Thursday, December 26, 2019

Family Caregiver Support Programs For Families - 968 Words

The current program in place, Family Caregiver Support Program, has an overall goal to help a person of any age who serve as unpaid caregivers for persons sixty and older. This agency provides five basic services for family caregivers. First, they provide information to caregivers about available services and assistance to caregivers in gaining access to services. They also provide individual counseling, organization of support groups, caregiver training to assist the caregivers in making decisions and solving problems relating to their caregiving roles, as well as respite care to enable caregivers to be temporarily relieved from caregiving responsibilities. Lastly, they offer supplemental services, on a limited basis, to complement the care provided by caregivers. According to Administration of Community Living, the eligibility rules are â€Å"any adult family members or other informal caregivers age 18 and older providing care to individuals 60 years of age and older† or â⠂¬Å"any adult family members or other informal caregivers age 18 and older providing care to individuals of any age with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders† (2015). Older Adults are classified as 65 ages and older. There are three categories young-old (ages 65-74), old-old (ages 75-84), and oldest-old (ages 85 and older). They are most likely not working, and are often referred to as the elderly. Aging can be a very difficult time for older adults to go through. There comes a time when their bodies beginShow MoreRelatedThe National Family Caregiver Support Program ( Nfcsp )956 Words   |  4 PagesThe act granted assistance to caregivers (those who care for aging individuals, identified as 70 years of age or older) through funding that would support aged love ones and help them to remain in their homes as long as possible (AOA.gov). Through research, the National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP) suggests caregiver’s experience a physical, emotio nal and financial toll while caring for the elderly. Commonly, adult children are the primary caregivers for their aging parents. OftenRead MoreMany Americans Prepare For Adulthood By Pursuing Careers,1550 Words   |  7 Pagesfor adulthood by pursuing careers, building families and investing in homes. However, very few of us really think of old age and how it will impact our families. As stated by Greg Link in his journal, â€Å"The Administration for Community Living: Programs and Initiatives Providing Family Caregiver Support†, â€Å"for many older people, the ability to remain living at home in the community is often contingent upon consistent support provided by a family caregiver† (Link, 2015, p. 57). In essence, the authorsRead MoreThe Department Of Health Care Services1272 Words   |  6 PagesThe Department of Health Care Services is at the very top of the VCRC organizational structure. Caregiver Resource Center the Board of Director. Then it comes down to the Executive Director, Program Manager, and the staf f: family consultants/ social worker, office assistant, data entry, and volunteer or students. Is it a public, nonprofit, or for-profit organization? Valley Caregiver Resource Center is a non-profit organization that had been serving Fresno, Madera, Tulare, Kings, Merced, StanislausRead MoreIncreasing Caregiver Support Service Access And Use Among Chinese Americans1298 Words   |  6 Pages Increasing caregiver support service access and use among Chinese-Americans I. Introduction The policy that will be analyzed is the federal Older American Act Title III-E, which was approved by the Congress in 2000. It regulates National Family Caregiver Support Programs (NFCSP), a categorical non-income-tested program, aiming to provide direct services to informal family caregivers. Under the federal administration from AoA, the NFCSP is carried out through a network of 56 State Units on AgingRead MoreThe Benefits Of Caregiver Information And Services In The Community1058 Words   |  5 Pages. This includes information on programs designed to give caregivers a break, financial assistance programs which benefit caregivers, education and training programs, and support groups for caregivers. For caregivers who are separated from their loved one, for any reason, Senior Resources of Guilford has access to a program founded by the U.S. Administration on Aging called the Elder Care Locator. This program allows them to find caregiver information and services throughout the co untry. For thoseRead MoreThe Policy Issue Of Family Caregivers1080 Words   |  5 Pagespolicy issue of family caregivers, who provide unpaid care to an ill or disabled loved one especially older adults. According to Gordon and Barrington (2016), there are almost 35 million Americans who provide care for adult family members and friends aged 50 or older with limited activities of daily living such as bathing; and instrumental activities of daily living such as preparing meal, and managing medications. Gordon and Barrington (2016) also mentioned that the family caregivers spend almost 40Read MorePatients With A Progressive Chronic Illness1489 Words   |  6 Pagesspecialty services the main goal of care is to maintain the family cohesiveness despite the challenges of this devastating diagnosis. Family Diagnoses #1. Interrupted Family Processes #2. Risk for Caregiver Role Strain #3. Ineffective Coping #4. Risk for Ineffective Relationship #5. Non-compliance (NANDA, n.d.) Plan of Care Assessment: Client expresses concern with difficulty maintaining her position in family as the primary caregiver. She states â€Å"I feel like I’m losing my control as mother andRead MoreCharities, Parkinsons, Multiple Chlorosis And Als And Huntingtons Disease1230 Words   |  5 Pagesof DC, embarked upon the launch of a program funded by the Griffin foundation, that would provide comprehensive social work to patients diagnosed with neurodegenerative disorders with a primary focus on Huntington’s Disease. Huntington Disease is a hereditary disease that is a complex and debilitating illness that has often been called â€Å"quintessential family disease†. (HUNTINGTONS DISEASE SOCIATY OF AMERICA, 2017) Other illnesses served through the program are Parkinson’s, Multiple Chlorosis andRead MoreSt. Judes Project Paper1483 Words   |  6 Pagesupon the launch of a program, the St. Jude’s Project, funded by the Griffin Foundation. St. Jude’s Pr oject would provide comprehensive social work to patients diagnosed with neurodegenerative disorders, with a primary focus on Huntington’s Disease. Huntington Disease is a terminal hereditary disease that is a debilitating illness that has often been called â€Å"quintessential family disease†(HUNTINGTONS DISEASE SOCIETY OF AMERICA, 2017). Other illnesses served through the program are Parkinson’s, MultipleRead MoreThe Goal Of Healing Homes1621 Words   |  7 PagesRooted in the belief that every child walks their own path and has the ability to reach full potential, Healing Homes focuses on a curriculum that teaches parents and caregivers how to be better listeners and supportive parents and enables children to improve. According to Dettlaf Rycraft (2010), â€Å"immigrant Latino children and families represent the largest and fastest-growing population in the United States, and thus require the attention of child welfare systems and the development of evide nce-based

Wednesday, December 18, 2019

How Does Achebe Depict Ibo Culture in ‘Things Fall Apart’

How does Achebe depict Ibo culture in ‘Things Fall Apart’? Chinua Achebe’s, Things Fall Apart, is a story of a traditional village in Nigeria from inside Umuofia around the late 1800s. This novel depicts late African history and shows how the British administrative structure, in the form of the European Anglican Church, imposed its religion and trappings on the cultures of Africa, which they believed was uncivilized. This missionary zeal subjugated large native populations. Consequently, the native traditions gradually disappeared and in time the whole local social structure within which the indigenous people had lived successfully for centuries was destroyed. Achebe spends the first half of the novel depicting the Ibo culture, by itself,†¦show more content†¦There are passages in this novel, however, that implies a more critical attitude on Achebe’s part. Despite the sophisticated aspects of the Ibo tribe, they still perform parts of their system of belief which are considered uncivilised and primitive. However, these measures can be considered a way of dealing with difficult or unpleasant circumstances. One example Achebe uses to depict the injustices in Ibo culture, is where it was believed that a child who died and return to its mother to be reborn again, several times, was the work of an evil spirit or an ogbanje child. If this occurs then a ‘medicine-man’ would â€Å"...bring out a sharp razor from the goatskin bag slung from his left shoulder and mutilate the child.† (P.56) It was assumed that in doing this that the ogbanje child â€Å"†¦would think twice before coming again.† (P.57) Twins, like an ogbanje child, were also greatly feared and were â€Å"thrown away† (P.89) at birth. Both of these examples show how the Ibo tribe rely on their primitive systems of belief to deal with incomprehensible circumstances. Nearer the end of the novel, Achebe finalises and concludesShow MoreRelatedHow Does Chinua Achebe Depict Ibo Culture In Things Fall Apart?1515 Words   |  7 PagesHow does Achebe depict Ibo culture in ‘Things Fall Apart’? Chinua Achebe’s, Things Fall Apart, is a story of a traditional village in Nigeria from inside Umuofia around the late 1800s. This novel depicts late African history and shows how the British administrative structure, in the form of the European Anglican Church, imposed its religion and trappings on the cultures of Africa, which they believed was uncivilized. This missionary zeal subjugated large native populations. Consequently, the nativeRead MoreThe â€Å"African-Ness† of Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe1455 Words   |  6 PagesThe â€Å"African-ness† of Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe In Achebe’s Things Fall Apart, the African culture is depicted by following the life of Okonkwo, a rather customary and conventional African villager. Achebe wanted to write a novel that portrays accurately the African society in the mid to late 1800s in Nigeria, at the time the novel is set. As a child, Achebe spoke the Ibo language, but he was raised in a Christian home. Achebe used the knowledge he gained from the African life to putRead MoreThings Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe858 Words   |  4 PagesThe definition of sexism is discrimination on the basis of sex. In many cultures sexism was and still is a controversial topic. In fact, women in America couldn’t even vote until the 1920’s. The abundant masculinity in this novel is not sexism but just how the culture functions. Chinua Achebe’s novel Things Fall Apart is not sexist towards women; in fact, it shows that women are essential to the Ibo society and posses a great amount of strength. For example, the novel is not sexist because it emphasizesRead MoreChinua Achebe s Things Fall Apart1798 Words   |  8 PagesINTRO Chinua Achebe’s first novel, Things Fall Apart, is a post-colonial novel that details the violent story of the British’s colonization of Nigeria at the end of the 19th century from an African perspective. Published just before Nigerian independence, the novel narrates the fall of the highly respected village leader Okonkwo as well as the destruction of the Ibo culture. Achebe’s use of English, the language of the colonizer, put Things Fall Apart at the center of the great language debate inRead MoreChinua Achebe s Writing A Honest And Nitty Gritty Picture Of Ibo Society And Culture Essay1338 Words   |  6 PagesAchebe s significant thought process in his craft is the presentation of a honest and nitty gritty picture of Ibo-society and culture. Achebe goes up against the undertaking of uncovering its different measurements and demonstrating that Nigerian tribal-culture likewise like some other culture is rich and various, it includes a complex joining of religio us formal, social and monetary elements. Things Fall Apart is a brief and thorough record of the life in the town of Umuofia especially of OkonkwoRead MoreChinua Achebe, In His Novel â€Å"Things Fall Apart† Masterfully1424 Words   |  6 PagesChinua Achebe, in his novel â€Å"Things Fall Apart† masterfully depicts the socials changes and conflicts that occurred due to the infiltration of colonialism in the Nigerian village of Umuofia. The Meriam Webster dictionary defines the term colonialism as â€Å"Control by one power over a dependent area or people† (Meriam Webster). Achebe successfully manages to show the readers of his novel how colonialism occurred within the village of Umuofia, and he does so by revealing downfalls within the beliefs ofRead MoreChinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart: Exploring the Ibo Culture1743 Words   |  7 Pagesan attempt to explore the Ibo culture and to discuss women as a marginalized group in Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart. Things Fall Apart is a 1958 English novel by Nigerian author Chinua Achebe. Achebe is indebted to Yeats for the title as it has been taken from Yeats’ poem The Second Coming. Achebe is a fastidious, skillful artist and garnered more critical attention than any other African writer. His reputation was soon established after his novel Things Fall Apart. He made a considerable influenceRead MoreAnalysis of Chinua Achebes Things Fall Apart1579 Words   |  6 PagesChinua Achebes 1958 novel Things Fall Apart marked a significant turning point not only for literature, but the world, because the novel is an attempt to blend the conflicting identities and ideologies of Africa in the wake of colonization. The novel depicts the destructive tension that arises between the traditions of the Igbo people and white colonizers, but, perhaps contrary to the readers expectation, it does not present either side as holding the ethical high ground. Rather, the novel suggestsRead MoreThings Fall Apart By Chinua Achebe1365 Words   |  6 Pages â€Å"Things Fall Apart†, written by Chinua Achebe in 1958, is a book about the changes that occur to the central character Okonkwo and the Ibo culture, and the way these changes like colonisation affect the characters’ identity. Tony Harrison’s poems, such as â€Å"Them and [Uz]†, â€Å"Breaking the Chain†, â€Å"Me Tarzan†, â€Å"Book Ends†, â€Å"Currants†, and â€Å"Bringing Up† were written in 1940-1960 and they explore Harrison’s identity as an educated writer from a working class family. â€Å"Frankenstein†, which was written byRead MoreChinua Achebe s Things Fall Apart Essay2168 Words   |  9 Pages Things Fall Apart is a novel by Albert Chinualumogu Achebe, a Nigerian author, critic, novelist, professor and writer. He was born in November 16th 1930 and died on March 21st 2013. The novel was set in the 80 s. Things Fall Apart is generally seen as Achebe s way of taking back Africa from Joseph Conrad and Heart of Darkness.More than that, it s Achebe s way of talking back to Conrad about Africa.The novel focuses on the Igbo people in the years leading up to the arrival of the first Christian

