Tuesday, December 24, 2019

Swot Analysis Foxtel Introduction to Marketing - 1700 Words

FOXTEL SWOT Analysis Introduction to Marketing Assessment 1 (10%) Spotlight – Foxtel (from required text): Read the case – Foxtel – from chapter 2 of the required text.As per the text book: â€Å"Use the information in this Spotlight and any other necessary research to develop a SWOT analysis for Foxtel† 2011 3/18/2011 The SWOT analysis is a method used by organisations as a marketing strategy to better understand and identify positive and negative factors effecting the business, in present and in the future ( Elliott, Rundle-Thiele, Waller, 2010). The purpose of this essay is to develop a SWOT analysis for Foxtel, which is a pay-TV company that was first introduced to the Australian market in October of 1995 (Kim Williams 2009). Foxtel†¦show more content†¦Eg. Australian love to borrow from DVD stores - Advertisement that targets and attracts customers with â€Å" No more late fees with Foxtel†, Never get charged for returning late DVD Don’t have to leave the comfort of your home , latest movies with the press of a button etc Figure 2. SWOT Analysis of Foxtel As described in figure 1, The strengths and weaknesses of the SWOT analysis are internal factors , and can be controlled directly by the organisation. Elliot, Rundle-Thiele, and Waller (2010) describes these strengths and weaknesses as those attributes of the organisation that can help or hinder in achieving its objectives. In figure 2, the strengths portrayed for Foxtel in the SWOT analysis are vast in comparison to it’s weaknesses. In particular, the advertisement campaign has been a strength for Foxtel, despite the global financial crisis, Foxtel was able to successfully ‘sail through the storm’ with the help of a brilliant advertising campaign promising viewers to save money with Foxtel (Simon Canning, 2011) . In contrast, the advertisements are targeted to a specific audience which has left out the aging population of 65 and over, which constitutes 13.5% of the population as at 30 June 2010 (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2010), this exclusion is a weakn ess in its advertising campaign. In addition to weaknesses, Foxtel hasShow MoreRelatedEntertainment And Media Industry Of Australia2376 Words   |  10 PagesIntroduction: Culture, Entertainment and Media Industry of Australia is one of the bigger industries of Australia. According to Australian Bureau of Statistics, Media Entertainment alone contributed $7.6 Bill to GDP for the year 2008-09 (Cuthbertson 2014). Starting from the advent of TV in 1954, Australian population has developed acute interest in home entertainment. This report is to carry out a product market research for STAN which is a new product to be launched in the market. Industry Insights:Read MoreThe Internal And External Environment Of Di Bella Coffee3733 Words   |  15 PagesDescription 3 PESTEL Analysis 4 Political and Legal 4 Economical 4-5 Socio-Cultural 5-6 Technological 6 Environmental 6-7 Porter ´s Five Forces 7 Bargaining Power of Buyers 8 Bargaining Power of Suppliers 8 Threat of new Entrants 8 Threat of Substitutes 9 Degree of Rivalry 9 Competitor Identification 10 Merlo Coffee 10-11 Vittoria 11 SWOT Analysis 11-12 Marketing Mix Analysis 13 Strategic PositioningRead MoreMonsanto: Better Living Through Genetic Engineering96204 Words   |  385 Pages441 441 CASE STUDIES A summary of the case analysis I N T R O D U C T I O N Preparing an effective case analysis: The full story Hearing with the aid of implanted technology: The case of Cochlearâ„ ¢ – an Australian C A S E O N E high-technology leader Delta Faucet: Global entrepreneurship in an emerging market C A S E T W O DaimlerChrysler: Corporate governance dynamics in a global company C A S E T H R E E Gunns and the greens: Governance issues in Tasmania C A S E F O U R Succeeding in the

Monday, December 16, 2019

Audit in Private and Public Sector Free Essays

Audit in private and public sector * Research problem Private companies have lack of confidence, since they are not sure for property of financial records. Procedures and numbers of company are not reviewed regularly. Most importantly, internal controls are getting poorer, and reliability of financial statements is not attaining progress. We will write a custom essay sample on Audit in Private and Public Sector or any similar topic only for you Order Now In addition, errors on tax payment are influencing the yearly activity of company. All these pitfalls happen as result of ignores of annual audit. Many transactions happen during a year in bank account of private companies. The bank sees all these transaction; however, the responsible body for the money is board members. The main responsibility is to control whether or not funds are used appropriately. Therefore, financial records should be audited regularly. * Purpose of research The research will increase the awareness of financial makers within private companies. Through interviews private companies will see determine what is lacking their companies. Annual tax control by Administration of Taxes is resulting on high amounts of punishment. This happens as result of lack of importance for external and internal control. The effort of research will be seen in changing the current managing method existing in companies. Annual audit expenses take place within companies’ expenses, rather than leaving the biggest place to marketing expenses of company. Not the last but the least, the audit companies will invest to increase the communication with private companies, in order to contribute in proper and right annual financial statements. * Significance of research The audit will determine the need for internal control in company, which increase reliability of financial system in company. The audit contributes to close the financial year properly, and start with a new year. All the misuses of funds and mismanagement of financial system are covered primarily by audit. Most importantly audit prevents issues of becoming bigger in a company, which will negatively affect in upcoming years. The audit program also includes the comparison between actual income and expenses, and budgeted ones. Thus, the further planning of budget is supported by the audit analyses of previous years. Auditor checks some group samples of expenses, whether are approved, valid, and are spent from right category of budget. In addition, auditor checks bank statement of company, and look after high values of transactions, which are completed with printed checks. * Quantitative Research questions and hypotheses 1. How was the effect of entrance of European standards for business operation into Kosovo’s system? H1. It was very confused at the beginning, however with much training and presentations held by Ministry of Economy Finance, it was settled down within company. H2. The European standards could not match with the previous financial system; therefore it took a long time to get adapted by company, and whole staff. . What are the difficulties of implementing audit report recommendations into company? H1. The audit recommendations often are difficult to be implemented within one fiscal year. The recommendations regarding the structure of company, and operation system can take longer time, in order to be implemented. H2. Recommendations are mostly concern of management staff, since they are respo nsible to control the implementation. Most of recommendations are denied by managers, and it takes a long time to verify these recommendations internally. Research design and rationale for its selection The research contains two group studies, the company overview before audit process implementation and overview after audit. Moreover, in statistical analyses two groups will include with a single measurement subject: never audited companies, and rarely audit companies. In this research, the implementation of audit process will be monitored, and the influence of audit findings in management will be measured. There will be some anonymous questions and answers will be asked after the implementation of process. Research methodology and rationale for its selection This study was focused on audit manual of office of general auditor in Kosovo, and aim to see the time by time changes in control method of companies. The designed questionnaire expected to shape the confusion of management, int ernal control, external control, and right financial statements in a company. A detailed questionnaire was designed with an objective to shape the interest of managers to apply annual audit, their management style of expenses, and the effect of errors happening in annual financial statements. The three questions are asked regarding the planning phase and planning documents that effect the beginning phase. Secondly, three questions are used for the percentage of materiality and its usefulness during choosing the number of samples to audit. Also the audit program as main documents for starting the audit phase should be designed according to nature of audited entities. Finally, four questions are designed for the influence of audit findings for correctness of entity further. Be sure to include basic data collection considerations including sampling, population description, data collection procedures and feasibility of data collection. Firstly, the easier access of research is taken as potential population. However, the region and city of location will limit the research. The research will target private companies with over 500,000â‚ ¬ annual turnover, and private companies that have at least 15 employees. Private companies with high annual turnover are not obliged still b y the law to implement annual regular audit, therefore, these companies are the target point to research the effect of annual audit. From this large group of companies, there is a list of some companies that have been punished by Administration of Taxes in Kosovo. Companies in punishment list are obtained by the department of macro business inspectors. These companies are anonymous and will not be published in research paper, since the confidence agreement is signed before obtaining the list. The same criterion is applied to all companies in list, so that all companies are equal opportunity of selection. * Instrument description and validation The inconsistencies within this research are covered by questionnaires, and final draft of audit report. The first part of the instrument includes general information for company’s nature, the quality of financial statements, the experience of employees and management. However, the rest part of the instrument assess final draft report of audit where is presented the current situation of company, the findings that negatively affect financial statements, and recommendations to omit further errors. Statistical analysis methods Method applied to statistical analyses is paired test, since there are two groups to compare for correlation. This method is adaptable since a audit process can be repeated annually to two group of companies: the ones that never applied annual audit, and the ones that rarely applied annual audit. The values of audited companies are possible to be correlated with values of not audited companies. Most importantly, subjects are harmonized before starting colle ction of data’s. The second usable method is linear correlation, in order to measure group X (never audited companies) and group Y (rarely audit companies) for one single subject, and analyze the strength of association. References * Office of General Auditor in Kosovo, Independent Agency, February 2013 * Administration of Taxes in Kosovo, Public Institution, March 2013 * â€Å"MK† Company, Accountant and Audit Services, February 2013 * â€Å"Dili Commerce:† Company, Instruction Services, February 2013 How to cite Audit in Private and Public Sector, Papers

Sunday, December 8, 2019

W.E.B. Du Bois, Booker T. Washington and the Origins of the Civil Rights Movement free essay sample

