Describe The World Economies In The Past 30 Years

Q1: Describe the shifts in the world economy over the last 30 years. What are the implications of these shifts for international businesses based in Britain, North America, and Hong Kong? Over the last 30 years the integration of global markets along with the accessibility of international products and services has grown exponentially. The overall affect of this globalization has yet to be realized, but in the short term for the middle and lower class echelon of thee fore mentioned economies, globalization has been devastating.In the first few pages of Chapter 1 â€Å"International Business (Competing in the Global Marketplace)† an example is given referencing the necessity for international healthcare due to the rising cost and inaccessibility to quality healthcare in the United States. The most interesting part of this example to me was the following statement. â€Å"Some insurance companies are starting to experiment with payment for foreign treatment at internationally ac credited hospitals†.(Hill, 2011) Initially I found this statement comforting in the fact that insurance companies were thinking outside of a microeconomic healthcare model in order to better serve the people that they insure. On a larger scale this statement is disconcerting. It is disconcerting in the fact that everything associated in our healthcare system from equipment supply to the education and utilization of our medical professionals is either being mismanaged or financial gouged by government and the private market. As a result of the gauging, like any other business cheaper goods and services are being sought out elsewhere.It is astounding that it is cheaper to fly to another country and have a major surgical procedure performed at a quarter of the cost then it would be if performed in the United States. â€Å"Globalization refers to the shift toward a more integrated and interdependent world economy. † (Hill, 2011) My concern is what does an interdependent wor ld economy mean for the micro economies of each participating nation. Larger corporations clearly have an advantage and need for globalization from a profitable standpoint, but it is not justcorporations who have something to loose or gain from globalization. The Globalization of markets from a trade perspective is great thing for consumers. The globalization of production is a bad thing for most major industrialized nations. By globalizing markets and trade people are allowed to experience and purchase a multitude of goods and services that would otherwise be unknown on an international scale. Globalization also allows companies to tap into foreign markets a lot easier. At the same time, globalization of production hurts each countries job market in some form.For example outsourcing-manufacturing production from the United States to countries that have a cheap labor force and fewer restrictions hurts the American workforce. In contrast countries that allow an influx of manufacturin g from foreign countries become dependent upon those companies much like a drug user becomes dependent on a drug. When those companies leave for whatever reason the aftermath can be disastrous. A good example of this is the Malaysian market. â€Å"Manufacturing industry is an important engine of economic growth for the Malaysian economy. In 1987, it contributed 19. 8% of the gross domestic product (GDP).That contribution increased to 24. 6% in 1990 and 44. 8% per cent in 2001. † (Tsen, 2005) Since foreign product manufacturing became such a huge part of Malaysia’s GDP they are subjugated to the changes in the micro economies in which the manufacturing corporations are dependent upon for sales. Most of the companies that the Malaysian manufacturing job market were subject to the micro economy of the United States of America. In 2008 a global financial crisis began to take shape and as a result the American consumer market infrastructure began too fail. As a result of th ese failing the Malaysian manufacturing market started to dissipate.This dissipation is reflected in the importation and exportation of goods from Malaysia. The ADBI Institute stated in a working paper by Shankaran Nambiar â€Å"Malaysia and the Global Crisis: Impact, Response, and Rebalancing Strategies†. â€Å"Two economic indicators that show the impact of the current crisis are exports and the industrial production index. Export figures, which were doing well in the first three quarters of 2008, took a downturn towards the end of that year (Figure 3). In January 2008, exports increased by 10. 4% (year-on-year), and more–or-less doubled to 20. 9% in April 2008.However, in October 2008, a negative figure was reported (-2. 6%), only to decline more deeply as the months progressed. In December 2008 a decline was registered (-14. 9%), which worsened in January 2009 (-27. 8%). Imports, which tend to follow export trends rather closely in Malaysia, reported a similar pat tern. Imports increased by about 11% (year-on-year) in February 2008 and exceeded 10% in the months of June and July 2008 (12. 5% and 15. 0%, respectively).Again, the change in imports fell into negative territory from October 2008, falling from -5. 3% in that month to -23.1% in December 2008 and dropping to -32. 0% in January 2009. † (Nambiar, 2009) This huge drop in GDP production was a direct result of the Malaysian economy being a slave to the foreign marketplace, particularly the United States. The financial crisis of 2007 and 2008 directly rivaled the Great Depression of the 1930’s, even more so because it became a Global Financial Crises. It was just not the United States. It was Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Greece, and Japan. All of these countries are tied together economically and therefore are subject to the validity of the consumer marketplace micro and macro economically.Britain, North America, and Hong Kong are tied together economically because of Globa lization each other economy are become more dependent on one another. If one economy begins to falter for whatever reason, the effects are felt globally. Globalization brings along a new level of responsibility and morality, a level that must transcend ethnic, religious, and cultural barriers and focus solely on the stability of their micro economies, with an emphasis on macro economical growth. Globalization is a balancing act that governments and corporations must manage responsibly or financial disaster will most likely ensue.

Cross Cultural Values and Ethics Essay

The terms high context and low context were first used by Edward Hall and they are used to explain the underlying cultural differences between societies. In high context cultures, a lot of the information is either internalized in an individual or it is in the physical context. This means that in this form of culture nonverbal messages are more important than the verbal messages. In addition, the people in high context cultures share a form of closeness which is due to their shared experiences. Some of the societies with high context communication are Korea, China and Japan. On the other hand, in low context cultures messages that are verbal are usually highly specific in addition to being elaborate. Verbal messages also tend to be very detailed. Some of the societies with low context communication include Switzerland, United States and Germany. There are several differences between high context and low context communications. One of these is that in low context communication messages are best passed by words (verbal) than by nonverbal methods. On the other hand, in high context communication the messages are best passed by nonverbal means than by words. Another difference is that in low context communication the verbal message is direct. On the other hand, in high context communication the verbal message is indirect and communication is effected by talking around a point. Another difference is that high context communication is used in well established relationships especially where people have been relating for long. On the other hand low context communication is used among people who have short durations of contact. 2. Explain how World War II changed women’s labor force participation. World War II changed women’s participation in the workforce. To begin with, at that time most of the women stayed at home and held no paying jobs and this is because this was a preserve of men. However with the World War II men were deployed in the military and this created a shortage of workers especially at a time when workers were desperately needed particularly for production of war equipments. Women who could not previously be employed as culture placed men in the workforce and women at home were able to get jobs. This led to an increase in the number of women who were in the workforce. Another thing is that women who were already in the workforce and who had been holding traditionally female jobs such as clerical jobs were able to switch to high paying jobs which were previously considered a preserve of men. Clearly, the World War II was a blessing in disguise to women. They were able to overcome culture and discover the great potential in them by holding jobs that were traditionally reserved for men. No doubt that this proved to women that they have capability to achieve just like men and it changed the position of women in the workforce. 3. Explain Hofstede’s masculinity-femininity dimension and the behavioral expectations set for each gender. The Hofstede’s dimension of masculinity/femininity focuses on the emphasis the society places on nurture and achievement. According to the dimension, femininity emphasizes sexuality equality, caring and nurturing, and environmental awareness. On the other hand, masculinity emphasizes wealth acquisition, distinct gender roles, and ambition. According to this dimension, there are set behavioral expectations for each gender. The behavioral expectations depend on context. For example when it comes to politics and economics, men are expected to solve conflict through force as well as priotize economic growth. On the other hand, women are supposed to priotize environmental protection and solve conflicts by negotiation. When it comes to social norms, men are supposed to be ego oriented and so they should focus on attaining money and things as these would boost their ego. As for women, they should be relationship oriented and so they should focus on people and quality of life. When it comes to work, men should show preference for higher wages while the women should show preference for less working hours because of their other responsibilities. When it comes to matters of education especially school performance, men are expected to consider failing as a disaster while women should consider failing as a minor accident. On matters of religion, religion should be very important to men while to women religion should not be a very important aspect of life. 4. List and describe the 6 similarities across all religions. As much as there are differences across the different religions in the world, there exists several similarities. One of these is the belief in divinity which is accorded names such as Allah, Krishna, and God. In all religions there is the belief that there is a being that is divine and which is above the man. Another similarity is the belief that it is possible for man to communicate with divinity through actions such as prayers, sacrifices and meditation. Another one of the similarities is the belief that man requires help in order for him to communicate with the divinity and that is why mediators such as prophets, apostles, and holy men are sent by the divinity to men. Another similarity is the use of sacred scriptures which provides sacred wisdom which is transmitted from one generation to the other for propagation of the religious beliefs. The religions believe that the scriptures have a divine origin. Another similarity across religions is the performance of rituals and these are meant to bring man close to divinity. The last similarity lies in speculation where people across all religions, from their birth to their death ask similar questions and are faced by many similar challenges and uncertainties about life. 5. Who are the Mosuo people? How is their way of living different from the United States, explain 3 significant contrasts between both societies. Mosuo people are people who belong to a small ethnic group that lives in the Sichuan and Yunnan provinces in China. These people have unique cultural practices which make their way of life very different from that of United States. One of the most significant contrasts is that among the Mosuo people lineage is traced through the female side. This is unlike in United States where people trace their lineages through their father’s side. This means that if one does not know their father but knows their mother they have a belonging and thus cannot face stigmatization. Another contrast lies in the fact that unlike in US where the man is the head of the family, among the Mosuo the woman is the head of a family. The female elder in a family handles the family matters such as assigning of duties and management of money. She has absolute power. This is unheard of in US where men are the head of their families and would not agree to be headed by a woman as it would hurt their ego. Another significant contrast is seen when it comes to marriage. Among the Mosuo people, they have what is called walking marriages. Unlike in US where people marry, live together and bear children which they raise together, among the Mosuo men and women who are in love and are having sexual relations do not live together and any children born out of the relationship belong to the woman’s family.

