Analysis of Lidl’s business strategies Essay Essay Example

Analysis of Lidl’s business strategies Essay Essay Lidl Stiftung A ; Co is an international price reduction supermarket that is located in Germany. The company was founded in the early 1940s by one member of the Schwarz household. The company has been runing in most parts of Europe. giving the other viing houses a really tough land for retail concern. Currently. the company has over 10. 000 shops. most of which are in the UK. The company is the 5th best retail merchant in the universe with a net income of $ 82. 4 billion ( Lidl. 2011 ) . Apart from being active in the retail concern. the company besides carries out a figure of services such as DVD lease. which was launched in 2009 and bakeshop services launched in 2012. We will write a custom essay sample on Analysis of Lidl’s business strategies Essay specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Analysis of Lidl’s business strategies Essay specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Analysis of Lidl’s business strategies Essay specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Harmonizing to Sillince ( 2006 ) . resource based position in competitory advantage can assist Lidl in accomplishing competitory advantage by looking at the internal factors that are within its system. For case. the company has used its employees in guaranting that it achieves most of its ends within the shortest clip possible. In add-on. the company has achieved greater competitory advantage that has led to increase in the sum of net incomes and market portion by internal touchable and intangible factors such as merchandises and values severally. In add-on. the company uses heterogenous and immobile resource-based positions to guarantee the accomplishment of the most effectual competitory advantage in the market. Discourse and break have besides affected the company hence doing it work towards guaranting that it produces more to enable it sell better than other houses. The PESTEL analysis straight and comprehensively evaluates the industry’s external environment elements in order to place the overall available chances and dangers of specific processs. on the evidences that patterned advances in these elements can motivate the immense alteration of concerns. peculiarly as clip goes on. Specifically. PESTEL chiefly highlights Political. Economic. Social. Technological. Environmental every bit good as Legal variables. The first facet of PESTLE analysis is the political facet. With over 10. 000 shops in Europe entirely. Lidl needs to pull off alone political illustrations impacting its concern operations. One of the major political constituents act uponing the concern is natural confidence Torahs to oblige companies to follow with all the authorities demands. The 2nd imperative constituent is UK authorities verve progress plans for advanced work of retail merchandises. For this state of affairs. legion retail companies have been able to greatly undergo structural alterations in order to suit in the authorities policies. In add-on Lild uses economic internal and external factors. Fiscal elements incorporate pecuniary development in the option verve commercial endeavors and increase in the disbursal of using the cars basically because of the acclivity in fuel costs in the brief clip. In this mode. the involvement for more-proficient cars is higher than in the recent yesteryear. Consequently. convalescence of GDP and the lifting rate in the bulk of the slowly developing states from the recessive period that happened in 2008/2009 has a immense consequence on the client purchasing power. The company besides has a stable fiscal system that enables it to pass on efficaciously and favourably. Furthermore. Social constituents are identified with enlargement natural concerns. outlook and emphasis on points. which are eco-friendly. In add-on. without a uncertainty the current society judge’s persons focused around the kind of the car they buy and the idea of holding electric vehicles enhances the social place of a individual individual. The company has besides considered a figure of cultural elements that help in accomplishment of competitory advantage and in publicity of client involvements. For case. the company stocks assorted points used by about all the faiths in Europe. With the rise in engineering. Lidl has tried to better its client service platform to guarantee that the new technological facets are included in order to avoid any holds. In add-on. the company has allowed clients to do purchases utilizing recognition cards and cheques in order to do purchases easier and faster. Besides. in order to crush rivals and derive competitory advantage against other rivals in the retail industry. Presently. legion retail shops have confronted the aggressive weight to bring forth eco-accommodating merchandises. Natural constituents. for illustration. spread outing attending to environmental alteration lead to alterations in operations and organizations’ points and disposals. in visible radiation of the fact that clients are acquiring more aware of ecological impacts of coevals. Lidl has besides ensured that it initiates assorted environmentally friendly facets such as the usage of the modernised ways of managing waste disposal such as recycling. Additionally. legion ordinances emanate from authoritiess showing verve recognition undertakings and seting weight on creative activity eco-accommodating merchandises. for illustration. licencing companies to fall in the new techniques for green concern and working towards cut downing the effects of wastes from vehicles on the environment ( Sillince. 