Booker T. Washington’s approach was more appropriate during the time period between 1877 and 1915 than W.E.B. Du Bois solution. Although Dubois’ plan would bring change faster compared to Washington’s, it was much too radical. Washington’s strategy gave more time for whites to get more comfortable with the idea of social equality among blacks. Document A, â€Å"School Enrollment by Race† poorly supports Dubois’ strategy for educating blacks. Not only were there percentages less than 5% of blacks enrolled in school, but there was a lack of teachers willing to teach black students. There was a steady increase in black students enrolled in school from 1860-1920, but it never passed the 50% mark. Although Dubois argued education will empower the black race, he also believed only ten percent of african americans were intelligent enough to cause change, The Negro Race, like all races, is going to be saved by its exceptional men. We will write a custom essay sample on W.E.B. Du Bois, Booker T. Washington and the Origins of the Civil Rights Movement or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The problem of education then, among Negroes, must first of all deal with the Talented Tenth. It is the problem of developing the best of this race that they may guide the Mass away from the contamination and death of the worst. (The Talented Tenth). Washington believed that blacks only needed basic education in order to succeed in the workplace, â€Å"No time is wasted on dead languages or superfluous studies of any kind.(Document G). Washington trained blacks to be skilled factory workers in school,†, after delivering this speech [Atlanta Compromise 1895] black school enrollment had a drastic spike.Document B, â€Å"Illiteracy By Race†, effectively supports Washington’s plan for slow but definite change. from 1890 to 1910, the percentage of black people unable to read decrease from 60% to about 35% in just 20 years. This decrease in illiteracy over time would eventually allow more and more black students to attend college. Over time Booker T. Washington’s strategy for reducing discrimination in education becomes successful.The end of the 19th century and Beginning of the 20th century Was a difficult transition period For African Americans in the US. W..E.B DuBois was born in Massachusetts, growing up DuBois lived in a predominantly white town and attended a predominantly white school. Unlike the south, Dubois’ teachers encouraged his studies as they would any other student. DuBois wasn’t aware of social inequalities in America until he went down south for college. While attending Fisk University, he became victim to Jim Crow laws, unfairness, and injustice. It was then that DuBois knew there must be a change to eliminate the social gap between whites and blacks, especially in the south. Dubois’ childhood/livelihood played a vital part in his methods, strategies, and solutions to ending poverty and discrimination faced by black Americans during this time period. Being education driven, educating seemed to be a huge part of his plans.

Saturday, November 30, 2019

The Declaration of Sentiments Essay Example

The Declaration of Sentiments Essay The feminist movement,   considered as another historical event besides the extinction of slavery, played an important role in causing the acute awareness of women’s rights and promoting gender equality in society during the last century. While many writers of this time tried to tackle this social issue,  Ã‚   â€Å"The Yellow Wall paper†, a short story written by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, is worth being honored as one of the finest and more aware contribution to the women’s movement. In her voice and the portrayal of the main character Jane, Perkins Gilman accomplished a rare feat: the inclusion of the women as a protagonists in a patriarchal world.   In this story, the writer uses the main character, â€Å"I†, a woman in severe mental depression who demonstrates the oppression   that women at the time   were exposed to and expresses   the outcry that gender equality needed (and needs) to be eliminated entirely.The story is a tale of a woman  Ã‚   progressing from the state of normality to depression to a state of  Ã‚   insanity (due to being denied her creative output of writing), however, the underlying theme of the story expresses the average American woman’s desire to act according to her will in the highly patriarchal society of the 19th Century.Throughout the story, Gilman specifically gave the name of the husband: John, however, when she comes down to   the narrator, the most important character in the story, she uses â€Å"I† or â€Å"myself† (she only uses the narrator’s real name, Jane, once).   This different treatment   seems trivial, but it successfully sent an important message to the readers: during that time, women were so insignificant that even theirs names can be ignored. This view can also be taken in the other direction; Perkins Gilman may have used the first person singular in order for the female reader to more quickly take on the narrator’s persona so t hat her events became a part of the reader’s personal history.   Thus, each woman who reads â€Å"The Yellow Wallpaper† knows the oppression of being denied important aspects of the self; in this case, writing.   For, it is only when Jane is denied being allowed to write that she truly becomes insane.At the beginning of the story, the author first gave a description of the house and the room that the narrator is supposed to move into for her depression treatment. â€Å"there are hedges and walls and gates that lock, and lots of separate little houses for the gardeners and people.† ; â€Å"the windows are barred for little children, and there are rings and things in the walls.† (Gilman). All these detailed description forms a big contrast with the previous paragraph when the narrator tried to inform us the unique garden surrounding this house, â€Å"There is a delicious garden! I never saw such a gardenlarge and shady, full of box-bordered paths, and lined with long grape-covered arbors with seats under them.† (Gilman) If any readers still don’t   sense the coldness and isolation of the house from the comparison, the description of the wall paper allows for the morbidity of the story to truly be felt,   Ã¢â‚¬Å"It is dull enough to confuse the eye in following, pronounced enough to constantly irritate and provoke study†¦ The color is repellent, almost revolting; a smoldering unclean yellow, strangely faded by the slow-turning sunlight†(Gilman)The color of the wallpapers is also important reflecting the inner state of the woman. Yellow reflects the state of depression and deep psychological experience of the woman.   The narrator of The Yellow Wallpaper survives the illusions that romance and marriage deprives feelings of happiness and identity caused by her secondary and insignificant role in the life of her husband. The irony is that the husband who has to take care of his wife is unable to recogniz e serious illness and psychological disorder. He treats his wife using yellow wallpaper, but the only thing she needs is his love and acceptance that she is more than a second class human being.The main symbol of the short story is the yellow wallpaper.   The item is a projection of the main character’s psyche.   Jane sees herself, or a different vision of herself trapped in the wallpaper and she claws at it in order to free herself.   Her husband John has denied her, her one release of writing, stating that it would only endanger her mental state further.   It is in this act of denying Jane what helps her define herself in her world that instigates these psychological damages.The wallpaper is a symbol of the angst a woman feels when she is treated as a second class citizen, of when her opinion doesn’t matter, nor her feelings are considered in the deciding of her own fate.   Jane is a very direct link into the author’s own life story, as Charlotte Per kins-Gilman went through a similar crisis.Another subtle symbol in the text is that of the chains of the bed, which harkens the reader to imagine a mental institute in which the patients were so insane they had to be chained to their beds in order for the other people in the institute to feel safe.   The chains are thus a metaphor for the type of life circumstance Jane is going through.In either symbol it is clear that the idea of escape from a patriarch society is needed in order to re-claim the self.   Just as writing was Jane’s tool in the story so was it Perkins-Gilman’s tool in allowing the readers to realize that identity is the one thing that keeps a person sane.   The association the main character had with her identity, that of writing, was denied her and thus her entire identity was lost.   Writing is the pinnacle symbol in the story, illustrating to the readers that without an outlet, a way of communicating and describing one’s imagination and thoughts there is little point in an existence where the self is refuted.The conclusion is that, she , the narrator,   like a lot of women at the time were trapped in this chaotic pattern of the wallpaper, moreover, this chaos causes the women to feel inferior to men in the society. (yellow symbolizes inferiority.) If a woman, like John’s sister, was content with the situation, and never learn to break loose, the only thing they can hope for are men and their place in a patriarchal society. As a result, these 19th century women will never be treated seriously. That is the reason the narrator decides to tear down the yellow wall paper over her last couple of nights, she felt that she has broken the wallpaper and thus her husband and by extension the whole of society that sought to imprison her. This is a powerful message for the women at that time, and was regarded as a sign of craziness. These efforts are by no means considered easy, she has to crawl around in the room as the women crawl around in the â€Å"yellow wallpaper.In the story, the narrator spends a lot of time on describing her husband and the treatment she received from her doctor. There is one thing that is similar between the doctor and the husband: they are not only both highly educated, successful doctors, but the way they feel about women is   also the same: They want to treat the women with passion, and they are both loving, yet the only cure they have for women with mental depression is absolutely staying away from any meaningful work, even something they love to do. Rest and isolation are their receipt for cure. In the story, the narrator is treated like a baby by her husband, she was never treated as a patient.Sunlight is a symbol of her husband’s schedule; he is always available to give her the prescription every walking hour, then he will go somewhere the narrator is not always sure of. The schedule for the narrator is kind of â€Å"strange†, she prefers to sle ep in the sunlight, yet during the moonlight, when her husband’s control loosens, the narrator can be secretively creative. She even creeps outside not being afraid of being caught. The reader cannot   blame the narrator, because this is the only time, during the moonlight, she can find her identity and brave enough to realize her deeply hidden desires. The comparison between oppressive sunlight and free-spirited moonlight further helps the reader understand what the main character has been going through day by day.One more important point that the reader can understand after reading the whole story is aesthetic changes through insanity: Gilmans prose is a model for a convincingly gradual and subtle decline into insanity. The narrators tone changes from naà ¯ve and depressed to paranoid and excited, and as she grows insane, her sentences reflect the state of her mind. Much like the chaotic pattern in the wallpaper, the sentences get choppy and confusing, grafting together disconnected one-line comments.In real life, the author, Ms. Charlotte Perkins Gilman, is a well educated woman who has a strong sense of self-consciousness,   has developed an emotion disorder due to the fatigue and depression.   The prescription she got from her doctor was trying to abandon something she loves to do – writing. This is when â€Å"The Yellow wallpaper† was born. This is truly a wonderful piece by Charlotte Perkins Gilman. It reflects the psychological suffering women have to go through during that period of time, and Ms. Gilman accuses society of putting women into this state of paranoia, depression and self-destruction. It discloses the root cause of gender inequality and serves as the marker for the upcoming feminist movement.