Tuesday, December 10, 2019

American Dancing From the Cakewalk to the Moonwalk

Question: What bodies are marginalized in those same spaces? What struck you in this book? What didn't you know that stood out to you? What bothered you? What excited you? What did you pause at and say to yourself, I want to see that dance! Because of how American dancing came about, there is discussion of blackface as well as racial relations in America. How did that strike you? Other thoughts? Answer: A recently published book by Megan Pugh is American Dancing: From the Cakewalk to the Moonwalk It takes the reader through a journey of what it means to be American, which she does through providing the readers with an analysis of American dance. In the book John Martin, the New York Times dance critic from 1927 to 1962, perspective has been mentioned. According to whom the Native and black American art was not the real art of the people of America. He further states that, he perceives the fact that, Americans had a behavioral pattern of being imperial power, capture and enslaves Africans. But he argued that non-white should not have been assimilated. The book further incorporated the perspective of Martha Graham, a modern dance choreographer and a friend of John Martin. But it can be stated here that this presented notion lacks completeness in terms of providing the readers with the survey and analysis of American-ness in dancing. Megan Pugh in her book American Dancing: From the Ca kewalk to the Moonwalk did not mention about Isadora Duncan West Side Story, Mikhail Baryshnikov or Alvin Aileys Revelations due to which the survey falls short of its completeness. It needs to be mentioned here that, though she provides the readers with an in-depth analysis of the ways in which Native American culture have impacted the dance form of Americans. She has further mentioned in the book, the way in which Americans have created a popular culture unique in its own way that created a sensation abroad- the cakewalk (Pugh). But in this process she fails to discuss regarding the efforts but forward by American modern dance to assimilate and absorb the influence of Native American culture upon it. At number of occasions it can also be noticed that the impact of African-American dance artists have been exaggerate by her. In her discussion, Pugh when describing the way the man in George Balanchines the pas de deux Agon (1957) lowers the women into a split and lifts her up, she is of the opinion that it looks an alteration of the way the Nicholas Brothers slide and jump into split and without any effort lifts themselves (MACAULAY). But she fails to emphasize on the fact that supported split also occurs in the pas de deux of Balanchines Appollo that source of which is the can-can. The chapter one of the book on Mr. Taylor is the least agreeable chapter of the book. The writing in this portion seems like news release. A major flaw of the book is its main focus being limited to black dance and dancers. It can be concluded by stating that there are number of portions and aspects in the book that requires to be mentioned and provides the readers with some new enlightening perspective. The descriptions of 1903 films attract the readers. But in her effort of charting its integration with ballet she could have gone into further depth. In this process she could have incorporated Leonide Massines masterpiece La Boutique Fantasque But the fact that the author does not analyze dance history as a scholar rather shares it like an experience to the readers act as a major pulling factor for them (David). The narration of the book is another major strength of the book. The fact that with the help of narration of the book she establishes the perspective that American dance form is the assimilation of the contributions of African Americans which consists of both slave and free which is the core essence. This helps the readers to understand and have an enriched idea regarding the main perspective to understand the perspective of the formation of American dance. References David, Martin A. "New York Journal Of Books | Book Review". Nyjournalofbooks.com. N.p., 2015. Web. 23 July 2016. MACAULAY, ALASTAIR. "Breaking News, World News Multimedia". Nytimes.com. N.p., 2015. Web. 23 July 2016. Pugh, Megan. America Dancing. 2015. Print.

Monday, December 2, 2019

The Globalization of Markets free essay sample

The globalization of markets refers to the merging of historically distinct and separate national markets into one huge global marketplace. 1 The Global retailer – IKEA has benefited from globalization of markets. IKEA converges global middle class who are looking for lower-price and attractively designed furniture and household items as its target market. When multinational consumers to be its target customers, the amount of consumers will be increase and its offerings should have more chance to be chosen. After globalization of markets, sales figure are very likely to be increase. By offering the products to different national countries, reputation of IKEA should have a nice improvement. IKEA uses the same basic formula worldwide for its target market. IKEA has benefited from the creation of its own global market. It serves this target market by offering plenty items to those shoppers to gain more revenue. Although IKEA offers a lot of home-furnishing items, the production design reflects the simple clean Swedish lines that have become IKEA’s trademark. We will write a custom essay sample on The Globalization of Markets or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The layout resonates with Chinese style. It can reduce cultural difference of the two countries. Moreover, stores are located near public transportation that IKEA offers delivery services so that Chinese customer can get their purchases home. It is because China car ownership is not very popular. The sales will rise since the consumers’ transportation cost and time cost can be reduced. For those operations difference in tastes and preferences are important and need to pay attention while work in a global market. IKEA created some homogeneous features across markets.

Wednesday, November 27, 2019

Joseph Stalin

Joseph Stalin JOSEPH STALIN Born on December 21 1879 in Gori, a mountainous area of southwestern Russia, his real name is Iosif, better known as Joseph. It was only in 1913 that he adopted the name Stalin from a Russian word that means man of steel.Coming from a very poor background, he was sent to a little church school in 1888 where this very bright student spent 5 years. In 1894 at the age of 14 he received a scholarship at the religious seminary in Tbilisi where he attended became known by his classmates for reading, debating good schoolwork.He was later remembered by some of his classmates as someone who held grudges seldom forgave people.He studied for the priesthood in the Georgian Orthodox Church was repeatedly punished at the seminary for reading forbidden books. He also became interested in the ideas of Karl Marx, a German social philosopher in 1898 joined a secret Marxist revolutionary group.Stalin, Lenin and Kalinin in the VIII Congress of ...The Tbilisi seminary, like many Russia n schools was a centre for the circulation of forbidden revolutionary ideas. In May 1899, Stalin was expelled for not appearing for an examination. His interest in Marxism probably played a part in his dismissal.The Bolshevik revolution saw the rise to power of Stalin contrary to what he promoted by having history rewritten recognising him as Lenin's right hand man. It was Leon Trotsky who worked very closely with Lenin. During the Russian civil war Stalin took credit for a victory in Stalinggrad, which was known as Tsaritsyn at the time. Stalin thereafter became one of the first members of the 5 member Politburo. The Bolsheviks won the civil war in 1920 and began to rebuild the war-torn country.Stalin began his plotting and by the end of 1922 his power grew.