Philosophy of Nursing Leadership Essay

I have worked in healthcare for over thirteen years both as new scare nurse and as an informal leader and as an appointed manager. Throughout this process I have experienced many different feelings towards my managers and experienced several different types of management styles as related to our recent management concept learning. A prior class text book definition states â€Å"Philosophy looks at the nature of things and aims to provide the meaning of the nursing phenomena. Philosophies are the broadest in scope and provide a broad understanding† (Blaise & Hayes 2002 p. 98). Combining a defined leadership theory with my own personal nursing philosophy engages a higher level of understanding about personal concepts and ideas of my past experiences and the possibility for growth as a leader. Peter Drucker’s theory in regards to involving the entire organization in planning and establishing the management process has been implemented for many years at my current employmen t, to include weekly staff meetings with open discussions and an anonymous â€Å"drop box† for problems or ideas to be shared with upper management. We also give one-hundred dollar bonus to any employee who presents a new idea or plan and the hospital corporation agrees to use it. This form of staff participation in leadership by Peter Drucker was used to advise the heads of General Motors, Sears, General Electric, W.R. Grace and IBM, among many others. Often times Drucker offered his management advice to non-profits like the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army. Drucker’s theory in the health care setting encourages individual autonomy and embraces the ideal of leaders not being born but can should be taught and encouraged to use their best judgments for every unique situation. Drucker is quoted as stating â€Å"Leadership is something scientific but has artistic expression.† Artistic expression is individualized and when an organization encourages this individuality of its member’s the results can in turn provided broader solutions and opportunity for growth.  This form of collaboration of many different unique perspective and special skills are imperative in today’s health care system as specifically outlined by the American Nurses Association (ANA) â€Å"recognition of the expertise of others within and outside the profession, and referral to those other providers when appropriate† (2003, p.8) The increasing competitive nature of health care and ever changing technology and change make it imperative for a health care organization to work together as a team for the betterment of the patient outcomes and a hospital’s long term viability. Personal Growth as a Nurse Leader With review of my personal experiences in my nursing career, I can now see the obvious management transitions that took place at the facility I worked at. When I first started working, I basically felt like a â€Å"warm body† only there to perform certain tasks at certain times and felt of no real value to actual hospital’s overall revenue or outcome. Looking back at the management style from that time, I felt no real structure or individual importance toward the outcome of the hospital I worked for. The hospital was a non-profit, government owned facility and the resulting management style is easily related to the Laissez-faire leadership form. With this â€Å"hands off† (Finkleman, p6) form of management comes a great lack of feeling of security or capability to grow and learn as a nurse. Three year after working there a new company bought out our hospital and many extreme changes happened. Computer charting came in, new managers, new rules, new standards and m any people left because of these changes. Not because they were bad changes but because they simply did not want to accept change. With these changes emerged a new management technique that follow the Drucker philosophy of encouraging staff participation, goal setting and leadership learning with in the hospital. I will never forget the first time the hospital administrator came up to me, shook my hand and simply asked how everything on my nursing unit was going. If I had any problems or concerns. This form of management encouraged professional growth and self-esteem. I became more familiar with small skills such as intravenous access, medications, equipment and general patient involvement, I began to find myself more interested in the art of health care and learning. Challenges and learning became my journey and led me to a management position in the  emergency room department. I grew as a person and as a nurse. I learned so many things about health care and genuinely cared for my co-workers. Their input was invaluable and helped us create new policies and systems to give our patients better care. I learned mostly about myself and who I wanted to be as a person and a leader or example to other nurses. I became very confident after ten years in this department and enjoyed the teamwork of this area and wanted to be able to do more with this invaluable acquired knowledge. I came to an understanding of a nurse’s ability to provide their perspectives and past experiences to help other care for the patients. In conclusion, with the educational advancements and experience I hope to continue to learn how to be an effective leader. I would like to see our organization encourage some the emotional intelligence theory philosophy into our practice to encourage stronger relationships between all staff. As stated in (Finkelman, 2011 p 10), â€Å"emotional intelligent leadership is key to creating a working climate that nurtures its employees and encourages them to do their best with enthusiasm, in turn this pays off in improved business performance.† I believe that all people inherently want to be recognized for what they do and need positive reinforcement. With future leadership roles I hope to incorporate both of these leadership theories of including the employees in the organizations plans, group problem solving and building good leaders along with stronger emotional relationships built on encouragement and positive reinforcement to provide an open positive learning environment with s trong inter employee relationships. References Blais, K., & Hayes, J. (2002). Professional nursing practice. (2011 ed., Vol. 6, pp. 2, 27-29, 268). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson. Retrieved from http//www.pearsonhighered.com Finkelman, A.(2006).Leadership and Management for Nurses. (2011 2nd ed., pp. 5-13).Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson. Retrieved from http//www.pearsonhighered.com Nursing Times. (2011) Leadership Skills for Nurses. Retrieved from http://www.nursingtimes.net/Journals/2011/j/n/i/Leadership-Skills-for-Nurses. pdf

Thin Client Operating System Security Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Thin Client Operating System Security - Essay Example In addition, thin clients have reduced downtime and significantly improved performance1. More importantly through is the fact that thin computers provide enhanced security as compared to desktop PCs. Thin client operating system describes a small size client OS which require much fewer resources as compared to fat clients which are much large and high resource dependent. This essay gives a critical analysis and discussion of the security implications which are related to systems such as Windows CE, Google Chromium and Linux which make use of the thin client operating system. Wide scale security threats and incidences are associated with machines or systems that are Windows based. It in this regard that thin clients have been described to be useful within networks of various organizations with a view of boosting their security. It is however important to note that thin client where originally developed with an aim of providing remote access to Windows which utilized them. Regardless o f this original function, it is notable that the concepts and protocols associated with thin client operating systems have helped many companies or organizations to significantly improve the security of their Windows. ... ilize thin clients such as Google Chromium, Linux and Windows CE allow the thin clients to access the central server of their networks for multiple or numerous user sessions. This is achieved through the capability of the thin operating system to utilize Windows Terminal Services. It is therefore notable that thin clients provide Windows which use them with multiple sessions which emanate from a central system3. This paradigm is similar to that of a mainframe computer. However the implication of thin client operating system on improved network security does not result from its ability to maintain an organization network which is composed of PCs that are Windows based. Instead, the role of thin operating system in network security is related or focused on the Windows servers which provide the main sessions for the network. It is important to consider though that there are drawbacks which are related to the application of thin clients to achieve remote desktops that are session based. The most significant of these drawbacks is network speed. It has been noted that even within a fast network, the application of remote access to desktops us significantly slower as compared to a PC. The reduction in speed is regardless of the security benefits which are associated with the remote access and as a result, organizations are mandated to make tradeoffs which allow them to decide on either the benefits associated with security or speed. The utilization of thin operating system by Google Chromium, Linux and Windows CE significantly reduces the overall costs associated with securing networks. Many organizations employ standardized and reproducible PCs with Windows within their system4. When thin clients are implemented in such systems and their networks, it leads to a situation

Literature review Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 2

Literature review - Essay Example mprove their health and means are devised for them to have less probability of converting into a diabetic patient, the metabolic and cardiovascular abnormalities which are not that severe in nature are hard to identify in fasting plasma glucose FPG and therefore are not well understood. This will help analyze the procedure that needs to be required and the patients that need to take care in order to prevent from being a diabetic patient. It has been identified that obesity is one of the major reasons for people to have diabetes in their early or late stages of life. Obesity and overweight problems are one of the major reasons why people take up fatal diseases. This high rise in obesity is due to the consumption of diets that have extremely high amounts of calories which leads to nothing but obesity and health issues. It was examined that whether dietary energy density was connected with obesity and its related problems including insulin resistance and the metabolic syndrome. A study was conducted on diet and energy with n = 9,688. The dietary energy density was calculated on the basis of foods only, no other factor was included. There was used a series of multivariate linear regression models to decide the sovereign connection between dietary energy density, obesity measures (BMI [in kilograms per meters squared] and waist circumference [in centimeters]), glycemia, or insulinemia. There was used Poisson regression model to determine the independent involvement between dietary energy density and the metabolic syndrome as explained by the National Cholesterol and Education Program This study has basically helped in understanding the connection between obesity and the diabetes that people have in young age. It has highly helped in identifying the reasons and the connection between the two factors of fatality which are highly dangerous for life. The article of ‘Coping, Affect, and the Metabolic Syndrome in Older Men: How Does Coping Get Under the Skin?’ by

