General Services Administration Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

General Services Administration - Research Paper Example Its vision is related to the enhancement of the mission goals to ensure that the quality of the service delivery is retained while negating any form of challenges that may derail service delivery. GSA is guided by three strategic goals namely innovation, customer intimacy and operational excellence. The agency is involved in a wide range of activities that enhances proper functioning of the US governance system. One of its crucial roles includes relaying products and communications in the US government offices. Besides their involvement in a wide array of activities, the agency enhances the provision of transportation and proper working space for federal employees. It also formulates cost-minimizing strategies to enhance the performance of governance structures. GSA provides job opportunities for approximately 12 000 workers and has an operating budget of approximately $26.3 billion. GSA manages most of the US federal property that includes buildings and motor vehicles. Some of the r eal estate assets that are managed by GSA are Ronald Regan Building, Hat-Dole-Inouye Federal Centre and the World Trade Centre. GSA is also involved in the business line that includes Federal Acquisition Service (FAS), Public Buildings Service (PBS), Office of the Citizens and Communications and office of the government wide Policy among others. The paper below discusses the creation, purpose and impact of General Services Administration on today's society.... GSA is also involved in the business line that includes Federal Acquisition Service (FAS), Public Buildings Service (PBS), Office of the Citizens and Communications and office of the government wide Policy among others. The paper below discusses the creation, purpose and impact of General Services Administration on today's society. Creation The preliminary idea for the formation of GSA emanated from 1947’s Herbert Hoover led commission. The commission had been obligated with the role of coming up with recommendations that would enhance service delivery of the federal government. GSA attained the status of an independent agency in 1949 with the enactment of Federal Property and Administrative Services Act with Jess Larson being named as the first administrator (United States, 2009). Currently, GSA conducts its functions through 11 offices located in Denver, Boston, Chicago, Atlanta, Seattle, San Francisco, New York City, Missouri, Ft. Worth, Washington DC and Kansas City. Produ cts and Services According to National Research Council (U.S.)., Brose, and Millett (2012), the agency acts as the procurement and acquisition arm of the federal government. Its acquisition roles include offering of the office equipments, communication products and other solutions related to information systems to enable the federal agencies offer effective services to the public. These products and services include: Professional and Technical Solutions GSA provides a wide range of improved professional and quality services that helps in promoting the federal agency performance and assists them to achieve their goals. The solutions offered by the agency include complete management, consulting and financial services to federal institutions and other constituent agencies. It also

Equality of Condition Essay Example for Free

Equality of Condition Essay In his book â€Å"democracy in America†, Alexis de Tocqueville provides a thorough study of the equality of condition as a distinctive feature of the democratic America and discusses some of the consequences it might have. He begins his writing by introducing the reader that during his stay in America the equality of condition struck his attention the most. In America, the democracy has reached another level that has never been seen before or experienced in any of the European countries but that are slowly progressing towards it. This level of democracy has created a society in which all persons are legally understood to be socially and politically equal. Despite all the benefits that the equality of condition brings to the society, it also tends to isolate people from one another and cut them off from the social beliefs and values. When this form of isolation is transformed into an extreme form of individualism, it creates selfishness and egoism among people. When these people come together to form a majority which in a democratic society enjoys a great amount of power, it might cause the tyranny of majority – de Tocqueville’s main concern. The concept of equality of condition is more complex than it first seems and a society based on this fact poses a threat to freedom. De Tocqueville argues that â€Å"the influence of the equality of condition extends far beyond the political character and the laws of the country and it has no less empire over the civil society than over the government, it creates opinions, gives birth to new sentiments, founds novel customs and modifies whatever it does not produce† (â€Å"Democracy in America† Heffner ed., 26). It is important to depict from this quote that a society based on the equality of condition, above all, creates the common opinion. In an equal society, the fact that all the members are resembled enables them to trust and support the common judgment and opinion. Furthermore, de Tocqueville argues that all the inhabitants of the democratic society are individually equal and independent to each other but if one individual alone tends to contrast the â€Å"totality of his fellows†, he will find himself insignificant and weak. Therefore in a democratic society, the public has, as de Tocqueville calls, â€Å"a singular power† where it enforces certain opinions and infuses such opinions in the intellect of their mind. Considering that in a democratic society, it is the majority that takes decisions, the public opinion will then become the law creating political omnipotence. Therefore, de Tocqueville claims that in the US the majority comes up with opinions and the individuals although they develop their personal thoughts have to adopt those that the majority offers since they, alone, are unable to contrast them. This, in turn, discourages and in a way prohibits them from developing their own intellectual thoughts. Thus, the equality of condition that gives rise to the majority opinion poses a great threat to the individual freedom of thought. During his stay in America, de Tocqueville discovered that the American people appeal only to their own individual effort of its own understanding. He has found that in America the tie which unites generation is broken and that nobody traces or cares about the ideas of their forefathers. In a society where everybody is equal and classes tend to disappear, no man can have an intellectual influence in the mind of another man since nobody looks at his fellows as being superior. Therefore, de Tocqueville argues that in a society based on the equality of condition, not only the trust of one man on another is destroyed but also the intellectual authority on any man. In absence of such intellectual authority, people develop their own believes and judgments within themselves different from the rest of the society. In the absence of an intellectual trustworthy authority capable of imposing social beliefs and values, people are left to seek the truth alone and when they fail to do so or such truth is against their personal judgment, they simply ignore it. Thus, an equally conditioned society tends to isolate people from one another and cut them off from a common set of social beliefs and values. This isolation that results from the equality of condition has dangerous consequences if it reaches extreme levels which de Tocqueville calls individualism. As a result of the individualism, the selfishness and the egoism of people will be born. The egoism and selfishness cause people in this society to develop a love for material gratification a love for richness. They want to acquire everything for themselves even if it is done in the expense of other people. Furthermore, according to de Tocqueville, these individuals do not change their character as they unite with each other or grow in number. In fact, they tend to enforce those selfish opinions but on a greater scale. The majority they create will then act as one selfish individual and in a pure democratic society is given the power to make laws and take decisions on behalf of everybody. Therefore, such a majority consisting of egoist people who fulfill their needs and greed in the expense of the other people composing a minority creates the tyranny of majority. In a democratic society, the ultimate reason that the tyranny of majority occurs, is the individualism which separates people from each other and from the social values and beliefs and allows people to establish selfish opinions that hurt the other people. Therefore, de Tocqueville argues that the establishment of â€Å"family†, â€Å"religion† and â€Å"patriotism† are necessary protections against such tyranny because they bring people together and enforce on them social and moral values. Families bind people together and connect them with each other. Members of the family are taught to sacrifice some of their personal gratification for his ancestors and descendants. Therefore, the establishments of families attempt to fight the selfishness that individualism has created. The members of the family in their childhood are taught morals and social values. The elderly in the family can influence the young ones because they are perceived to have some intellectual authority. Therefore, the family brings people close to each other, where one member of the family cares about the others, and to the social values avoiding the isolation. Patriotism also fights the selfishness and brings people together. De Tocqueville sees patriotism as one citizen making a personal sacrifice for the greater welfare of the public. He also argues that in a patriotic society people do not fail to faithfully support each other. A patriotic person believes that it is his duty to make himself useful to other fellow citizens. Therefore, patriotism also creates a strong community where the members care about one another. It breaks the isolation and consequently the individualism that the equality of condition creates. Religion also brings people close to each other and to the social and moral values. De Tocqueville argues that every religion places the object of men’s desire above any treasurer in the earth. Every religion imposes duties on men towards his fellow citizens and draws him away from the contemplation of himself. Furthermore, the main concern of religion is to purify and restrict the excessive and exclusive taste for well being which men in the periods of equality wishes. Man cannot be cured by the love of the riches but they may be persuaded to enrich themselves by none but honest means (â€Å"Democracy in America† Heffner ed., 152). Thus, religion serves as a superior intellectual authority which brings people together to each other and also enforces on them moral values that people abide to. In essence it fights both the isolation and the selfishness of people. The â€Å"family†, â€Å"patriotism† and â€Å"religion† fulfill the absence of a superior intellectual authority, create a strong community and bring people close to the social and moral values which lack in an egalitarian society. De Tocqueville emphasizes the importance of associations in a democratic society. In his opinion an association consists of a group people united by a common interest and who agree to promote their ideas in a certain manner. Simply, associations guide a group of people with divergent minds towards achieving a specific end. In order for an association to exist it has to have the liberty to create an opinion and the freedom to meet which a democratic society grants to them. De Tocqueville distinguishes between two types of associations; the political association and the civic association. The political association besides having the two liberties mentioned above, they also have the liberty to unite into electoral bodies and chose their representatives. A political association acts as a government within a government where the delegates of the association represent the collective force of their party just like the delegates of the majority. The civic associations include a large number of organizations starting from building inns, churches, schools and hospitals. While the political associations have one major goal that they try to achieve by electing delegates; the civic associations are less formal, include a larger number and attempt to improve the social life in the society. Political associations are sometimes used to organize revolutions like those in Europe whereas the civic associations are voluntarily created and peaceful in their nature. The political associations are similar to the political parties today who elect their delegates and compete for offices. The civic associations are very similar to the interest groups where a group of people form an organization and express their point of view in certain issues and attempt to influence those who already occupy offices. The civic associations like the interest groups include a greater variety of interests. De Tocqueville goes further to argue that the political and civic associations are necessary to retain an active community life in a democratic society. De Tocqueville argues that in a democratic society all the citizens are independent and feeble and they, alone, cannot do anything and cannot oblige another person to assist them. They all become powerless if they do not learn to help each other voluntarily. If they do not form associations, which are simply artificial ways of binding people, they might preserve their wealth but their independence as well as their civilization will be in jeopardy. Furthermore, in a democratic society, as I have discussed earlier, people tend to get isolated from tone another. Therefore, since civic associations are very diverse, they are necessary to voluntarily bring people together and create ties among them. Thus, they are crucial to retain an active sense of community life. The political and civic associations are very important in a democratic society in the attempt to avoid the tyranny of the majority. The minorities can create political associations and elect their delegates in order to directly fight the oppressive laws created by the majority. The civic associations can also be used by minorities to create a larger group and then together voice their opinion. The associations are also used to bring people together and avoid the creation of individualism which is very likely in a society based on the equality of condition. Political and civic associations are, therefore, necessary schools for democracy because they teach us how to avoid the tyranny of majority in advanced democracies. De Tocqueville’s philosophy is still relevant for our own time. Nowadays, the political and civic associations play a very important role in creating communities. As countries become more democratic, the number of associations in those countries increases because people as individuals become powerless and they are unable to defend their beliefs on their own. Today, the political and civic associations are very common and much more active that they have ever been. The political and civic associations enable people to unite and become active members of the society. As people join different organizations, they agree to help and support other fellow citizens. People unite and form associations because they have strong feelings for a cause they fight although such a cause might not directly affect them. Therefore, political and civic associations tend to correct and remove selfishness from the people. The existence of a large number of associations is the reason why we have not exp erienced the tyranny of majority although a number of countries have reached advanced levels of democracy.