2006 ) . Porters Fiver Competitive forces are some of the most indispensable tools that Lidl has to utilize in guaranting that it achieves competitory advantage in the retail sector. The company needs to place some of the most desirable schemes and utilize them towards accomplishing the best portion of the market portion. The first force is Threat of new entrants. Presently. the retail industry has the highest hazard from the menace of new entrants. Having entered the industry in 1940s. Lidl besides faced the troubles of being a new entrant in a market that needed high capital and had increased jobs that rose from constructing a trade name name to apathetic distributers. However. Lidl managed to go through through this and is still on the brink to go the highest market holder in the industry. The general bargaining power vested on the purchasers is unsure and Lidl had to trust on their intimacy with advertizers in order to delight the purchasers. These advertizers are some of the purchasers of Lidl hence doing it achieve competitory advantage in the market. Besides. the menace of permutation is comparatively low since really few houses produce can fit the market covered by Lidl. This has given Lidl an upper manus in the retail concern hence increasing the advantage over other companies. In add-on. in its command to come in the US market. Lidl has to antagonize the benefits that Wal-Mart has given to the consumers. Based on Suppliers’ dickering power despite edifice strong dealingss with the chief providers. Lidl has a difficult clip seeking to win other providers. However. its ability to purchase merchandises in majority has helped increase its dickering power among the providers thereby giving it a higher competitory advantage ( Clegg Et. . Al. 2006 ) . Competition in the Industry is apparent in the presence of rivals in the market. Despite holding rivals such as Morison’s in the UK and Wal-Mart in the US. Lidl has managed to antagonize competition in the market by utilizing the best schemes that are aimed at bettering the company’s image among the assorted international and local clients. Mentions Balogun. J. . Jacobs. C. . Jarzabkowski. P. . Mantere. S. . A ; Vaara. E. ( 2014 ) . Puting scheme discourse in context: Sociomateriality. sensemaking. and power. Journal of Management Studies. 51 ( 2 ) . 175-201. Clegg. S. R. . Kornberger. M. . A ; Pitsis. T. ( 2011 ) . Pull offing and organisations: An debut to theory and pattern. . : Sage. Clegg. S. R. . Hardy. C. . Lawrence. T. . A ; Nord. W. R. ( Eds. ) . ( 2006 ) . The Sage enchiridion of organisation surveies. Sage. Colla. E. ( 2003 ) . International enlargement and schemes of price reduction food market retail merchants: the winning theoretical accounts. International Journal of Retail A ; Distribution Management. 31 ( 1 ) . 55-66. Hanf. J. . A ; Hanf. C. H. ( 2007 ) . Does nutrient quality direction make a competitory advantage. Quality direction in nutrient ironss. Wageningen. Wageningen Academic Publishers. 489-502. Hill. C. . A ; Jones. G. ( 2009 ) . Strategic direction theory: An incorporate attack. Boston. Maine: Cengage Learning. Morschett. D. . Swoboda. B. . A ; Schramm-Klein. H. ( 2006 ) . Competitive schemes in retailing—an probe of the pertinence of Porter’s model for nutrient retail merchants. Journal of Retailing and Consumer Services. 13 ( 4 ) . 275-287. Porter. M. ( 2005 ) . Strategy as action: Competitive kineticss and competitory advantage: Competitive kineticss and competitory advantage. . : Oxford University Press. Porter. M. E. ( 1998 ) . Competitive scheme: Techniques for analysing industries and rivals. . : Free Press. Sillince. J. A. ( 2006 ) . Resources and Organizational Identities The Role of Rhetoric in the Creation of Competitive Advantage. Management Communication Quarterly. 20 ( 2 ) . 186-212. Beginning papers

Process Safety Management in the Oil and Gas Industry The WritePass Journal