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

King Solomons Business Ideas

King Solomons Business Ideas King Solomon: Ideas Toward Business SuccessMany People do not consider the Bible useful in the business world. King Solomon helps to change that perspective. The books and verses he contributed to the Bible can be followed as effective tools for business, financial, and life success. These words of wisdom and strategy can be broken down into helpful categories such as: business speaking, cooperation, and hard workall of which are encountered in the workplace and daily life. The king even offered wisdom to help understand the importance of making good investments with hard-earned money. Labeled as the wisest and richest man to ever live, Solomon's proverbs are a great guide for success. Understanding King Solomon's teachings gives a useful insight into the realm of finances and business.Solomon was the son of King David, and third ruler of the united kingdom of Israel. Solomon had many older brothers, but was chosen over them to be his father's successor and took over the throne at a very young age.King Solomon, Russian icon from first quarter of 1...During his time the King is credited with writing three different and inspirational books of the Bible: "Proverbs", "Song of Songs", and "Ecclesiastes". He ruled Israel for nearly forty years (960-922 B.C.) through their "golden age", and was said to have taken the Israelites through some of their most prosperous times (Schoenberg).The many accomplishments of King Solomon help to establish his credibility as a great teacher. When God approached Solomon and told him to ask for one thing, Solomon told God that he wanted wisdom. He received this gift and along with it came wealth. The Bible acknowledges this by saying "So King Solomon exceeded all the kings of the earth for riches and for wisdom" (KJV 1 Kings 10:23). King Solomon is known as being the wisest man...

Friday, November 22, 2019

Using the Spanish Verb Levantar

Using the Spanish Verb Levantar Usually meaning to raise or to lift, levantar can also be used for other meanings that at first may not seem related. Levantar is derived from the Latin verb levare, meaning to raise. As such, it is related to English words such as levitate, levity and even lever. Here are some examples of levantar with its usual meaning: Courtney levantà ³ la mano porque querà ­a hacer una pregunta. Courtney raised her hand because she wanted to ask a question. Levantaron el coche en el elevador. They raised up the car on the hoist. Levantà ³ la taza con su mano dà ©bil. He raised the cup with his weak hand. Observa como la temperatura se levanta. See how the temperature is rising. Inhalar y levantar los brazos. Inhale and lift up your arms. Levantar is often used figuratively: Levanto la voz por mis derechos. Im raising my voice for my rights. Levantaban la mirada para ver a los extraà ±os que llegaban. They looked up to see the strangers who were arriving. In the reflexive form, levantarse can mean to wake up or to arise from bed:  ¡No me quiero levantar! I dont want to get up! In context, levantar can be used to refer to the creating or intensifying of an emotional reaction: Era un hà ©roe que levantà ³ al pueblo contra los invasores. He was a leader who stirred up the people against the invaders. Las expresiones de carià ±o mientras estuvo hospitalizada levantaron su espà ­ritu. The expressions of affection while she was hospitalized lifted her spirits. In context, levantar can mean to suspend, adjourn or call off an event: Las mujeres la ciudad norteà ±a levantaron huelga de hambre tras alcanzar los objetivos. The women in the northern city called off their hunger strike after reaching their goals. Se levantà ³ el corte. The court was adjourned. Rusia levantar embargo a la exportacià ³n de grano. Russia will lift the embargo on grain exports. Similarly, levantar sometimes means to undo or unmake: La policà ­a levantà ³ campamento y detuverion a los manifestantes. The police broke up the camp and detained the protesters. Pablo levantà ³ la cama y abrià ³ la ventana. Pablo unmade the bed and opened the window. Note: As is the case with most lessons on this site, sample sentences generally are adapted from a variety of sources written by native speakers. Sources consulted for this lesson include: Abel Cruz, Cibernika.com, Debates-politica.com, DGW.es, EscuchaMusica.com.mx, Maipu.cl, MCH.com, Mforos.com, NustroSalud.com, Rodrigorubiog, Tarot.tv, 1070noticias.com.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

African American History Since 1877 (PT 3) Essay

African American History Since 1877 (PT 3) - Essay Example Some slaves escaped and others worked for their freedom during the slave era. Even then freedom only meant not being owned. African Americans could not receive the same education as whites. They could not socialize with whites. Jobs were limited to them. Freedom was not really free. After the Civil War, slavery ended. However, Jim Crow laws forced segregation between blacks and whites. African Americans could not drink from the same water fountains, sit on the same park benches, go to the same school, sit together in restaurants, and could not intermingle. Rules forced African Americans to the back of the bus. African Americans could not vote, or had to pass a reading test to vote. Many whites thought segregation was equal, but segregation was not equal. The Supreme Court ruled that segregation was not equal. This did not change the minds of white people, especially in the Southern States. Other than the Jim Crow laws, the KKK and other groups limited the freedom of African Americans. If an African American was perceived as out of line, KKK or white supremacist would burn crosses on African American’s yards, beat them, or even lynch them. As a result, many African Americans were afraid to exercise their limited freedom. Fear allowed them to be kept virtual slaves to their white neighbors. During the Civil Rights Movement, Jim Crow laws started to be overturned. Even though Jim Crow laws started to be overturned, some whites did not share the opinion of the courts. Activists, black and white, trying to register people to vote, or fight for African American rights, were harassed, beaten, and even killed. Once again fear kept African Americans from freedom, but hope and defiance kept the movement going to provide more freedoms. Today, legally African Americans enjoy equal freedoms with their white counterparts. That does not mean that everyone follows the law. In American, everyone is entitled to on opinion.

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

Argument analize 3 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Argument analize 3 - Essay Example However, it is a fact that pain and suffering do exist in the world, and its occurrence is beyond our control, for the very concept of God is pre-established in our ontology, for, by definition, we understand God as a benevolent and omnipotent creator. Thus, if God were not benevolent, then there would be no problem of pain and suffering. Therefore, either God is not benevolent or he is not omnipotent, or he is not benevolent and omnipotent. 2. Reconstructing the Argument of Pain The argument can be logically reconstructed as follows: 1. God is the benevolent and omnipotent creator of the natural world 2. If God were benevolent, then pain and suffering would not exist in his creations 3. If God were omnipotent, then he would everything in his power to eradicate pain and suffering. 4. Pain and suffering nevertheless exist as experienced by God’s creations 5. God could not have created pain and suffering, for that would contradict his benevolent and omnipotent nature 6. Therefor e, given that pain and suffering exists, either God is not benevolent or is not omnipotent, or is neither benevolent nor omnipotent. 3. ... Likewise, third premise follows from the first and the second, for if God were omnipotent, then he would use his powers to eradicate pain and suffering, since by nature, God is benevolent. Thus, the third premise is also true. However, things get a bit more complicated come the fourth premise, which states that pain and suffering exist as experienced in God’s creations. As C.S. Lewis explains, this is problematic for the main reason that what we experience as ‘pain and suffering’ in the natural world may not be ‘pain and suffering’ for God. Likewise, what we understand as ‘benevolent and omnipotent’ may not be the same as God’s understanding of ‘benevolent and omnipotent.’ This complexity is exemplified due to structure of our language. We understand good and evil to be two conflicting terms for instance. So the problem of reconciling good and evil becomes a problem only because we understand these concepts to conflict with each other. Based on the problem of pain, it was proposed that it is due to God’s benevolent nature that the problem of pain becomes a problem; that if God were something other than benevolent, then the problem is solved. This is evident in premise five, wherein it was shown that God, who is good, could not have created something that was not good, that is, pain and suffering. It is in this regard that the author concludes that either God’s omnipotence or benevolence, or both, is thus questionable. However, I do not think that this conclusion will suffice, for the transition from premise five to its conclusion misses an important point. This is as follows: Following premise four, premise five states that â€Å"God could not have created pain and suffering, for that would contradict his

Saturday, November 16, 2019

Beowulf Essay Example for Free

Beowulf Essay When Beowulf dies, the Geats dwell upon his greatness. They see him as a hero, not just because of the things he accomplished, but because of the sacrifices he made for them. The character, Beowulf, is a classic example of someone who fights for pride and glory. He is a brave warrior who is trying to repay his father’s debts to the king of Denmark. Beowulf is a tragic hero because he is noble, has a tragic flaw that leads to his downfall, and sacrifices himself for the good of his people. The achievements that Beowulf accomplishes make the people believe in him as a tragic hero. To be noble, one has to possess power and authority, but still fulfill obligations to their people. Beowulf stands as a noble king. He earns his power, and leads and fights for his people. At the end of the story, Beowulf battles a dragon that has been troubling his people. This shows us the sacrifice he makes for the Geats to try to save them. After Beowulf is defeated and killed by the dragon, his loyal warrior, Wiglaf, speaks. Wiglaf, the only warrior standing by his side during the fight, tells the other warriors that they have betrayed Beowulf, the king â€Å"who showered you with gifts† (2866). In this quote, Wiglaf is saying that Beowulf has proven his loyalty to his warriors by giving them weapons, armor, and treasure, which in their society was expected of a king or ring-giver. After Beowulf’s death, the Geats realize his nobility, generosity, and bravery. Although Beowulf is a noble king, he, like every tragic hero, has a tragic flaw. In Beowulf’s case it is hubris. Hubris is a characteristic of someone who is over confident or prideful. Pride has a good and a bad consequence for Beowulf. One benefit of pride is that it promotes confidence in battles. For example, when Beowulf goes to fight Grendel, he says, â€Å"now I mean to be a match for Grendel, / settle the outcome in single combat† (425-426). In this quote, Beowulf is saying that he wants to keep the matchup fair between Grendel and himself, so to keep the playing field level he will fight him without any weapons. This is a great example of Beowulf being over confident in himself by saying he doesn’t need weapons to kill Grendel. When he is young, his pride helps him win battles, but at an old age, hubris can be a flaw. This is seen when Beowulf faces the dragon after he has been king for 50 years. At this old age, Beowulf is still so prideful that he wants to fight the dragon alone. This is an example of how his hubris is a detriment. Because of his hubris, Beowulf does not regard age and thinks he will be victorious just as in previous battles. He finds out this is not so when he is defeated. Beowulf makes many sacrifices in the course of the story to protect his people. The final sacrifice even leads to his death. Near the end of the story, Beowulf hears of a dragon that has been terrorizing his people. To destroy this figure, which the people fear, he goes to fight the dragon with his warriors. When he arrives to the area where the dragon lives, he turns around to his men and says, â€Å"this fight is not yours, / nor is it up to any man except me/ to measure his strength against the monster or to prove his worth† (2533-2535). In this quote, Beowulf tells his warriors he wants to fight the dragon alone. He commands them to stay back so that he may kill the dragon by himself. The main reason why he does this is because he feels responsible for his people and he believes he is the only one that should defend them. His men obey his words, and he goes into battle by himself. At the end of the fight, Wiglaf sees Beowulf die, and realizes the honorable king he was and the heroic sacrifice that he made for his people. Throughout the story and his many battles, Beowulf displays the characteristics of a tragic hero. He was noble, and made many great sacrifices for his people. Beowulf shows that performing his duty as king was more important to him than his own life. This ultimate sacrifice shows the Geats the true hero he was for them. Beowulf, not only in this book, but in all old English literature is one of the best examples of a tragic hero.