Relationship between organisations structure and culture

Relationship between organisations structure and culture Organizations rely on nonfigurative conceptions, to make significance systematically of our experience and observations of people doing things together. Organizational life can be explained, understood, predicted, and influenced, with non-figurative ideas about structure and culture. 3.1.1 Contrast different organisational structures and culture While there is no general agreement or uniformity of structural and cultural aspects of community organizations, grassroots organizers have some common tradition and perceptive. Organizations structural characters are strict, nonflexible, created and preserved by documentation, and contingency centred. The structure is taken on officially, on the basis of known rules and events. It decide how the organization is made-up to operate and for what reasons. The cultural definitions of people, situation, events, information, objects, facts, procedure are essential for organizational choices and movement. The common properties of structure and culture are: Contingency-cantered Ideology-cantered Cultural Features Structural Features Documented Word-of-mouth Formal Informal Fixed Flexible It is impossible to do split structure and culture, in practice. So organizational structure spells out the place to be occupied by members of an organization and culture defines the task to go with those place and the kinds of people. 3.1.2 Relationship between an organisations structure and culture and the effects on business performance Structure The basic objects of organizational structure are the books constitutions and bylaws. These books begin with the broad aims and principles of the organization and they reflect the central values and interests of the membership, constituency, or clientele. Structural definition also describes the organizations resource base. A lot of organizations normally define their curriculum of membership in bylaws. Some of them even state the amount of annual dues for each. The books describe formal offices or positions in the organization. Not always same as labour branches, as stating who does what. Tax-exemption options may also be written. Decision-making activities are planned in structural documentation. The common types of organizational choices are: structural, management, policy, adjudication, and supervision. Constitutions and Bylaws state the actors and way to alter in the structure itself. The total membership, annual assembly or congress, is exclusively authorized to change the basic structure. Policy matters are typically left to leadership bodies meeting more frequently. And management is often delegated to staff. Culture Cultural aspects are those that evolve in discussion and are in fluctuation, constantly modifying. Many cases organizational culture describes what things signify, whether good or bad, right or wrong, and how to accomplish them when cant be set-up by formal process. The culture encourages effective philosophy for possibility in the organizations daily work done. Comparing with basic principles, its the fleeting operational philosophy fashioned, shaped, and broadcasted in common knowledge and conversation about that understanding that tells a corporate flack catcher. The culture progresses the organization forward when it fixes the jobs and the category of labour. Culture shows some other crucial and equivalent role by reflecting experiences in the past and keeping away from occurring again of emergency. For example, when an organization learnt about relying on a sole leader to broker of its inner interest. Likewise, relying totally on one source of money doesnt continue long life. Culture can be felt more in its definition of roles than other way. Culture defines how people visualize of the causes and ways for actions. Leaders under the grasp of organizational culture are informed that, they may take decision, appropriating the managerial authority of the membership wrong. Also, staff appreciation to act follows from a thoughtful of a spoken organizing model, another surface of the organizations culture. 3.1.3 Influence of individual behaviour at work Issues that influence individual behaviour at work are: 1) The approaches potentials of management and positive or negative foundation in a work place salary, inducement, raises, appreciation, gratitude of staff and so forth 2) The Spirits of the setting comprises the approaches of lower management and employees altogether. 3) The setting of the work place outlooks, niceness, cleanness, pleasantness etc. 4) The complete achievement of the business a winning business tends to be more positive, fruitful and vice versa 5) The moral and business exercise principles of the governing partners, managers or owners are introductory of the behaviour in a work place. 3.2 Different approaches to management and leadership Earlier, leadership was meant the work done by people at the top of the organization and that management was meant the work done by all in the middle of the organization. Yet, this positional view does not need to be that way. Management and leadership are both essential components of a winning organization. The differences between leadership and management A baton sets the administration in any organization. He consistently imagines the approaching of the alignment and evangelise that position. Administration is advertent the anticipation and arch area to go. Management concentrates on befitting the aggregation beeline and affective in its announcement direction. Its not about acrimonious a point on the border and activity there. Administration is about acute advance appear the atom on the horizon. Great organizations apprehend that actuality acceptable at alone one of these two roles is a abundant accomplishment in itself, but a being who excels at both administration and administration is actual difficult, if not impossible, to find. Thats why best organizations accept an abstracted arch controlling administrator and an arch operations officer. The arch-controlling administrator is the baton of the organization, amenable for charting a course. The arch operations administrator is the administrator amenable for authoritative abiding that the address follows the charted course. They assignment calm to accomplish the alignment as able as possible. The formula for success Leaders are generally the agog individuals who will bawl bang scream article that managers acquisition detestable. When gluttonous out the baton that you crave to abutment your adeptness to manage, attending for the actuality best arduous to control. That actuality has abeyant as a leader. An alignment needs to amalgamate an archetypal of the leadership/management aggregate if it wishes to be absolutely acceptable. If youre in the position to appoint somebody, youll crave to attending for commutual skills. If youre an accustomed baton youll crave to appoint somebody with able administration skills. Similarly, if youre abundant at managing things youll crave to accomplish abiding that you accommodate leaders in the alignment so that youve an antecedent for the administration youll require. Yet, hiring these abilities is an affluence that few managers can afford. Instead, accede how to analyse animate these abilities in the bodies you already accept alive with you. In best cases, youll charge to try on your analogue for admeasurements afore announcement to them what youre doing. Youll charge to alpha by allurement your analogue applicant questions authoritative requests, which advance them in to bushing the role afterwards advertisement the admirable vision. If youre attractive for a manager, the ideal applicant to tap is one who brand method; this actuality arrives accompanying anniversary day leaves simultaneously. Individuals who are regimented in what they do are usually abundant at administration because theyre admirable at active the aforementioned ascendancy processes day in day out. You may additionally ascertain an administrator applicant in the one that is the best organized. The actuality doesnt charge be bedevilled with actuality neat; yet, there consistently appears to be alignment to what theyre doing. They seek to organize, classify, accomplish anatomy for aggregate they do. Once youre adequate with your accommodation and the analogue that youve selected, its time to let them in on the admirable planafter all you dont charge her to leave afterwards youve gotten to depend on her for article important. Youll charge to characterize that shes an important allotment of arch and managing your department. This may beggarly advertisement to her your limitations but its acceptable capital to let her accept what youre saying. Chances are that if youve followed the aloft address youve begin addition aural your alignment to be your counterpart. That has in it an inherent challenge. As bodies they tend to value, respect, and accept the account of the things were nice at. A baton will admit nice administration and an administrator will admit nice management. Yet, in adjustment to accumulate the antithesis it will be important to apprentice to account the attributes that your analogue brings. On the surface, this seems simple but it may be the best difficult allotment of accumulation both administration and administration in your organization. If youre a leader, youll be tempted to plough advanced afterwards activity analysis meetings, milestones, and activity account reviews. But these are the things that an administrator needs to manage. Similarly, as an administrator you may not accept half-day affairs to altercate strategy. 3.2.1 Principles and practices of organising and of management Whenever bodies collaborate in organizations, lots of factors appear into play. Avant-garde authoritative studies try to accept archetypal these factors. Like all modernist amusing sciences, authoritative studies seek to control, predict, report. There is some altercation over the belief of authoritative workers behaviour, as able-bodied as the address in which workers are treated. As such, authoritative behaviour or OB (and its cousin, Industrial psychology) has sometimes been accused of actuality the accurate apparatus of the powerful. Those accusations notwithstanding, OB can comedy an above role in authoritative development, acceptable authoritative performance, as able-bodied as alone accumulation performance/satisfaction/commitment. Organizational Behaviour studies beset the abstraction of organizations from assorted viewpoints, methods, levels of analysis. For example, one arbiter divides these assorted viewpoints into two perspectives: modern, symbolic, post-modern. Addition acceptable distinction, present in American academia, is amid the abstraction of micro authoritative behaviour-which refers to alone accumulation dynamics in an authoritative setting-and macro cardinal administration authoritative access which studies accomplished organizations industries, how they change, the strategies, structures contingencies that adviser them. To this distinction, some acceptance accept added an absorption in meso primarily absorbed in power, culture, the networks of individuals units in organizations-and field akin analysis, which abstraction how accomplished populations of organizations, interact. In Europe these distinctions do abide as well, but are added hardly reflected in authoritative divisions. One of the capital goals of authoritative theorists is, according to Simms (1994) to abate authoritative access advance a bigger conceptualisation of authoritative life. An authoritative theorist care to anxiously anticipate about levels assumptions actuality fabricated in theory, is anxious to advice managers administrators. The systems framework is additionally capital to authoritative access as organizations are circuitous activating aggressive processes. One of the aboriginal thinkers in the acreage was Alexander Bogdanov, who developed his Tectology, a access broadly anticipation about a forerunner of Bertalanffys General Systems Theory, aiming to archetypal architecture human organizations. Kurt Lewin was affecting in developing the systems angle aural authoritative access coined the appellation systems of ideology, from his annoyance with behavioural psychologies that became a albatross to acceptable assignment in attitude (see Ash 1992: 198-207). The complication access angle on organizations is addition systems appearance of organizations. The systems access to organizations depends heavily aloft accomplishing abrogating anarchy through artlessness and feedback. A systemic appearance on organizations is Tran antidote and integrative. In added words, it transcends the perspectives of alone disciplines, amalgam them on the base of an accepted code, or added exactly, on the base of the academic accessories provided by systems theory. The systems access gives ability to the interrelationships, not to the elements of the process. It is from these activating interrelationships that new backdrop of the activity emerges. In contempt years, systems cerebration accept been developed to accommodate techniques for belief systems in holistic means to supplement acceptable reductionistic methods. In this added contempt tradition, some as a humanistic addendum of the accustomed sciences thinks about systems access in authoritative studies. Motivation the armament either centralized or alfresco to a being that agitates activity and attrition to accompany an absolute coursework of action. According to Baron et al. (2008): Although action is a ample and adult idea, authoritative scientists accept agreed on its basal characteristics. Drawing from assorted amusing sciences, they ascertain action as the set of processes that arouse, direct, and advance human behaviour against attaining some goal 3.2.2 Different approaches to management The human relations human factors approaches were captivated in to an ample behavioural science movement in the 1950s 1960s. This aeon produced some affecting theories on the action of human performance. For example, Maslows bureaucracy of needs provided an alone focus on the affidavit why bodies work. They argued that bodies annoyed an ascendance alternation of needs from survival, through aegis to closing self-actualisation. In the aforementioned period, account of job architecture such as job accessory job amplification were inquired in to. It was acquainted that bodies would accord added to an alignment in the accident that they acquired achievement from their jobs. Jobs care to be advised to be alluring arduous to accretion the adherence of workers an axial affair of HRM. Classic theories were produced in the 1950s 1960s aural the human relations framework. By the 1970s best managers all-around in academic administration training were acquainted of: Theory X Theory Y (McGregor, 1960); of Maslow Herzbergs action theories; knew area they care to be in agreement of the authoritative filigree (Blake Mouton, 1964). These theorists advocated participative, soft approaches to management. Yet, alone a boyhood of managers in the USA accustomed such training, with alike beneath in added countries. Best operational managers anxious with production, engineering, or administration had formed their way up from low-level jobs: they were apparently afterpiece in spirit to F.W. Taylor than the theorists of the 1950s 1960s. Human Resource Administration summarizes added key administration theories, including administration by objectives, contingency, authoritative development, cardinal