Saturday, November 23, 2019

Resume Objectives Receptionist Edition

Resume Objectives Receptionist Edition Resume objectives can be difficult to write with precision, and especially if youre unsure of exactly what job responsibilities youre applying for, but the job experts at Best-Job-Interview.com have some tips and suggestions for phrases and key words that will show youre just the experienced, professional candidate that your dream employer is looking for!Describe yourself!An enthusiastic and committed receptionist seeking a position with XYZ company to bring professionalism and poise to their front line. Proven efficiency in operating a multi-line telephone system, providing clerical support and dealing capably with customers and queries. Detail-orientated and highly organized with a desire to meet and exceed visitor expectations.Notice how this example highlights the candidates on-the-job experience (multi-line phones, clerical support, customer service), personal qualifications (detail-oriented, highly organized) and attitude (enthusiastic and committed, professionalism and poise). It positions the candidate as a professional in search of an opportunity, who has plenty to offer.Put The Focus on the CompanyEnsuring customers have the the best experience in accordance with your company protocol is my priority. Self-motivated and organized with an ability to multi-task while dealing with diverse demands, I am seeking an opportunity to join a company that understands that the reception position is key to the companys operational image.This objective line persuasively appeals to the ethos of the prospective employerwouldnt you want a receptionist who understands she or he is the first line of interaction between a company and its clients? Notice how it also sneaks in those motivated and organized qualifications too!Go for EfficiencyBright and energetic professional who can contribute the following to your receptionist role:Proven ability to juggle multiple tasks and responsibilities while taking full ownership of her workExcellent written and verbal communication skillsGood computer skills with solid experience in MS OfficeDemonstrated success in maintaining composure and effectiveness in the face of competing and complex demandsIf you want to highlight specific skills with precision and focus, a bulleted list may be the way to go. This candidates resume objective wastes no time highlighting her or his abilities and experience; note the mix of hard skills (MS Office) and soft skills (managing competing and complex demands).Key Words MadLibs!Use these terms and phrases to help you build your own rockstar objective line:To describe yourself:A problem solverAn energetic professionalAn effective team playerA resourceful individualTo highlight your skills:Proven ability toAble to at all levels of an organizationDisplays a proactive approach toDemonstrated ____ skills an aptitude for learning _____Relevant office tasks:maintain confidentialityhandle sensitive informationprepare written communicationswork with cooperation, flexibility, and dependab ilityresults-driventime management skillsinteract effectivelyin a clear and concise manner

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Major Components and Guidelines for Developing a Master Plan of Essay - 1

Major Components and Guidelines for Developing a Master Plan of Evaluation - Essay Example Mr. Smith; The significant groups of individuals involved are the government of the particular country, the chief executive officer of the institution, the head of curriculum development, student leader among others. It depends on the urgency of the situation; for instance, the CEO will be play the focal role in this process ; hence will be required to connect aptly with other parties especially the government. This is to ensure that the process is legal and follows the policies and rules set aside. The data finding will recorded and analyzed later in regards to the place and individual the data was collected from. In this field only variables data are experienced and ought to relate with one another. The most essential requirement prior to the development of any master plan of evaluation is the compliance to the pre-set rules and regulations governing the nursing sector. This is because these standards boost quality in service delivery and discipline. In addition, this compliance creates confidence of the stakeholders in the nursing fraternity because of the quality of service in nursing and the involvement of the international nursing bodies in the assessment of the compliance of the sector to the set standards. Nurses undergo programs tailored at offering proper training to have delivery of quality service. These programs include the master plan of evaluation in the training. The plan acquaints the nurses with the necessary information regarding the nursing career. For instance, it highlights the areas of the faculty that need evaluation. This includes methods to be employed in the evaluation. The type of people to participate in the process is anchored in the plan. The action plans required to give feedback on the various inferences made with regard to boosting the quality in nursing service delivery. In addition, the master plan evaluation helps in the

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

Signal Processing Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Signal Processing - Research Paper Example One of these digital signal processing techniques is adaptive filtering. Adaptive Filters Haykin (2006) defines an adaptive filter as a system which is self-designing and reliant on a recursive algorithm for its operation. This feature enables an adaptive to satisfactorily perform in an environment where there is scarce or no knowledge of the applicable statistics. Diniz & Netto (2002) observe that an adaptive filter is used when either the fixed specifications are not known, or these specifications cannot be met by filters which are time-invariant. Adaptive filter’s characteristics depend on the input signal and such filters are time-varying because their parameters continually change so as to satisfy a performance requirement. The two main groups of adaptive filters are linear and nonlinear. According to Stearns & Widrow (1985), linear adaptive filters calculate an approximation of the desired response by utilizing a linear permutation of the available group of observables t hat are applied to the filter’s input. Nonlinear adaptive filters are those that depend on the input signal and their parameters change continually. Also, adaptive filters can be classified as supervised and unsupervised adaptive filters. Supervised adaptive filters apply the presence of a training series that gives different outputs of a desired ouput for a particular input signal. The response that is desired is compared against the real output due to the input signal, and the error signal that results is used in adjusting the filter’s free parameters. Unsupervised adaptive filters perform alterations of their free parameters without the requirement for a desired response. Such filters are designed with a group of rules that enable it to calculate the input-output mapping with particular desirable properties (Sayed, 2003). Adaptive Filtering System Configuration Drumright (1998) establishes 4 major types of adaptive filtering configurations. These include adaptive no ise cancellation, adaptive inverse system, adaptive system identification and adaptive linear prediction. Algorithm implementation in all these systems, but the configuration is different. They all have the same general characteristics which include: an input signal x(n), a desired result d(n), an output signal y(n), an adaptive transfer function w(n) and an error signal e(n). e(n)=d(n)-y(n) The adaptive system identification determines a discrete approximation of the transfer function for an unknown analog or digital system. A similar input x(n) is applied to both the unknown system and the adaptive filter and the outputs are compared. The y(n) of the adaptive filter is subtracted from that of the unknown resulting in an error signal e(n) which is used to manipulate the filter coefficients of the adaptive system. In the adaptive noise cancellation configuration, an input x(n) and a noise source N1(n) are compared with a desired signal d(n) which comprises of a signal s(n) corrupted by another noise N0(n). The adaptive filter coefficients adapt to cause the error signal to be a noiseless version of the signal s(n). The adaptive linear prediction configuration performs two operations; linear prediction and noise cancellation. Finally, the adaptive inverse system models the inverse of the unknown system u(n), an aspect which is useful in adaptive equalization (Drumright, 1998). Conclusion Just as discussed above, the classical applications of adaptive filt

Sunday, November 17, 2019

Designer Babies Essay Example for Free

Designer Babies Essay In this modern society, human thought are growing widely resulting the huge development of reproductive technologies in our life. Designer babies are created for elimination of deadly diseases and also genetic enhancement. Today, this technology has been established as an acceptable practice in removing diseases only. However, when it comes to genetic enhancements, ethical issues happen in the aspects of individuals, society and religions. According to Johnson (2009), ‘designer baby’ is defined as the baby whose genetically makeup has been artificially selected through In-vitro Fertilization to ensure the presence and absence of particular genes or characteristic. Johnson (2009) also claimed that genetic screening can reduce the baby’s chances of getting several diseases like Down syndrome. According to Brownlee (2002), in the mid-1990s, an embryologist named Jacques Cohen created a promising new technique, cytoplasmic transfer for helping infertile women to have children. In early 2003, he reported the first modification in the human genome. Cohen (2003) has created the first bioengineered baby who has three genetic parents which are mother, father, and mtDNA donor and they claimed that as The first case of human [inheritable] genetic modification resulting in normal, healthy children. According to Adnan (2010), designer babies are made in in-vitro fertilization with certain steps. Firstly, the woman hormones are taken to boost the production of egg. The woman’s egg is then removed from the ovary with the help of a special needle. The egg is fertilized and is allowed to grow into an embryo for 2 days. Scientists then screen for genes which have the risk of illness in life like Alzheimers, Cystic fibrosis and Down’s syndrome. The DNA copies are run through by using a sequencing machine. If the genetic disorder appears, those defected genes can be replaced with the healthy genes in a process called germ line therapy. Besides, scientists are able to determine the sex of the child. This is possible because woman contains only X chromosomes and man has one X and one Y chromosome. So the sex of the child can be determined by XY chromosomes. According to Tesia (2009), parents are the people who want designer baby, especially those who have an unhealthy embryo affected by deadly diseases. This is a relief to these parents as they need not to be burdened up by the expensive fees for the endless treatments that their child has to undergo of choosing by the designer baby. They choose to have a designer baby as it can avoid all the pain that they have to bear seeing their child undergoing endless suffering treatments. Designer baby also prevent their child from having a preventable disease and this will definitely relieve those parents from the financial, emotional and physical burden. Agar (2006) claimed that pre-implantation genetic diagnosis PGD is not entirely risk-free as during the process of PGD. Two cells are removed from the eight cells embryo and this may affect the growth of the embryo, whereas defenders of PGD respond that the cells of eight-cell embryos are totipotent, this mean that the eight cells embryo is still able to form all cells of the human body although two cells is removed from it. This technology has been used for a very long time, hence it is too early to say that who is certainly right in this argument. In an article written by Naik (2009), he stated that in a 2009 U.S. survey, a total of 999 people sought for genetic counseling. Most of people supported prenatal genetic tests for the removal of serious diseases. Besides, according to the survey conducted by researchers at the New York University School of Medicine, some respondents said they would want genetic testing for athletic ability, some voted for improved height and some voted for great intelligence. According to Dvorsky(2009), an excellent transhumanist bioethicist, he stated that an anti-genetic modification due to enhancement occurred in our society. A majority were replying the survey carried out by NYU Langone Medical Center due to their background condition. Their thinking was believed from an ethical perspective. Supporting the idea of genetic modification, Dvorsky(2009) said that endowing our children with good genes in order to give them an enriched and fulfilling life. With new genetics, parents’ dreams may finally be achieved as they always want the best for their children. According to Anissimov(2009), many people refuse to accept PGD and other reproductive technologies because they think that it is unnatural. From the Transhumanist FAQ, a summary from transhumanists’ response stated that in many cases, there are some practical reasons for depending on natural processes. The main point is that human cannot decide whether something is good or bad by its nature. Not every natural things are good such as starvation, polio, and being eaten alive by intestinal parasites whereas some bad unnatural things are car accidents and nuclear war. However, Yin (2005) notes that from a child’s point of view, parents place the genetic enhancements upon him or her may threaten the freedom of action. The child’s achievement in life is not fully determined by his or her own efforts, but from parental decisions. This might result in unwillingness of the child to accept responsibilities. Besides, Yin (2005) also states that some oppose genetic engineering because it will not only deepen current class divisions, but also create a new division. Due to religious and other personal reasons, many people will refuse to accept gene therapy even if the enhancements are made free because it causes the economic gap between those can afford the technology and cannot afford deepen as time progresses. Some of them reject it due to its expensive paid and lack of efficacy. According to Adnan (2010), the designer baby will raise conflict among individuals. This is because they assume that the rich will always be more beneficial compared to the poor. They propose that the rich will have more opportunities to take the advantages of the modern technology resulting the rich man baby (designer baby) will born perfect, intelligent and healthier compared to the poor baby. Though this technology can advance the personalities and intelligence, but it will be costly and will create a gap between the individuals. McIlwaine (2006) claimed that some leading philosophers will argue that a person must have capacity for memorable experiences, for communicating with others and for having preferences about continued life, or someone who is capable of treasuring their own life. With these points of view, these obviously show that they do not accept an embryo, or a foetus can be a person. For those who believe that human life only comes with self-valuation, testing on embryos and the screening of the right genetic make-up is a perfectly ethical procedure, for those embryos that are discarded are not ‘people’. So, there is no wrong in moral. However, this raises serious issues about other human beings who may by this definition, not be ‘people’ including the new born babies with brain abnormalities and injuries. According to McIlwaine (2006), designer babies also lead to ethical issues in religion too. This is due to different religions will have their own points of view. Christians say that the life begins at conception. It is clearly stated in Bible: â€Å"Before you were in the womb I knew you, before you were born, I set you apart†. This means that God chose each person even before the moment of implantation, however some are less certain. According to Malpani (2009), in Judaism, donor insemination is banned and a child is considered as the generation of the biological father. Artificial insemination using husbands sperm and IVF are accepted when there is necessary to cure the illness of infertility. From the research done, designer babies have arisen many ethical issues in the aspects of individuals, religions and society. Parents always hope to give the best for their children. With this advanced technology, some parents will take advantage on it to give their children the perfect lives. This will indirectly cause the narrowing of divisions in our society which is from social to ethical and then to economical. The rich families are usually genetically better endowed than the poor families and their jobs always come with high income compared to the poor one. As for the religious aspect, Christians note that personhood begins at conception, the moment an ovum is fertilized. However, there is variation in explaining the Bible and not everyone believe in it. Some doubt about this because if the number of lost fertilized ovum disobey this point of view, then how could the God stop the existence of some â€Å"people† in this world without any reason?