Process Safety Management in the Oil and Gas Industry Abstract Process Safety Management in the Oil and Gas Industry ). The development of various processes and standards has adhered to meet the needs emerging in the global oil and gas industry. Scientific research extensively focuses on the psychology of how irrationality and cognitive biases may lead to inadequate risk assessment and improper decision-making processes. Thus, the necessity to create practical and simple solutions is urgent than ever (Bergh et al., 2014). The introduction of Health, Safety and Environment Management Systems (HSE-MS) is important part of this process. Basic elements of HSE-MS include commitment to appropriate leadership practices, setting of clear goals and objectives, and undertaking strict risk evaluation and control procedures   (Ash, 2010). When organisations in the oil and gas industry adhere to these aspects of their overall management, positive results can be expected in the long term. Communication among all divisions of organisations should be ensured in order to meet the expectations of all stakeholders in the industry. Management should provide commitment and personal involvement in health, safety and the environment as a whole (Zimolong and Elke, 2006). A proper expectation that could be indicated relates to setting a personal example of following major HSE rules. The decisions that could be made should consider aspects of quality, cost, morale, and production. In the process of introducing HSE principles in the oil and gas industry, it should be pointed out that allocation of resources should be done effectively in an attempt to carry out some of the most important functions of HSE. The development of local HSE policies should be in line with corporate objectives and standard as relating to the oil and gas industry (Ramirez et al., 2013). Setting objectives for continuous improvement should be the focal point of introducing such policies. All levels of management should be involved in similar processes to achieve optimal efficiency and productivity. In addition, certain objectives should be developed to mitigate risk within organisations operating in the oil and gas industry. The stage of risk evaluation and management should be consistently introduced in oil and gas companies in order to adhere to major HSE management guidelines that may contribute to decreasing the risk of incidents in this industry (Zimolong and Elke, 2006). This step i s associated with the establishment of a proper methodology that outlines acute and chronic hazards including their perceived effects. Moreover, it is important to conduct flexible hazard assessments at the design, development and operating stages. The application of risk management tools may significantly facilitate the process of achieving of the set policy objectives. It has been identified that an effective legislative programme requires three essential dimensions: powerful and well-resources regulations, setting accountability parameters to drive appropriate behaviours in the industry, and ensuring solid industry support (Berg et al., 2014). The globalisation of HSE issues for the oil and gas industry should be explored in order to demonstrate a process of setting high standards of performance in the field. In 2011, the European Commission released a series of legislative proposals to guarantee offshore safety (Ramirez et al., 2013). The focus on preserving the natural environment has been properly maintained. HSE policies are expected to cover oil spill and emergency response preparedness, quality assurance and management systems. The utmost goal of similar initiatives is to ensure a healthy and safe environment for employees in oil and gas companies as well as for residents of different countries (Ash, 2010). The conduct of particular operations from the oil and gas industry should be done with the consideration of strict professional standards for safety. In fact, the safety of employees should be taken into consideration as well as the environment and economic values. In general, oil and gas companies are committed to developing of proper systems for monitoring of their technical facilities and plants. The occurrence of various incidents in the industry, such as the Macondo incident, the US Department of the Interior undertook drastic measures in 2011 to mitigate risks in this sector (Haight, 2013). Two new agencies were created to monitor a series of operations and activities in the Gulf of Mexico, as these are the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) and the Bureau of Offshore Energy Management (BOEM). In addition, the Department was responsible for issuing new and more effective regulations to address the specific roles and functioning of these two agencies (Bergh et al., 2014). Product specifications along with emission controls and climate change programmes have contributed to the development of proper and highly effective HSE systems. It can be suggested that these aspects can have a significant impact on the production and profitability of different products introduced by oil and gas companies. Moreover, there are certain environmental laws that require organisations that operate in this industry to restore all areas in which particular incidents or unauthorised release of various hazardous materials have taken place. It can be anticipated that HSE laws and regulations can have a rather positive impact on the operations of oil and gas companies (Zimolong and Elke, 2006). However, it may be challenging to indicate what would be the potential future effects of certain legislations adopted in the context of the global oil and gas industry. There may be risks associated with HSE costs and liabilities, which may be evident in the activities of global oil and gas companies. Thus, such