management, administration and accumulated culture. Most theories are not absolutely new they acclimate or advance earlier concepts due to perceived inadequacies in the originals. Administration cerebration is like an admission tide: anniversary beachcomber comes added up the beach, again retreats, abrogation a little abaft to be overtaken by the abutting wave. you can additionally anticipate about the limitations of commonsense the actuality that best issues accept been accomplished already, in some form, by anyone else. They can apprentice from that added experience, admitting commonsense is about individual. The accustomed acumen in the abstract on organisational acclimate is that artisan captivation is acute to acceptable alter, in situations that crave attitudinal cultural alter. Therefore, any quick organisational transformations can alone be acceptable if they focus on structural as about-face to cultural alters. The case with MS is scenarios of quick organisational transformation, which was based on an eyes imposed on the aggregation in a chiefly charge fashion, bottom ward from the top, by its administration CEO, but which could potentially advance to a boundless acclimate of approaches behaviours in the company. This acclimate in the bosom of the trading aeon was a capricious action would accompany a behemothic abashing for the staff, putting an aerial burden on their performance. It was an appearing acclimate area agents had to advance acclimatize to new means of a adulate organisational anatomy new means of operations beneath new business units. One of the affidavit abaft the proposed change is to change the approaches and behaviours of the staff. Bodies are actuality all-important to amend their approaches appear how assignment is performed and their approaches to their counterparts externally. Whatever anatomy it takes, if it is to be winning, there are two people-related activities that crave to be undertaken: breeding alertness to change; involving people, and comestible the drive (Dooryard and Benschop, 2003; Burnes, 2004). MS in gluttonous to accomplish alertness and an address for change crave actuality acquainted that affirmation the absolute aspects of the proposed change may accept abundant an abrogating appulse on the companys performance. Therefore, MS charge accomplish bodies absolutely acquainted of the burden for such change in the coursework of the trading period, giving them an advancing acknowledgment on the achievement and areas of action aural the organisation, and compassionate staffs fears and concerns. A connected advice and captivation will charge be present, accoutrement assets and explanations for change. Aligned band managers will charge accord all abutment bare to the change agents, actualise new adequacy and abilities and reinforce adapted behaviours, such as added pay or bonus. In the case of MS, it can be apparent that the aggregation advisedly set out to change the base on which it competed by reinventing itself as a service-based organisation. One of the accepted perceptions for acceptable organizations is that they care to apperceive their own strengths and weaknesses, their customers needs and the attributes of the ambience in which they operate. Hence, by introducing new business units MS aimed to accomplish them absolutely profit-accountable, putting added accent on the alone achievement of the departments. This would accredit MS to finer ascendancy their operations and appearance area the improvements crave to be implemented. Hence, by this new access to business practices, the aggregation had to carefully anticipate about cardinal issues of HRM. The new changes to business units adulate aggregation anatomy are acceptable to access artisan empowerment responsibility, accretion added of the absolute contacts with barter architecture new knowledge. Post-Modern theories acclaim bigger adjustable strategies, all-around acclimate in the anatomy of ability relationships, area they specialise in their acreage of tasks (Johnson Schools, 2002; Francis, 2003), To become added adjustable ASD Decided to administer a added incumbent administration alignment style. Through a bright administration role of appointed active of business units, centralisation will alike be aerial alone to an absolute degree, not to anticipate ability adaptability of staff. Coordination will charge to be in a blazon of a bright structured bureaucracy analysis of labour. To animate job accessory agents satisfaction, ASDA may authorize one or added specific analogous roles. Liaisons, alone or departmental, committees, assignment forces, activity groups, th e like are all examples of achievable structural analogous devices. Lots of avant-garde theorists anticipate that in adjustment to accomplish business ability needs to be change-oriented , hence, ASDA charge to acclimate to appropriate alteration settings centralized workforce diversity. 3.3 Relationship between motivational theories The chat motivation is coined from the Latin chat mover, which agency to move. Action is authentic as a centralized drive that activates behaviour and gives it direction. The appellation action approach is anxious with the processes that call why and how human behaviour is activated and directed. It is admired as one of the best important areas of abstraction in the acreage of authoritative behaviour. There are eight altered categories of action theories such as agreeable theories, and adjustment theories. Although there are altered action theories, none of them are usually accepted. 3.3.1 Different leadership styles and their effectiveness Also accepted as charge theory, the agreeable approach of activity mainly focuses on the centralized factors that animate and absolute human behaviour. Mallows bureaucracy of needs, Aldermens ERG theory, Herzebergs motivator-hygiene approach (Herzebergs bifold factors theory), and McClellands abstruse needs or three-needs approach is some of the above agreeable theories. Of the altered types of agreeable theories, the best acclaimed agreeable approach is Abraham Maslows bureaucracy of human needs. Maslow alien bristles levels of basal needs through his theory. Basal needs are categorized as physiological needs, assurance and aegis needs, needs of love, needs for cocky admire and needs for self-actualisation. Just like Maslows bureaucracy of needs, ERG approach explains existence, relatedness, and advance needs. Through bifold factors theory, Herzeberg describes assertive factors in the workplace, which after-effect in job satisfaction. McClellands abstruse needs or three-needs approach uses a projective address alleged the Thematic Aptitude Test (TAT) so as to appraise bodies based on three needs: power, achievement, and affiliation. Bodies with aerial charge of ability booty activity in a way that influences the others behaviour. 3.3.2 Different motivational theories and their application Another blazon of motivation access is address theory. Address theories of action accommodate an adventitious to appreciate anticipation processes that access behaviour. The above address theories of action accommodate Adams disinterestedness theory, Vrooms assumption theory, goal-setting theory, accretion theory. Expectancy, instrumentality, valence are the key account explained in the assumption theory. Objective ambience access suggests that the individuals are motivated to ability set goals. It additionally requires that the set goals be specific. Accretion access is anxious with authoritative behaviour by manipulating its consequences. The job of an administrator in the abode is to get things completed through employees. To do this administrator care to be able to actuate employees. But thats not as adamantine said than completed! Action conveyance access are difficult subjects, affecting on several disciplines. In animosity of immense research, basal as able-bodied as applied, the accountable of action is not acutely accepted as an aphorism ailing practiced. To appreciate action one charge appreciates human attributes itself. There lies the problem! Human attributes can be actual simple, yet actual circuitous too. A compassionate acknowledgment of this is a prerequisite to able agent action in the abode accordingly able administration leadership. Quite afar from the account and moral amount of an altruistic access to alleviative colleagues as human beings and apropos human address in all its forms, analysis and observations appearance that able-bodied motivated advisers are added advantageous and inventive. The changed additionally holds true. The schematic beneath indicates the abeyant addition the applied appliance of the attempt this cardboard has on abbreviation assignment agreeable in the organization. 3.3.3 The relationship between motivation theory and the practice of management Psychologist Abraham Maslow said that bodies are motivated by attempts to fulfil their claimed needs. Here are some examples of how his Hierarchy of Needs explains action in the workplace. Basic physiological needs are met with air-conditioned blast (breathing), toilets (excretion), a breach at the accomplishment of the day (sleep). Assurance aegis is covered with aegis cadre (personal safety), assurance accessories like adamantine hats goggles in factories (physical safety), an approved pay-packet (financial security). Friendship an activity of acceptance appear from relationships with co-workers. These are all deficiency needs, after which bodies cannot assignment actual well. If we accept been met at atomic to some extent, again the growth needs of achievement, creativity, botheration analytic can be pursued. Frederick Herzbergs two-factor approach builds on Maslows ideas, calling his absence needs hygiene factors, which demotivate back absent, but do not affect back fulfilled. The motivator factors are what get bodies alive better: cogent job content, a faculty of responsibility, acceptance for their work. Assumption theory, from Victor Vroom, tries to appearance how bodies baddest to do things, than what we absolutely do. Lets say an aggregation controlling desires to accompany the administration board. The affability of this after-effect for him, or valence, is actual high. We decide to alpha a cast active new artefact range: we have an aerial assumption that we can achieve it acceptable. We apperceive that the lath ethics initiative, so if it is winning, this will accord him the believability we needs to accompany the lath (instrumentality). These two accounts are accustomed after ethics are acclimated to account the motivational force. Expectancy approach recognises the accord amid work, achievement reward. Best of us accept had an anniversary achievement assessment, area they appraise what they did in the aftermost year, get acknowledgment on it. They again set goals for the abutting twelve months. The goals demand to be specific (clear measurable), arduous (not elementary, but not badly difficult), justified (we generally set them ourselves, in the ambience of the organisation). This comes beeline from Edwin Lockes goal-setting theory. Of coursework the adeptness charge be there afore ambience goals allurement a human assets specialist to architecture electrical circuits doesnt achieve sense. Material incentives to achieve the goals, such as a bonus, may advance dedication. Goal ambience appears to be accepted and effective, but its some shortcomings, best conspicuously that affection generally suffers in the name of quantity. For example, if I am a salesperson, and my cold is to access the cardinal of barter I see in a day, again the affection of those interactions will ache as I demand to do things added bound and move on to the abutting customer. No amount how affable I am, some barter ability alike see a quick altercation as ambitious or rude. 3.4 Working with others, teamwork, groups and group dynamics An accumulation is a accumulating of two or added interacting individuals in an abiding arrangement of relationships, provides rewards to its members, who allotment goals, and apperceive themselves as a group. Group characteristics: Â · Two or added bodies in amusing interaction. Â · Rewards to members. Â · Stable structure. Â · Members allotment accepted interests or goals. Â · Individuals charge apperceives themselves as a group. Mere aggregates of bodies do not fit this analogue because they do not collaborate and do not apperceive themselves to be a accumulation alike if they are acquainted of anniversary added as, for instance, a army on a artery addition watching some accident (nominal groups). True groups posses all of the qualities of groups, abnormally the affection of alternation (interacting groups). Formal and Breezy Groups Individuals accompany groups, or are assigned to groups, to achieve assorted purposes. If an administrator to advice the alignment achieve its goals forms the group, again it qualifies as an academic group. Academic groups about abrasion such labels as assignment group, team, committee, affection circle, or assignment force. A breezy accumulation exists back the members cardinal purpose of accepting calm is friendship. Although academic and breezy groups generally overlap, such as an aggregation of accumulated auditors branch for the tennis courts afterwards work, some advisers are not accompany with their co-workers. 3.4.1 the nature of groups and group behaviour within organisations Its important to admit what bodys accord to your assignment efforts. Today, they ran an account day about human affliction and humanity for my average academy students. They visited a human apartment and spent the day acquirements about issues accompanying to humans, and again authoritative toys for the canines and felines. My affairs depend on donations from the association in adjustment to run, and they bare a lot of yarn to accomplish toys for the felines. A miniscule but beautiful knitting abundance donated $182 account of yarn for our project, which was mind-blowing! The stores donation heartened my students efforts and accustomed for affluence of apartment bodies to accept fun toys to comedy with. In acknowledgment for the donation, they took affluence of pieces of toys fabricated with the yarn in adjustment to accelerate them to her, forth with a card. Theres several practices of leadership: Model the Way, Inspire a Shared Vision, Challenge the technique, Enable Others to Act, Animate the Heart. Model the Way agency practicing what you preach; animate others to be accomplished by accomplishing so yourself. Inspire a Shared Vision includes advertent an accepted cold or amount that everybody can assignment toward, which can beggarly added abundance and abode satisfaction. Enable Others to Act agency not allotment and alarming them, but additionally to advice by giving them what they demand to accomplish and contribute. Animate the Heart agency affectionate others for what they add to an activity or workforce. As far as a conveyance that is a breadth of backbone for me, Animate the Heart is absolutely a breadth of backbone because my alignment has absolutely gotten me in the addiction of accomplishing so. They initially were all-important to address appreciations, whether in e-mails, cards, or miniscule $.25 of paper. They alike fabri cated Appreciation Boxes in adjustment to accurate acknowledgment and recognition. It became a habit, and now I am affectionate body on an approved basis. Its simple to do and its an actual absolute thing. Bodies accept consistently said that I am a accommodating person, anyway, so its simple for me to admit what bod