Thursday, November 14, 2019

Strategic Manufacturing Management Questions and Answers :: Strategic Manufacturing Management Essays

Question 1: Hayes and Wheelright (1984) and Mintzberg (1987) spoke of strategy as a pattern of decisions. What do they mean by this? (5 Marks) Strategy is the pattern of decisions determining the organization’s objectives, purposes, or goals. It outlines the principal policies and plans for achieving those goals, and clearly defines the range of businesses the organization has to pursue. Strategy as a pattern of decisions also highlights the nature of human and economic organization it intends to be, and the nature of the economic and noneconomic contribution it intends to make towards its stakeholders, mainly, the shareholders, customers, employees, and communities[1]. Mintzberg (1987), characterizing ten ‘schools of thought’ in his consideration of strategy, has defined strategy as a pattern, a plan, a ploy, a position, and a perspective[2]. He has further classified different strategy making processes, specifying that a â€Å"realised strategy† is â€Å"emergent† and â€Å"deliberate† as shown in Figure 1-1. Moreover, Mintzberg discusses the difference between strategic thinking and strategic planning, highlighting that planning involves analysis and thinking involves synthesis, and the outcome of strategic thinking is an integrated perspective[3]. For strategies to be ploys or plans, they need to follow a specific stream of actions. Plans or ploys are â€Å"intended strategy† which are realized through patterns, as pointed out by Mintzberg. Figure 1-1 "Deliberate" and "emergent" strategy forming "realized" strategy[2] According to Hayes and Wheelright (1984) an implementation of strategy requires a structured integrative pattern of mutually supported decisions made over a period of time. Five characteristics that make up strategy are time, concentration of effort, impact, pattern of decision, and pervasiveness as stated by Hayes and Wheelwright. They also point out that effective operation strategies need to be consistent and contribute to competitive advantage. Consistency should prevail between operations strategy and business strategy, between operations strategy and the other functional strategies, and within different decision areas of operations strategy. In order to be able to positively contribute towards competitive advantage, the strategy should enable operations to set priorities right to enhance competitive advantage, clearly state the operations strategy for the rest of the organization to easily comprehend, accentuate opportunities where operations can complement business strategy, a nd ensure operating capabilities that may be required in the future. Hayes and Wheelwright (1984) have categorized different types of organizations based on their attitude towards operations in a four stage model. The four stages, as shown in table below are, Internally Neutral, Externally Neutral, Internally Supportive, and Externally Supportive, in the order[2].

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

Migrants Culture in Host Country

| Migrant’s culture in host country Culture is generally accepted way of doing activities in a society which includes beliefs, symbols, values, behaviour and social organization. Migrants adopt and mix with new culture since culture change in inevitable. There are certain arguments for maintaining one’s native culture in a new country. However, it is a defended that migrants should adopt the host country’s culture. This essay will consider the arguments for retaining or not retaining ones culture in the new country. To begin with, people have developed their own way of living in the country of origin and they are accustomed to doing activities in the local ways. One of habits is the cooking styles. Migrants are usually middle aged people who find it difficult to adopt new ways of cooking because they are used to and experience in their traditional ways. To mark the special events celebrated back at home, food is cooked as it is done at home country. For instance, cook islanders cook in earth oven which gives a sense of togetherness and feeling for there culture (Manderson, 1986). Therefore, the migrants continue with their traditional ways to keep the culture alive and enjoy the same taste as home country. However, it is not always possible to practise such cooking in foreign countries. Migrants usually rent a flat where ground is not always available. Place where it is vacant, it is prohibited to dig others compound. Lighting open fires in city area would create problems to residents, ringing of fire alarm and even pollution which is a major benchmark in urban centres. To add another point, the visitors more from the host country who will prefer food they are used to eating such as those prepared in grill and electric appliances. For example, to serve island food to European would be dishonour to their culture (Manderson, 1986). As a result, migrants strongly need to adapt to host cooking style to overcome such problem. Another cultural aspect which is argued on is traditional ceremonies and festival. The emigrants retain these practises as one need to perform a ritual (which includes births, deaths and marriage) in the traditional to fulfil the requirements. For example, Indian migrants celebrate Diwali (Hindu festival of lights) all over the world. . Constant practise of the ceremonies compel the dominant group to adopt the changes such as in case of Fiji where Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday is given a public holiday as the Muslims (a minority group in Fiji) brought the festival during indentured system. On the other hand, it is difficult to perform such religious activities since it may cause distraction to host people or its value is not recognised in the new society. For instance, holiday given in home country is not observed in the host country. Moreover, the resource (offerings and ornaments) are not available in the country of migration. For instance, Fiji Indians are not able to play with fire crackers because it is embargo goods (The Fiji Times, 1st November 2008, p. 1). Another example is that indigenous Fijians kill cattle during death ceremony at home, but in the most developed countries, animal can only be killed in abattoirs. Consequently, this hindrance prevents the migrants to practise their culture in other countries. These constraints compel them to follow the host culture. The next cultural feature which the migrants retain is the language. Migrants retain their language to maintain the identity of ethnicity and pass the language to younger generations. Knowing one’s own language, the person can read the religious scripts which are mostly written in vernacular. Words used in translation not always carry the same meaning as in the original writing. Maintaining the language enable the person to better communicate with people of home country. Thus, for these reasons the migrants preserve the native language. On the other side, it is very important for the person to understand the language of host culture to communicate and socialise with the people. Understanding the host language prevents communication breakdown between two groups of people. (Clifford, 1973). Situation where communication is a problem, the migrants will encounter culture shock and segregation in the society. Moreover, if person understand the host language, it would be easier to use the facilities such as railway timetables where directions are written in the host language. In conclusion, there are strong reasons as why to retain or why not to retain one’s culture in the host country. However, a person needs to change the traditional culture and adopt the new ways to be adopted in the new society. A changing culture will enable a person to overcome culture shock and segregation. It is strongly argued that a person should change the culture and adopt the new ways of living. Every culture is susceptible to change; therefore, a person should be flexible enough to adopt new ways.