Thursday, November 14, 2019

The Rate Law for Chemical Reaction Among Hydrogen Peroxide, Iodide, and

The Rate Law for Chemical Reaction Among Hydrogen Peroxide, Iodide, and Acid To determine the rate law for a chemical reaction among hydrogen peroxide, iodide and acid, specifically by observing how changing each of the concentrations Experiment 3 Chemical Kinetics Objectives 1. To determine the rate law for a chemical reaction among hydrogen peroxide, iodide and acid, specifically by observing how changing each of the concentrations of H2O2, and H+ affects the rate of reaction. 2. To observe the effects of temperature and catalyst on the rate of reaction. Introduction Generally, two important questions may be asked about a chemical reaction: (1)How far do the reactants interact to yield products, and (2) how fast is the reaction? â€Å"How far?† is a question of chemical equilibrium which is the realm of chemical thermodynamics. â€Å"How fast?† is the realm of chemical kinetics, the subject of this experiment. In this experiment we will study the rate of oxidation of iodide ion by hydrogen peroxide which proceeds according to the following reaction: H2O2 (aq) + 2 I-(aq) + 2H+(aq) I2(aq) + 2H2O(l) By varying the concentrations of each of the three reactants (H2O2, I- and H+), we will be able to determine the order of the reaction with respect to each reactant and the rate law of the reaction, which is of the form: Rate = k [H2O2]x[I-]y[H+]z By knowing the reaction times († t) and the concentrations of H2O2 of two separate reaction mixtures (mixtures A & B), the reaction order of H2O2, x, can be calculated. x = log(† t2/ † t1) / log ( [H2O2]1/[H2O2]2 ) The same method is used to obtain the reaction order with respect to I- (mixtures A & C) and H+ (mixtures A & D). Procedures Part I) Standardization of H2O2 Solution 1. A stand, a burette clamp and a white tile were collected to construct a titration set-up. 2. A burette was rinsed with deionized water and then with 0.05 M Na2S2O3 solution. 3. The stopcock of the burette was closed and the sodium thiosulphate solution was pour into it until the liquid level was near the zero mark. The stopcock of the burette was opened to allow the titrant to fill up the tip and then the liquid level was adjusted near zero. 4. The initial burette reading was recorded in Table 1. 5. 1.00 cm3 of the ~0.8 M H2O2 solution was pipetted into a clean 125 ... ...te of a reaction by providing an alternative pathway for the reaction, usually with a pathway of lower activation energy than that of the uncatalyzed reaction. There are some improvements in this experiment. First, hydrogen peroxide is unstable, it decomposes to water and oxygen by time. Therefore do the titration as quick as possible. 2H2O2(aq) 2H2O(I) + O2(g) Second, the concentration of iodine increase is due to the iodide can be oxidized by oxygen which promoted by acids. Therefore do the titration as quick as possible. 4I-(aq) + O2(g) + 4H+(aq) 2I2(aq) + 2H2O(aq) Third, as for the human error, the problem can be minimized by performing the titration by the same person. So, the reading can be taken by the same person and the color change can be observed by the same person. Conclusion In the experiment, the reaction was found to be zero order respect to (H+), it is first order respect to iodide, (I-) , it is first order respect to hydrogen peroxide, (H2O2). Hence the rate law is Rate = k[H2O2][I-]. The rate of reaction is increase when the temperature is increase and the rate is increase when a positive catalyst is added to the reaction.

Monday, November 11, 2019

Nutrition study worksheet

The topic I chose was eggs. The article (Marcela, 2011)feels organic eggs don't cause heart disease. The hens are feed vegetables and no vaccines or hormones that have made the eggs unhealthy. For Example: The hens are able to run free without being in a tight space with the other hens. Another example: Claims are made when you cook eggs the protein in the egg helps to lower your blood pressure instead of raising it.Organic eggs are one of the best foods a person can eat to stay lately (Marcela, 2011). 2. What health claims are stated in the articles, such as drinking coffee every day will lower one's risk for cancer? The health claims in article is Organic eggs are suppose to have less cholesterol, h less saturated fat 2/3 more vitamin A,E and seven times more carotene (Marcela, 2011). They are a good source of nutrients. The other article say eaten eggs will not extended your life on earth it will decrease it (Greer, 2011). 3.Do any of the articles' claims seem too good to be true? Does it seem that the authors are seeking personal gain in any way? Explain your answers. The article that seems too good to be true is the article on another reason to ignore warnings about eggs. I believe this person who wrote the article eats eggs and don't want to really believe the risk involved with eating eggs at all. I also believe the person who wrote the article may benefit from stating these claims. The article I feel seem to be true is (Greer, 2011)article on bad eggs.I do also believe the person who wrote this article is a vegan who doesn't like any type of eggs or dairy products and is against hens living together in such a small place. I also believe he may feel they all come from the same place. I feel it may be true because I do believe your cholesterol levels will go up high no matter what eggs you eat. I believe eggs could have salmonella poisoning in it and kill a lot of people as well as have people develop diabetes from eating eggs everyday. I don't believe th ey are a good source of proteins at all. . What are the respective sources of these articles (testimonials, peer-reviewed study)? Studies was done and 77% of women and 58% men eating one egg a day increase their chances of developing type 2 diabetes including premature death and earth failure (Greer, 2011) Studies also show eggs has nothing to do with raising a person's cholesterol levels even thou egg yolks will raise your cholesterol levels. They are also a rich source of antioxidants which helps to prevent blindness (Marcela, 2011). 5. 6.Is the information presented in each article new or has it been studied extensively over time, achieving the same results? Both articles have been studied overtime achieving the same results this moment but both have different opinions on eggs. Department of agriculture there was a 2009 study done on eggs and how they are a DOD source of vocative peptides. In 2005 research showed how people eating eggs everyday did not increase their risk of havi ng a heart attack and their cholesterol level did not increase. . Now that you have gone through the details of each article, do you have any reservations about the information in either one? If so, explain why. Has the process of analyzing the two articles changed your opinion on the topic? Explain your answer. Yes after analyzing the articles my opinion on eggs is very different. I use to think eggs were good for you. I am now convinced no eggs are good for you at all to eat. Your chances of living longer on earth can be shortened.I believe I was blinded by the commercials all my life on how eggs are nutritious for you but if you look at it they always say fresh eggs not healthy on commercials.

Saturday, November 9, 2019

Rotten in the State of Denmark

Shakespeare’s â€Å"Hamlet† takes place during the Middle Ages in Denmark, though the play is written in the mindset of those living in the duration of the English Renaissance. Elizabethans strongly believed in order restoration in society or else chaos would ensue. In a manner of emphasizing the decay and corruption throughout the play, Shakespeare effectively utilizes figurative language and character development in order to support the concept that â€Å"There is something rotten in the state of Denmark. † The use of metaphors within the play by Shakespeare accentuates the deterioration in Denmark. Hamlet refers to humanity as the â€Å"quintessence of dust† (II, 2, 272). By making the comparison to dust, he proves that he believes humanity to have rotted, thus illustrating that the kingdom is decaying as its people are by a sense of morality and order. Hamlet continues on later in the play to state that â€Å"It will but skin and film the ulcerous place/While rank corruption, mining all within/Infects unseen† (III, 4, 147-148). This further establishes that Denmark is declining as the corruption spreads and is unchecked. Through the metaphorical comparisons, Shakespeare is able to indicate the decay within Denmark. Double entendre usage throughout â€Å"Hamlet† confirms the degeneration of the kingdom’s state. Hamlet makes reference to both the body and life in saying, â€Å"When we have shuffled off this mortal coil/Must give us pause† (III, 1, 66). He means both removing his human flesh and ending his everyday life, signifying the corruption in the kingdom as he wishes to find an easy way out of the troubled state that it is in. Later on, Hamlet mentions Polonius’ body is â€Å"at supper† and informs Claudius that â€Å"We fat all creatures else to fat us, and we fat ourselves for maggots†¦two dishes, but to one table† (IV, 3, 21-24). Supper means both that Polonius is at supper and that he is the supper. In this way, as maggots symbolize decay, it suggests that people fatten animals to feed upon; therefore, they fatten themselves for maggots and are all equal in death, as everyone is food for worms as the body deteriorates. The underlying notion of decomposition through double entendre insinuates that there is corruption within Denmark. Character development is another method in which Shakespeare indicates corrosion in Denmark. In terms of Ophelia, Hamlet describes her as a â€Å"dead dog† and states that â€Å"the sun breeds maggots in a dead dog† (II, 2, 178). By implying that Ophelia is a dead dog that breeds maggots, he indicates both that the sun rots a dead body and maggots feed within, as well as it is an aspersion to her character, since a â€Å"dead dog† is a â€Å"bitch. † Thus, Hamlet portrays the corruption in Ophelia’s character as he insinuates that she is a â€Å"bitch† by utilizing a term that symbolizes decomposition. Later on, Claudius states, â€Å"We have done but greenly/In a hugger-mugger to inter him; poor Ophelia/Divided from herself and her fair judgment† (IV, 5, 82-84). This suggests that Ophelia’s mental state is compromised due to the secrecy of her father’s death, further reinstating that the kingdom is corrupted. The alteration of Ophelia’s character and deterioration of her mental state represents the dwindling of the state of Denmark. The entirety of â€Å"Hamlet† epitomizes Renaissance England society by stressing the notion that without order, chaos will ensue. Shakespeare signifies the mentality of Elizabethans throughout the play through his use of figurative language and character development in order to substantiate that there is, in fact, â€Å"something rotten in the state of Denmark. †