Amadeus Essay -- essays research papers

At the age of the Enlightenment, Antonio Salieri becomes the most triumphant musician in the city of Vienna, however, without any warning his harmonious universe comes to an utter halt. Salieri’s absolute faith in the world, in himself, and in God is all at once diminished by this spontaneous child composer. When the two opposite ends meet, there emerges a fury, a rage, and a passion in Salieri to sabotage the boy that has secured Salieri’s deserved God given talent; to destroy the one pubescent child that has made him so mute and naked now in a world of discordance. Salieri’s entire reputation and boyhood prayer to attain fame thus rests on his ability to annihilate that child prodigy, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.In analyzing the two composers, Salieri and Mozart, there is a distinct line that clearly divides them. Salieri’s operas receive astounding receptions, making them the “talk of the city,'; shaking the roofs, buzzing the cafes, and even the name Sal ieri “sounds throughout all of Europe'; (2,3). The reason for Salieri’s success, as well as many musicians of the eighteenth century, is because they have become enslaved by the well-to-do and hence are “no better than servants'; (1,3). This applies especially to the king. For example, in Amadeus, His Majesty forbid any ballet in his operas. Imperial commands such as this are not to be interpreted in any way, in other words, they are to be merely obeyed without any dispute. Since operas tend to the needs of the high society in order to obtain recognition, the operas must communicate through the language of the nobility, that is, Italian. In addition, since the majority of the audience is made up of the upper class, the subject matter of the operas must consist of elevated themes. Such as, mythological heroes, kings, and queens, and so forth. According to the eighteenth century view, operas are supposed to be a sublime and an aggrandizing art. The elevated subject m atter is then chosen in order to venerate and honor the nobility. It’s purpose is to “celebrate the eternal in man'; says Van Swieten (2,4). Meaning that there is an element in a noble person that lasts without any end, like God who is immortal. God represents the everlasting and the eternality of existence, thus God gives inspiration to operas that... ...n do now is to die. And so he does. Although Mozart does suffer loss, the loss of his life and career, and is somewhat responsible for his downfall, he does not evoke sympathy or recognition. However, it is Salieri who contains all four elements of a tragic hero. Salieri loses practically everything he has faith in before Mozart appears. He suffers from the loss of dignity, esteem, and honor. Salieri also recognizes something he has never felt before, that is the “pain as I had never know it,'; (1,5), the pain from the beauty and delight of Mozart’s music. Thus, recognizing the limitations of his own talent, the mediocrity of his talent compared to the genius works of Mozart. He grows an awareness of disharmony in the universe that he has never encountered. Salieri clearly is culpable of his own tragedy. He is the Court Composer, his works are respected throughout Europe, and because he is not stupid, he does not say he is the better composer. Instead, he is the minor ity who actually appreciates Mozart’s music. There is definitely sympathy for Salieri, in that all human beings can work as hard as they want to at something and can still fail miserably. Amadeus Essay -- essays research papers At the age of the Enlightenment, Antonio Salieri becomes the most triumphant musician in the city of Vienna, however, without any warning his harmonious universe comes to an utter halt. Salieri’s absolute faith in the world, in himself, and in God is all at once diminished by this spontaneous child composer. When the two opposite ends meet, there emerges a fury, a rage, and a passion in Salieri to sabotage the boy that has secured Salieri’s deserved God given talent; to destroy the one pubescent child that has made him so mute and naked now in a world of discordance. Salieri’s entire reputation and boyhood prayer to attain fame thus rests on his ability to annihilate that child prodigy, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.In analyzing the two composers, Salieri and Mozart, there is a distinct line that clearly divides them. Salieri’s operas receive astounding receptions, making them the “talk of the city,'; shaking the roofs, buzzing the cafes, and even the name Sal ieri “sounds throughout all of Europe'; (2,3). The reason for Salieri’s success, as well as many musicians of the eighteenth century, is because they have become enslaved by the well-to-do and hence are “no better than servants'; (1,3). This applies especially to the king. For example, in Amadeus, His Majesty forbid any ballet in his operas. Imperial commands such as this are not to be interpreted in any way, in other words, they are to be merely obeyed without any dispute. Since operas tend to the needs of the high society in order to obtain recognition, the operas must communicate through the language of the nobility, that is, Italian. In addition, since the majority of the audience is made up of the upper class, the subject matter of the operas must consist of elevated themes. Such as, mythological heroes, kings, and queens, and so forth. According to the eighteenth century view, operas are supposed to be a sublime and an aggrandizing art. The elevated subject m atter is then chosen in order to venerate and honor the nobility. It’s purpose is to “celebrate the eternal in man'; says Van Swieten (2,4). Meaning that there is an element in a noble person that lasts without any end, like God who is immortal. God represents the everlasting and the eternality of existence, thus God gives inspiration to operas that... ...n do now is to die. And so he does. Although Mozart does suffer loss, the loss of his life and career, and is somewhat responsible for his downfall, he does not evoke sympathy or recognition. However, it is Salieri who contains all four elements of a tragic hero. Salieri loses practically everything he has faith in before Mozart appears. He suffers from the loss of dignity, esteem, and honor. Salieri also recognizes something he has never felt before, that is the “pain as I had never know it,'; (1,5), the pain from the beauty and delight of Mozart’s music. Thus, recognizing the limitations of his own talent, the mediocrity of his talent compared to the genius works of Mozart. He grows an awareness of disharmony in the universe that he has never encountered. Salieri clearly is culpable of his own tragedy. He is the Court Composer, his works are respected throughout Europe, and because he is not stupid, he does not say he is the better composer. Instead, he is the minor ity who actually appreciates Mozart’s music. There is definitely sympathy for Salieri, in that all human beings can work as hard as they want to at something and can still fail miserably.

Ben Lawson’s Custom Fabricators Research Essay

Question 1: How does Ben Lawson’s Custom Fabricators, Inc., create value for Orleans? Custom Fabricators, Inc. is able to create value to Orleans because Custom Fabricator’s manufacturing plant is right next to Orleans’ plant. Ben is able to minimize lead-time for Orleans. They are able to deliver parts to Orleans really fast. Quality is also something Custom Fabricators could ensure because they are able to fix something and deliver it to Orleans quicker because they are so close to each other. Custom Fabricators would also be more effective for Orleans because they’ve cooperated for so long, so Custom Fabricators know the needs and requirements of Orleans really well. They can offer Orleans better field support and problem solving. Question 2 In the past, what has been Ben Lawson’s competitive advantage in keeping the Orleans business? CFI can maintain its competitive advantage due to its propel location, it is near Orleans facility, and it also invest new machines to improve the processes of manufacture for Orleans; meanwhile, its employee loyalty is good because it pay its employees good. In this case, it make CFI have a competitive advantage. Question 3 Have Orleans’s priorities changed? From the case, it is clear to see the Orleans has changed priorities. There are trying to change base to the high quality products. Also they change products to cheaper price as a base strategy. They reduce the cost with elevators and the raw materials, also something else. Ben was concerned about some big issues, such as reducing labor costs and competing with the Mexican labor market. He also was concerned the security of his position relationship with the company.(Can Chen 9362) 4. Should Ben change his business model? Yes, Ben should change his business model because Orleans, its customers, is changing. Orleans outsourced the whole elevator. Orleans reduced its plant size from 400,000 square feet to 150,000 square feet. Recently, Orleans is reducing its material cost associated with its elevators by contracting many suppliers from Mexico. Meanwhile, Ben cannot compete with suppliers from Mexico in price. Therefore, Ben should work with some suppliers from Mexico to negotiate the material costor outsource totally. When dealing with suppliers from Mexico, Ben may face some difficulties, such as transportation and communication. Question 5: How should Ben position his company in the value chain? There are a few options for Ben to position his company in the value chain because of it’s close proximity to the Orleans plant. Inbound logistics would be one because delivery speed would be fast since they are so close. Orleans does not have to store too much inventory because of this. They can get materials from Ben in short time. Ben’s company could also easily provide service support to Orleans if any problems arise from parts manufactured by Custom Fabricators. Question 6 What should Ben do to ensure his company’s future success? I think CFI should improve their operation management to make their processes more efficient and effective, meanwhile they need to match their current marketing strategies to global market. the top management of CFI should also consider whether carry out more capital investment because these new technology could reduce cost, improve quality, therefore increase competitive advantage in the market. finally, CFI could partner with some other companies to improve overall competitiveness.