organisations recognise the importance of implementing solid HSE standards and management tools to facilitate the accomplishment of certain outcomes (Ash, 2010). One of the legislative frameworks that provide substantial information on applying HSE standards in the oil and gas industry is the IADC HSE Case Guidelines. These guidelines â€Å"provide a framework for developing an integrate health, safety and environmental management system for use in reducing the risks associated with offshore and onshore drilling activities† (International Association of Drilling Contractors, 2014). The significant of the guidelines reflects in the adoption of high standards that can help in increasing global health, safety and environmental awareness in relation to the oil and gas industry. The worldwide acceptance of the guidelines in countries such as Australia, Canada, South Africa and Cuba implies their universal applicability to solve emerging challenges in the respective industry (Ash, 2010). The need to assist regulatory authorities around the world may contribute to the delivery of standards and principles that are closely tailored to correspon d to the needs of oil and gas companies. Emphasis is put on reassuring that the most proper industry practices have been implemented in terms of health, safety and environmental concerns. Lessons from the Nuclear Power of the Defence Industry Thus, the focus can be shifted to learning important lessons from the nuclear power of the defence industry. One of the crucial lessons learned so far is that of interaction considering that different legislations throughout the world may demonstrate the adoption of similar approaches to mitigate risks in the oil and gas industry (Bergh et al., 2014). Interaction emerging at all stages of the assessments is important to make sure that all needs of the stakeholders in the industry are met. Another lesson that can be learned from the defence industry and applied to the oil and gas industry relates to access to information. It is essential to understand that particular parts of the development projects may contain classified information (Zimolong and Elke, 2006). Such details may be significant in the process of carrying out the intended assessment procedures. Timing also is a valuable lesson that can be drawn from the defence industry in terms of focussing on all points during the proj ect planning stage. It should be initially noted that assessments involving EIA and HSE-MS tools serve as an adequate decision support system that should be available in a timely manner. Analysis of Human Failure Contribution to Process Risk In order to gain understanding of human reliability and accident causation, it is important to focus on various HSE management tools including HAZID, HEMP and HAZOP. One of the most powerful tools for the identification of major hazards and risks, which can be implemented in the global oil and gas industry, is HAZID (Ovind and Sneve, 2004). Its use is recommended to be done early to demonstrate greater precision and accuracy of results. The key benefits of HAZID include fast identification and correction of potential deviations, providing records of hazards to avoid and mitigate further risks in the global oil and gas industry (Rausand, 2013). The method actually represents a design-enabling tool used to enhance the HSE parameters in particular projects. Furthermore, the Hazards and Effects Management Process (HEMP) was designed to present a highly structured approach to analysing various hazards in the life cycle pertaining to installation processes in the industry. This method refers to a three-day session in which participants are provided with significant information on risk management and essential HEMP principles, including HEMP’s role in the HSE management systems (Bergh et al., 2014). The management tool identified as HAZOP has been also found useful in identifying and mitigating risks pertaining to the global oil and gas industry. The initial use of this instrument has been considered for the proper identification of hazards through flowsheets and diagrams. It also implements safety audit after several months of operation (Rausand, 2013). Specific procedures considered by oil and gas companies refer to determining the precise degree of hazard and expected change as well as a consideration of the worst case accident th at may occur as a result of the modification. In addition, the management tool requires the appointment of a competent, qualified person to comply with the strict requirements for HAZOP (Ramirez et al., 2013). Case Study of Operating Events at Commercial Nuclear Power Plants However, it is important to focus on the aspects of human failure contribution to process risk as applicable to various events that take place at power plants. The main tools that have been implemented to identify safety events, in which human failure contribution to process risk was investigated, refer to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Accident Sequence Precursor (ASP) Program and the Human Performance Events Database (HPED). Events in this case were selected on the