NSW Personal Development, Health and Physical Education Essay

NSW Personal Development, Health and Physical Education - Essay Example This program promotes the general well-being of the child as they will tend to live a balanced lifestyle, healthy sense of recreation and develop skills necessary for an active lifestyle (Anon., 2006). Sport also develops each student’s competence and confidence in a broad range of games, sports and physical activities. Students develop fundamental movement skills (FMS), progressing to more games and sports-specific skills in non-competitive and competitive environments that foster positive feelings of success and enjoyment. They will be able to understand dynamics, spatial awareness, relationships, timing and rhythm of movement (Anon., 2006). Kids who engage in sport have† greater anaerobic and aerobic ?tness than non-athlete in accord with their sport and its demands† (Armstrong & Welsman, 2005 pg. 545). Their sense of fair play is typically learned in sports. Values such as perseverance, observance of the rules and honesty can be learned in sports. II. Convincin g the child to participate in sport Normally, children are interested in sport. There are instances however that the child does not show interest in sport. It is however important for the child to be encouraged to participate in sport not only to promote an active lifestyle but also to develop the child’s social capabilities through sport. ... The concept of ‘serious leisure’ originates with Stebbins (1992 qtd in MacPhail & Kirk, 2006 pg. 58) and denotes a participant’s strong sense of social identity, level of investment and persistence in a particular activity, namely the commitment to long-term leisure forms† (Raisborough, 1999 qtd in MacPhail & Kirk, 2006 pg. 58 ). â€Å"The commonly cited definition of serious leisure is the ‘systematic pursuit of an amateur, hobbyist, or volunteer activity that participants find so substantial and interesting that, in the typical case, they launch themselves on a career centered on acquiring and expressing its special skills, knowledge and experience† (Stebbins, 1992: p. 3 qtd in MacPhail, Ann; Kirk, David, 2006 pg. 64). In short, the child has to view the sport as leisure for him or her to engage voluntarily. To encourage a child in sport, it is important to know what interests him or her. Maybe the type of sport that was presented to the child was not particularly interesting to him or her which is why the child is not interested. One of the best ways of making a child interested is by arousing his or her curiosity. Once the child’s curiosity is aroused, it will naturally follow that the child will try the sport. Friends that a child trust also plays an important factor for a child to consider a particular sport (MacPhail, Ann; Kirk, David 2006). It may not be the sport itself that may interest the child at first but rather the companionship of his or her friends. But if the sport itself will prove to be fun for the kid, then the interest for the sport will naturally grow and the participation will just naturally follow. It is just important at this stage for the

Impact of Job Satisfaction on Staff Turnover Literature review

Impact of Job Satisfaction on Staff Turnover - Literature review Example Nature of work is one of the primary factors which help in the development of job satisfaction among the employees. The interest level of the employees in the nature of job which is imposed by the employer guides the job satisfaction. If the employees face person role conflict, then the job satisfaction of the employees will never be high. Person role conflict deals with the fact that employees have to undertake tasks which does not suit them and they are either under qualified or overqualified for the job. The role play of an employee in the job should also provide opportunity for them to utilize their skills which they have learned over the years. The employees should be provided with autonomy in carrying out their jobs. Another important job related factor which helps in the building of the satisfaction is the clarity in the role to be played by the employees. If the employees are made clear regarding the roles which the organization expects from them in carrying out, then a signi ficant amount of satisfaction is generated within them. Proper training regarding the jobs also helps in the development of job satisfaction among the employees as they generate confidence within them through the training process. The employee participation has been one of the crucial aspect in modern times and effective participation of employees in the decision making process of the organization generates a feeling within the employees that they belong to the organization and are an important part of it. This feeling within them in turn imbibes satisfaction regarding their job (Lee, 1991, p.9). The work pressure which an employee has to experience generates the satisfaction level within them. Often employees are dissatisfied with their job owing to the excessive job pressure which they have to face (Spector, 1997, p.24). The above study does not incorporate the factor of place of work and the ambience of the workplace which also often can raise dissatisfaction among the employees in the workplace. Pay package: Pay package is the most important criteria which dominates the level of job satisfaction among the employees. Employees always look for a better pay package and the pay package often helps in balancing the other limitation which an employee may face in an organization. The inclusion of additional facilities in the pay package helps to raise the satisfaction level of the employees and the fulfillment of the demand for increment in the salary structure makes them satisfied in their job. Other than the salary which the employees receive, often employees

Buddhism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words - 3

Buddhism - Essay Example More specifically, Buddhism has played an important role for spreading harmony within the society. There are several forms of Buddhism that has played an important role for the development of the society. Mahayana Buddhism as well as Theravada Buddhism is considered to be two principle branches of Buddhists’ belief (Rahula, 1996). The objective of the study is to provide a brief overview regarding the two types of Buddhist principle that include Mahayana Buddhism as well as Theravada Buddhism. The study will also focus upon the diversified attributes of both the principles. Buddhism is a religious believe developed by the Great Saint named Goutam Buddha. He was the prince of Sakya tribe, which belongs to Nepal. The key principle of Buddhism is to spread harmony and love around the world. The principle intention of Buddhism is to describe people about the purpose of their life. Moreover, Buddhism also provides information regarding the apparent injustice as well as inequality that are happening all around the world. In this regard, Buddhism provides a code of conduct or code of practice that will lead towards the actual happiness of life (Rahula, 1996). Mahayana as well as Theravada Buddhism is the two major principles of Buddhism based on which people following the religion are able to lead their life in a different way. It is also stated that both the principles are having different understanding along with different expressions towards life. In addition, the principles are identified to be having different meanings on the basis of purpose and meaning. Mahayana Buddhism is having the meaning of ‘The Great Vehicle’ and on the other hand, Theravada Buddhism expresses the principle of ‘The Teaching of the Elders’ (Jingpeng, 2012). The concept of Mahayana Buddhism originated in India. Subsequently, it spread throughout Korea, Japan, China, Central Asia, Vietnam, Tibet as well as Taiwan.

Life Coaching Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Life Coaching - Article Example Furthermore, it is never too late to take a breather, evaluate one's circumstances, and change course if this becomes the apparent ideal solution to a problem or a difficult situation. Life coaching is an effective tool which one can rely on achieving the needed clarity, set up a process by which specific, measurable, and achievable goals are set, and a clear strategy to achieve these goals is outlined. There are different types of coaching, such as sports or performance coaching, leadershipcoaching, strategy coaching, skills coaching, career coaching, personal or life coaching, business coaching, executive coaching, etc. Life Coaching, to define it, "is the practice of assisting clients to determine and achieve personal goals." (Permut) Life coaching is an alliance between a client and a coach who is a professional and provides guidance and accountability. The coach helps by first empowering one in defining exactly what one's true dreams, passions, strengths, weaknesses, fears are, and then in guiding in achieving specific goals based on exactly that individual's profile. The coach however does not take responsibility for any of the client's action. The client is in full control of his destiny at every step. The environment is that of support, trust, motivation and encouragement. Complete confidentiality, as allowed by the law is always assured. In the end this process will enabl... He/she is confident that all weaknesses and fear can be either overcome or leveraged for success. The International Coach Federation also acknowledges the great value of coaching in producing important benefits in the clients' personal and professional lives. "Through the process of coaching, clients deepen their learning, improve their performance, and enhance their quality of life." (Rothwell and Sullivan, 389) It is, however, fundamental to realize that life coaching is not psychotherapy or consulting. "Coaching is not psychotherapy... Unlike therapy, the coaching relationship is a partnership and is much more egalitarian than the traditional therapy relationship [and] the coaching orientation is outcome and action driven in the external environment." (Gooding, 36) Significantly, coaching focuses on empowerment, values, wants, desires, and visions of the future and the action to make those visions happen. Similarly, coaching is not consulting: the latter deals with problem solving tactics, action plans, achieving precise targets etc, whereas the former concentrates chiefly on action based learning. Modern life as well as business is all about stress, problems, tensions etc. The value of life coaching is becoming increasingly apparent. Most essentially, the return on investment in life coaching has increased tremendously and it will continue to fetch great profit to the investors. The case of MetrixGlobal is a convincing example. "Program costs were tabulated for all 43 leadership development participants in determining the return on investment. A 529% return on investment was produced by the coaching process (excluding the benefits from employee retention)."