Check Order Instruction Example

Check Order Instruction Example Check Order Instruction – Article Example Article Summary Obamacare: A Tough Sell The obanacare or the affordable health care act has left many people raising their sentiments about it and they have opposition towards the implementation of the plan. The debate between the democrats and the republicans has shown the depth of entrenchment of dissatisfaction that people have concerning the hope of having good healthcare at a low price. The debate has persisted among other classes of people with the working class and the uninsured people arguing that obamacare is a bad idea. Obama faces a tough challenge not only from the opposition but also from the fact that it was poorly received during the initiation of the enactnment of the law. The Whitehouse is also aware of the risk it has to overcome to mobilize people to accept the act and therefore, and it has hired some people who are to be involved in publishing the obamacare. For this reason for some time, the issues related to the act of the congress have remained controversial wi th some people speaking in support from some groups and opposition from the other side of the people (Seib A4).How the article is related to Human Resource ManagementThe white on one side works as a single entity that ensures hires some people that will facilitate the process of promotion of Obamacare among the Americans. On the other hand, the article on the debate represent a form of human resource management because it has various people who are assigned various duties to perform for the success completion of the duties of the popularizing the act. Another thing that makes the article about the obamacare relate to human resource management is the fact that white house like a manager in an organization has a responsibility to convince the opponents to adopt it (Caruth, Caruth and Pane 240).Work CitedCaruth, Donald L, Caruth, Gail D. and Pane, Stephanie S. Staffing the Contemporary Organization: A Guide to Planning, Recruiting, and Selecting for Human Resource Professionals. Westpo rt, Conn: Praeger Publishers, 2009.Seib, Gerald. â€Å"Obamacare: A Tough Sell†. The Wall Street Journal. August 6th, 2013. Pp.A4

Free Essays on Krishna Consciousness

Krishna Consciousness Man’s quest to make sense of our existence and master questions of spirituality is a pervasive theme in the history of humankind. While the spiritual system associated with the first society of human life form may never be known, every group of people throughout history, regardless of location, has attempted to understand esoteric knowledge. Although written history only covers about seven thousand years of humanity, there is evidence of this search for understanding dating back some twenty-five to fifty-thousand years. In fact, the recent scientific findings of evidence leading to the existence of the lost continent Atlantis, coupled with historic accounts of Atlantean lifestyle from philosophers such as Plato to contemporary scientists throughout the world, have revealed a society dating back some seventy to one hundred thousand years in which there was an emphasis on the â€Å"Law of One.† Ironically, modern scientists, specifically quantum physicists, are scientif ically discovering the truth asserted by this ancient spiritual system’s underlying thesis which stated, â€Å"†¦everything is the same energy expressing itself in different forms.† While inklings of this simple, yet immaculate notion were embraced later by various spiritual sects, fundamentalist beliefs of the three major world religions, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, place a higher emphasis on separation and isolation than unity and connectedness. With over half of the world’s population and nearly eighty of the eighty-one percent of American religious constituents adhering to one of these three religions, it is no wonder why there is so much violence, poverty, and turmoil worldwide. On the positive side, traces of the â€Å"Law of One† can be seen in the religions of most indigenous people, so-called â€Å"third world† civilizations, and even some denominations of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. These thought provoking theologies are... Free Essays on Krishna Consciousness Free Essays on Krishna Consciousness Krishna Consciousness Man’s quest to make sense of our existence and master questions of spirituality is a pervasive theme in the history of humankind. While the spiritual system associated with the first society of human life form may never be known, every group of people throughout history, regardless of location, has attempted to understand esoteric knowledge. Although written history only covers about seven thousand years of humanity, there is evidence of this search for understanding dating back some twenty-five to fifty-thousand years. In fact, the recent scientific findings of evidence leading to the existence of the lost continent Atlantis, coupled with historic accounts of Atlantean lifestyle from philosophers such as Plato to contemporary scientists throughout the world, have revealed a society dating back some seventy to one hundred thousand years in which there was an emphasis on the â€Å"Law of One.† Ironically, modern scientists, specifically quantum physicists, are scientif ically discovering the truth asserted by this ancient spiritual system’s underlying thesis which stated, â€Å"†¦everything is the same energy expressing itself in different forms.† While inklings of this simple, yet immaculate notion were embraced later by various spiritual sects, fundamentalist beliefs of the three major world religions, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, place a higher emphasis on separation and isolation than unity and connectedness. With over half of the world’s population and nearly eighty of the eighty-one percent of American religious constituents adhering to one of these three religions, it is no wonder why there is so much violence, poverty, and turmoil worldwide. On the positive side, traces of the â€Å"Law of One† can be seen in the religions of most indigenous people, so-called â€Å"third world† civilizations, and even some denominations of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. These thought provoking theologies are...

Alexander the Great.

Alexander the Great. ALEXANDER THE GREATAlexander the Great was seen as a genius and the greatest conqueror of the classical times. He played many parts and was able to distinguish between those in everyday life. There is a wide variety of components involved with this leader but will focus on his background, cultural contributions, social conflicts, and the claim that he is a genius.Alexander was born in 356 B.C.E., the son of Phillip II and Olympias of Macedon. He was crowned Prince when he was being tutored by Aristotle, who trained him in rhetoric and literature that stimulated his interest in science, medicine, and philosophy. Alexander was first married to Roxanne in 327 B.C.E. and second to Barsine in 324 B.C.E., he bore no children with either wife. After his father was assassinated in 336 B.C.E., he became the King of Macedon and later the King of Asia. Alexander also founded Alexandria, after completely defeating the Persians at the battle of Arbela in 331 B.C.E.Alexander Muir Public School, To ronto, 1902 [OHQ-P...slaves. Alexander's next attempt was to defeat Persia. He could never be the dominantforce in his area as long as the Persian ruler Darius was still living. After beating Persiathe second and final time in 332, Darius, who managed to survive, fled to the mountains.He died in the mountains when one of his own noblemen killed him. With Darius dead,Alexander was crowned King of Persia and became known as the king of all Asia.Babylon surrendered after Gaugamela, and the city of Susa with its enormous treasureswas soon conquered. Then, in midwinter, Alexander forced his way to Persepolis, thePersian capital. After plundering the royal treasuries and taking other rich booty, heburned the city during a drunken binge and thus completed the destruction of the ancientPersian Empire. His domain now extended along and beyond the southern shores of...

School Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

School - Essay Example Teen Court is held in the court room at the Easton court house. Teen Court is similar to a normal court, but the judge, jury, and lawyers are all kids, 14-17 years old. When I went to Teen Court, some of my classmates were lawyers, and another was the Judge. I was given a chance to explain what happened at the party, and I was questioned by my lawyer and the opposing lawyer. When my case had been heard, I was sentenced by the jury. They sentenced me to serve on three Teen Court juries, and to do thirty-five hours of community service. To make things worse, my parents were out of out of town and my grandmother was staying with me. I was so upset over this I did not know what to do. I wanted to tell my parents when they called, but decided to wait so that I wouldn't ruin their trip. It was on my mind so much I couldn't sleep, and I felt terrible that I had let my parents down. I was also worried that I would not be able to play basketball at school. I love playing basketball; it's one of my favorite sports. Thinking about how I had done something stupid that might ruin my future dream of playing basketball at college was a real eye-opener for me. I have never driven while under the influence nor have I ridden with anyone when they were drinking and driving.

March of the Penguins The movie Review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

March of the Penguins The - Movie Review Example This paper discusses the basic plot, similarities and differences, strength and weaknesses of the movie, followed by some lessons learned, and then the conclusion. An outline shows the structure of the arguments. Matthew Turner1 of The ViewLondon Review (2005) gives the basic plot of the movie thus - Directed by Frenchman Luc Jacquet and narrated (in the U.S version) by Morgan Freeman, the film . charts the annual cycle of the emperor penguins of Antarctica, beginning with their 70-mile march from the sea to their mating grounds. They walk in single file, often travelling on their bellies, enduring winds of up to 100 mph and sub-zero temperatures. When they finally reach the mating grounds, they undergo a series of elaborate mating rituals before pairing off into monogamous couples and mating. Once the egg is laid, the female penguins travel back to the sea, swimming and eating and having a great time while the males are left to hatch the eggs. After two months, the eggs hatch and the females return with food, at which point the males begin a trek to the sea and back in order to gather enough food to keep the penguin chicks alive. MEETING OF MALE PENGUINS at more normal times. Emperor penguins behave like a community. In the harsher times of winter, together they brave the storms of their environment. After the storms, it is the same. These are the fathers who take care of the eggs and nurture them to chicks and until the mothers come back. The mothers have gone back to sea to eat and would take them about two months to return.2 Photo credits: Yahoo MOTHER PENGUINS TRAVEL BACK TO SEA. After delivery, the mother penguins would entrust their eggs to the father penguins and would need to go back to sea to eat or else would die. The travel is not that easy as it takes them to coast ice glaciers of some distance. Most of the time, they travel by foot. When they get tired, they use their stomachs and slide by the ice glaciers.2 Photo credits: Yahoo Thesis. There are differences between human beings and penguins, but there are also similarities that echo much human experiences of love and loss. Penguins,3 however, are just birds and so should be assessed as birds and not something that should model for human beings. Similarities and differences. In March of the Penguins, the similarities and differences between man and penguin were clearly marked. The similarities mainly centered on rearing habits and mother instincts. Like human beings, penguins are warm-blooded vertebrate bipeds that reproduce sexually from male and female intercourse. They also rear their offspring to maturity as couples, very much reminiscent of domestic concerns (Greydanus 2006). This penguin concern extends to filial relationship and parent feelings for the offspring. The mother instinct in the movie is partially exemplified in the mother penguin trying to steal another's chick in an effort to replace her lost chick. It is hilarious in that in this episode, it is like the story of the two women fighting over a baby and judged by Solomon in the bible. Unlike human beings who resort to legal cases, the penguins band together to stop the stealing (Greydanus 2006). Not of the same

ACT 19 COCA-COLA Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

ACT 19 COCA-COLA - Essay Example The company maintains high ethical standards and it is a corporate citizen. Coca-Cola has had positive impacts on the Russian community and economy in general. The company has provided jobs to most individuals in the Russian economy. In addition to, Coca-Cola was the primary sponsor of the first Olympic Games in Moscow. In the Russia, the government does not allow homosexuality. On the other hand, Coca-Cola supports gays worldwide which is against the Russian laws. In Russia, the government banned the sale of Coca-Cola to children under the age of eighteen years old. The prohibition on sale of Coca-Cola to underage children is to protect their health. The parliament of Russia ban on the drink was because of the expert opinion of the adverse effects of Coca Cola on the human body. The demand for the drink in Russia has fallen, and the company has opted to close down some of the factories in the country. It is because the company is under criticism for the production of unhealthy products for its citizens. Coca-Cola Company is one of the largest non-alcoholic drinks in Germany. The company has American roots though it has a strong foundation in the country. The Coca-Cola Company provides economic value to the economy of Germany. It has positive impacts on the German economy because it has positive effects on the German GDP. It provides approximately1 billion dollars in tax to the German economy. It provides employment to most German individuals in the country. It is a stable employer in the country because it provides employment to many individuals. Coca-Cola sponsors some stadiums and sporting events in the country. It also sponsors numerous sporting events in the country. For example, the company sponsored the 2006 World Cup in the country. It was one of the major corporations to sponsor the World Cup in the country. The company works hand in hand with some enterprises in the Germany. Germany benefits more from the efforts of Coca-Cola