Thursday, November 7, 2019

James Finney Boylan essays

James Finney Boylan essays James Finney Boylans glasses look ordinary enough. But the world he sees through them is something else,(Stanley-Sanborn). The way Boylan sees and writes is what makes him a popular writer. He is a comical writer, yet his books still have heart. Many say that his books are weird, but they always seem to read the next one. James Finney Boylan was born in 1958, in Valley Forge Pennsylvania. He graduated from Wesleyan University in 1980, and soon became the managing editor of American Bystander magazine. After working there he worked for "American Punch"; which the first cast of "Saturday Night Live" founded. When the American Bystander went under, Boylan became an editorial assistant with Viking/Penguin. He then taught at Johns Hopkins, soon realizing that Maine was the best place, he became a professor at Colby College. Where he still remains today. The Planets was Boylans first novel, and for writing it he got a grant from the Pennsylvania State Council for the Arts. His different style of writing created national attention in 1991. When he wrote, he tried to base the writing on the classical music by Gustav Holst. The Planets was about the lives of several fictional characters in the real town of Centralia, Pennsylvania, which has had an underground coal fire for several decades, and houses a few remaining residents. The town Centralia Pennsylvania no longer exists on some maps. The fire started in 1961 along the outskirts of town when trash was burned in an old open pit mine. The fire in the open pit caught some coal on fire. The coal then began to burn underground. That was in 1961; 40 years and 40 million dollars later the fire still burns through old coalmines and veins following the coal under the town and the surrounding hillsides. The fire, smoke, fumes and toxic gases that came up though the back yards, basements and streets of Centralia practically ripped the ...

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

How To Say Never in Spanish

How To Say 'Never' in Spanish Spanish has two common adverbs that mean never and they can almost always be used interchangeably, the words nunca and  jams. Most Common Way to Say Never The most common way to say never is nunca. It comes from the Old Spanish word nunqua, which entered the language from the Latin word for never, numquam. Spanish Sentence English Translation Nunca olvidarà © Madrid. I'll never forget Madrid. Brittany y Pablo nunca fueron amigos. Brittany and Pablo were never friends. El presidente no ha hablado nunca a favor de imponer sanciones. The president never has spoken in favor of imposing sanctions. Nunca quiero que llegue ese dà ­a. I never want that day to come. Slightly More Emphatic Way to Say Never Less used, and perhaps a bit stronger than nunca, is the word  jams, also meaning never.  Jams could be substituted in place of the word  nunca.   Spanish Sentence English Translation Es el mejor libro jams escrito. It's the best book never written. Jams pienso en la muerte. I never think about death. Jams imaginà © que llegarà ­a este dà ­a. I never imagined this day would come. Quiero dormirme y no despertarme jams. I want to fall asleep and never wake up. When Never to Use Jams One of the very few times you cannot substitute jams for nunca is in the phrases ms que nunca and menos que nunca, which mean more than ever or less than ever. For example,  Mi hermano gasta ms que nunca, which means, My brother is spending more than ever. Double Negative Never Spanish is very comfortable with double negative sentence construction, unlike English, which shuns it. When nunca or jams follows the verb that it modifies, use a double negative sentence construction. Spanish Sentence English Translation No he visto a nadie jams tan malo. I have never seen anyone so bad. No discutas nunca con un imbà ©cil, te har descender a su nivel. Never discuss anything with an idiot; he will bring you down to his level. Never Ever in Spanish Also, nunca and jams can be used together to reinforce their meanings, or strengthen the feeling, much like never, never or never ever in English.   Spanish Sentence English Translation Nunca jams vayamos a aceptar una dictadura militar. Never, ever are we going to accept a military dictatorship. Nunca jams hablà © con nadie de esto. Never, no, never have I spoken with anybody about this. Colloquial Expressions That Mean Never There are several figurative expressions that mean never that do not use the words nunca or jams.   Spanish Phrase English Translation  ¿en serio?;  ¡no puede ser! Never! or You never did! no lleguà © a ir I never went no contaba con volverlo a ver I never expected to see him again no importa; no te preocupes Nevermind ni uno siquiera Never a one  ¡no me digas!;  ¡no me lo puedo creer! Well, I never! no dijo ni una sola palabra Never a word [did he say]

Saturday, November 2, 2019

Cognitive Bias Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4500 words

Cognitive Bias - Essay Example Daniel Kahneman asserts that cognitive bias in decision making process is the intuitive preferences that unswervingly violates the rules related to the rational decision (48). Therefore, a cognitive bias takes place when a psychological pattern changes a decision maker’s subjective view of a problem to differ from the reality. So as to understand how this works, John Butler elucidates how the mental life of a decision maker can be described as two agents (39). The agents include system one and system two. In system one, automatic operations take place that is working quickly by applying a little effort and is not enthusiastic to take control of the thoughts. However, system two is able to construct the necessary thoughts and take the necessary thoughts, for instance doing complex computations and reasoning. Notably, more effortful mental activity occurs in system two. The activities in system two are connected to the subjective experience of choice, connections and agency (Ser fas 71). Anchoring refers to the biased judgment of a stimuli that is based on an incentive assessment of another stimulus and an inadequate alteration away from the initial assessment (Kahneman 52). In other words, this means that a previous presented value affects decision makers when they are about to estimate an unidentified quantity, which is closer to the value considered before the estimate. A good example of the anchoring effect in decision-making is how a decision-maker is influenced by price when buying goods from different suppliers. A higher price will influence the decision maker to value the goods higher than what he/she would have done if the price of the goods is lower. Daniel Kahneman claims that any number a decision maker is asked to consider as a possible solution to an estimation problem will predominantly induce an anchoring effect (50). Any numerical judgment that is under

Thursday, October 31, 2019

Gender Roles in the novel The Color Purple by Alice Walker Essay

Gender Roles in the novel The Color Purple by Alice Walker - Essay Example The entire story of the book is told through the narration of Celie, the protagonist, who undergoes several troubles during her early childhood before being sold by the name of marriage. Struggling through her dark past, where she is violently raped by her perverted stepfather, she goes through another doomed phase in her life. She gets severely beaten up every day by her husband, who also refuses to inform Celie about the letters from her sister Nettie. Still, Celie goes through all these torments and comes out as a winner at the end of the story. The book is a story about the progress of the will of a woman to counter all the struggles she faces in life, a display of power of friendship and faith in motivating a person and, delivering the message of happiness that one gets by being self-satisfied. The Color Purple, during its time of release, created a flurry of arguments about the themes written about in the story. One of the major themes that drew many of the critics’ attention was the theme of gender roles. Although, Walker had established the default characteristics of men and women in the book, there was this subtle element of versatility present in each and every character of the book that completely abolishes any notions of traditional qualities that were displayed through these roles. Some of the examples that could be given for this change include the change of thought process in the minds of Albert, Celie’s husband and in the submissive role played by his brother, who is unable to bring his wife under control and as a result, gets to work under his wife. The representation of unconventional treatment of the gender can be first viewed through the role of Mr.__________, as introduced by Celie and commonly known to everyone as Albert. Albert, having lost his first wife, looks out for a second wife to assist him and his children. Having known to everyone has an unpopular girl, Celie

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Jackson and The Cherokee ( The Trail of Tears ) Essay

Jackson and The Cherokee ( The Trail of Tears ) - Essay Example His tribe is almost becoming extinct (Cherokee, para 2). The state of Georgia, our neighbors, is forcing us to relinquish our possessions for their benefit. It is unfortunate that also the President of the United States has failed to come to our aid, and has instead ruled in favor of the Georgians. We are left wondering what other rights do we enjoy if we cannot allowed to enjoy living peacefully on our God-given land, the land we inherited from our forefathers (Cherokee, para 4). The Cherokees have always fulfilled their engagements with the United States and have never reclaimed the portions of sovereignty which was surrendered by the treaties of Hopewell and Holston. Our people have always trusted their country to the guaranty of the United States. If this guaranty fails, we do not have anybody to trust, and we do not even know where to look for protection (Cherokee, para 6) Out of these atrocities and insecurity, we are pleading to the General Government to offer us new homes, and should also propose to pay the whole expense of the removal and settlement. We hope our pleas will be acted

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Concepts Of Effective Communication Management Essay