Revivalism Essay Example for Free

Revivalism Essay â€Å"Revivalism is an authentic Afro-Christian religious folk form that evolved during the eighteenth to nineteenth century. Initially, it was the native Baptist Christians who joined forces with the Moravians, and other non-conformist churches to become the forerunners of the movement. However, Jamaica was said to have experienced a religious movement called the Great Revival in 1861, which saw the incorporation of much more African retention in the movement. Pocomania is more African in form while Zion is more Christian oriented. † [1] Upon preparing to embark this journey, I was a bit disgruntled that I had to wake up in the wee hours of the morning to go this â€Å"Watt Town† excursion, but I still approached with a open mind, though I had an idea of what to expect, seeing that I was already acquainted with quite a few Revivalists. Honestly I expected it to be a waste of time, but upon seeing the fellowship of my friends, while waiting on the buses which were scheduled to take us on our journey it got easier and easier, we engaged in jokes and hymns we swore were Revivalist hymns but Mr. Grey quickly busted our bubble and told us that those hymns were Pentecostal. We were greeted by a semi-pleasant but slow bus driver, but the vibe in our bus quickly took our minds off the length of the journey. I view Revivalists as highly religious people who are in tune with spirits with from various realms, known as Heaven, Earth and Ground spirit realms, I met with a lot of different Revivalists, but what I found rather interesting was the fact that the core of what they were saying were similar but they were also many subtle differences, For example I met with a man, whose name is Joseph Whitter, of the Olivette Seventh day church. nd he seemed to be quite respected in the church community, he blatantly stated at the beginning of the conversation that, â€Å"Revivalism is the only way to be saved†, we had a long drawn out discussion on what are my personal views on religion and the opening statement he made, where I told him that I strongly disagree with that statement and I believe that there is only one God and peace and love is the ultimate goa l, which everyone should try to achieve, no matter what religion one identifies with. I then met with Miss. Barbara Harper of the same church, Olivette Seventh day church, and she stated that people should go to any church they want to go to and do anything that is truly pleasing to God, when I mentioned what her church brother thought about the same thing, she said that there is no one way to get to heaven and that people spend more of their time in competition with other denominations and religions rather than giving praises to the most high. I laughed a bit and I was in total agreement with her statement. We then started to talk about her life, and how she was before she identified that Revivalism was for her, I could see that the movement actually helped her and improved her life, before moving on I thanked her for being so honest and reasoning with me, telling her that I would listen to her talk any day for she had a liberal and open mind and I absolutely hated radical minded people, who try to force their doctrines and beliefs down peoples throats. When we finally arrived at Watt Town, after our extra long journey I had no idea of what I was about to witness, the site was like nothing I had seen before, I was greeted by what had seemed to be hundreds of people, I discovered that Watt Town was having what had seemed like an inter -church convention. I saw children from various schools and young adults like our selves there to see this feat. One of the first things I noticed about the Revivalists was they were wearing different uniforms in different styles and colours, I wondered and asked why were they dressed like this and a kind lady told me that each church was represented by different uniforms. The seal is the focal point of the church; this is where the angels are believed to manifest themselves. This is the most sacred area of the ground and is a welcoming tool. The seal is a dominant feature in all revivalist churches because the seal encourages spirits which come and possess the members, enabling them to carry out their works of healing and worship. It is advised that one should walk around the seal three times to pay respect to the Tribune God. Some seals can be seen with silver coins in them, this is payment to the spirits for their help. The flags and banners we saw at the front play a very important role in the revivalism. A tall pole usually marks a revival ground. The flags on the pole are used to attack passing spirits, the attraction of spirits is very important to revivalism because they believe in many spirits and that they can be appeased or summoned to assist in their day-to-day lives. Each banner has its own purpose. Green means anything of nature, Blue and white means peace, pink love and red stands for the blood of Jesus. Upon venturing to the top of the structure, some pebbles started to rain from a roof top, some hitting my head, not understanding anything about what was going on yet, I didn’t take kindly to this, that confused me a bit more than I already was. When a group of us finally got to the top we noticed the different worship circles/prayer group, and I was pleased by some as I saw some circles which were mixed with members of different churches, this showed me that pride was not an issue and did not hinder worship, and the main goal, magnifying the most high, I stood in amazement right next to two worship circles and I heard various choruses, some I had heard before, some I had not, I was familiar with songs such as â€Å"Madda de great stone got to move† and â€Å"Rock oh! Rock holy, rock oh! Rock holy†. Being a musician I enjoyed this aspect of the excursion, identifying the keys and the chord progressions that would go with their simple but effective melodies. I noticed that even though their uniforms were different, they had many things in common, I noticed that many of them had head wraps with various pieces of stationery in the wraps, I laughed at this sight because I thought they were taking notes or something, but as I went on and I learned more I discovered that the pencils, rulers and scissors that I saw resting in their head wraps had special significance. The pencils and rulers signifies healing among the followers, the scissors were carried around by a specific set of people, known as the healers, who use the scissors to literally cut evil from around the persons being healed, as demonstrated to us by a young man named Otis. A few of the Revivalists were also seen carrying around a meter ruler, this was given to people who had been living a righteous life and who were slated to be married. We saw some people washing their face with sugar water, this was said to bring clearance and purity, the prayer shawl was said to represent the Tribe of Judah, as we learned that, like the Rastafarians there was a lot of African roots in Revivalism also, and they used red green and gold to identify with Ethiopia and Ghana. When I inquired about a lamp I saw an elderly woman carrying around, she said that the lamp also represents healing and spiritual light because revivalists don’t walk in the darkness. These healing symbols were brought from Africa with the slaves and became an integral part of the revivalist healing services. As a result the present day revivalist has maintained the practice. I asked some Revivalists of their actual occupations and from the replies I found out that they were either day workers, higglers or fishermen, (more than likely belonging to the lower class) I saw that this must have contributed to the scornful treatment by mainstream and middle/upper class Christians, They consider them to be highly superstitious, pagan, primitive and comical in ritual behaviors especially when they suspect them of practicing obeah. The disdain heaped on the lower class involved in revivalism can be traced to colonialism. Stratification was practiced on the plantation not only from the perspective of whites to none whites or but also among the blacks. The free slave felt himself above the house slave who felt they were superior to the field slaves and there was further stratification in that group depending on the gang to which they belong. Seaga, in his writings in the 1980’s explained that Revivalism also has different levels within its structure. There is the Leader who is the central figure of importance; below the leader are the armour bearer, shepherd boy and mother. The leader is never usually questioned on the reason for ritual observances. The ritualistic forms of Revivalism takes three major forms such as prayer meeting, street meeting and rituals for specific purposes for example tables, altars and baths. The meetings are usually opened to the public. Revivalism is divided into two groups, Zion and Pocomania, Pocomania is more African in form while Zion is more Christian oriented. they are referred to as 2 different spiritual groups the 60 and 61, the 60 spirit (Zion) are persons who believe in only one God, the Heavenly spirits, archangels, saints and angels. ho are viewed as firmly rooted and committed Christian. The 61 (Pocomania) spirit comprises of individuals who take commands from earth-bound spirits are the â€Å"Fallen Angels† (satanic powers), from God and from The Ground spirits are those of the human dead that are not biblically mentioned. I noticed that the people of the 60 spirit, look down the 61 in a way which gave me a feeling of segregation between both of the groups. I noticed that like other Christians, Revivalists also go on fasting sessions but they can’t just get up and fast they have to be ordered by the holy spirit. Also apart a Revivalists culture includes heavy usage of flowers they believe that when you place the flowers in water and go to sleep you dream see your future, whether it brings destruction or fortune. Some of my views on Revivalists were different after the trip, previously I thought that, Revivalists only went to church like other Christians and the worship was similar but I was mistaken, I also thought that they used instruments but I discovered that their bodies were their instruments, stomping and grunting to help them keep time and to provide percussive sounds. In my opinion the greatest gift Revivalists can give to the Jamaican culture, is their sense of unity, having being bashed for many many years, I saw that these people remained strong and stood firm for what they believe. That is what many religions and people of Jamaica need to survive through good times and bad, this was what I took away from the journey, and if I didn’t take anything else, I was glad I took this quality from the Revivalists, unity is strength and they will forever be a constant reminder of that value.