Perfomance Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Perfomance Management - Essay Example The mainstream of RBS, the UK banking operations employ a ‘back office’ approach for their operations. Operations when carried on at such a large scale require that the performance levels of these operations are measured with the help of efficient methods, the flow of work is optimized and processes are effectively managed. In the past, companies found it quite difficult to quantify and compare the performances of its systems and assess the effect of application of improvement techniques. The need of acknowledging a common business supporting system that provides the required flexibility, information management and measurement of performances was required. Performance management is one of the most important drives of effective and strategic  HRM  development in any company.  The concept of performance management was initiated in the late 1990’s and has been largely admired and adopted by HR departments across the globe. Performance management has assisted th e companies to understand that the employee talent, motivation, expertise and retention is the main driver of the business growth prospects and profits, (Kaplan, Robert and David Norton, 1996). 2.0 Introduction of Performance Management Systems at RBS The main aim behind introducing a performance management at the RBS was to enhance the efficiency and affectivity of the existing people and process management techniques by employing high quality performance management systems. The Royal Bank of Scotland initiated the performance management system strategy to measure the effect of human capital on its bottom line financial metrics in the year 2000. With the HR executive Greig Aitken at the helm of all the project activities related to successful implementation of performance systems at RBS. The main strategy focused upon the use of PIMMS systems utilizes online software which assists the HR department of the RBS bank to measure the performance of its employees, assess the impact of pe rformance systems on employee performance and business results, and at the same time introduce and implement specific systems as per the requirement of the business. In the same year - 2000, the Royal bank of Scotland introduced a new performance management system with the help of a basic Microsoft Access database at about five of its centers and monitored over 1500 staff employees. The PMS systems which was known as the Productivity Improvement Measurement and Management System proved to be quite a success at RBS and gave considerable advantages to the management in measuring employee performances and processes, (Boris, 2007). However due to its standalone nature, the system could not be applied on a larger scale and expansion of this PIMMS system was rather restricted to the initial 5 sites only. Looking at the vast applicability and usage of the system, the RBS developed the PIMMS systems in a span of 1.5 years and expanded its usage with the help of the company’s intranet system. The system now caters to 15,000 staff employees located on over 85 RBS locations around the globe. 2.1 Advantages of PIMMS to RBS The RBS designed the PIMMS system as a capacity planning and operations management system, which easily allows integrating a number of issues in one system. The new PIMMS system is able to

The Role Of Morality In Society Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

The Role Of Morality In Society - Essay Example Among the theories used include normative or rather ethical theories while deciding on how an action is likely to implicate a society such as utilitarianism. This refers to the application of reasoning while taking use of the senses. One thus makes his own judgment based on how he’s likely to benefit from his action. Some may however be driven by greed thus implying their action may never replicate positivity to the society. The society however has its own view owing to believe that actions done ought to as well be meaningful to the wider society (Gray, 2010). Discrimination is thus rarely championed during its application. Philosophers however tried to justify their own ideologies regarding this issue rarely agreeing at some point. One would agree with this point moral decision made rarely equated or rather meant the action implemented was right. Thus the outcome realized mattered as it too had the ability to signify its intensity whether it was of merit. A lot can be derived from this theory; owing to its ability to bar men from resulting to, bad tendencies such as killing, stealing and other evil. In order to curb the vice leaders ought to be courageous while educating people on their rightful place in society on their rite thus acting as a form of empowerment. While doing so any activity likely to harm their well being is discouraged and could be useful when cautioning societies from practicing immoral behavior rarely adding value to the society (Gert, 1988). Aristotelian Ethical Virtues A cording to Aristotelian ethical virtues was likely to be made up of two distinct parts. In one of his perception he argued that the ultimate thing was to attain happiness at an individual level. This thus compelled people to embrace good behavior likely to lead to its materialization. One however needed to keep observing certain habits. People’s attitudes were also likely to dictate their behavior. During certain situations some are likely to be compelled to act differently than it could be the norm; while experiencing peace it’s unlikely to see a nation result to attacking another but could be compelled in a situation of war. Such an action is simply due to the need for security. His perception was however limited now that it rarely had the big picture of the other population in mind; rather it was based on self gratification thus leading to selfishness now that their interest were never captured (Nussbaum, 1987). Pleasure was central in his light but rarely does it add value to life owing to the plight of pleasure lovers at times dying poor while pursuing their ambition. Rules were thus rarely used while arriving at morally accepted norms when such a theory is applied. He however also spearheaded a notion on the importance of balance which in this case avoided extremes thus making it a general rule. Unrelenting effort demonstrated by players while striving at development have aided in bringing about a transformation. As a resu lt amenities are set and given a high priority while the solo aim is to ensure value addition to the surrounding communities some of which may have been disadvantaged. Factors leading to such development could be due to there being little resources yet they too ought to be well managed to facilitate a transformation. This calls for both government and the private sector cooperation while coming up with formidable policies to aid in attaining such an objective. While may be

My Grandpa & His Life Lessons Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

My Grandpa & His Life Lessons - Essay Example People seek for their life example everywhere; they like knights from legends, superheroes, presidents, celebrities, novel characters or people they barely know in life. Obviously, from the title of my essay, I prefer to appreciate my family as the greatest influence I have. Of course, all family members are equally important in my life. I would never become myself without the care and support of my mother and father. However, I would like to talk about my grandfather as the greatest person I knowMy grandfather's life experience, personal traits, and considerate attitude always have a positive influence on family relationships. When my family has to make some important decision, we have no other person who can help us better with a relevant piece of advice. Grandfather always can suggest some actions to take and things to do, to be honest with other people and support the good reputation of the family. He has experienced many life situations, which are even difficult to imagine as I represent a totally different generation. I am still too young to notice many little details in communicating with other people or settling family businesses. However, supported by my grandfather, I feel self-relevance and confidence in my future. He does not need all details to understand what other people feel; he has a strange ability or even a gift to read my mind and say the words which make me feel better in any situation. In my culture, people grow up nurturing deep respect to their relatives and older generations. Since my childhood, grandpa has been my personal example of a leader and a person who can handle any situation. When I was a little child, grandfather contributed a lot in the process of my upbringing. All family members were busy at work and I often spend time with my grandparents. I was always glad to arrive at their house; it met me with little presents and tasty food, cozy atmosphere and a number of family photos in every corner.  

Perfomance Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Perfomance Management - Essay Example The mainstream of RBS, the UK banking operations employ a ‘back office’ approach for their operations. Operations when carried on at such a large scale require that the performance levels of these operations are measured with the help of efficient methods, the flow of work is optimized and processes are effectively managed. In the past, companies found it quite difficult to quantify and compare the performances of its systems and assess the effect of application of improvement techniques. The need of acknowledging a common business supporting system that provides the required flexibility, information management and measurement of performances was required. Performance management is one of the most important drives of effective and strategic  HRM  development in any company.  The concept of performance management was initiated in the late 1990’s and has been largely admired and adopted by HR departments across the globe. Performance management has assisted th e companies to understand that the employee talent, motivation, expertise and retention is the main driver of the business growth prospects and profits, (Kaplan, Robert and David Norton, 1996). 2.0 Introduction of Performance Management Systems at RBS The main aim behind introducing a performance management at the RBS was to enhance the efficiency and affectivity of the existing people and process management techniques by employing high quality performance management systems. The Royal Bank of Scotland initiated the performance management system strategy to measure the effect of human capital on its bottom line financial metrics in the year 2000. With the HR executive Greig Aitken at the helm of all the project activities related to successful implementation of performance systems at RBS. The main strategy focused upon the use of PIMMS systems utilizes online software which assists the HR department of the RBS bank to measure the performance of its employees, assess the impact of pe rformance systems on employee performance and business results, and at the same time introduce and implement specific systems as per the requirement of the business. In the same year - 2000, the Royal bank of Scotland introduced a new performance management system with the help of a basic Microsoft Access database at about five of its centers and monitored over 1500 staff employees. The PMS systems which was known as the Productivity Improvement Measurement and Management System proved to be quite a success at RBS and gave considerable advantages to the management in measuring employee performances and processes, (Boris, 2007). However due to its standalone nature, the system could not be applied on a larger scale and expansion of this PIMMS system was rather restricted to the initial 5 sites only. Looking at the vast applicability and usage of the system, the RBS developed the PIMMS systems in a span of 1.5 years and expanded its usage with the help of the company’s intranet system. The system now caters to 15,000 staff employees located on over 85 RBS locations around the globe. 2.1 Advantages of PIMMS to RBS The RBS designed the PIMMS system as a capacity planning and operations management system, which easily allows integrating a number of issues in one system. The new PIMMS system is able to

My Grandpa & His Life Lessons Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

My Grandpa & His Life Lessons - Essay Example People seek for their life example everywhere; they like knights from legends, superheroes, presidents, celebrities, novel characters or people they barely know in life. Obviously, from the title of my essay, I prefer to appreciate my family as the greatest influence I have. Of course, all family members are equally important in my life. I would never become myself without the care and support of my mother and father. However, I would like to talk about my grandfather as the greatest person I knowMy grandfather's life experience, personal traits, and considerate attitude always have a positive influence on family relationships. When my family has to make some important decision, we have no other person who can help us better with a relevant piece of advice. Grandfather always can suggest some actions to take and things to do, to be honest with other people and support the good reputation of the family. He has experienced many life situations, which are even difficult to imagine as I represent a totally different generation. I am still too young to notice many little details in communicating with other people or settling family businesses. However, supported by my grandfather, I feel self-relevance and confidence in my future. He does not need all details to understand what other people feel; he has a strange ability or even a gift to read my mind and say the words which make me feel better in any situation. In my culture, people grow up nurturing deep respect to their relatives and older generations. Since my childhood, grandpa has been my personal example of a leader and a person who can handle any situation. When I was a little child, grandfather contributed a lot in the process of my upbringing. All family members were busy at work and I often spend time with my grandparents. I was always glad to arrive at their house; it met me with little presents and tasty food, cozy atmosphere and a number of family photos in every corner.  

Uses Of Laboratory Information Management Systems Essay Example for Free

Uses Of Laboratory Information Management Systems Essay An a scientific workplace many pieces of important data are being based around. The use of computers can now help by using specialist software called Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS). A LIMS system is like an electronic filing cabinet with advanced security. It can allow data in any form to be inputted and shared with company’s customisation. Depending on the LIMS it can be accessed via a personal or company handheld drive (smartphone/tablet). There are various types of software available for storing scientific data but the most commonly used ones in modern laboratories are the following: WinLIMS is Laboratory Information Management System. WinLims creates LIMS a realistic option for even the smallest of laboratories. The following screenshot below is of WinLIMS, where it is showing the implementation of the data. http://www. lims-software. com/images/1/16/WinLIMS. ASP-from-QSI. jpg Picture 1 * Labsoft LabSoft is well designed laboratory information management system (LIMS) that boasts built-in tools and the ability to collaborate with other digitised business systems (e. g. Order Processing, Data Historians). LabSoft is a comprehensive feature set empowers to build an integrated solution that fully exploits laboratory data yielding higher quality. The following screenshot below is of LabSoft, where it is showing the graphs after the implementation of the data. In a scientific workplace it is vital and necessary to be able to safely store (meaning people inside and out of company don’t get hold off information they shouldn’t know)and then retrieve scientific data generated by that workplace and also data from other sources (scientific literature, for example). Heads of department, deputies, and those working in the laboratories. Scientific apparatus Data such as date of purchase (for warranty and sell by dates), maintenance data (when a product was repaired of tested and the results of such test) and schedules for maintenance. Heads of department, deputies and those involved in the schedules. Waste disposal To show what and how much waste is produced and how it is disposed of. This can be used for health and safety reasons so that there aware were the staff are putting it making sure it can’t fall into the wrong hands or damaging the environment. Stores technicians and those involved in disposal; heads of department may need to authorise costs of disposal. Health safety checks To show that health and safety is being monitored and to hold accident reports if necessary. This protects the company so no false allegations can be made and if they are proof can be found to prove innocence. Heads of department, health and safety officers and possibly others who have special responsibility. Training records To know the level of training or qualification of members of staff, and to keep and maintain a record of training required and completed by staff. This allows outside members to check to see the level that employers are trained as well as allowing employees to check for them self’s. Training officer, heads of department, supervisors, human resource department and individual members of staff. Quality assurance To be able to show that quality procedures are being carried out (for audit purposes). This protects the company so no false allegations can be made and if they are proof can be found to prove it meet the standard. Head of department, quality officers and those with special responsibility. Report records Reports following tests for GPs or hospital records, or for use in developing new medicines, etc. This also allows you to search for past similar symptoms and treatment. Office support personnel will usually be responsible for recording results, with access needed by clinical staff (in a clinical environment); report records in this setting wouldn’t usually be subject to change by anyone.