Concepts Of Effective Communication Management Essay Chapter 2 LITERATURE REVIEW In the literature review section, the opening part will be about the concepts of communication and effective communication in an organisation along with a brief overview about the principles of effective communication. Next are the models of communication which will be elaborated with the help of various authors and from academic journals. Following that, the main theories of the types of communication, communication channels and communications systems will be discussed and compared with reference to the local authority. Furthermore, the purpose of communication in an organisation will be disseminated. In addition, the benefits of effective communication will be discussed along with the different costs encountered in communicating through the different levels. The literature review will help to formulate the research questions as well as to establish a relevant methodology to carry out the research. 2.1 Definition of Communication Work needs communication. Communication in every organisation is the way people get their work done and get recognised for their contributions. As such, people at BRDC will communicate to plan services, coordinate manufacturing and delivery, hire, train, motivate employees and so on. According to Tyson and Jackson (1997), The problem is in the definition of the word communication. It covers a great deal and includes not only the actual words used, but, also, the tone of voice, pitch situation in which it takes place and so on. Despites these difficulties, some ideas that convey a fairly good picture of what communication is all about are proposed by different authors. Communication is a process in which people who occupy differing environments exchange messages in a specific context via one or more channels and often respond to each others messages through verbal and nonverbal feedback. (Alder, R.B., Elmhorst, J.M., 1996) Similarly, Baskin and Aronoff (1980) have defined communication as the exchange of messages between people to achieve shared meanings. According to Carell et al, (1995), Communication is the glue that binds various elements, coordinates activities, allows people to work together and produces results. Cole (1993), on the other hand, defines communication as the process of creating, transmitting and interpreting ideas, facts, opinions and feelings. It is a process that is essentially a sharing one an interchange between two or more persons. As defined by the authors, by using different means of communication, information and meaning can be transferred between senders and receivers. Communication in organisation is therefore a study of the exchange of words and meanings as the people within and outside these establishments work towards achieving organisational objectives. 2.2 Effective Communication According to Roberts, J. (2009), effective communication is the passing of the right message or information to the right person, in the right way, at the right time, and with the right effect, impact and outcome. Effective communication is a two-way process sending the right message, which is also being correctly received and understood by the other person/s. Effective communication is the key factor to successful management. The principles of effective communication can be reviewed using two approaches namely, the ABC approach and the Seven Cs. 2.2.1 The ABC approach Accuracy This implies that the information conveyed must be as accurate as possible since people can interpret it in different ways. It is important to set communication in some form to allow for variations of information. However, being accurate is not always easy and recipient needs to be aware of its limitations. Brevity This means being concise and therefore the message can be identified and understood. This helps the recipient as arguments do not get lost in a clutter of unnecessary words. However, one must stick to the point as wander off in other areas may cause confusion. Clarity This is achieved through the use of the right language. The audience needs to be considered carefully. Locker, O.K and Kaczmarek, S.K (2007), believes that audiences pay attention to messages only if they seem important, relevant and interesting. However, this includes what language, explanations and examples will make sense to the audience. 2.2.2 The Seven Cs Clear Meaningful language is needed to avoid ambiguity and the messages must be communicated in a way which can be easily understood by the audience. Therefore, words and phrases need to be chosen with care. Concise Brevity, compatible with the complexity of the information to be conveyed and the necessary style and tone, is of the essence. Messages should be free from all elaboration and superfluous detail. Correct The information has to be correct. However, staff at BRDC should check for errors, especially in figures, names and addresses. Courteous In any form of communication, it pays to consider it as a personal address to the recipients. Employees should be polite and use friendly language rather than formal officialese which is a barrier to communication. Complete The communication should fully convey the message, leaving as far as possible nothing out. Audience will be aware that they have everything they need. Consistent The flow of language is considerably helped by consistency of use, such as standardising the person and tense, and sticking to a particular style and tone throughout. Convincing Employees should show confidence and commitment in what they communicate, even though there may be times when they do not actually feel them in what they do at work. The Seven Cs considers a wider range of points and is more developed than the ABC approach. 2.3 Communication Theory Framework 1 Mechanistic communication is simply the transmission of information from the first party to the second party. The first party being the sender and the second party being the receiver. Psychological communication is actually the thoughts, feelings of the sender which he tries to share with the recepients. It also includes the reactions, feelings of the receiver after he decodes the information. Social communication is considered as a result of interaction between the sender and the receiver. Communication is directly dependent on the content of the speech. Systemic Communication is actually a new and a different message which is created when various individuals interpret it in their own way and then reinterpret it and draw their own conclusion. Critical Communication is simply a way with the help of which an individual expresses his power and authority among other individuals. To sum up the communication theory suggests that to survive, every living entity, needs to communicate with others and also among themselves. 1 http://www.managementstudyguide.com/communication-theory.htm 2.4 Communication Models There are five most recognised and accepted models of communication. 2.4.1 Aristoles Model of communication Aristotle was the first to take an initiative and design the communication model. Figure 1 Source: Scribd.com models-of-communication According to this model, the speaker plays a key role in communication. The sender first prepares content where he put his thoughts in words with a view to influence the recipients, who would then respond in the senders desired way. The model demonstrates that the speaker communicates in such a way that the listeners get influenced and respond accordingly. 2.4.2 Shannon-Weaver Mathematical Model Shannon designed the most popular of all early communication models. He wanted to guide the efforts of engineers in finding an economical way of transmitting electrical signals between locations. http://www.shkaminski.com/Classes/images/Shannon-Weaver%20Model.gif Figure 2 Source: The Mathematical Theory of Communication (Shannon, C. and Weaver, W., 1949) Compared to the Aristotles model, the Shannon-Weaver model is a common communication model used. It is seen as a resemblance of the human communication process. However, it is not analogous to human communication. Mortensen, C.D (1972), believes that the model is only formal, that is, does not account for content. Moreover, he is of the opinion that the Shannon-Weaver communications system is static and also linear. It conceives of a linear and literal transmission of information between locations. 2.4.3 Berlos Model of communication While the Aristotle model of communication puts the speaker in the central position, the Berlos model of communication takes into consideration the emotional aspect of the message. It is an adaptation of the Shannon-Weaver model. Berlos model of communication operates on the SMCR model. In the SMCR model S Source M Message C Channel R Receiver Berlos model of communication Figure 3 Source: The Process of Communication (Berlo, D.K, 1960) This model shows that source is flexible as it includes oral, written, electronic and any other forms of communication. Message was made the central element. Furthermore, it stress that receivers are the targets. The encoding and decoding notion translate thoughts into words and decrypt words of others into terms one can understand. However, it implies that human communication and machine communication are similar and there is manipulation of the message. People misunderstand each other even with the right symbols. With reference to the berlos model of communication, the speaker and the listener must be on a common ground for smooth conversion but this is sometimes not practical in the reality. 2.4.4 Schramms Interactive Model Wilbur Schramm (1954) was the first to modify the mathematical model of Shannon and Weaver. He emphasises that communication is incomplete until the sender receives a feedback from the recipient. Schramm believed that communication is actually a two way process between the first party and the second party. mhtml:file://F:VANDANAHcommunicationsCommunication%20Models.mht!http://www.shkaminski.com/Classes/images/Schramms%20Model%202.gif Figure 4 Source: The Process and Effects of Communication (Schramm, W., 1954) Schramm provided additional notion of a field of experience. It includes feedback, context, culture and so on. However, this model accounts for only mutal communication between two parties. This model does not account for multiple levels of communication between several sources. According to Schramm model of communication when a sender passes on the information to the receiver, the latter must interpret it in the desired form and give him the feedback or respond accordingly. The communication is not complete and thus ineffective if the sender does not get the feedback. 2.4.5 Dances Helical Spiral Another important model of communication is the Helical Model of communication which was proposed by Frank Dance in 1967 to throw some more light on communication process. This model understands communication in a birds eye perspective and considers almost all the activities of an individual. mhtml:file://F:VANDANAHcommunicationsCommunication%20Models.mht!http://www.shkaminski.com/Classes/images/Helical%20Model.gif Figure 5 Source: www.shkaminski.com- communication model Mortensen: As a heuristic device, the helix is interesting not so much for what it says as for what it permits to be said. Chapanis (1961), on the other hand, called sophisticated play: The helix signals that communication is continuous unrepeatable, additive, and accumulative. In short, the helix emphasises the integrated aspects of human communication as an evolving process. However, helical model of communication may not be a model at all as there are too few variables. The model leaves unanswered questions. 2.4.6 Westley and MacLeans Conceptual Model Unlike Frank Dance, Westley and MacLean believed that communication does not start from day one but begins when the speaker receives signals from his external surroundings. This model pertains to a strong relation between the signals from the surroundings and the communication process. The process of communication begins with receiving messages rather than sending messages. Events may sometimes unintentionally occur and signals is received accidentally. (Receives message)  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Environment-Sender-then sends message (Communication starts)  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Figure 6 Source: www.managementstudyguide.com/westley-maclean-model-of-communication The model accounts for feedback, a sensory field, non-binary interactions and different modes. Westley and MacLeans model describes more variables in the communication interaction. However, it is still two-dimensional. It can therefore be concluded that the six models of communication are all initiatives by great scholars to simplify and help in better understanding of the communication process. 2.5 Types of Communications No one would talk much in society if they knew how often they misunderstood others. Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe. Organisations have recourse to two types of communication namely, Verbal Non-verbal communication. 