Sunday, November 10, 2019

Awareness Of Sensory Loss Essay

In sensory loss (touch, mobility, vision, hearing) this can have a negative impact to an individual like for example in mobility an individual can experience poor mobility, leaning to one side or difficulty with their coordination, the individual may have difficulty to feed or dress themselves, or may not be able to participate in an activity and in some circumstances an individual may not be able to manage/maintain their personal daily living. Another is eyesight or vision, an individual who suffers from this disability may have a very hard time communicating or even to express themselves to what they want to do and what their wishes are without the help of another person. This case is the same with an individual who is deaf or have limited hearing. see more:identify the main causes of sensory loss Sometimes when you suffer from these disabilities, people easily judge you in a way that they try to seclude you or belong you to have a below average intelligence and assume that you cannot do or think for yourself or think the same as other people which may cause further illnesses for the individual such as depression, anxiety and isolation. There can also be a positive impact of having these disabilities because help is always available, aids and benefits are available to support you, there are care systems in place that an individual may use to support them with day to day living and encourage the individual to have a positive outlook on life, helping the individual lead as much as an independent life as possible which in the long run will ensure the individual is happy and secure. 1.2 Some steps that can be taken to overcome the negative factors could be; With an individual with sight impairment ensure the individual has their glasses on if prescribed, ensure the glasses are clean and the individual is able see through them. Ensure the area is clear of any obstacles to prevent the individual from tripping over or bumping into things, if the environment remains the same and items are not moved the individual may find it easier to move around as they will be familiar with where things are and will be able to avoid them. An individual who has a hearing impairment may find it easier to hear you if they are taken in to a quiet and well lit environment  to talk, also ensure the individuals hearing aids are in and working and the volume is turned up to their liking. Always make the individual aware of different groups and organisations that can help them, ensure people include the individual when they can instead of talking over them or leaving them out of activities as if they are not there. If this does happen then challenge any discrimination and explain why it is wrong. 1.3 People placing limitations on an individual with sensory loss can be disabling, for example, believing that a blind/poor sighted individual can’t manage alone or can’t see what others are doing toward them or others, or that of a deaf/poor hearing individual are funny because of the way they talk or are mocked for continually asking for a person to repeat themselves. These attitudes and beliefs can prevent the person being including in society as an equal. This can then have a negative effect on the individual which can cause a chain reaction of mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety and isolation. 1.4 You can overcome disabling attitudes and beliefs in sensory loss by challenging discrimination immediately and explain why it’s wrong, model good practice. You can also get involved in social activities that promote positive attitudes. Outcome2 2.1 Sight loss – Always identify yourself to the individual and ensure you make it clear that you are speaking to them and not someone else, they can’t read your body language so you need to be clear about your meanings and directions etc. A noisy environment can make it difficult for them to concentrate on your voice so it may be better to try reduce background noise. Hearing loss – Be respectful to the individual when trying to get their attention e.g. use a light touch on the arm, bend down to the individuals level so they can see your face, if they lip read they will need to see your face to be able make out what you’re asking them, you need to speak clearly at a normal pace and tone, you may need to be patient and repeat things. Deaf blind – some of the above plus you need to know the levels of deafness and blindness and their preferred method of communication. 2.2 Individuals with sensory loss such as hearing or sight can benefit from different types of effective communication. Individuals with hearing loss may benefit from using sign language or pictures to communicate. Those with sight loss may benefit most from vocal communication and touch. 2.3 Information can be provided in many different ways to an individual with sensory loss listed below are a few examples of ways information can be passed on to the individual, Sensory loss –braille, tape recordings hearing loss – British sign language, Makaton, visual aids e.g. pictures, lip reading. Deaf/blindness -, Braille is a system of raised dots which can be read by touch. The Moon alphabet consists of embossed shapes which can be read by touch. Objects of Reference are objects that have special meanings assigned to them. They stand for something in the same way that words do. Outcome 3 3.1 The main cause of sensory loss is aging, as we age our senses become less and less. Sensory loss can also be caused by an illness such as dementia or by having an accident and sustaining injury. 3.2 Congenital sensory loss means the individual was born with it, whereas acquired sensory loss is when the sensory loss has developed as is the result of ageing, serious injury or illness with the individual. 3.3 The percentage of the general population having sensory loss is 45%, according to http://www.sense.org.uk/content/research-deafblindness Sense estimates that there are around 250,000 deafblind people in the UK. Outcome 4 4.1 These are a few of the many indicators and signs to identify sight loss, hearing loss and deaf/blindness. Sight loss †¢Increased sensitivity to light and glare †¢difficulty distinguishing colours †¢Clumsiness, bumping into things in familiar surroundings †¢difficulty distinguishing objects from one another †¢holding books/papers close to face †¢regular headaches/eyes hurting †¢reduced night vision †¢Trouble reading small print i.e. on medications †¢difficulty recognising faces of family and friends †¢squinting when watching the television †¢loss of interest in hobbies such as needlework Hearing loss †¢difficulty hearing clearly when in a group conversation or noisy room †¢Asking people to repeat themselves all the time †¢people appearing to mumble when they are talking normally †¢not hearing the telephone ring or the door bell †¢having to have the volume on high on the television or radio †¢hearing better in one ear compared to the other †¢Adult voices easier to understand than children’ †¢getting tired or stressed due to having to concentrate harder when listening Deaf and Blindness †¢to response to sound or light †¢sensitive to being touched †¢difficulty making sense of surroundings †¢Withdrawal and isolation †¢developmental delay †¢use of other senses, taste, smell and touch, to gain information †¢personalised methods of communication 4.2 When concerns are raised regarding sensory loss or changes, the first course of action should be to contact their g.p, eye specialists who after examination may refer them to a specialist at the hospital for further hearing and vision tests. Outcome 5 If you are concerned about sensory loss or you know someone who is you can  report this to your carers, seniors, mangers if in a care home setting. Regarding individuals living in their own home you can seek advice or report the problem to your local g.p, social worker or speak to family members. There is a website called sense you can look on for help and support regarding sensory loss and you’d like advice and information about the support and services available, you can call Sense on 0300 330 9256 or email: info@sense.org.uk.

Friday, November 8, 2019

Free Essays on Alcoholism in Young Adults

Alcoholism in young adults and alcohol abuse is a growing problem in our society. Daily, people are injured and killed in alcohol-related accidents and this has an effect on each and every person as a result of these occurrences. Whether we are personally involved or have directly suffered from the activities of someone who is under the influence of alcohol, we all suffer from the negative consequences of alcohol. Since we have those who choose to abuse these privileges we need to develop consequences for them. By learning what leads people to drink alcohol, and how this affects their lives, we can then determine what actions need to be taken to help remove ourselves from our ever-increasing attraction to alcohol. Because the abuse of alcohol often begins with adolescents and young adults, most research is based around them. At this particular time in life we hope to find out why these young adults choose to drink, and what motivates them to drink. Michael and Rebecca C. Windle, in their research, were able to show several reasons that provided incentives for adolescents to consume alcohol. Using a written survey, it was determined that the high-school students being studied used alcohol to cope with problems in their lives, including "task-oriented", "emotion-oriented", and "avoidance coping (Windle & Windle, 1996, p. 551)." The only major discrepancies in results between the sexes became obvious when it was shown by Windle and Windle that girls were more likely to use alcohol for avoidance and emotion-oriented coping than were boys, but the boys were more likely to have alcohol problems. Also found was that adolescents drank less often for social reasons than for the aforementioned coping reasons (Windle & Windle, 1996). However, coping motives were responsible for an increased consumption of alcohol. A surprising result of this study was that the students drank more frequently as a result of positive daily e... Free Essays on Alcoholism in Young Adults Free Essays on Alcoholism in Young Adults Alcoholism in young adults and alcohol abuse is a growing problem in our society. Daily, people are injured and killed in alcohol-related accidents and this has an effect on each and every person as a result of these occurrences. Whether we are personally involved or have directly suffered from the activities of someone who is under the influence of alcohol, we all suffer from the negative consequences of alcohol. Since we have those who choose to abuse these privileges we need to develop consequences for them. By learning what leads people to drink alcohol, and how this affects their lives, we can then determine what actions need to be taken to help remove ourselves from our ever-increasing attraction to alcohol. Because the abuse of alcohol often begins with adolescents and young adults, most research is based around them. At this particular time in life we hope to find out why these young adults choose to drink, and what motivates them to drink. Michael and Rebecca C. Windle, in their research, were able to show several reasons that provided incentives for adolescents to consume alcohol. Using a written survey, it was determined that the high-school students being studied used alcohol to cope with problems in their lives, including "task-oriented", "emotion-oriented", and "avoidance coping (Windle & Windle, 1996, p. 551)." The only major discrepancies in results between the sexes became obvious when it was shown by Windle and Windle that girls were more likely to use alcohol for avoidance and emotion-oriented coping than were boys, but the boys were more likely to have alcohol problems. Also found was that adolescents drank less often for social reasons than for the aforementioned coping reasons (Windle & Windle, 1996). However, coping motives were responsible for an increased consumption of alcohol. A surprising result of this study was that the students drank more frequently as a result of positive daily e...