What is budget system in an organisation

What is budget system in an organisation In this high competition market place today, every company need a planning and control tool to act faster to increase competitive advantage. Budget is the tool to plan, monitor and control daily activities to meet organisation goal with effectively and efficiently. The toolkit will help you plan, develop and use budgets effectively in your organisation. If you have a sound understanding of the principles of budgeting, you will be well on the way to sound financial management. If you use this toolkit in conjunction with other toolkits, as indicated, you will increase the capacity of your organisation to manage its finances effectively. You will also increase its ability to survive through foresight and planning. In this assignment is to discuss what is budget system in an organisation, how the organisation uses it as tool to plan and control company expenses and expected revenue. We have chosen to make a case study about the budget process in London Biscuits Sdn Berhad. We will discuss budgeting system in this company and how to improve effectiveness of existing system. London Biscuits Sdn Berhad is a home grown Malaysian company. Main products are corn base snacks and layer cake. London Biscuits product can be found in Malaysia and 65 markets, worldwide. Its main oversea markets are China, Hong Kong, Macau, Vietnam and Middle East country. As a pioneer in the cake products segment locally, London Biscuits has fine-tuned the process of making cakes with long shelf life, of 8-12 months, without refrigeration. Budget What is budget; according to business dictionary define as estimate of cost, revenue and resources over a specified period, reflecting a managements reading of future financial condition. The CIMA definition of budget is a quantitative statement, for a defined period of time, which may include planned revenues, expenses, asset, liabilities and cash flows (Dyson, 1997). In other words, budgeting is the process of translating financial resources into human purposes (Wildavsky, 1986). Budgeting is also viewed as a process of identifying, gathering, summarising and communicating financial information of an Organizations future activities. Blumentritt (2006) further explained that budgeting processes include a review and study of the prior periods financial results, projections for sales, operating expenses (fixed, variable, and semi-variable) and Financing expenses, examination of proposals for capital expenditures, and means of rolling up and rationalizing figures from different functional departments to ensure they meet company-wide profit expectations. Hence, budget is a statement of financial position that an organisation would like to achieve. A well planned budget can lead company to achieve company goal successfully. It is managerial control tool to plan and control future expenses, profit and resources allocation in a certain period normally in 1 year advance. In order to have a realistic and good budget, there are few factor need to be considered before we draw up: Assign right person to draw up the budget. The person in change need to heavily involve in the entire exercise. Predictive ability is the must. He or she need to clear about organisation activities as well as the possible income and expenditure. Clear channel of communicate, authority and responsibity Objective and procedure or guidelines of budget must be clear can be implemented in the budget. Accounting generated accurate, reliable and timely information Compatibility and understandility of information Support at all levels of the organisation, upper, middle and lower Budgets consider external factors, such as market trends, economic conditions, and the like. allow for changing circumstances History of budget The budget only is used for governmental setting during agriculture ware. In industrial wave, budget had been use in large company as management control tool to plan and control their business. In 1960, budget is recognized as effective way to centralize company operation under top management. When come into information wave, high expectation from customer, competitors not only from own country but is worldwide comparison, decentralise the business is one of solution in order for company can react faster. When business management style change from centralize to decentralise, company need to change budget system to meet company objective. Hence, traditional budgeting like incremental budget be replace to zero base budgeting and other modern budgeting is begin implement to follow company direction. Method of budget also change from top down (centralise) to bottom up budgeting (decentralise). The order new budgeting system like rolling budget, balance score card, activity base budgeting and beyond budgeting are start implement in some company to improve effective and efficiency of organisation. Purpose of budget As planning tool Budgeting plan and allocate fund to achieve company goal. Manager need to formulate business strategies to achieve company goal with arrange resource allocation e.g machinery, fund, staff changes, scheduling production and operating company in advance. Mean that budget use as tool to link company objective with company resource to allow for thinking how to make operations and resource more productive and efficiently. Budget is a plan to provide the overall picture to manager for status of company resource, expected income and expenses. It is a better money management skill by creating structured plan. Thurs, manager can prevent problem before they arise. All financial statements should be written in terms of the budget so that it is easier to be transparent and accountable and to ensure that no money is spent on costs that you have not budgeted for. So manager have not establishes guidelines in the form of a road map to proceed in the right direction. Communication tool Budgeting process is involving every departments in a organisation. Team work is required to completed a budget. In other word, budget as aids coordination between departments to attain efficiency and productivity. Indirectly budgeting process can improves working realationships. It as coordination of top management with media and lower lever at organisation. Delegation tool Improves managerial decision making because emphasis is on future events and associated opportunities Encourages delegation of responsibility and enables managers to focus more on the specifics of their plans and how realistic the plans are, and how such plans Monitor and control Budget is allows management to monitor, control, and direct activities within the company. Manager can compare budget plan with actual result and points out deviations. Investigation and corrective action will be taken. Therefore, management can aware of problem faced by lower levels. action can be taken earlier before result worse. Motivation Employees participate in the budgeting process able to motivating them to perform in line with the company goal. The feeling in involvement in the process able to enhance motivation. Additionally, expected profit or cost reduction planned in the budget may motivate manager to achive. And those meeting budget target, incentive will given as motivational device. The budget planning and control process The budget process used by a company should suit its needs, be consistent with its organisation structure and take into account human resource. The budgetary process establishes goal ad policies, formulate, limits, enumerate resource need, examines specific requirements provide flexibit, incoparates and consider constraints. ( ) Hence, budget process is start from the company goal with determines the overall or strategic goals and strategic of business, which are then translated into specific long term goals, annual budgets, and operation plans. Setting financial goals is the starting point in the budgeting process. Examples: earnings growth, cost minimization, sales, prod volume, return investment and quality. Once short term goal of company had been set, manager need analysing available resources, forecasting profit and expected cost à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦.. manager can base on history or past experience to estimate cost like capital cost, staffing cost, operation cost and organisation cost. And estimate revenue like usually is generate from sales income. Therefore, sales budget is first budget to be plan then following with cost budget. Those estimate figure will be put in the budget format according to company needed. Finally compare revenue and expense projections. First draf of budget will sudmit to top management to obtain approval. Top manager will evaluate the budget with company objective. If budget is realistic and meet the company goal or target. It will be implemented, distributed and coordinated among different functional department. If budget is rejected, necessary adjustments to the budget, check your calculations once again and resubmit for approval again. The budget is the most important tool you have for monitoring the finances of your organisation, project or department. You use the budget to monitor income and expenditure to see whether or not you are on target; report how you are doing financially to your staff, board and donors;do cash flow projections and make financial decisions.() Comparisons of actual income and expenditure against the budgeted income and expenditure need to be done regularly. Variance report need to be prepare if any. There are 2 variance result: Interpreting the result: Favourable = actual is better than planned then it is a positive variance Adverse= actual is worse than planned then it is a negative variance Investigate and corrective action need to be taken. Budget process in London Biscuit ( LB) London Biscuit top management group will start to plan the next year budget on every year end. That top management group include CEO, COO and head of department. They will have the pre budget meeting to set the next year target or short term objective need to meet by next year. Target and short term objective are link to company goal. For example, LB plans to open new market at USA. So short term objective will be develop new product and survey the USA market. Therefore, company may decide to spend more money to invest at RD and having market survey for USA food market. They will only set the target to organisation, and let staffs collect relevant information will influence next year target. Therefore, method of budget in LB is bottom up budgeting. Finance department is department to lead and compile budget to master budget. Same with common company, budget will start from sales budget. Sales team start with constructing prognoses and environment analysis. They need to include the objective or target had been set by top management. For example they may need to achieve 10% of total sales growth on next year. Sales department at LB is delegate base on area sales. Account dept will help to provide sales history for past few years to predict future sales performance. Statistical analysis will be performed by each area sales managers. Simple calculation Statistical analysis can be averages based on past sales to identify trends that can be extrapolated into the future. This is call incremental budgeting. In this case, top management is set yearly target for sales dept is 10% of inscreasment of total sales. Hence, managers will base on past year record and forecasting 10% increase sales figure. After sales budget be approved by sales director, it will be distribute to related department to continue plan the expenses will be incur to procure estimate sales figure. There are 2 type of main organisation expense; operation cost and administration cost. In LB there are few dept in charge of operation cost: Production, engineering, QA and QC and supply chain departments. Production budget included unit of product need to be produced to meet sales target qty. Example: budgeted sales volume on Jan 2011 is 10,000 carton of pie cake, production manager need to base on this figure to estimate how many direct labour, machinery cost, utilises cost and so on. QA QC need budgeting how many instruments to support production output checking before pass the output to shipment. Common instrument include in the LBs QA QC is pass sticker, scale and manpower needed as well. Supply Chain manager budgeting direct material cost base on budgeted sales target. The required raw materials are computed to meet the production schedule which planned base on the sales target. According to policy of LB, less than 5 % of raw material inventory can be planned. SCM manager