basis of SPAR analyses that contributed to a proper estimation of human errors that eventually increased risks to the completion of these events (Rausand, 2013). In addition, different human error categories and subcategories have been identified to demonstrate greater accuracy of findings. The formation of categories took place in line with their frequency of occurrence (Gertman et al., 2001). Major categories included command, control, resource allocation, operator actions, communications, design deficiencies, design change testing, configuration management, as well as procedures of maintenance and monitoring of various work processes (Zimolong and Elke, 2006). It has been argued that human failure substantially contributed to process risk in relation to operating events. For instance, seven human errors have been identified to contribute to the emergence of numerous event failures in the identified power plants. Another challenge that has been observed in this case study referred to the lack of attention to recurrent problems (Ash, 2010). In fact, the lack of attention and care to recurrent problems was estimated in approximately 41% of the operating events (Gertman et al., 2001). Such inattention mostly related to improper NRC inspection findings, industry notices, and vendor notices. Operating with known design deficiencies also created certain problems at the commercial nuclear power plants. Human failure was evident in the inability or error to follow plant and industry trends as well as provide timely responses to industry notices (Ramirez et al., 2013). Active human errors were identified as quite problematic pertaining to command and control and resource allocation failures, amounting to almost 28%. For instance, it has been indicated that command and control between Oconee Unit 2 1992 and Keowee hydroelectric station turned out to compromise or challenge the response from the plant (Gertman et al., 2001). The tasks performed by Keowee staff seemed to have affected emergency power at Oconee without receiving proper notifications from control room management. This is a clear example of how human failure contributed to increased risks of operating events. In this relation, it is essential to separate human actions in pre-initiator categories and post-initiator categories (Rausand, 2013). Pre-initiator actions are recognised as actions that may affect the availability of systems and elements associated with the response to incidents. Such actions mostly include errors in restoring particular systems after maintenance procedures at the plants (Zimolong and Elke, 2006). Post-initiator human actions represent a type of responses to incidents occurring in the power plants, as they may be also recovery actions in terms of restoring certain failed systems. It can be suggested that latent human errors mostly suppose a direct relation with pre-initiator human actions, as they are further related to numerous failures in the system. Therefore, it can be concluded that the results obtained from this case study indicated that human performance contributed essentially to increasing risks in analysed operating events (Bergh et al., 2014). Human failures to correct known problems have been frequently identified along with errors made during design and maintenance activities at commercial nuclear power plants. Thus, the results of this case study demonstrate that multiple errors occurring in operating events contribute to the so-called probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) basic events which are evident in SPAR models (Gertman et al., 2001). Importance of EIA and HSE-MS In order to improve practice of the oil and gas industry, the introduction of HSE management systems should take place in line with the integration of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). It is essential to clarify that EIA is defined as a process by which a project’s impact on the environment is measured (Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government, 2013). In case the likely effects are identified as unacceptable, professionals in the field are responsible for developing effective mitigation strategies to reduce such a perceived negative impact. Thus, EIA is a crucial tool used in managing the complex interrelations between development and the environment (Rausand, 2013). The examination of the environmental consequences of development actions is done in a structured manner based on multidisciplinary approaches applicable to the global oil and gas industry. The integration of EIA and HSE-MS tools may adequately facilitate the functioning of oil and gas com panies. The primary goal of these management tools is to ensure strict compliance with relevant legislations and standards in the field of operation (Bergh et al., 2014). It is of crucial importance that all HSE hazards are identified and handled in a timely manner. Their systemic assessment is a proper step towards ensuring that all criteria for adequate performance have been met. The integration of these assessments allows for accurate procedures implemented in the context of risk management for oil