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

The Revolutionary War Hero Ethan Allen

The Revolutionary War Hero Ethan Allen Ethan Allen was born in Litchfield, Connecticut in 1738. He fought in the American Revolutionary War. Allen was the leader of the Green Mountain Boys and along with Benedict Arnold captured Fort Ticonderoga from the British in 1775 in what was the first American victory of the war. After Allen’s attempts to have Vermont become a state failed, he then unsuccessfully petitioner to have Vermont become part of Canada. Vermont became a state two years after Allen’s death in 1789. Early Years Ethan Allen was born on January 21, 1738, to Joseph and Mary Baker Allen in Litchfield, Connecticut, Shortly after birth, the family moved to the neighboring town of Cornwall. Joseph wanted him to attend Yale University, but as the oldest of eight children, Ethan was forced to run the family property upon Josephs’ death in 1755.   Around 1760, Ethan made his first visit to the New Hampshire Grants, which is presently in the state of Vermont. At the time, he was serving in the Litchfield County militia fighting in the Seven Years’ War. In 1762, Ethan married Mary Brownson and they had five children.  After Mary’s death in 1783, Ethan married Frances Fanny Brush Buchanan in 1784 and they had three children. The beginning of the Green Mountain Boys Although Ethan served in the French and Indian War, he did not see any action.  After the war, Allen purchased land near the New Hampshire Grants in what is now Bennington, Vermont. Shortly after purchasing this land, a dispute arose between New York and New Hampshire over the land’s sovereign ownership. In 1770, in response to a New York Supreme Court ruling that the New Hampshire Grants were invalid, a militia named the â€Å"Green Mountain Boys† was formed in order to keep their land free and clear from the so-called â€Å"Yorkers†.  Allen was named as their leader and the Green Mountain Boys used intimidation and sometimes violence in order to force the Yorkers to leave. Role in the American Revolution At the onset of the Revolutionary War, the Green Mountain Boys immediately joined forces with the Continental Army. The Revolutionary War officially began on April 19, 1775, with the Battles of Lexington and Concord.  A major consequence of the â€Å"Battles† was the Siege of Boston whereby colonial militiamen surrounded the city in an attempt to keep the British Army from leaving Boston. After the siege began, Massachusetts military governor for the British, General Thomas Gage realized the importance of Fort Ticonderoga and sent a dispatch to General  Guy Carleton, Quebec’s governor, ordering him to send additional troops and munitions to Ticonderoga. Before the dispatch could reach Carleton in Quebec, the Green Mountain Boys led by Ethan and in a joint effort with Colonel Benedict Arnold were ready to attempt to overthrow the British at Ticonderoga.  At the break of dawn on May 10, 1775, the Continental Army won the first American victory of the young war when it crossed Lake Champlain and a force that numbered around one hundred militiamen overran the fort and captured the British forces while they slept. There was not a single soldier killed on either side nor were there any serious injuries during this battle. The following day, a group of the Green Mountain Boys led by Seth Warner took Crown Point, which was another British fort just a few miles north of Ticonderoga.   One major result of these battles was that colonial forces now had the artillery that they would need and use throughout the War. Ticonderoga’s location made the perfect staging ground for Continental Army to initiate their first campaign during the Revolutionary War – an invasion of into the British-held province of Quebec, Canada. Attempt to Overtake Fort St. John In May, Ethan led a detachment of 100 Boys to overtake Fort St. John.  The group was in four bateaux, but failed to take provisions and after two days without food, his men were extremely hungry. They came across on Lake St. John, and while Benedict Arnold provided the men food he also attempted to discourage Allen from his goal. However, he refused to heed the warning. When the group landed just above the fort, Allen learned that at least 200 British regulars were approaching. Being outnumbered, he led his men across the Richelieu River where his men spent the night. While Ethan and his men rested, the British began to fire artillery at them from across the river, causing the Boys to panic and return to Ticonderoga. Upon their return, Seth Warner replaced Ethan as the leader of the Green Mountain Boys due to their losing respect for Allen’s actions in trying to overtake Fort St. John. Campaign in Quebec Allen was able to convince Warner to allow him to stay on as a civilian scout as the Green Mountain Boys were participating in the campaign in Quebec. On September 24, Allen and about 100 men crossed the Saint Lawrence River, but the British had been alerted to their presence. In the ensuing  Battle of Longue-Pointe, he and about 30 of his men were captured. Allen was imprisoned in Cornwall, England for approximately two years and returned to the United States on May 6, 1778, as part of a prisoner exchange. Time After the War Upon his return, Allen settled in Vermont, a territory which had declared its independence from the United States as well as from Britain. He  took it upon himself to petition the Continental Congress to make Vermont the fourteenth U.S. state, but due to Vermont having disputes with surrounding states of over the rights to the territory, his attempt failed.  He then negotiated with Canadian governor Frederick Haldimand to become part of Canada but those attempts also failed. His  attempts to have Vermont become part of Canada which would have reunited the state with Great Britain, eroded the public’s confidence in his political and diplomatic capabilities. In 1787,  Ethan retired to his home in what is now Burlington, Vermont.  He died in Burlington on February 12, 1789. Two years later, Vermont joined the United States. Two of Ethan’s sons graduated from  West Point  and then serve in the  United States Army. His daughter  Fanny  converted to  Catholicism  and then she entered a convent. A grandson,  Ethan Allen Hitchcock, was a  Union Army  general in the  American Civil War.

Sunday, November 3, 2019

Slavery Caused Freedom Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Slavery Caused Freedom - Essay Example In America's history, the events surrounding the story of Jamestown and Plymouth are among the most important. They involve the story of the English settlers who went on a voyage and landed the shores of America. These stories became the points of reference of the culture of America. Also, in the century-long gap between the stories of these two civilizations and the Declaration of Independence from England, that means that the original settlers already passed away, and there was no original settler to tell the story --- leaving everything to the latter generations of people who never actually witnessed the events themselves. Plymouth is actually considered as the origin of American democracy because the Pilgrims allowed objections in the midst of struggles between democracy and theocracy (Morgan 35). Jamestown, on the other hand, was founded on purely economic agenda, and it encouraged further colonization, because it showed the Englishmen that one can sustain a colony away from one 's original lands. The impact here is long decades of slavery for the African people. Also, for the Indian natives, it seemed to be the end of their culture. However, one also cannot deny that is during the Jamestown civilization that a more open social order started. The political, social and military history of colonial America affected the evolution in several ways. One way to analyze the political struggle towards independence is to look at the colonial settlement and political history of the USA.   This way, one can see what brought about the changes in the government that led things to where they are now. Foner even states: â€Å"eventually, they would be accorded the right to self-government, although no one could be sure how long this would take. In the meantime, 'empire' was another word for 'exploitation'†

Friday, November 1, 2019

Buddhism' s Success in China Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Buddhism' s Success in China - Essay Example To support this answer, this paper will compare and contrast Buddhism to Confucianism/Legalism and Daoism. Buddhism was originated in northern India, near the Himalayan Mountains, by Prince Gautama, during the sixth century B.C. Stearns summarized that the system advocated by the prince taught that enlightenment - and therefore contentment and peace in life - was achievable only through abstinence from things that promoted misery, such as sensations, perceptions, thinking, reasoning and desire for things which men find agreeable - anything that appealed to the delight of men (75-77). Because of this abstinence and its reflection on Buddhist priests and adherents, Buddhism at its early stages could be seen as emblematic of the simplicity of the Four Truths, and how each and every individual, from the lowly workers to the exalted royals, could hold to its precepts. According to Stearns, the 'Divine Sage' Confucius (Kong Fuzi) proposed a system of harmony and keeping to the Way as "a social and political ethos derived from idealized values of the past" (36). As a system it was rooted in morality and ethics, providing reason and regulations, down to the smallest measure of a 'gentleman's' conduct in a very systematic, measured and precise way. Comparing Confucianism to Buddhism puts two things into perspective: one, Confucianism focused on conduct and propriety, a worldlier set of functions, whereas Buddhism focused on abstaining from worldly matters in general. Two, Confucianism was seen as something of an appointment, an elevation to and reward of power above the rest, and therefore not suited to the common people. This level of classism was not apparent in Buddhism. Legalism The primary advocate of Legalism was Han Feizi, who advanced Confucianism into a more pragmatic viewpoint. As Stearns stated, "this harsh but effective solution for resolving the chaotic conditions that plagued the Zhou dynasty included the introduction of new managerial techniques, improved bureaucracy, enhanced communication, land reforms and standardization of weights, measures and coinage" (43). Legalism was a law-driven approach to government, and as such dealt mostly with an ancient notion of cause and effect and consequently dealing effectively with the criteria that drove and defined such polarities. Again, in the contrast of Legalism with Buddhism, we draw the conclusion that Legalism was a more restrictive approach to government, focusing on controlling and compelling the masses rather than catering to the individual's needs. Legalism can be equated to a top-down method, whereas Buddhism could be seen as a bottom-up method; individual contentment begets collective contentme nt, as opposed to informed manipulation by a few to drive the collective towards restrictive unity. Legalism was more a political system rather than a religious one. Daoism Like Confucianism, Daoism proposed adherence to a 'Way', holding a similarity to Confucianism in this. Proposed by

Wednesday, October 30, 2019

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

Crowdfunding - Essay Example From this discussion it is clear that the reward can be service or product that the company offers. Just like the donation approach, the method does not have equity or financial return. The advantage of the method is that it lets capital seekers to incentivize their investors without selling ownership stake or incurring extra expenses. Equity-based offers the investors the opportunity to have a stake in the business. In this respect, the investors have a chance to trade capital for equity shares. The implication is that the contributors get a financial return on the investment, as well as, dividends.As the report highlights that  crowdfunding presents numerous advantages to the movie producer. First, the strategy facilitates access to many accredited investors in which the entrepreneur can interact and share the fundraising campaign. The borrower can review the potential investors and select the best out of a large pool.  The producer can promote the campaign through the email ne wsletter, social media, and other online marketing platforms. The media platforms mentioned above make the campaign viewable to the thousands of potential investors.  Crowdfunding offers the potential funders an opportunity to be part of the company, especially in the equity-based approach. With the equity - based approach, the funder can trade in shares. The implication is that the funder gets financial investment and dividends.