is considering the material pricing increase factor during budgeting. Administration cost are non-operational costs and will include things such as marketing, human resources, rents and vehicle costs as well as general administration HR admin manager in LB prepare the indirect labour budgeting. It includes training cost estimation, general overhead, office maintenance cost à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦. Account manager budgeting the general office cost like IT is one of supported dept in the LB. IT manage handle all the IT intructment. He need to budget those equipment like computer, printer or other related need. After all the departmental budget and sales budget is done, finance dept as accountable to compile these budgets into master budget. Finance controller will compare revenue and expense projections and verify budgeted result in line with the LB short term objective. In case finance controller found that any contingency budgeted result, department manager is request to revise and submit budget again. Else, master budget will submit to CEO and COO for final approval. Once Master budget is approved, it will distribute, communicate and implemented in LB. Each department manager need to explain detail to subordinates and monitor the result from time to time. Budget control in LB Finance department and department managers take important role in controlling parts. Each department managers are assigning as budget committee. Quarterly management meeting will be held in LB for follow up and monitor budgeting purpose. Finance controller need to liaising between the budget committee and managers responsible for budget preparation. Finance controller is core person in the budgeting control as he have to provide training to budget committee, ensure budget dateline is meet and dealing with budget problem. According to finance controller at LB the reason why budget meeting only held quarterly is some department manager like sales manager will be outstation and seldom in the office to join the meeting. But department managers need to submit monthly report every early of the month to finance department. Account department also will provide history of income and expenses to finance department for verify purpose. Master budget in Lb is break into monthly report. They call it as Monthly Budget value report. This report includes all budgeted and actual income and expenses in a month. Comparison of actual and budgeted figure need to be shown in the standard format which fix by finance controller. This shows you, month by month, where you are over-spending, under-spending or on target. For that variance more than RM5000, explanation and variance report needed. This report outline the cause of significant variance, propose remedial action and any other significant matter. An analysing report provided finance controller base on variance report to analysing and foresee what impact for master budgets is. Current financial status Analysis of budget changes Financial position to date In month financial position Trend analysis by month Main cause of variance Estimate end of year position Suggestion action or corrective action In some cases that prove the budgeted figure is unrealistic, budget is request to revise. First month Year-to-date Budget Actual Budget Actual Revenue Sales Cost recovery Interest from investment Total income Expenditure Project 1 Project 2 Directorate Operational costs Organisational costs Staffing costs Total expenditure That department budget with significant deviation will be issue short cause letter and variance report from finance depart. They need to follow the action plan and act accordingly. Audit will be held from time to time from finance dept to ensure they are complying accordingly. Budget system Types of budget Marketing Budget The marketing budget is an estimate of the funds needed for promotion, advertising, and public relations in order to market the product or service. Project Budget The project budget is a prediction of the costs associated with a particular company project. These costs include labor, materials, and other related expenses. The project budget is often broken down into specific tasks, with task budgets assigned to each. Budgets can be classified according to Time, Function, and Flexibility. ACCORDING TO TIME: 1. Long Term Budget 2. Short Term Budget 3. Current Budget 4. Rolling budget ACCORDING TO FUNCTION: 1. Sales Budget 2. Production Budget 3. Cost of Production Budget 4. Purchase Budget 5. Personnel budget 6. R D Budget 7. Capital Expenditure Budget 8. Cash Budget 9. Master Budget ACCORDING TO FLEXIBILITY: 1. Fixed Budget 2. Flexible Budget Cotrolling A budget Budgetary control is defined by CIMA as the establishment of budgets relating the responsibilities of executives to the requirements of a policy, and the continuous comparison of actual with budgeted results, either to secure by individual action the objective of that policy, or to provide a basis for its revision. Budgetary control is a system of controlling costs and resources which includes comparing actual performance with the budgeted performance and subsequently acting upon the actual results to minimise variance and achieve maximum returns. In essence, budgetary control is purported to ensure that the activities carried out are providing the desired results. Monitored using variance analysis Good Writing a budget require target to be set- every1 know what need to achive, concentrates wokers mind on what gas to be done Depart have to communicate Problem can be identifiend before it is too late unacceptable By comparing a bugest wuth the actually happened a bunisess can identify weak area. Useful tools in allocting resoures e.g machinery, employee, makinf staff changes, scheduling prod and operating business Their creation can also be used as a motivational tool. The plan can be used as a means of evaluation and control as well as a resource for information and decision-making. A Bad Inaccurate unrealistic budgets will be ingoned It can restrict business activity which may lose the firm business If budgets are impose upon people there is little incentive for them to stick to target If 1 of dept not focus to B, whole master b will be effected. Lack of training Long lead to plan The signs of budget weaknesses must be spotted so that corrective action may be taken. Such signs include: Managerial goals are off target or unrealistic. There is management indecisiveness. The budget takes too long to prepare. Budget preparers are unfamiliar with the operations being budgeted and do not seek such information. Budget preparers should visit the actual operations firsthand. Budget preparers do not keep current. The budget is prepared using different methods each year. The What and Why of Budgeting / 15 Exhibit 1.3 XYZ Company Divisional Performance Evaluation Net Income Net Sales There is a lack of raw information going into the budgeting process. There is a lack of communication between those involved in budgeting and operating personnel. The budget is formulated without input from those affected by it. This will likely result in budgeting errors. Further, budget preparers do not go into the operations field. Managers do not know how their budget allowances have been assigned or what the components of their charges are. If managers do not understand the information, they will not perform their functions properly. The budget document is excessively long, confusing, or filled with unnecessary information. There may be inadequate narrative data to explain the numbers. Managers are ignoring their budgets because they appear unusable and unrealistic. Managers feel they are not getting anything out of the budget process. Changes are made to the budget too frequently. Significant unfavorable variances are not investigated and corrected. These variances may also not be considered in deriving budgeted figures for next period. Further, a large variance between actual and budgeted figures, either positive or negative, that repeatedly occurs is an indicator of poor budgeting. Perhaps the budgeted figures were unrealistic. Another problem is that after variances are identified, it is too late to correct their causes. Further, variance reporting may be too infrequent. There is a mismatching of products or services. A budget can be disadvantageous because: A budget promotes gamesmanship in that those managers who significantly inflate requests, knowing they will be reduced, are in effect rewarded by getting what they probably really wanted. A budget may reward managers who set modest goals and penalize those who set ambitious goals that are missed. There is judgment and subjectivity in the budgeting process. The What and Why of Budgeting / 19 Managers may consider that budgets redirect their flexibility to adjust to changing conditions. A budget does not consider quality and customer service. Conclusion Activity Duration Future-proof the council 10 days Define the required outcomes and their relationships 15 days Define measures and set bases and targets 20 days Assess risks and allocate rewards at the corporate level 10 days Total 55 days Recommends Understandable and attainable. Flexibility and innovation is needed to allow for unexpected contingencies. Provide more opportunities for staff to join. Sometimes it is necessary to have two different budgets for your organisation. One as the ideal budget that you would like to have and a second one as a minimum budget of the money that is absolutely necessary for your organisation to survive. Often when your draw up the ideal budget, your are not yet sure that your will get all the money your need and a minimum budget will help you to decide which costs can be cut, if your dont manage to raise the necessary funds. A computer should be used to make quick and accurate calculations, keep track of projects instantly, and make proper comparisons. Shortened planning and budgeting cycles.Ć¦Ãƒâ€žÃ¢â‚¬ ¦ Enabled better decision making.Ć¦Ãƒâ€žÃ¢â‚¬ ¦ Reduced total cost of the processes.Ć¦Ãƒâ€žÃ¢â‚¬ ¦ Improved credibility and quality of outputs.Ć¦Ãƒâ€žÃ¢â‚¬ ¦ Planned and relocated budgets based on material events.Ć¦Ãƒâ€žÃ¢â‚¬ ¦ Increased user participation with frequent real-time updates.Ć¦Ãƒâ€žÃ¢â‚¬ ¦ Raised ownership and accountabilityĆ¦Ãƒâ€žÃ¢â‚¬ ¦ Aligned individual, department and business unit plans with company ojb. There are a number of advantages to budgeting and budgetary control:  · Compels management to think about the future, which is probably the most important feature of a budgetary planning and control system. Forces management to look ahead, to set out detailed plans for achieving the targets for each department, operation and (ideally) each manager, to anticipate and give the organisation purpose and direction.  · Promotes coordination and communication.  · Clearly defines areas of responsibility. Requires managers of budget centres to be made responsible for the achievement of budget targets for the operations under their personal control.  · Provides a basis for performance appraisal (variance analysis). A budget is basically a yardstick against which actual performance is measured and assessed. Control is provided by comparisons of actual results against budget plan. Departures from budget can then be investigated and the reasons for the differences can be divided into controllable and non-controllable factors.  · Enables remedial action to be taken as variances emerge.  · Motivates employees by participating in the setting of budgets.  · Improves the allocation of scarce resources.  · Economises management time by using the management by exception principle. Problems in budgeting Whilst budgets may be an essential part of any marketing activity they do have a number of disadvantages, particularly in perception terms.  · Budgets can be seen as pressure devices imposed by management, thus resulting in: a) bad labour relations b) inaccurate record-keeping.  · Departmental conflict arises due to: a) disputes over resource allocation b) departments blaming each other if targets are not attained.  · It is difficult to reconcile personal/individual and corporate goals.  · Waste may arise as managers adopt the view, we had better spend it or we will lose it. This is often coupled with empire building in order to enhance the prestige of a department. Responsibility versus controlling, i.e. some costs are under the influence of more than one person, e.g. power costs.  · Managers may overestimate costs so that they will not be blamed in the future should they overspend. Conclusion 2. Dyson, J. R., 1997. Accounting for Non-Accounting Students. 4th ed. London: Pearson Professional Limited.