and gas companies worldwide. For instance, it may be indicated that various development projects that involve the use of radioactive material and nuclear fuel represent serious risks and hazards, which should be extensively assessed through the frameworks of EIA and HSE-MS (Abaza et al., 2004). Global oil and gas companies are held responsible for ensuring that   all dimensions pertaining to human health, environment and security are thoroughly considered prior to the accomplishment of particular projects. Thus, importance is placed on risk assessment and environmental impact assessment of planned activities in the oil and gas industry (Rausand, 2013). As a result, such organisations are committed to improve their internal procedures that play a key role in conducting risk assessment and environmental impact assessment. In this context, a viable measure would be to screen all nuclear safety project proposals to ensure that such assessment procedures are done appropriately. Additional requirements for compliance may be specified by the authorities in particular countries in which oil and gas companies operate (Ash, 2010). International measures should be constantly improved in relation to the integration of EIA and HSE-MS measures (Zimolong and Elke, 2006). This aspect may lead to extensive support for initiating a co-ordinated international action to demonstrate high-quality environmental impact assessment and risk assessment pertaining to projects developed in the oil and gas industry. An overall risk assessment is fundamental in order to ensure that all development projects are completed in a cost-efficient and secure manner. These aspects should be considered in the process of setting certain priorities in the operation of oil and gas companies (Ramirez et al., 2013). Such thorough assessments may direct efforts to generate necessary funds for the completion of more urgent tasks in the industry. Conclusion In conclusion, this paper provided a relevant exploration of process safety management in the global oil and gas industry. Specific arguments have been introduced in order to emphasise the important role of HSE-MS tools, which combined with EIA, may contribute to greater efficiency and safety of work practices in oil and gas companies around the world (Rausand, 2013). The paper focuses on discussing the effectiveness of HSE management systems. In addition, human failure contribution was analysed as related to process risk evident at operating events in commercial nuclear power plants. Another aspect outlined in the report included the integration of EIA and HSE-MS tools that may lead to better recognition and maintenance of risks identified in the oil and gas industry (Bergh et al., 2014). In conclusion, providing accurate assessments is associated with the delivery of positive outcomes in this industry. References Abaza, H., Bisset, R. and Sadler, B. (2004). ‘Environmental Impact Assessment and Strategic Environmental Assessment: Towards an Integrated Approach’. UNEP [online]. Available at: unep.ch/etu/publications/textONUbr.pdf [Accessed on: 28 Nov. 2014]. Ash, J. (2010). ‘New Nuclear Energy, Risk, and Justice: Regulatory Strategies for an Era of Limited Trust’. Politics Policy, vol. 38(2): 255-284. Bergh, L. I., Hinna, S. and Leka, S. (2014). ‘Sustainable Business Practice in a Norwegian Oil and Gas Company’. Contemporary Occupational Health Psychology: Global Perspectives on Research and Practice, vol. 3: 198-217. Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government (2013). Guidelines for Planning Authorities and An Bord Pleanala on Carrying out Environmental Impact Assessment [online]. Available at: environ.ie/en/Publications/DevelopmentandHousing/Planning/FileDownLoad,32720,en.pdf [Accessed on: 28 Nov. 2014]. Gertman, D. I., Hallbert, B. P., Parrish, M. W., Sattision, M. B., Brownson, D. and Tortorelli, J. P. (2001). ‘Review of Findings for Human Error Contribution to Risk in Operating Events’. NUREG [online]. Available at: nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc-collections/nuregs/contract/cr6753/cr6753.pdf [Accessed on: 28 Nov. 2014]. Haight, J. M. (2013). ‘Process Safety Regulations around the World’. Handbook of Loss Prevention Engineering, vol. 12: 463-499. International Association of Drilling Contractors (2014). IADC HSE Case Guidelines [online]. Available at: iadc.org/iadc-hse-case-guidelines/ [Accessed on: 28 Nov. 2014]. Ovind, A. K. and Sneve, M. (2004). ‘Environmental Impact Assessment and Risk Assessment in Northwestern Russia-from a Norwegian Perspective’. IAEA Organisation [online]. Available at: iaea.org/OurWork/ST/NE/NEFW/CEG/documents/ws032004_Ovind.pdf [Accessed on: 28 Nov. 2014]. Ramirez, P. A., Utne, I. B. and Haskins, C. (2013). ‘Application of Systems Engineering to Integrate Ageing Management into Maintenance Management of Oil and Gas Facilities’. Systems Engineering, vol. 16(3): 329-345. Rausand, M. (2013). Risk Assessment: Theory, Methods, and Applications. New York: Wiley. Zimolong, B. M. and Elke, G. (2006). ‘Occupational Health and Safety Management’. Handbook of Human Factors and Ergonomics: 671-707.