The traditional engineering

The traditional engineering Introduction Traditional engineering relies mainly on a sequential procedure wherein the various tasks involved in the design and manufacturing of a product are performed in a pre defined and set order. This leads to certain drawbacks wherein there is a loss of flexibility in the entire process and this may also lead to severe alterations or even scrap in the later stages of the product development life cycle. Traditionally, the product design has been considered as a cycle of PDCA (plan-do-check-act). However, the advent of Concurrent engineering, which focuses on working interactively between the various processes in the product development, is relatively new. It is a relatively recent process which employs cross functional cooperation to facilitate the creation of products which are cheaper, better and have a reduced time to market. It is not an isolated concept and encompasses almost all the functions like engineering, designing, support, marketing, accounting, and others. Customer satisfaction is a key factor behind this method. The basic premise for concurrent engineering revolves around two concepts. The first is that the entire product life cycle needs to be taken into consideration in the initial stage of the cycle. This would include functionality, producitibility, assembly, testability, maintenance issues, environmental impact and finally disposal and recycling. The second concept talks about the concurrency of the various functions. This flexibility is of immense importance to the success of the process given the fact that it allows for error correction and redesigns to be incorporated in the early design phase without having an adverse effect on the costs, efforts and timelines of the project. In effect, this improves the productivity ,the product quality and offers substantial cost benefits. In a concurrent engineering process, there is no freezing of a particular task and so moving back is not a constraint. It allows design and analysis to take place at the same time and focuses on the collaboration between the teams. The teams are multidisciplinary in approach and composition and allow the employees flexibility to work collaboratively on the various aspects of the project through the life stage of the same. The need for Concurrent Engineering is especially high in todays world. Businesses must be able to react to the changing market needs rapidly, effectively and responsively. They must be able to reduce their time to market and adapt to the changing environments faster than competitors. Decisions must be made quickly and they must be done right the first time out. Corporations can no longer waste time repeating tasks, which increases the time it takes to bring new products to market. Therefore, concurrent engineering has emerged as way of bringing rapid solutions to product design and development process. Concurrent Engineering has many advantages and provides benefits such as a reduction in the product development time and the time to market, reduced design rework, reduced product development cost and improved integration in the teams through efficient and effective communications. There are many companies which employ the Concurrent Engineering techniques in the product development life cycle. These firms have shown a significant increase in overall quality, 30-40% reduction in project times and costs, and around 60-80% reductions in design changes after release. However, there also are times and situations wherein concurrent engineering is not preferred. Some of these can be as stated under: Concurrent engineering practices are not favoured in case of simple products or in cases where there is only an incremantal improvement in margin by the application of the technique. When implementing the Concurrent engineering involves major changes in the company culture and also leads to a significant administrative and/or communication overhead. These are the cases where it becomes difficult to implement the process in the teams. In such cases, unnecessarily and forciably applying these concepts may not yield advantages. Rather, it may prove to be an unsuccessful approach on the part of the management. This emphasises on the fact that it is very necessary to meet certain pre-requisite conditions in order for the concurrent engineering process to give the desired results. In absence of these, there may be confusions and inefficient product development. There are a few measures which companies may initially take in order to be successful with Concurrent Engineering, like Benchmarking: The company should keep a fair check of itself with respect to their best competitors Development of metrics: Proper metrics need to be developed to measure the various parameters to see if right course is being taken Identification of Potential Performance Improvements and Targets: This would help in the continuous improvement and reality check. Development of a clear Vision of the future environment: This would ensure that actions are taken while keeping in mind the long term goals of the organization and to figure out how does Concurrent Engineering fit into the picture. Getting top management support: This becomes very important as a lot depends upon the level of support and confidence shown by the top management for the implementation of a process in a company. Getting cross-functional endorsement: Integrated functionalities and concurrent processing lie at the core of the Concurrent Engineering. Unless there is an acceptance from all the departments and functional units, the chances of success are faint. Developing a clear Strategy to attain the envisioned environment: Without a clear formulation of strategy, it is very difficult to achieve the goals. Developing a detailed implementation plan: Success of Concurrent Engineering would also depend upon how clearly the implementation plan is made. History Concurrent Engineering has been known by various names over the years and across locations. It is known as the iterative development method (or Integrated Product Development, IPD) as it allows for the correction and alteration in the design and other processes through iterations. Continuous feedback mechanism is employed to discover any discrepancy or fault in the model. The rationale behind it is that the sooner the errors are identified, the lesser effort, time and cost is incurred to correct them. The term Simultaneous Engineering has been used since the decade of 1990s. It was based on the idea that the life cycle of the new product must fit in with the pre-existing product program lifecycles. It was in the December 1988 report The Role of Concurrent Engineering in Weapons System Acquisition by the Institute for Defense Analysis (IDA) that the term Concurrent Engineering was defined . This was an approach which was systematic in nature and focused on the integrated, concurrent design of products and their related processes. This approach is intended to cause the developers, from the outset, to consider all elements of the product life cycle from conception through disposal, including quality, cost, schedule, and user requirements. Need for Integrating Design with Other functions: In early designs and product development, there was a division of labour among individuals who specialized in various functions. There was little opportunity for interaction between the various departmants and functionalities which often lead to confusions and certain discrepancies between the work done. This at times led to customer dissatisfaction. With an increasing level of competition, the role of new manufacturing process and the need to reduce development lead time, concurrent engineering has become more popular. These justifications are discussed below. Increased Competition: This can be quoted as one justification for the rising popularity of concurrent engineering. With the increase in competition, there is all the more a need for competitive advantages and core competencies at firm levels to ensure meeting competition. Concurrent Engineering gives the firms a cost advantage apart from ensuring quality and efficiency in processes. New Production Methods: With the advent of technology, there are various new production methods which come into service. This makes it important to transfer and share the knowledge about this new service to the various functions and departments. This is necessary because this would ultimately have an impact on the resulting product design. This knowledge sharing would ensure that the various people involved in the product development are at the same platform when information about these processes is concerned. Therefore, the situation where new production processes are used will often be an important area for ensuring that design engineers work closely with production engineers. Concurrent Engineering can contribute its bit here. Lead Time: Shorter lead time or the time to market is a competitive advantage to the firms. Reduction in the lead time would decrease the length of the development process and would help bring the product to the market sooner. This would also decrease the inventory holding time and would therefore help in cost reduction (or cost advantage). By implementing the concurrent engineering process, the organization can achieve this advantage over the firms employing the traditional methods (sequential process). Process Concurrent engineeringis a workflow that relies on parallel processing by performing multiple tasks simultaneously instead of carrying out the various tasks in sequence as has been the traditional workflow. Concurrent engineering is not just related to engineering processes but rather focuses on the integrated and concurrent design of product and the related processes. This requires the clear identification and description of all the tasks and processes associated with the design, manufacturing, support and other functions by the developers. The developers need to consider the various elements of the product life cycle end to end, varying from the first stage i.e. conception of the product to the last stage i.e. disposal of the product. The various elements which shall be considered will include almost parameters which have an impact on the development of a product and the associated processes, such as quality, cost, scheduling and user requirement. It is worth noticing that the definition encompasses more than just the manufacturing and design of a product. It does not apply only to domains of engineering but is also widely used in the pharmaceutical, paint, food or sneaker industries. Concurrent Engineering is not limited to the products or goods. Even services can employ concurrent engineering for improvement in productivity and reduction in total time to market. Although this may not lead to reduction in number of employees or the work to be done, the adoption of concurrent engineering would lead to a faster lead time. In the services sector, the concurrent engineering concept applies to insurance sector, banking sector and others. The difference between the conventional product design approach (sometimes also called the waterfall model) and the concurrent product design approach (sometimes also called the simultaneous engineering approach) has been explained below with the help of a diagram. It is this deviation from the standard and traditional waterfall model (which employs and focuses on a pre defined sequence of processes and tasks) to the iterative and integrated development method of concurrent engineering, which is responsible for the huge success of this model. In the waterfall model, first of all, all requirements are gathered so as to facilitate clear definition of the problem at hand. This is both a time consuming and effort consuming task. Unless and until the data gathering is done (which in itself is a tedious task given the level of uncertainty associated with it and the dynamic nature of the information requirement), one cant proceed to the next level. This interdependency wastes a lot of time. Followed by this is the design phase wherein based on the requirements, the design of the product is to be agreed upon. The problem here is that in the absence of an option to move back and make changes to the design phase, at times, it becomes difficult to implement the design and subsequently the design may have to be heavily altered or even scrapped. The Concurrent Engineering is better in this case as being cyclic, all the aspects of the product life cycle has already been taken into consideration, thus allowing the design to take a more evolutionary approach. Then there are the implementation, verification and maintenance phases. All of these suffer from similar problems because of the inflexibility involved in the process. Concurrent Engineering overcomes many of these problems through the approach it employs. The cyclicity allows parallel processing and hence offers flexibility to the system as has been shown in the figure below. The various functions like planning, requirement gathering, analysis design, implementation, testing and evaluation are done simultaneously and hence the name simultaneous engineering. The implementation of concurrent engineering requires the combination of people, technology and business methods. It relies on cross-functional working and teamwork rather than the traditional bureaucratic and hierarchical organizations. Collaboration rather than individual effort is standard, and shared information is the key to success. The role of the leader is to supply the basic foundation and support for change, rather than to tell the other team members what to do. Training addressed at getting people to work together in teams plays an important role in the successful implementation of Concurrent Engineering. The Concurrent engineering process mainly focuses on three aspects, viz. people, process and technology. People are given a wider say, a sense of gratification and ownership of their work in the overall design process taking into account the collaborative nature of simultaneous engineering. The success of concurrent engineering depends to a vast extent on the effectiveness and the efficiency of the organizational teams formed. The three basic attributes which a CE team must have been enumerated as under: Ability to deal with inherent uncertainities associated with innovation A wide range of competencies varying from manufacturing to design to sales to financing Presence of professional knowledge worker The teams formed are Cross-functional team. The team is formed to work on a specific project, and stays together throughout the development of the product. The smaller teams comprise of 5 20 people and employ an efficient technical communication. For the implementation of larger projects, a network of teams is formed (a total of 100 to 1000 people). Larger projects are sliced into smaller projects and measures are taken to ensure the integration of separate pieces into a system solution. Presence of Liaison Personnel facilitates