Assessing Development And Democracy In India Politics Essay

Assessing Development And Democracy In India Politics Essay A strong centred democracy has been at the heart of Indian nationalism since independence with its many languages, religions, ethnicities. In adopting the Westminster parliamentary system, India substituted the monarchy for an elected President and a legislative body consisting of a bicameral structure that includes a lower house the Lok Sabha  and  an upper house the Rajya Sabha  Ã‚  [2]  . India is now the worlds largest parliamentary democracy, some 714 million people were eligible to vote in last years election  [3]  . Members of the Lok Sabha are directly elected every five years with representation divided among Indias States, and seats apportioned  according to population. Members of the lower house the Rajya Sabha are indirectly elected by the legislative assemblies of the federal States and the President nominates twelve members to the Rajya Sabha based on distinguished reputations in the realm of the arts, sciences or public service  [4]  . The president is elected to office for a five year period by members of both houses. All citizens over the age of 18 years, regardless caste or religion are eligible to vote and turnout has stabilized at approximately 60%, which is particularly high by international standards  [5]  . Under Jawaharlal Nerhus (the first prime minster of India) nationalist ethos encompassing non alignment, socialism and secularism, the latter was the intended safe guard for religious minorities from majority rule. In an affront to the notion that democracy is a Western luxury that developing countries cannot afford  [6]  , Indias body politic has remained markedly stable since independence, a notable exception in post colonial states. It is also viewed as an anomaly because of its incredibly diversified social strata and its ability to continue functioning as a democracy (Kothari 2005). There is no distinction for basis of citizenship along ethnic, religious or caste lines nor has there been any religious qualification for holding office. There has not been any significant state intervention to abolish the caste system  [7]  , although untouchability was made illegal in the Constitution  [8]  the system has been left undisturbed. Independence and the adoption of democracy has however not resulted in any state-led political agenda of social reform, by in large society has been allowed to reform itself in a laissez faire way. A proportion of parliamentary seats and a percentage of public sector jobs were/are however reserved for members of  Other Backward Castes (OBCs), Scheduled Castes (SCs)  and  Scheduled Tribes (STs). This reserve falls under Positive Discrimination (PD)  [9]  . Bhimrao Ramji  Ambedkar (a member of the untouchable Mahar caste), provided the Dalits with their first real hope of transcending caste discrimination (Luce, 2007), ensuring that equality along caste lines was enshrined within the Constitution  [10]  . While caste disparity has not yet been alleviated in a substantial way, it has given the Dalits a feel for political mobility  [11]  . Constitutional provisions. As regards Indias post independence economic policy, it adopted a model of self-sufficiency and import substitution  [12]  . Influenced by the Soviet example of a mixed economy it turned its back on trade and foreign capital imports on the premise of being a self-sufficient industrialised nation  [13]  .This failed to take capitalize on Indias early start in modern industry  [14]  , with it rehashing many of the industries which were already in place but which, were in its view tainted by imperialism. As a result industry suffered (Bhagwati, Desai and Sen, 1997). Restrictions on interest rates, subsidies to inefficient industries, taxation on movement of agricultural commodities, and perks to labour etc., all resulted in slow growth and employment, and continued poverty and inequality. With slow growth of jobs in the private sector, government jobs became much sought after, a trend which has persisted even now (Luce, 2007). Elections then became the means to access the fruits of patronage, with plebeian groups organizing around their caste and regional identities. Thus it can be argued that the slow growth with a leaning towards elite jobs, and social conservatism has strengthened caste, regional and religious loyalties. With continued slow growth and poverty levels unabated discontent grew and protests mounted from tribal, dalit and lower caste groups, unhinging Indira Gandhi and leading to the Emergency. Amid mounting pressure over her failure to remove poverty Indira Gandhi suspended democracy in 1975 declaring a national state of emergenc y. The Emergency The mixed economy combined the worst features of capitalism and socialism (Das, 2006). Mrs. Gandhi called for a committed bureaucracy that would be openly socialist, this tainted the neutrality of the civil service and lead to a sharp increase in corruption. She was also responsible for nationalising the banks and insurance sectors, in the name of the poor she handed control of finance to an unreformed civil service. Indias banking system became wholly inefficient which drastically raised the cost of capital for everyone. At this time she also presided over unpopular large-scale sterilization as a national form of birth control and many fell victim to her large scale slum clearance programmes. The activism of associational groups during this time advances the argument that Indias civil society should be the engine for democratisation. With the Swadeshi model, Indias average per capita growth was half that of the developing world which was as a whole was almost 3% from 1950 to 1980 (D as, 2006). The protectionist and anti-foreign sentiment that drove it to the brink of bankruptcy just over a decade ago when it had only three weeks of foreign currency reserves in its coffers. Many of the leaders that ruled India after the British left in 1947, like Nehru and his daughter, Indira Gandhi, feared further influence of foreigners and established a practice of strict self-reliance, known as swadeshi. These governments subsidized many Indian industries, never allowing foreign companies to compete and thereby never allowing its own industries to excel. Such subsidies have long been a drain on the countrys economy, accounting for as much as 14 percent of its GDP. As a result of such protectionism and subsidies, many industries within India have remained stagnant. Indians are incredible farmers who could likely rival the U.S. in agricultural production. But the government doesnt allow people to own more than 18 acres. This is driving out many productive producers. The 1980s Following the election of the Janata party and the ousting of Indira Gandhi and emergency rule a new India emerged one which was no longer administered along old elite lines. Single party dominance was restored during the 1980s with the return of Congress to power. Mrs. Gandhi reinvented the Nehruvian vision maintaining the rhetoric of socialism but changing the content. Her time in office saw a relaxation of the economic self-sufficiency ethos and socialism or dirigisme was backed up by international borrowing. Economic institutions like permit-license Raj remained intact and there was no relaxation of domestic economic policy in parallel with foreign borrowing  [15]  , it did however lead to higher growth  [16]  . The Green Revolution was also now routinely yielding good harvests alleviating the necessity to import food  [17]  . With better prospects in the private sector the appeal of public sector jobs began to wane somewhat. Significantly secularism was increasingly compromised under Mrs. Gandhis populist accommodation of Hindu and Muslim orthodoxies. This created room for meeting the next explosion in subaltern demands which V P Singh tried to accommodate by undertaking to implement the Mandal recommendations. As India had not restructured its economy, its autarchic orientation continued and this meant that insufficient export income was generated to pay back the foreign debt. The economy crashed as it became unable to service its debt  [18]  . The liberalization reforms 1991 is a significant date in modern Indian history. It is difficult to gauge whether Indias political or economic conditions have changed more since that date. Under the balance-of-payments crisis of 1991, the Congress-led government pushed for greater economic transformation and reform. This heralded the end of the mixed economy, self sufficiency as a model was abandoned. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh (the then finance minister), argued that macroeconomic stabilization had to be reinforced by reforms to make the decision-making and operational environment of firms more market-based (Varshney, 2007). Indias growth and economic trajectory since the introduction of reforms is extraordinary not only because it has taken place in the context of a democracy but also in so far as it has adhered to a unique development model  [19]  . Its economy is based on domestic consumption rather than exports, is focused on services rather than low-cost manufacturing as was the case in many of the Asian Tiger economies, (despite Indias enormous low-cost labour reserve which would naturally lend itself to labour-intensive manufacturing)  [20]  . India has taken advantage of the skills of its educated middle-class in boosting its services sector which now accounts for more than half of its GDP  [21]  . In this regard the reforms have effected mainly an elite and the educated middle class. Growth hasnt been employment intensive on the whole, between 1993/94 and 2004/05 the rate of employment growth declined significantly to 1.85% from the previous 10 years when it went up a little over 2% on average. Similarly there has been a fall in the growth of real wage rates. Indias development model is now much more dependent on the corporate sector. It has been losing regulatory controls such as the license permit quota raj and has embraced international openness to a greater extent. The private sector has been the principal driver of growth. Indeed the most successful sectors have been those in which the government has been absent. Prosperous despite the state (Das) Nihelani. The economy grows while the government sleeps. With the ever increasing role of the private sector as the driver of Indian growth, there is an obvious requirement to balance the needs of the citizens with those of the private  business. The imperatives of economic liberalization and globalization require diminishing the role of government in overall national activity, posing a dilemma for New Delhi (Perkovich, 2003). While democracy provides the long-disadvantaged an opportunity to mobilize and compete for control of government, unregulated private markets do not, potentially i ntensifying political conflict (Perkovich, 2003). It is however the private sector that offer the greatest potential to create jobs and drive economic growth. Due to liberalisation, the Indian economy has improved dramatically. The reform process has registered a 6 percent average annual growth rate for nearly a quarter century Over the last three years, it has grown at over 8 percent annuallyIt is hard to escape the impression that market interests and democratic principles are uneasily aligned (Varshney, 2007). The opening up of Indias economy and the embracing of globalisation has proved irreversible  [22]  . Combined with the implementation of the recommendations of the Mandal Commission this period also heralded the demise of Congress hegemony, to the extent that coalition government has now become a pillar of Indian politics. One-party dominance is gone  [23]  . Rise of Plebeian Politics and Coalition Politics Indias body politic has moved from being dominated after independence by elite English-speaking urban, majority upper castes politicians to a now more plebeian political thrust. The social makeup of participation has moved distinctly downwards towards the rural lower castes. The turnout in villages is higher than in urban India  [24]  , the odds of a scheduled caste citizen voting were 2.3% higher than the national average. The greatest increase in voting has taken place in tribal constituencies (Varshney, 2000). In this way caste as well as religion, have materialized as the fundamental base of support in Indian politics. Caste groups are however often as bitterly divided amongst each other as much as they are with Brahmin and upper caste groupings  [25]  . OBC, SC ST parties total vote share is significantly lower than the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) or Congress, but they are enough to force through concessions in coalition government. Despite the disunity of political parties it is fair to say lower-caste politics are now a permanent fixture with preserving the existing system of patronage-based subsidies being the raison dà ªtre of many lower-caste political parties (Luce, 2009). In many ways the motivation for many SC/ST parties is not to abolish caste disparity but gain leverage over each other. Despite Ambedkars call for annihilation of the caste system, it has remained, and became further entrenched. Increased competition in electoral politics in which Dalit votes make a big dif ­ference has prompted both the BJP and Congress to woo the Dalit vote  [26]  . They are a minority in every state and in most command between 10% and 20% of the vote  [27]  . Indeed Dalits have formed successful political parties, such as the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), which is now in power in UP, and also have nationally known leaders, including UP Chief Minister, Mayawati, who it was suggested may even have been positioned as a potential Prime Minister  [28]  . It is fair to assert caste disparity is firmly embedded in the Indian body politic. India modernisation and liberalisation, have thus witnessed the country become less secular and more ethnically divided than before, entrenching caste and religious divisions instead of facilitating the demise of caste and communalism. India is an increasingly Hindu nationalist country as opposed to a secular socialist democratic republic. With this we have seen a clear increase in incidents of political and communal violence, most vividly played out in the caste wars in Bihar, Hindu Muslim violence in 1992/1993  [29]  and again in Gujarat in 2002  [30]  . The overarching ideology of Hindu nationalism poses a new challenge. Nehrus vision of secularism, socialism and non-alignment is now on its last legs, if not dead already, while the BJP Hindutva vision is gaining more and more momentum  [31]  . BJP vision. INDIAS DEVELOPMENT MODEL DEMOCRACY Development is by definition and practice a radical and commonly turbulent process that is concerned with far-reaching and rapid change in the structure and use of wealth, and which-to be successful it must transform. (Leftwich, 2002) Democratic politics as it is now in India is that of compromise, it is consensual, conservative and incremental in the change it brings about (Leftwich, 2002). Indias has not adopted the same development of those in its neighbourhood the Asian Tigers  [32]  . While India is a democracy the Asian tigers development all had either autocratic or very restrictive political systems in place. None of them had labour rights or labour rights were very restrictive  [33]  , free trade unions  [34]  or a free press  [35]  . It is worth noting also that unlike India on the whole the Asian Tigers have a far more homogenous population  [36]  . Some scholars argue that democracy is needed to keep a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, multi-cultural and multi-religious country like India intact (Desai). Indias rapid economic growth in the context of a democracy is on the whole without parallel. Evans (2001), however warns against any assumed symbiotic relationship between democracy and human rights. While democracy can endorse equitable development, the goals of democracy and equity should be considered largely independent. Deficiencies in accountability and checks and balances have led to many democracies degenerating into havens of corruption, where the powerful always triumph  [37]  (Eapen 2004). Indeed the relationship between democracy and development is often problematic, in this sense developing countries often accuse proponents of democracy of placing the democratic cart before the economic horse (Mahbabani , 1992). Leftwich (2002) argues that democracies have great difficulty in taking rapid and far reaching steps to reduce structural inequalities in wealth, whether they be based on class, colour, ethnicity, religion or a combination of them. The objectives of competing groups in a developing country like India are often simply to capture public resources and engage in destructive types of corruption and accumulation to enrich their faction (Khan 2002). As we have seen with the upsurge in plebeian politics in India, by legitimising and intensifying contestation between essentially unproductive groups, democracy can make destructive rent-seeking worse (Khan 2002). This can also be applied to India as discussed with patronage being the rainson detre for many caste groups, and the rise of Mayawati for example, using her power to increase her own faction. Indias experience also illustrates that democracy has encumbered development in a number of ways. Short term pandering and handouts to the electorate has impeded long-term investment, particularly in physical infrastructure, which has been to the determent of Indian economic growth development  [38]  (Bardhan, 2006). To the disgruntlement of international financial institutions and credit rating agencies, Indias treasury maintains considerable budget deficits, in the certain knowledge that holding back in government spending could end a coalition(). Neither can democratic systems such as India push thru economically beneficial legislation amid rival parties jocking interests, in the way that autocratic regimes can, particularly pertinent in Indias case (). Nor does India have the option of engaging in policy experimentation open to it, in the way that China has done, as the risk of the consequences of failure at the ballet box are too great. Democratic incumbency is another significant drawback to Indian development  [39]  . Elections have become Indias institutionalized political common sense (Varshney 2005). Essentially no one party remains long enough in power to follow through on policy reform and implementation. Singh was voted out at the beginning of the Early 2000s, the BJP came in and now Singh is back and the threat of being ejected from government makes it worse. Coalition further exasperates this difficulty. The same is the case with corruption and the crime/politics nexus (Desai, 2002 Luce, 2007)  [40]  . The importance of openness in democratic politics is apparent when considering Sens argument that democracy, because it circulates information better, has been more successful in the prevention of famines in India  [41]  . The study is frequently considered in looking at the advantages of democratic systems more generally. Sen argues that democracies allow the poor to penalize or vote out governments that allow famines to occur thus placing a greater impetuous on political representatives to prevent the root cause. He also argues that democracies are better than autocracies at disseminating information from underprivileged and isolated to the central government, owing to political rights such as the freedom of the press and freedom of speech. The level of literacy is fundamental to this argument however, and literacy rates in India are relatively poor. Also highly significant is to who the journalistic discourse appeals to. In India the media generally addresses the upper class and educated middleclass, as the vast majority of the poor and most marginalized are illiterate. It can be argued too that with this same section of Indian society, whom the media primarily address are those who are reaping the rewards of Indias economic prosperity, and who are thus to a large extent placated. The discontent expressed within the media may well be falling on deaf ears  [42]  . Bhagwati (199%) reminds us that it is the views that are expressed, be they those of the rulers or the ruled that is of paramount importance over the actual freedom of the press. Conclusion India certainly affords its citizens more freedoms than China, but it is hardly a liberal democratic paradise (Crossette 2010). Democracy have been the putty that has held India together  [43]  (Desai ). It is however erroneous to equate a multi party democracy political system with high quality institutions. Politics in India has become more consensual and less elitist but at the same time more corrupt and self-serving. Coalition and patronage politics of social factions have combined to make government expenditure a variable outside political control. Castes and religious divisions are used like pawns in the electoral game. Political power is the route to the rewards of patronage for communities which have little chance in the liberal market order for economic gain. By resorting to political patronage, caste disparity has become further entrenched. No major observer denies that India is a democracy, but particularly in states like Bihar where corruption, criminality, murder, and kidnapping heavily taint the electoral process, it is an illiberal and degraded one  [44]  . The decline of secularism and socialism, the rise of liberalism and religiosity, the persistence of nationalism as a force. BJP. On the other side Congress, has pledged it will pursue inclusive growth, clarifying that inclusion will come when growth rates remain sustained at a high level and as long as it takes to make the laudable goal feasible of public expenditure on education, health and welfare. Their strategy operates on the premise that inclusion is an end goal and cannot happen simultaneously with the growth process. The worlds largest free market democracy. Indias economic growth in the context of a democracy is on the whole unprecedented. But it is increasingly questionable as to whether democracy is the variable in Indias strategy to sustain economic growth and development? Opening up to the free market has sharpened marginalisation and inequality, certainly in Indias case the structures of political power, are being propped up by corporate tycoons and powerful lobbies, the risk being this leads to the democratic political process being hijacked and corrupted. Thus the imperatives of democracy and development  require that civil society have to remain constantly alert. Very much a trickle down, rising tide lifts all boats model as opposed to a bottom-up mechanism. Only about 10 percent of Indians have benefited from all that development and progress. Indias development has no meaning for the vast majority of Indians. It is instructive to take note of the issues that the GOI attempts to deal with, the methods they use to address them and the problems they choose to ignore. Governments have chosen to consistently act with deliberation and resolve to support the cause of economic powerhouses. In many cases these have caused direct conflict with often some of the most vulnerable communities. Often the state chooses to be oblivious of the constitutional rights of these communities in its policies and their implementation. Through policies that consistently choose to represent economic interests even at the cost of constitutional rights, the democratic Indian State is losing its credibility. Indias development drive has called into question the credibility of Indian democracy. Crucially Schedler draws a distinction between electoral democracy and electoral authoritarianism based crucially on the freedom, fairness, inclusiveness, and meaningfulness of elections (Schedler, 1998 Diamond, 2002).