2.5.1 Verbal Communication Anderson, H. et al (2004) states verbal communication implies that information has been transmitted through speech. In verbal communication words are involved. According to Boolaky, M. and Gokhool, D., (2006) verbal communication is further divided into: Oral Communication Written Communication Oral Communication In the communication process, oral communication refers to spoken words. It can either be a conversation over the phone or face-to-face communication or on the voice chat on the Internet. At the BRDC, oral communication is vital as it is easier to get feedback by observing facial expressions and asking questions and provides more opportunity to get attention and keeping interest. However, Desmonds W. Evans (1990) argued that Oral communication is volatile, that is, major decisions cannot be recorded and thus cannot be saved for future reference. Written Communication In contrary, written communication can be either via emails, letters, faxes, reports, memos and so on. The advantages are that highly technical topics can be presented using words and diagrams and provides a permanent record that can be referred to from time to time or passed on to others. However, Kushal, S.J and Ahuja, S., (2010) argues that written communication is unfit for uneducated person, it is a wastage of time, delays feedback and no clue about real intentions and emotions. They further discuss that to ensure effectiveness of written communication, it should be short and simple, complete, avoid jargons and so on. 2.5.2 Non Verbal Communication Actions speak louder than words. Kaye, M. (1994) Fromkin and Rodman (1983) suggest that up to 90 per cent of the communication process takes place non-verbally. Courtland, L.B, et al (2010) defined non-verbal communication as the interpersonal process of sending and receiving information, both intentionally and unintentionally, without using written or verbal message. He further stress that non-verbal communication is vital as it helps to strengthen a verbal message. In contrast to verbal communication, non- verbal communication includes overall body language of the person who is speaking, which will include the body posture, the hand gestures, and overall body movements. It can also be in the form of pictorial representations, signboards, or even photographs, sketches and paintings. Kushal, S.J and Ahuja, S., (2010) states that non-verbal communication are reliable, efficient, helps establish credibility and leadership potential, accurate understanding of attitudes. However, they argues that there is lack of secrecy, useful for small pieces of information, gestures can be misunderstood, it is necessary for both parties to face each other, lack of written proof, more difficult to study and fails to discuss past events and ideas. Verbal and Non- verbal communication are important in an organization. BRDC must ensure the effectiveness of the types of communication as there are both advantages and drawbacks. 2.6 Communication Channels Communication is now done through variety of channels ranging from nonverbal signals to very sophisticated communication media and technology. The communication that takes place in the organisation can be categorised as formal and informal. Formal communication can take place in two ways: Vertical Horizontal 2.6.1 Vertical Communication It moves between individuals at different levels in an organisation (Taylor, 2005). Vertical communication in classical management hierarchy can be: Upward Downward Upward Communication It refers to information flow from the lower levels of a hierarchy to the upper levels. Employees use this channel to communicate suggestions, grievances and progress of work (Boolaky and Gokhool, 2006). In addition, Courtland, L.B, et al (2010) pointed that executives can solve problems and make intelligent decisions. It is good to taking feedback on policies and takes corrective action. However, it does not transfer realistic message. Downward Communication Information flows from a higher level to a lower level in a hierarchy. Management uses this channel to inform employees about policies, plans, job instructions and feedback (Boolaky Gokhool, 2006). The advantages of downward communication are that it is appropriate for giving instructions and ensures that everyone is working towards goals and objectives. On the other side of the coin, information can be distorted as it goes down and there is lack of openness between managers and employees 2.6.2 Horizontal Communication Horizontal communication is both task related and informal and occurs between people on equal footing in the hierarchy (Postmes, 2003). Further, Taylor, S. (2005) stress the need of employees to corporate and share. It can take various forms like meetings, face to face exchange, group discussions and telephone conversations. Its objectives are coordination, cooperation and integration. Informal communication as defined by Courtland, L.B, et al (2010) is referred to as the grapevine that encompasses all communication that takes place outside the formal network. Similarly, in the words of Thill and Bovee, The informal communication network carries information along the organisations unofficial lines of activity and power. Kushal, S.J and Ahuja, S., (2010) proposes some advantages of formal communication such as it is dynamic, speedy communication as no formal line of communication exist, multi-dimension as topic of communication varies and it is supplementary to formal channels. The authors however debated that informal communication results in distortion of communication as it carries half-truths and rumours. There is also the existence of erratic message. It can be deduced that the channels of communication in an organization will depends on the structure of the organization. 2.7 Communication Systems Communication systems can be divided into those using an intranet, those using the written word such as newsletters, circulars, and notice-boards, memo, fax, and those using oral methods such as meetings, briefing groups and, telephone amongst others. (Armstrong, 2006) Communications through an intranet system Organisations are increasingly relying on an internal e-mail system (the intranet) to communicate information, especially in workplaces where all or most of the employees have direct or indirect access to a computer. The advantage of intranet communications is that they can be transmitted swiftly to a wide audience and thus saves a lot of time. Fax messages Similarly to the intranet system, a fax machine is relatively inexpensive. Fax transmits and receives any kind of message- handwritten, printed, diagrams, photographs. It takes only seconds to transmit a fax message, depending on the length of the document. Due to its versatility and speed, it is often used between divisions or branches of the same company instead of telephone or memos. Circular letters A Circular letter is one that is sent out to many people at the same time. The letter may be prepared once and then duplicated. It is sent for the following reasons: Inform staff of new policy matters Announce opening of a new office/branch Notice-boards Notice-boards are used to bring special items to the attention of all staff. It is an obvious but frequently misused medium for communications. The biggest danger is allowing boards to be cluttered up with uninteresting or out-of-date material. Its advantage is that a written record of the message is kept. Memos It is a written communication from one person to another or a group of people within the same organization. Its purpose is to remind someone of action required, request decisions actions and provide information of any kind. Telephone Telephones are a point-to-point communication system whose most basic function is to allow two people separated by large distances to talk to one another. In any organisation the person on the phone represents the company and gives an impression of the company to the outside world. Meetings Meetings enable face to face contact of a number of people at the same time. They provide a useful opportunity for sharing information, making suggestions and proposals, taking decision and obtaining instant feedback. 2.8 Purposes of Communication The main purposes of communication in organisation are as follows: Organisational Communication Express feelings and emotions Achieve coordinated action Share information Organisation goals Task directive Results of efforts Decision making Source: adapted from Moorhead and Griffin (1992) 2.9 Benefits of Effective Communication Taylor (2005) argues that if organisations want to be successful in todays world, good communication at all levels is essential. The benefits that can be achieved are: Stronger decision-making and problem solving Upturn in productivity Convincing and compelling corporate materials Clearer, more streamlined workflow Enhanced professional image Sound business relationships Successful response ensured In addition, Courtland, L.B, et al (2010) found that effective communication strengthens the connection between a company and all those groups affected in some way by the companys actions. 2.10 Barriers to effective communication Maini Morrel-Samuels (2006, p.38) establish that most large organizations are plagued by serious communication problem, the difficulties are especially prominent in large organisations where precise collaboration is critical. Robbins (1998) identifies the following barriers to effective communication: Filtering, selective perception, defensiveness and language. Filtering Filtering refers to sender manipulating information so that the receiver will see it more favourably. Filtering also takes place between the supervisor and the manager, and in fact, from one level to the next. Selective perception Selective perception takes place when the receivers in the communication process selectively see and hear based on their needs, motivation, experience, background, and other personal characteristics. Receivers of information also associate their interests and expectations into communication as they decode them. Defensiveness Defensiveness occurs when people try to defend their position because of certain threats. They have a tendency to engage in such behaviours as verbally attacking others, making sarcastic remarks, being overly judgmental, and questioning others motives. Therefore, when individuals interpret anothers message as threatening they often respond in ways that blur effective communication. Language Words and term means different thing to different people. Age, education and cultural background are three of the more obvious variables that influence the language a person uses and the definition he or she gives to words. In an organisation, employees usually come from different backgrounds and therefore have different patterns of speech. In addition to Robbins, Taylor (2005) suggests the following barriers to communication: Emotional responses Communication cannot succeed if a person is highly emotional about the topic concerned. Problems may arise from insecurity, fear, anger. If emotions are high on the part of the sender or recipient, then it would be better to wait for a while before trying to put the message. Systems In any organizations there should be prescribed procedures for getting messages to the people who need them. Without such systems there can be no effective communication. Courtland, L.B, et al (2010), on the other hand, point out the following: Competing messages One must compete with other messages that are trying to reach the audience at the same time. It is essential to come up with messages that the audience will care about as any messages that are more compelling can pull the audiences attention away. 2.11 Trends in communication Todays world has developed rapidly from an industrial age to an information age. Owing to technological advancement, methods of working and composition of groups are affected. In the words of Courtland, L.B, et al (2010), todays business rely heavily on technology to facilitate the communication process. However, they argued that the benefits of technology are not automatic. Inappropriate used technology can hinder communication. Traditionally, communications in business were hierarchical with messages being passed up and down the chain, often with secretaries acting as a filter between managers and staff (Taylor, 2005). Network has now replaced the hierarchical model with email, every member of staff is able to communicate directly with everyone else. Information can therefore be distributed more efficiently around the organisation. It can be deduced that changes in organisational forms have made communication increasingly important to overall functioning of the organisation. However, technology is not a replacement but only a tool to help communication to take place effectively. 2.12 Ethical Communication According to Werner David Management is in essence the act of communication, for management processes are linked to the receipt of information and its valid interpretation which results in effective decision making. A perception of ethical foundation is essential for those employed in communication. A variety of theories exist that link organisation communication with its ethical underpinning. Courtland, L.B, et al (2010) is of the opinion that to ensure ethical communication, three elements are required namely, ethical company leadership, ethical individuals and policies and structures to support employees to make ethical choices. Moreover, they pointed out that these three elements need to work in harmony. The authors further argued that unethical communication can manipulate audiences in ways such as plagiarism, omitting essential information, selective misquoting, misrepresenting numbers, distorting visuals, failing to respect privacy. Ethical communication is true in every sense. Many organisation establish ethics policy by providing a written code of ethics to help employees determine what is acceptable. For example, at BRDC, employers establish clear ethical guidelines and detailed code of conduct addressing areas like health and safety, protection of the organisations assets and information, conflicts of interest and so on. 2.13 Contemporary issue in communication 2.13.1 Cross-Cultural communication Courtland, L.B, et al (2010) defined cross-cultural communication as the process of sending and receiving messages between people whose cultural backgrounds could lead them to interpret verbal and non-verbal signs differently. Munter (1993) come forward with the difficulties in cross-cultural communication like barriers caused by semanties, connotations, tone differences, differences among perceptions. Adler (1991), on the other hand, as reported by Robbins (1998), provides the following recommendations; assume differences until similarity proven, emphasis description rather than interpretation, practice empathy and treat interpretation as a working hypothesis. In every organisation, culture influences the sending and receiving of messages. Therefore, to communicate effectively, BRDC need to grasp cultural differences and handle them to open up opportunities throughout the world. Moreover, BDRC will be able to maximize the contributions of staff in a diverse workforce.