Fords social media marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Fords social media marketing - Essay Example Contemporary business strategies evolve along with the introduction of social media as a marketing tool. In their attempt to attain a distinct business edge, companies leverage social media to increase productivity and market appeal.Mangold and Faulds mention that social media marketing is a hybrid mix of various promotional methods, which includes personal selling, word-of-mouth advertising strategy, and consumer relations (358). For instance, social media allows customers to contribute insights for product development, comment on existing products, and recommend their preferred brands to their friends. Consequently, this benefits manufacturers in a way that they will understand the needs of the market, and have direct, virtual interaction with customers. To attain a comprehensive understanding about the use and impact of social media, this paper discusses Ford’s social media marketing strategies through Facebook and Twitter. Throughout this research, this paper hopes to disc uss the risks of Ford’s social media marketing method and identify specific points of development. Advertising Tools Facebook Dale Buss reports that Ford continues to partner with Facebook in advertising its products although the company will change its advertising strategy to address more profitable market trends such as customer support and interaction (paras. 1-3). For instance, Scott Monty, one of Ford’s senior executives, highlights the productivity of its Facebook ads such as paid advertising and integrated content while emphasising the profitability of extending Ford’s ads to allow more customer interaction (Buss paras. 9-10). Specifically, Ford uses Facebook’s advertising tools such as Logout Ads, Instagram, and Social Plugins. Using those Facebook tools allows Ford to increase its interaction with customers. For instance, with those tools, Ford will be able to share company updates with its customers, particularly those about the company’s latest promos, products, and events. Consequently, raising the brand awareness of customers advances the corporate image of Ford, which is also likely to increase sales. Twitter Aside from Facebook, Ford also advertises with Twitter through Promoted Tweets and User-Generated tweets that link to content articles about Ford’s products. In the report by Morrissey, he discovered the profitability of User-Generated tweets through linking one of Ford’s content articles with a third party blogger, Collier. Morrissey reports that Farley had linked one of his tweets to Collier’s article about saving funds through social media marketing; this results to the continued use of content integration between Ford-related contents with third-party bloggers. The profitability of this tool lies in its capacity to reach out to internet-savvy millennials, which comprise 55% of Twitter users (Slutsky paras. 1-2). It is also noteworthy to consider that the said number of Twitter users does not have cars, which makes the strategy a viable option in increasing Ford’s market reach. Consequently, using those tools helps Ford establish interaction with millennials and ensures favorable relations with customers through expanding the market’s avenues for expression. This may result to Ford’s accessibility to different market groups. Advertising Methods Halliday reports that Ford uses social media to strengthen its customer service, particularly in establishing active and profitable interactions with its customers (paras. 1-3). This advertising strategy also allows Ford to reach out to wider demographics, which will help determine and design specific brands that will attract various market groups. Specifically, Halliday reports that Ford maximises the profitability of social media through creating message boards and forums, as well as providing virtual troubleshooting assistance to cater customer queries and suggestions. In the marketing perspective , using social media to generate customer-related information is beneficial for the company,

Leadership Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words - 1

Leadership - Term Paper Example Benefits as well as setbacks resulting from ethical and unethical leadership are mentioned respectively. In addition, the role of ethical decision making in the management of public institutions is illustratively explored. Also, relevant moral frameworks and guidelines for decision making like the utilitarian approach, and the common-good approach are explored sufficiently. Moreover, a personal perception on ethical leadership is demonstrated through the hypothetical problems identified in preceding sections of the paper. Finally, the paper closes with analysis of short-term and long-term recommendations, on how to improve the unethical problems within the Operating Tax for Commercial Transportation profession. In the United States, most jurisdictions have legislations that allow for taxation of commercial transport businesses. Tax