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Objectives For An E Business Strategy

Objectives For An E Business Strategy Investigation, critical analysis and formulation of e-business strategy for Under Study who manufacture, maintain, service and support scientific machinery and accessories.   (Jump to) Task A To generate research and formulate an e-business strategy for the company by means of applying five analytical tools in strategic management. Task B Discuss the challenges of adoption of e-business and evaluate the critical success factors for e-business in relation to the company Task C Critically review the process analysis in relation to operations with a view to improving performance. Executive Summary (Synopsis) The aim of the project is to investigate the current state of the company with a view to investment. The intention is to identify and set objectives for an e-business strategy. The company under study has a workforce with over 150 years of experience in manufacturing, maintaining, service and support of scientific machinery and accessories. It is part of a larger group of five privately owned companies. The company aspires to expand its operations into new countries and produce innovative products with exceptional quality however it currently operates with dated and obsolete equipment with no long term business to business agreements, minimal profit margins and no e-business strategy. The report will review a process analysis of the company in relation to expanding its operations into a new country with a view to improving performance. The first part of this report applies five analytical tools in strategic management concluding with an evaluation of a proposed approach. The second part of this report details the challenges of e-business adoption ending with an evaluation of the critical success factors. The third part of this report is a critical review of the process analysis. Task A The objective of this task is to formulate a suitable E-business strategy for the company. Competition has always been central to the agenda of companies. Strategic planning has now become widely accepted as the important task of charting a long term direction for a company. Strategies offer a frame work for understanding position and the underlying forces of competition (M Porter). Reviewing Information Systems (IS) and Information Technology (IT) are used in business to add value and achieve objectives (McKay and Marshall, 2004). Identifying internal and external forces is essential to understanding and defining strategic goals and objectives. The rate of change in both internal and external environments of manufacturing firms is increasing, which necessitates that increased attention be paid to strategic planning and strategy formulation. The approach for this task will mirror that suggested by McKay and Marshal who recommended that internal and external analysis can create an e-v ision. An appropriate devised e-business strategy can then be proposed. McFarlans Strategic Grid In 1993 McFarlan and McKenney provided a strategic grid to examine the strategic role of information technology. The tool is useful in balance decision making. Analysing and understanding the companys information technology and information systems will be vital in terms of how the company does its business currently and how its business model or e-business strategy is formulated for the future. Factory: High operational impact, low strategic impact, this quadrant is about operational improvements that affect large portions of the firm, and are aimed at improving performance or decreasing cost. Turnaround: low operational impact, high strategic impact. This quadrant is about exploiting new technologies to provide strategic opportunities. Strategic: High operational impact, high strategic impact. IT organisations that have most projects in this quadrant understand that IT can both improve core operations of the firm while simultaneously generating strategic options. Application of Model. Figure 1.0 Illustrates the companys position in the McFlaranss strategic grid as strategic quadrant. The company has identified that information technology and information systems are an important part of their future. This has been identified by the companys desire for an e-business strategy. If the company utilised IS IT more then the business will perform more efficiently and potentially gain a competitive advantage. Future investment in IT IS is a necessity for the companys growth. It can not be ignored that the company is positioned close to the turnaround quadrant but on analysis the company has identified its needs for growth thus strategic planning is of higher importance. Pest Analysis When analyzing the macro-environment, it is important to identify the factors that might in turn affect a number of vital variables that are likely to influence the organizations supply and demand levels and its costs (Kotter and Schlesinger, 1991; Johnson and Scholes, 1993). The radical and ongoing changes occurring in society create an uncertain environment and have an impact on the function of the whole organization (Tsiakkiros, 2002). Kotler (1998) claims that the PEST analysis is a useful tool for understanding market growth or decline, and as such the position, potential and direction for a business. A PEST analysis is a business measurement tool. PEST is an acronym for Political, Economic, Social and Technological factors, which are used to assess the market for a business or organisational unit. The PEST analysis headings are a framework for reviewing a situation, and can also, like SWOT analysis, and PorterHYPERLINK http://www.businessballs.com/portersfiveforcesofcompetition.htmHYPERLINK http://www.businessballs.com/portersfiveforcesofcompetition.htms Five Forces model, be used to review a strategy or position, direction of a company, a marketing proposition or a proposal. As PEST factors are essentially external, completing a PEST analysis is helpful prior to completing a SWOT analysis, a SWOT analysis Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats is based broadly on half internal and half external factors. PEST ensures that companys performance is aligned positively with the powerful forces of change that are affecting business environment (Porter, 1985). PEST is useful when a company decides to enter its business operations into new markets and new countries. The use of PEST, in this case, helps to break free of unconscious assumptions, and help to effectively adapt to the realities of the new environment. The results can be used to take advantage of opportunities and to make contingency plans for threats when preparing business and strategic plans (Byars, 1991; Cooper, 2000). Application of Model (P)olitical Factors The company opening in new countries must consider political factors such as regulations and legalities; for example an e-business may not be eligible to trade or have premises in a new territory. Chinese regulations for example have limited Googles search engine, excluding Googles You Tube. In March 2010 China banned Googles search engine only to lift the ban a day after. The company must monitor the new Countrys policies or regulations to ensure the way it conducts business is politically acceptable and thus not limiting any future strategies or goals. Ensuring the selected country has a stable political environment will aid company stability. Many countries have restrictive polices which are designed to protect local manufactures from larger organisations. Such policies often hinder foreign companies from entering into these markets. The company should form a strategic alliance with a local company to circumvent any limitations in opening in a new country. (E)conomic Factors The industry is in growth, this is indicated by the company wishing to expand and develop an e-business strategy. Funding in new countrys can be affected by monetary and fiscal rates. Changing inflation rates and currency fluctuation can determine the profitability of the company. A depressed economy will generally be a luxury which results in a number of organisations going out of business, it can provide opportunities for some (Robinson and et al., 1978; Thompson, 2002). If the company is restricted by political issues this would be considered if an alliance was required to set up operations in a new country. A depressed economy could also give an advantage on labour due to high unemployment. Energy availability and cost will require analysing for suitability in the new country. This could affect the e-business strategy in a negative or positive way. (S)ocio Cultural Factors Recruitment in a new country will have to consider technology limitations due to education. Higher educational standards will raise the probability of technology advancement thus having a competitive edge. Consumers attitudes towards online transactions may negatively influence the e-business strategy however if the new country is emerging as an online leader due to political influences such as investing in IT then this could gain a competitive advantage. Cultural attitudes towards e-business across the globe may affect the company objectives. (T)echnological Factors Safer online transactions will aid online communication thus improving business to business communications and orders. Internet accessibility can determine whether the companys e-business strategy will work. Some locations may have limited services or none at all. This can also be a competitive advantage if the area is in development or an internet provider is expanding. Technology advances could potentially aid the company in being more efficient and lean. Becoming a lean world class business will aid the company in being financially competitive. Government investment in technology and research will aid growth. SWOT Analysis SWOT has an extensive history as a model of strategic and marketing analysis. It has featured in strategy books since 1972. SWOT analysis is a strategic planning method used to evaluate the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats in a project or in a business venture. It involves identifying the internal and external factors that are favourable and unfavourable to achieve that objective. The technique is credited to Albert Humphrey It advocates say that it can be used to gauge the degree of fit between the organisations strategies and its environment, and to suggest ways in which the organisation can profit from strengths and opportunities and shield itself against weaknesses and threats (Adams, 2005). The tool is relatively simple to use but its impact if used academically could be influential in a new business strategy. A weakness is that SWOT, having been conceived in simpler times means it does not cope very well with some of the subtler aspects of modern strategic theory, such as trade-offs (De Witt and Meyer, 1998). Strengths: characteristics of the business or team that give it an advantage over others in the industry. Weaknesses: are characteristics that place the firm at a disadvantage relative to others. Opportunities: external chances to make greater sales or profits in the environment. Threats: external elements in the environment that could cause difficulty for the business. Application of Tool The tool has been applied to the company to establish the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. (S)trengths 150 Years workforce experience. Good company name. High quality production and service. Constantly lowering costs to compete. Informative website Desire to grow the business into new territory. Competent workforce Strategic growth into new country / territory Supply directly to customer After sales service Privately owned International customer base Service and support is world wide (W)eaknesses Limited resources. Website is designed for marketing, no transactions. Limited investment. Bricks and mortar organisation no web transactions Skills shortage or little innovation. Weak marketing with no e-commerce or e- business strategy. Dated processing of supply chain management, lack of information technology and information systems. Profit margins are set to compete for business Still using some dated equipment (O)pportunities Competition is unwilling to take on less important projects. Mergers or strategic alliances in new country IS and IT improvements for competitive advantage enhancing a professional company image. Website sales developing market. International market LTA (long term agreements) with suppliers and customers. Educated general manager. Logistics / transportation. Diversification Up to date technology manufacturing. Potential to open new site. Development of new technology, processes and materials. Faster manufacturing with less power (competitive pricing) Environmental leader Unsaturated market IT director with 20 years experience in e-business (T)hreats Language barriers in potential new country Competitive rivalry in global market for larger contracts. Fluctuation in global monetary policy fiscal/interest rates could leave the company exposed (supply chain). Cheap labour abroad. Fierce competition from larger companies. Possibility of a competitor developing new technology. Porters Five Forces Model of Competition The Porters Five Forces model is a simple tool that supports strategic understanding where power lies in a business situation. It also helps to understand both the strength of a firms current competitive position, and the strength of a position a company is looking to move into. Despite the fact that the Five Force framework focuses on business concerns rather than public policy, it also emphasizes extended competition for value rather than just competition among existing rivals, and the simpleness of its application inspired numerous companies as well as business schools to adopt its use (Wheelen and Hunger, 1998). The original competitive forces model, as proposed by Porter, identified five forces which would impact on an organizations behaviour in a competitive market. These include the following: The rivalry between existing sellers in the market. The power exerted by the customers in the market. The impact of the suppliers on the sellers. The potential threat of new sellers entering the market. The threat of substitute products becoming available in the market. Understanding the nature of each of these forces gives organizations the necessary insights to enable them to formulate the appropriate strategies to be successful in their market (Thurlby, 1998). Application of Tool Rivalry Amongst Existing Firms Strong amount of rivalry within the companys chosen products/industry. Rivalry is evident by the presence of larger businesses in the same industry. Competitive pricing indicates fierce competition. Bargaining Power of Buyers Buyers can approach the company and the competition (larger companies) thus creating competition and fierce pricing strategies. Long term agreements are essential to long term stability. The company accepting minimal profit demonstrates the