timely and proper transfer of information within the team. Apart from this, job rotation is also an inevitable component of the process. The team members are assigned temporarily or permanently outside of their accustomed functional specialty. This ensures the integration of various knowledge bases without making significant structural changes to the organization. There are certain product design methods in Concurrent Engineering: Design for Manufacturing (DFM): Herein, constraints are imposed by performance and functionality and consequently, the manufacturing information content of a product design is minimized. This deals with minimizing the total number of parts. Minimize the total number of parts, simplifying the design of the other parts and to promote standardization. Design for Quality: Care is taken to minimize the impact of variation i.e. tolerance is improved. Design for Cost: It is necessary to have an effective analysis of product and/or project costs based on the understanding of the various cost items involved. Design for Assembly (DFA) DFA aims at minimizing the cost incurred to assemble the product components. Design for Safety The designer must develop the habit of constantly evaluating the design for safety, considering not only the design itself but the personnel involved in fabricating the product, using the procedure, and in maintaining and repairing the product or system as well as the end user or purchaser. Developing the manufacturing processes as well as the maintenance and operating procedures early during the design process will assist in revealing safety problems at a time when corrective action can be taken at minimum cost. Design for Reliability To ensure successful performance over a given range of conditional range, specific environment. Apart from all these, the technology and tools also play an important role in the success of the Concurrent Engineering. Integrated Computer Analysis is used for modelling the steps required for the development of the manufactured product. Although the Concurrent Engineering Strategy does not necessarily reduce the amount of manpower required for a project, it does drastically reduce lead times and thus time to market. This has been illustrated in the diagram shown as under: The better the collaboration between the various phases, shorter is the time to market and higher is the efficiency. Basic Steps as identified through various studies Compare themselves to their best competitors (i.e. Benchmark) Develop metrics Identify potential performance improvements and targets Analyze the market and know your customers. Develop a clear vision of the future environment Get a strong commitment to from senior management. Get cross-functional endorsement Develop a clear strategy to attain the envisioned environment Get top management support Get cross-functional endorsement Develop a detailed implementation plan Collectively work on all parts of project. Reduce costs and time to market. Complete tasks in parallel. Advantages The practice of following concurrent engineering has numerous advantages such as: Helps in shortening the product development lead time Reducing product development costs associated with getting a product to market Improved Communication Increased efficiency and performance Higher reliability in the product development process. Reduced defect rates. Increased effectiveness in transferring technology Improved quality of resulting end products Increased positioning in a highly competitive world market Increased accuracy in predicting and meeting project plans, schedules, timelines, and budgets Employees require less time learning how to produce new or improved products Competitive Advantage and Increased Performances Lower implementation risks. Faster reaction time in responding to the rapidly changing market. Lower product and process design and development costs. Improved inventory control, scheduling and customer relations. It achieves this by various methods including but not limited to: Reducing the number of redesigns done by involving support groups from the start thus reducing the total number of iterations. Reduction is total cycle time help in reducing the overall product cost. As much work that can be done concurrently is done so instead of doing it sequentially. For this purpose teams from different functions are brought together. The use of Concurrent Engineering has resulted in savings and benefits which can be divided into three key areas: Cost Related Savings Manufacturing and Production Costs, Labor costs, Development and Construction Costs Quality Related Savings Defects and Nonconformance, Inspection, Productability and Testability Time Related Savings Development Time, Cycle Time, Lead time etc. Another advantage of Concurrent Engineering is that, while knowledge is being built up about the design of the product, additional knowledge is being acquired about the other aspects of its life-cycle. As the design progresses, the manufacturing expert will learn more about how to manufacture the product, and the packaging expert will know more about how to package it, etc. This accumulation of knowledge will help in speeding the product through the development process and get it out to the customer more quickly. These are not only benefits which the company experiences, but ultimately the end users or customers also reap the benefits by having a quality product which fits their needs and in many cases, costs them less to purchase. Therefore, concurrent engineering produces a profitable corporation and a satisfied consumer. Limitations Concurrent Engineering is not a quick fix for a companys problems and its not just a way to improve performance. Its a business strategy that addresses important company resources. The major objective this business strategy aims to achieve is improved product development performance. It is a long-term strategy, and it should be considered only by organizations willing to make up front investments and then wait several years for long-term benefits as it involves major organizational and cultural change. Some limitations: unwillingness to institutionalize Concurrent Engineering maintenance of traditional functional reward systems maintenance of traditional reporting lines no training in teamwork unrealistic schedules no changes in relationships with vendors a focus on computerization rather than process improvement Examples on application of the process We have covered a number of examples on application of Concurrent Engineering. An example of the use of Concurrent Engineering can be found in General Electrics Aircraft Engines Divisions approach for the development of the engine for the new F/A-18E/F. It used several collocated, multi-functional design and development teams to merge the design and manufacturing process. The teams achieved 20% to 60% reductions in design and procurement cycle times during the full-scale component tests which preceded full engine testing. Problems surfaced earlier and were dealt with more efficiently than they would have been with the traditional development process. Cycle times in the design and fabrication of some components have dropped from an estimated 22 weeks to 3 weeks. Another example concerns Boeings Ballistic Systems Division where Concurrent Engineering was used in 1988 to develop a mobile launcher for the MX missile and was able to reduce design time by 40% and cost by 10% in building the prototype. Polaroid Corp.s Captiva instant camera is also the result of a Concurrent Engineering approach, as a result of which Polaroid was able to make literally hundreds of working prototypes. Throughout the process, development was handled by cross-functional teams. Study 1 Developing CE model for Shipping Industry: Tribon Solutions The design and construction of a ship involves a high degree of concurrent engineering. To cater to such needs companies like Tribon Solutions develops, markets and supports CAD/CAM/CIM software solutions, with the mission of increasing overall efficiency in the maritime industry. Tribon uses a Product Information Model (PIM), which is the central repository and single source of information for designers, planners, administrators of material, manufacturing personnel, and others working on design and construction. Tribon began work on its API in 1995. Two different paths were considered at this stage: Either to publish directly the libraries used by Tribon, or to create a wrapper on top of existing code. The first approach would make all our functionality available to the user, but users would have to use the same development environment as Tribon Solutions, change compiler versions when Tribon Solutions did so, and so forth. This would have been an expensive and complex solution, only usable by the largest shipyards in the world, those that had their own large IT and development departments. The second approach was preferable, as long as a tool could be found or developed that covered most of the given criteria. Tribon already had a geometry macro language that was developed in-house, but to extend it to the desired level of functionality would have been costly to implement and maintain. The remaining option was to find a 3rd party solution that fulfilled the APIs needs. During investigation of options, Python was discovered quite early when a member of the development team read about Python in a computer magazine. After some initial experimentation there were really no other contenders. Python had it all. It was a beautiful programming language that was extensible, embeddable, platform independent, and had no license cost. When it came to incorporate Python into the Tribon software, They found the integration to be quite easy and problem-free, and it was achieved with very little effort. The result of this merger between Tribon and Python was named Tribon Vitesse, and the first version of Python used was 1.2. Today Tribon Solutions has customers that have, by utilizing the power of Tribon Vitesse, been able to reduce design time of certain complex ship structures from four weeks to two days, while improving overall quality. This enormous reduction in design time has been possible by automating more of the design, calculations, information search, and result checking. Study 2 Concurrent Design Facility: European Space Agency European Space Agency (ESA) also uses Concurrent Engineering for Integrated and faster product development. The Concurrent Engineering approach used by ESA is based on the following key elements: The system engineering process A multidisciplinary, product oriented team An information distribution and control environment Supporting tools and facilities. TheConcurrent Design Facility(CDF) is theEuropean Space Agencymain assessment center for futurespace missionsand industrial review. Located atESTEC,ESAs technical center inthe Netherlands, it has been operational since early 2000. As suggested by its name, the CDF usesconcurrent engineeringmethodology to perform effective, fast and cheap space mission studies. Equipped with state of the art network of computers, multimedia devices and software tools, the CDF allow team of experts to perform design studies during working sessions. Activities: The CDF is mainly in charge of performing the assessment studies of future missions for theEuropean Space Agency. These assessment studies are phase 0 or pre-phase A studies where the needs are identified and Mission Analysis is performed. Phase 0 allows the following: Identification and characterisation of the intended mission. Expression in terms of needs, expected performance and dependability and safety goals. Assessment of operating constraints, in particular as regards the physical and operational environment. Identification of possible system concepts, with emphasis on the degree of innovation and any critical aspect. Preliminary assessment of project management data (organisation, costs, schedules). In addition, the CDF often perform reviews of industrial contracts initiated byESA. The spacecraft design is based on mathematical models, which make use of custom software and linked spreadsheets. By this means, a consistent set of design parameters can be defined and exchanged throughout the study, and any changes which may have an impact on other disciplines can immediately be identified and collectively assessed. In this way, a number of design iterations can be performed, and different design options can easily be analysed and compared. CDF activities are conducted in sessions: plenary meetings in which representatives of all space engineering domains participate, from the early phases (requirement analysis) to the end of the design (costing). Even those disciplines that were traditionally involved at a later stage of the process are given the opportunity to participate from the beginning and to identify trends that might later invalidate the design. Facility: The CDF design room has been designed and equipped with all the relevant hardware and software tools, with the aim of creating an effective communication and data interchange environment among team members. The CDF facility contains: an array of design stations, each dedicated to a specific technical discipline data and application servers, providing on-line access to design data and tools a multimedia wall containing three large projector screens (One of them been aSMART Boardfor free hand drawing) video-conferencing equipment that enables concurrent engineering to be carried out in a distributed manner Concurrent Design ModelCDF-IDMwhich will be replaced in the near future by theOpen Concurrent Design Server Open Concurrent Design In the CDF and Path Ahead: ESAs Concurrent Design Facility (CDF) has successfully demonstrated the capability to use Space System Concurrent Engineering to overcome the communication gaps between the designer (who produces design information) and the user (who utilizes the design information) enhancing the in-house capability to perform feasibility studies in a very effective and interdisciplinary manner. Many candidate missions have taken advantage of the new capabilities offered by the CDF, reducing the pre-Phase A (preliminary design) study duration from several months to a few weeks while increasing design quality. This has been in part due to the use of the CDF-IDM, the integrated design model. The Open Concurrent Design Server (OCDS) is the next generation of the CDF design model. The CDF-IDM was built on an experimental basis and makes use of spreadsheet technology, both as data storage and as engineering tool. The OCDS on the other hand makes use of a Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) using web services, a centralised database and many client tools such as the OCDS Study Manager (OSM) and OCDS enabled spreadsheets. The growing interest of ESA partners, Industry and Academia in the ESA CDF core IDM, standardised data representation and exchange, and common design methodologies is one of the reasons that has motivated the creation of the Open Concurrent Design Serv