Entity Relationship Data Model which describes the content and structure of the data held by the Medi Check Hospital. Produce the resulting tables of above Medi Check Hospital and clearly indicating the primary and foreign keys. Data Tables Doctor DoctorID (primary) Lname Fname Address Phone Pager Specialty Location Availability Patient PatientNo (primary) PatientFirstName PatientLastName PatientAddress PatientTelNo PatientDob PatientMaritalStatus PatientDateRegistered Appointment AppointmentNo (primary) PatientName Date/Time PatientTelNo Symptom SymptomCode (primary), SymptomName Description Treatment TreatmentTitle (primary) TreatmentType Duration Status TreatmentCost Medication MedicationNo (primary) MedicationType SideEffect Dosage Frequency Severity MedicationBrandName MedicationManufactureName MedicationManufactureAddress MedicationManufactureTel Normalize these tables to ensure that are all in BCNF. Show the steps you have taken in normalizing the tables. UNF Medication (DoctorID, Lname, Fname, Address, Phone, Pager, Specialty, Location, Availability, PatientNo, PatientFirstName, PatientLastName, PatientAddress, PatientTelNo, PatientDob, PatientMaritalStatus, PatientDateRegistered, AppoinmentNo, PatientName, Date/Time, PatientTelNo, SymptomCode, SymptomName, Description, TreatmentTitle, TreatmentType, Duration, Status, TreatmentCost, MedicationNo, MedicationType, SideEffect, Dosage, Frequency, Severity, MedicationBrandName, MedicationManufactureName, MedicationManufactureAddress, MedicationManufactureTel) 1NF Doctor Details (DoctorID, Lname, Fname, Address, Phone, Pager, Specialty, Location, Availability) Patient Details (PatientNo, PatientFirstName, PatientLastName, PatientAddress, PatientTelNo, PatientDob, PatientMaritalStatus, PatientDateRegistered, AppoinmentNo, PatientN

Nuclear Fusion a Feasible Source of Power Essay -- Energy Power Global

Is Nuclear Fusion a Feasible Source of Power? Abstract: Nuclear fusion may be an effective solution to the energy problem in today?s world. Fusion is environmentally friendly and has the potential to generate massive amounts of power. It is evident that the Sun?s power is fueled by nuclear fusion. Recent advancements such as ITER and NIF may bring us closer to being able to use fusion. We find that nuclear fusion is a long-term solution to a continuing problem. Introduction: Since the Industrial Age, energy from fossil fuels has become widespread. In recent times, the depletion of fossil fuels is forcing humanity to search for other alternatives, such as nuclear fusion. Fusion has been an attractive method of energy for a long time. In 1982, Princeton University experimented with the magnetic confinement Tokamak: a donut shaped accelerator designed to create massive amounts of heat. In 1998, JET built on the technology to create the largest Tokamak ever made. The ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor) project is currently working on a colossal undertaking to create a Tokamak that can produce more energy than it consumes. This project combines the efforts of many nations and will be constructed in class. Meanwhile, the NIF (National Ignition Facility) in Livermore is attempting to use lasers to generate a completely different fusion: inertial confinement fusion. Both ITER and NIF are slated for completion in 2030. Fusion is a difficult hurdle for scientists to tackle because scientists cannot currently find a method to produce more energy than the process consumes. The JET is the most cost effective fusion reactor in terms of power. However, the ratio of energy production to energy cons... ...century? Reference Chatellier, Michel, (2001). Sources of Energy. CEA. Retrieved July 24, 2005 from http://www-fusionmagnetique. cea.fr/gb/energies/energie03.htm ITER (2005, July 22). Wikipedia: The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved July 24, 2005, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ITER Nuclear Fusion (2005, July 21). Wikipedia: The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved July 24, 2005, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nuclear_fusion Parfit, Michael (2005). Future Power Where Will the World Get its Next Energy Fix. National Geographic, August 2005. Retrieved August 2, 2005, from http://www7.nationalgeographic.com/ngm/0508/feature1/fulltext.html Platt, Charles (1998). What if Cold Fusion is Real?. Wired, 6.11. Retrieved August 3, 2005, from http://www.wired.com/wired/archive/6.11/coldfusion.html Cover image courtesy of: http://www.cbc.ca/quirks/archives/03-04/dec13.html

The Writitng of Ambrose Bierce Essay -- Papers Writing Style Amrbose B

The writing style of Ambrose Bierce can simply be described as bitter. Almost all of his stories had some sort of irony or plot twist that made his stories interesting. Events in his life have shaped his view on the world. This viewpoint extends into his writing when he looks at the bitter side of the world in most of his stories and also the aspect of death. In the stories An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge and A Watcher by the Dead, he uses irony and examines death. Along with his patented irony, Bierce uses death in many of his popular stories, possibly as a wish for himself. His lonely and tragic life caused him to be the bitter writer we know today. Ambrose Gwinett Bierce was born on June 24, 1842 in a log cabin in Meigs County, Ohio. He was the youngest of nine children and was born into a poor family with an odd father. Bierce did not enjoy his childhood and ended up hating his entire family except for one brother. His preference for aristocratic heroes probably came from his troubled childhood and class status. His future bitterness may have come from the difficulties he had when he was a child (Fadiman XI). Before he started his writing career Bierce served in the army during the Civil War, first as a drummer boy. By then end of the Civil War he was promoted to the rank of lieutenant, being wounded only once in the war. There is no evidence that he agreed with the aims of the North, but there is some evidence that he sided more with the aristocratic planter culture of the South. While he was in the army, Bierce was considered a man that possessed qualities of leadership that promoted him through the ranks. Bierce joined the war at a very young age, and seeing the worst of mankind of that time could hav... ...his experiences with the elite of San Francisco. He always hated the way he was brought up and how he was poor as a child. Many of his stories use characters that are opposite of how his childhood in reality was, in order to create a false past. All of his stories used at least one of these aspects (Epstein 87-89) Ambrose Bierce can be considered one the greatest cynics of all time. It is obvious that the events in his life caused him to be the bitter, cynical person we see in his stories. In an article relating to how Ambrose Bierce started the cynical, ironic writing in America, Joseph Epstein says, â€Å"If the Civil War may be said to have put the blackening on Bierce’s outlook, his career in journalism supplied the polish (Epstein 86).† Every event in his life, from his troubled youth, to his Civil War experience, led him to the writer he is known as today.