bargaining power of buyers. The company doesnt hold a niche product thus the cost of a buyer switching supply will be minimal. Bargaining Power of Suppliers Suppliers could strategically integrate forward for example assemble the product and sell direct to customer. The World Wide Web (www.) reduces the possibility of suppliers rates being overpriced and uncompetitive. The company can access the www to research suppliers and costs to ensure the right price is being paid thus forcing the supplier to have less bargaining power. If the cost of switching supplier is high e.g. switching from one component supplier to another though there is no evidence of this to the company, it shouldnt be overlooked. Threat of New Entrants The high set up costs and technology reduce the risk of new entrants. This is indicated by larger organisations as competition. The desire to develop the business into a new country indicates that competition is minimal. Competitors could retaliate when made aware of the company establishing itself in a new country. Threat of Substitute Products The threat of a substitute product is high. The company are manufacturing dated products. New technology could eliminate the need for the dated product thus ending the majority of the companys revenue. The threat of the customer not needing the dated part, designed out of the end product. There is no evidence to support the threat but choosing to ignore it could be costly. McKinsey 7S Model The McKinsey 7S model was developed in the late 1970s and named after a consulting company, McKinsey and Company, which has conducted applied research in business and industry (Pascale Athos, 1981; Peters Waterman, 1982). The 7-S model is a tool for managerial analysis and action that provides a structure with which to consider a company as a whole, so that the organisations problems may be diagnosed and a strategy may be developed and implemented. The 7-S diagram illustrates the multiplicity interconnectedness of elements that define an organisations ability to change. The Seven-Ss is a framework for analyzing organizations and their effectiveness. It looks at the seven key elements that make the organisations successful, or not: Strategy plan of action Structure dictates way the company operates and performs (Waterman, 1980) Systems user friendly as possible (Lynch, 2005) Style important in the performance of strategy (Martins and Terblanche 2003) Skill to maintain competitive edge in technology advancement Staff people make a business successful Shared values common goals working together to achieve them Application of Tool Strategy The company has a desire for growth by entering in to a new country and establishing an e-business strategy. Realisation of companys business strategy and the groups corporate goals requires substantial capital investment in the near future. Structure The structure of the company often dictates the way it operates and performs (waterman et al 1980). No formal alliances. Privately owned. Systems Customer satisfaction the website offers a feedback mechanism Local area network provides administration a range of functional applications. The wider area network enables access to email and the World Wide Web. The company utilises computer aided design (CAD) and has a new stock control system which will drive forward control and the desire for efficiency. Style The company prides itself on quality of products and services satisfying customers has a grate deal of focus. Over engineering a product to achieve superior quality may hinder effectiveness to compete in pricing. Utilising a competitive prising strategy to establish sales. Skill Over 150 years experience. Develops machinery from design to manufacturing with the use of computer aided design (CAD). Educated and enthusiastic general manager Appears to be a lack of creativity/innovation amongst the companys workforce. In house training offered to customers in all aspects of machinery and instrumentation demonstrates a high skill level. Staff New general manager has ethicised the need for a flexible work force and working environment. A new recruitment policy has been recognized as a driver for development. Shared values Service support contracts with emphasis on creating quality products and services. Good relationships with a number of organisations, sector manufacturers and developers. E- Business Strategy Objectives Strategy is designed to transform the firm from the present position to the new position described by objectives, subject to constraints of the capabilities or the potential (Ansoff, 1965). The author recommends the following objectives for the companys e-business strategy supported by the data provided from the analytical tools used; SWOT, Porters Five Forces, Mckinseys 7S, PEST and McFarlans Strategic Grid. To innovate new technology and efficiency through strategic investment, employee motivation and empowerment. Increase efficiency and effectiveness e-procurement Increase revenue from global markets Establish an long term agreement (LTA) E-Business Strategy Evaluation and Alignment with Business Objectives To remain competitive in todays global economy, the company must decide what methods, processes, and technologies will best optimize their operations. They have to weigh the company analysis and take action quickly in this ultra-competitive environment. Innovations and faster product development can also often create a barrier for potential new entrants (Porter, 2004) .The Companys dependence on obsolete products and lack of innovation has been analysed as a threat in Mckinseys 7S analysis and SWOT. The workforce has a wealth of over 150 years experience yet the business relays on obsolete components as its main revenue. It is essential to form strategic alliances with suitable organisations across the globe. Collaboration between the businesses will form the foundation for the development of new products. To aid the process of managing the change the author would recommend a well chosen project management technique or tool be applied especially in the planning stage. A suitable tool would be Critical Path Analysis which was originally created to benefit large defence projects. Two models, SWOT and Mckinseys 7S identified a lack of creativity/innovation amongst the companys workforce. It is important for the organisation to instil confidence among the employees about their future in the organisation and future career growth as an incentive for hard work (Purcell and Boxal, 2003) Emphasis is needed on hiring the best staff, providing them with rigorous training and mentoring support, and pushing personnel to their limits to achieve professional excellence. Creating professional excellence will gain competitive advantage over competitors. Empowered employees become more proactive with ideas and solutions. To overcome pockets of reluctance to change, the companys vision for change must provide an atmosphere of communication where concerns about transformation are not seen negatively but rather welcomed. Achieving empowerment and employee motivation requires continuous articulation and communication of reporting results and monitoring each individuals contribut ion and accountability to the overall companys objective. Leading others to think innovatively and promoting the continual discovery of new solutions and technologies is essential for the company to achieve its goal. Motivation is the art of getting people to do what you want them to do because they want to do it (Dwight Eisenhower) In order to maximise efficiencies across the supply chain the company needs to invest in information technology and information systems, the SWOT analysis has identified efficiency gains in e-procurement. IS and IT efficiencies will offer a competitive advantage also enhancing professionalism of the company and its overall image thus being more attractive to potential customers. Information systems and information technology are used in business to add value and achieve objectives (McKay and Marshall, 2004) The data from SWOT and PEST indicate the companys weakness of not utilising e-commerce thus missing an opportunity. The analysis demonstrates that the website is non transactional and therefore does not generate revenue from new or existing customers. To achieve an increase in revenue from global markets the company must form an e-commerce facility on its already established website. Search engine optimisation and key word density will ensure the company websites place on the World Wide Web. A recommendation would be for an external company to monitor the company website and scan competitors sites, frequently reporting results. Recruiting a specialist company would guarantee the site is in the top 10 results for the companys sector. Engaging in e-commerce will positively reduce risk of falling behind the competition. To address complexities of change, each component must be aligned, along with the enabling technology, (Statoils Data Quality Manager; Hesterbrink, 1999). Product suitab ility will need to be established during the planning stage. The company needs to be cable of adapting its business to thrive in this ever-changing world of e-business. In order to recoup costly investments in new production technologies the company needs to be assured that there will be income in the future to pay for the investment, as a way of reducing the risk in the investment decision. Establishing positive relationships and service are extremely important in winning business. It would be clear with an LTA (long term agreement) that customer is committed to the company. The technology advanced product would be key to a successful business to business (B2B) relationship. The company vision shows the company is committed to delivering to the customer a high quality product, on time and at a competitive price which in its self and with the SWOT analysis shows the need to invest. Securing long term agreements will create a competitive advantage. Task B The objective of this task is to discuss the challenges of adoption of e-business and evaluate the critical success factors (CFSs) for e-business in relation to the company. Critical success factors are the essential areas of activity that must be performed well if you are to achieve the objectives. The concept was developed by D. Ronald 1961 and refined by John F Rockart 1981. The company faces various challenges in implementing e-business. Critical success factors can typically be identified for each individual objective. Financial implications The initial test is financing the change process. The company has previously restricted investment due to the unavailability of resources and the absence of commercial awareness of innovation. Positive changes have been put into operation to overcome the obstacles such as employing an enthusiastic, educated general manager and a IT director with over 20 years experience. Initial costs of implementing e-business are: Preparation or project management and communicating the strategy Consultancy fees for Information systems and Information technology Recruitment is costly when advertising for specialists Equipment and software installation including maintenance / service costs Reorganisation of business to ensure world class lean principles are applied Human implications Implementing an e-business strategy will raise numerous issues within the workforce and business. Essential training will need time allocating. The company will have to capacity plan the impact on the business. Training the workforce to operate the new equipment / tools Creation of new procedures is time consuming Support, emotional and stress often employees dislike change If an alliance is formed will both sites be utilised potential redundancies A formal approach for managing change, beginning with the leadership team and then engaging key stakeholders and leaders should be developed early and adapted often as change moves through the organization the leaders themselves must embrace the new approaches first, both to challenge and to motivate the rest of the organisation. They must speak with one voice and model the desired behaviors. Data Protection Security is a prime concern for the successful adoption of e-business (Chaffey, 2007). Data utilized by the company requires safeguarding against: Fire Fraud or theft Failures in the system data recovery and backups on or off site Electronic espionage Customer information Strategic Alliances Firstly a suitable company needs to be identified for its qualities and business presence. The alliance company will need to compliment the company regards to vision and objectives. Organisational differences will need aligning for example one company may have a strong environmental stance when the other chooses to ignore the issues thus causing friction and possibly undermining already implemented procedures. Once the organisations have formed realignment or restructuring will need to be completed for example in lean world class manufacturing both sites would not require a human resource executive. The alliance formed must be mutually beneficial to both sides thus creating harmony between the two businesses. Long Term Agreements It would be clear with an LTA (long term agreement) that the customer is committed to the company. Developing innovative technology would be required to approach potential new and old customers with the objective of securing an LTA. The technology advanced product or products would be key to a successful business to business (B2B) relationship and long term agreement. The company vision and the acknowledgment of a required investment demonstrates the company is committed to delivering to the customer a technology advanced high quality product, on time and at a competitive price which in its self and with the SWOT analysis shows the need to invest. Securing long term agreements will create a competitive advantage and a secure future. Worldwide Business Worldwide trading is a competitive market with numerous challenges. E-business will encounter cultural variances which will need to be overcome if the implementation is to be fully successful. Operating in a worldwide market will create a fiercely competitive environment. The United Kingdom is known for technology development but not mass production. Technology development is suggested to be skills related. Mass production is suggested to be low cost labour operating with proven processes if a suitable product is developed then a consideration must be applied for outsourcing production to a low cost labour facility which will allow the company to compete in the worldwide market. Technology Small and medium sized businesses are often reluctant to develop into e-business due to resource. The company will have to commit to resourcing the e-business strategy. Implementation of the software will be challenging, adapting the workforce to an automated business process will be difficult. Employees are often reluctant to change. A transformational management style would be beneficial in impleme