Friday, October 25, 2019

Identity and Margaret Atwoods Lady Oracle :: essays papers

Identity and Margaret Atwoods Lady Oracle The relationships we have with different people throughout our lives are strong influences on us all. Our relationships with one another can define who we are, as well as the quality of the lives we lead. Strenuous relationships cause stress and unhappiness, while close, loving relationships are a source of support and comfort. Joan Foster, the main character in Margaret Atwood=s Lady Oracle, is a complex woman who has had more than her share of turbulent relationships during her life. From her childhood and teenage relationship with her mother, to her bond with her husband later in life, Joan=s relationships are rarely free of turmoil and drama. These relationships definitely have an influence on Joan, impacting her as a person. The issue of Joan and her relationships reveals a question: How are Joan=s relationships important to her identity? The first major relationship in Joan=s life is the one with her mother. Joan feels unwanted and unloved by her mother, who treats Joan coldly because of her weight problem. At first, Joan struggles to fit in with her mother=s perfect vision of her and tries to live up to her mother=s expectations. When she fails at this, Joan resents her mother=s unbearable attitude and becomes antagonistic toward her. Joan=s identity then becomes based on the opposite of what her mother expects and wants from her. At this time my mother gave me a clothing allowance, as an incentive to reduce. She thought I should buy clothes that would make me less conspicuous, the dark dresses with tiny polka-dots and vertical stripes favored by designers for the fat. Instead I sought out clothes of a peculiar and offensive hideousness, violently colored, horizontally striped. Some of them I got in maternity shops, others at cut-rate discount stores; I was especially pleased with a red felt skirt, cut in a circle with a black telephone appliqued onto it. The brighter the colors, the more rotund the effect, the more certain I was to buy. I wasn=t going to let myself be diminished, neutralizes, by a navy-blue polka-dot sack (Atwood 84). Joan went out of her way to buy clothes that she knew her mother would hate, and that become part of who she was.

Thursday, October 24, 2019

Robin Hood Case Study Discussion

1. Describe how Robin Hood developed his initial strategy for competing with the sheriff of Nottingham and discuss how he implemented it. Critique this approach. The original problem definition of high taxation that faced the people gave way for a new market which was stormed by Robin Hood. Seemingly an unlawful act, his mission was to â€Å"steal from the rich, and give to the poor†. As he entered the market, he was faced with rivalry of the prince and the sheriff. Robin Hood and his band of Merry men stole from the rich and gave to the poor which is in actuality is entirely opposite to the actions of his rivals.As Robin Hood entered the existing niche market he gained popularity and support amongst the common folk as he was supplying a unique good/service. He provides a free service to the poor after his operating expenses are accounted for. Also, the people had a preference for his product and tactics were not easily matched or copied by the competition. By obtaining this s upport, this strategy was to his advantage against Prince John and the sheriff. The opinion of numerous common folk would have persuaded Prince John to change the law of unfair taxation.Robin quickly realized that there was little he could do himself; which led to development of the organization by stimulating human resources. He sought close allies who would follow his vision of vengeance for the sheriff and the prince. These men would act as direct subordinates, however as time progress, admittance was allowed with less scrutiny whereby the only determining factor was loyalty. He believed strength lay in numbers. Robin implemented his strategy of ‘strength in numbers’ by seeking discipline from his band of men which ensured unity in the organization.This was achieved through a specific department within the organizational hierarchy. As a result they became more powerful in their battle against the sheriff. This forced the Merry Men to live outside the law which was al so desired to gain sufficient discipline in the group. This organization was fairly simple. Critique By acquiring a large extent of subordinates, Robin obtained a work force that is not necessarily trained as he allowed any to join who asked few questions. In doing so, extra man-hours would have to be spent in training.Also if prescreening of the new entrants existed, the idea of using the entrants with existing skills can give way for a more efficient organization. I. e. farmers would have been used not for war but for food. As the largest internal dilemma faced the band was an increased group size infrastructure, supplies and other physical resources would quickly diminish. Thus cutting cost should be priority, thus tradeoffs can be made by employing skilled workers for defined job. E. g. famers and hunters With the ideal of improper interview, his organization could be easily infiltrated by his competitors thus relieving their plan and strategies. . Identify organizational charac teristics and environment characteristics that would lead you to think robin hood is wise to considering a change in strategy as he enters his campaign second year? Robin’s organization could be seen as one of a hierarchy, he is the highest person in the organization which can put him in roles such as C. E. O. or chairman. His responsibility is to delegate specific task to his lieutenants, each has their own functions which contributes to the success of the merry men as a unit.For example Will Scarlett was assigned the important task of shadowing the sheriff and notifying the merry men of the sheriff next move. Figure 1: Robin's Organizational Hierarchy The motivation of the band was vital to keeping them interested in the purpose of the vendetta. Motivation theory seeks to explain all kinds of motivated behavior in different situations, including behavior in the organizations. Since the majority of behavior is sense motivated, individuals are greatly influenced by their envi ronment.Maslow’s theory of human motivation, all people have a need or desire for self respect, self esteem, and respect from others. This directly applies to the Merry Men, for they sought respect and were proud of their famous motto â€Å"Rob from the rich and give to the poor†. The resourced based model was important in the success of the group; five factors were looked at which the band demonstrated resources, capability, competitive advantage, attractive industry, strategy formulation and implementation. The resource of the group came from the merchants that travel through the forest, initially the resource was always available but t was quickly becoming sparse as merchants was choosing a different route. The men were properly trained to plan their robbery and skillful in their archery, however, the influxes of new recruits were beginning to strain the reserves of the group as training and food was costly. Robin and the merry men had the support from their custome rs which were the peasants and farmers but now as income was low and the maintenance cost was high they would have to tax the very people which they helped meaning that the peasants and farmers could turn on them and add to their troubles.Understanding the resource base of the group I could see why a change in strategy was wise. Figure 2: Resourced Based Model Robin and his organization were in crisis due to lack of a proper corporate strategy. The merry men were growing, with large number of new recruits but the organic structure is not cohesive. Communication and discipline is being broken down, table 3 below shows some options robin could use and their SWOT analysis. | Opportunities | Threats | Strengths| SO Strategies: Kill the Sheriff * Wipe him out, no more problems * Has the men to do it When the sheriff is gone, disband. ST Strategies: Join the barons * Has the fighting force * Get access to capital markets * Maybe ends the conflict quicker| Weakness | WO Strategies: Limit s ize of band * Turn the fighting band into a group of elites * Maintains discipline * Solves food issues * Basically, curtail growth| WT Strategies: Disband * Give up the cause, return to normal life * Robin flees to another country to escape punishment| Figure 3: SWOT Matrix Problems Robin and his organization faced: * Lack of discipline Maintenance cost * Shelter/space shortage * Food shortage * training * security and vigilance (whoever wanted to join was taken in and there could be traitors and spies) These problems need to be address if the band is to have any chance against the sheriff and prince John. 3. Assume that Robin Hood has asked you to help him devise a new strategy. Identify a set of factors for him to consider in revising strategy. It was evident from the story that Robin Hood needed to change his approach owing to both internal and external factors.An uncontrolled workforce along with unsuitable supplier location led to the brink of economic viability. Changing the overall goal of his organization to fixed transit taxation would decrease his competitive advantage over the Sheriff. As a result the cost of amenities which Mr. Hood provided to the common folk would increase. If he chooses this path he would lose his loyal supporters which kept him in control of the monopolized market. The farmers and townspeople would then favor Prince John’s governance and rely on his pity for commodities.In the event of this situation Robin Hood’s main foe, The Sheriff would become stronger in light of his political connection with the prince. Although his work force was constantly growing, its productivity was diminutive. He claimed that he was not familiar with a large population of his organization. It would be in Robin’s best interest to restructure his work force. He would gain an advantage by decentralizing the team into several self sustaining units; each unit consisting of team manager, lieutenants and miscellaneous subordinates.Aki n to a franchised organization, each team unit would be operating under the Robin Hood brand name, have the same goal as Robin, and operate within the limits of Robin. This structure would be less demanding to co-ordinate and allow him to devise alternate strategies. Since Robin also had a problem with a definitive Sherwood Forest location, this structure would also aid his disguise from his suppliers, the rich merchant travelers and the Sheriff. It is an imprudent choice for Robin to divert from his core competency and profound skill of banditry.The change in profession may lead to a lack of enthusiasm which would reflect poorly through the eyes of his followers and his brand name. References: Analyzing Strategic Management Cases http://www. pdftop. com/view/aHR0cDovL3d3dy5hdWJ1cm4uZWR1LyU3RWNiZjAwMDIvZmlsZXMvQ2FzZSUyMEFuYWx5c2lzLnBwdA== Date Accessed: 02nd February 2011 The Business Operations of Robin Hood and the Merry men Author: Sumeet Malhotra http://www. scribd. com/doc/1362 7015/Robin-Hood-Case-Study Date updated: 2010 Date Accessed: 05th February 2011 ROBIN HOOD a Case StudyAuthor: Misti Walker http://www. scribd. com/doc/21176061/Robin-Hood-Case-Study Date updated: 05th September 2009 Date Accessed: 05th February 2011 Case Study 24 Robin Hood Book Winning In The Market Place Second Edition http://www. oppapers. com/essays/Case-Study-24-Robin-Hood-Book/178732 Date update: 2011 Date Accessed: 07th February 2011 Robin Hood Case Analysis Author: Aaron labin, Curt Matthews, Rich Miller http://www. scribd. com/doc/37469551/Robin-Hood-Final Date updated: 14th April 2009 Date Accessed: 07th February 2011