Deconstructing the clock Essay -- essays research papers

Summary Ever since the dawn of civilization we have observed time by its natural occurrence and we also relied on man made primitive tools to measure time. In the beginning, time has always been a natural event, for example, sunrise to sunset but men’s earlier primitive tools to measure time were inaccurate and were only an approximate indicator, hence often unreliable such as the hour glass.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  We became enslaved by the concept of time; our society is controlled by this mechanical device which dictates our schedule accordingly. Time has evolved from a simple method of nature into a measurable product which can be sold and bought. The industrial capitalism owes its existence to the concept of time, without time, the means of worker exploitation wouldn’t exist today.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The clock first appeared during the 11th century â€Å"...as a device for ringing bells at regular intervals in monasteries†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Woodcock 883). During the 13th century the first authenticated clock appeared then 14th century came to popularizes clocks â€Å"†¦as common ornaments of the public building in German cities† (Woodcock 883). The early clocks were operated by weight and weren’t really accurate to depend on but during the 16th century, a greater reliability was achieved, the Hampton clock was the first accurate clock in the 1540’s. The Hampton clock only had the hour hands and the two other hands are still not implemented â€Å"The idea of measuring time in minut...

Bulimia and Depression Essay -- Causes of Bulimia, Eating Disorders

Bulimia and Depression The prevalence of eating disorders among American women has increased dramatically in the past decade. In turn, the psychological community has expanded it's scope of research and study by focusing more attention on eating disorders and concentrating on other extended issues related to eating disorders. The desire to distinguish and understand a possible relationship between bulimia nervosa and depression has become a major focus within the field. The purpose of this paper is to introduce the reader to literature from two different journal articles on this relationship. How Are Bulimia and Depression Possibly Related?: Presently, there are two predominant hypotheses on the relationship between bulimia nervosa and depression. The first hypothesis states that bulimia nervosa is an affective variant of depression. (Hinz and Williamson, 1987) This idea came about due to early reports of a high prevalence of clinical depression in bulimics and a high lifetime prevalence of depression in the families of these patients. Recent studies, however, provide evidence that this type of relationship between bulimia and depression is still unconfirmed. (Levy et al., 1989) The second hypothesis constitutes that bulimia is a "distinctive diagnostic entity with a psychopathological process different from that of other mental disorders". (Hinz, et al., 1987) The following articles review the findings of research which effect the level of support for these two hypotheses. Cognitive Comparisons in Defining Bulimia and Depression: Bulimia is characterized by a number of symptoms. Many of these symptoms are also common among depression. Schlesier-Carter, et al., 1989 state that for bulimia, "the distinctiv... ... psychopathological process different from that of other mental disorders". (Hinz, et al., 1987) Further research and study on the relationship between bulimia and depression is highly encouraged. With the high percentage of depression found in bulimic patients, understanding the link between these disorders is essential for treatment development. Bibliography: Hinz, L. and Williamson, D. (1987). "Bulimia and Depression: A Review of the Affective Variant Hypothesis". Psychological Bulletin, 102(1), 150-158. Levy, A., Dixon, K., and Stern, S. (1989). "How are Depression and Bulimia Related". The American Journal of Psychiatry, 146(2), 162-168. Schlesier-Carter, B., Hamilton, S., O'Neil, P., Lydiard, R., and Malcolm, R. "Depression and Bulimia: The Link Between Depression and Bulimic Cognitions". Journal of Abnormal Psychology, 98(3), 322-325.