imposed on commercial transport businesses is commonly referred to as commercial transportation tax. In an effort to increase their revenues, legislations in certain states like Virginia necessitated imposition of levy fees on commercial vehicles like delivery cars, trucks, and earth moving machines among others (Lindsey, 2008). Occasionally, vehicle weight is used as criteria in determining the amount of tax payable by the commercial vehicle operator. For instance, commercial vehicles with a weight exceeding 26,000 lbs are normally required to file tax returns to appropriate state authorities. In addition, light motor vehicles like city passenger transport cars are required to file for tax returns based on the millage parameter. In this context, it is worth acknowledging that commercial transportation tax applies only for motor vehicles and other means of trans portation that carriers goods or passengers for a fee. Private vehicles, school busses and government fleets are exempted from this type of levy. During implementation of tax policies for commercial transportation, unethical practices are often reported (Brown,

Taylors Law and the Right to Strike by Public Employees Research Paper

Taylors Law and the Right to Strike by Public Employees - Research Paper Example The law states that the public employers should negotiate and enter into agreements with the unions regarding the terms and conditions of employing their employees. The law highlights the procedures to resolute collective bargaining disputes as well as defines and prohibits any improper practices conducted by public employers and union. Taylor Law strictly prohibits strikes by public employees and establishes a state agency known as the Public Employment Relations Board (PERB) that is responsible for administering the law (PERB 2013). While the statements which are asserted are not conclusive regarding the existence of such a right, there is an immediate need to inquire and determine whether a right to strike exists or not. Discussion Right to Strike by Public Employees Strikes are collective actions which are taken by workers as a means of safeguarding their interest (Swiatkowski 2005, 285). Over the last six decades, the International Labor Organization (ILO) has recognized that th ere is a positive right to strike by public employees that are inextricably interlinked to and an unavoidable consequence of the right to freedom of association (Bellace 2013, 2). According to Samuelsen (2012), the right of public employee unions to bargain collectively is being challenged aggressively by Conservative politicians and media. In the United States of America, both the Republican and Democratic Government have collectively supported the regulations (bills) that put restrictions on what unions can bargain for and have bludgeoned public workers into massive cuts. Under the impression of the freedom of association, it was witnessed quite frequently that workers joined together to demand better terms of employment from their employers. If the employer refrained from agreeing to their demands then workers usually resorted to some form of industrial actions such as strikes, boycotts or picketing in order to put pressure on the employee to meet their demands (Bellace 2013, 6-7 ). Every public employee does deserve the right to strike in order to prevent themselves from being exploited by their superior or employer. It is of utmost importance to demonstrate disagreement in situations where excessive domination is done by the employers (Lacampagne 1983, 510). Milne (2011) explains that there are five reasons why public service workers have the right to strike. The author explains that the government is trying to exploit the employees by trying to make most pay more and work longer for less even after the month’s modest concessions. The author explained that this practice is being done by the government not to fund pensions because people are living longer, but to help bail out banks by paying the deficit when an economic crisis is triggered.

Ethics And Values

Ethics And Values Ethical dilemma The ethical dilemma I will discuss will be based on some truth of an event that happened when I was a support worker five years ago in a mental health trust organisation. The patient will be referred to as girl ‘A and members of the multidisciplinary team will be referred to as professionals. A very brief description of the girls mental health illness was schizophrenia this can have an effect on a persons mind in such a way that they can hear voices and send smells that are not real to the human eye. Other features can include delusional thoughts this is where the person can believe that certain situations and circumstances have happened to them and it is very clear to the person on the contrary it can make a person feel that others do not believe them (CAMHS, 2002). The ethical dilemma Girl ‘A was 15 years of age, when she was sectioned under the 1983 Mental Health Act section 2. Girl ‘A received a letter from a friend at home. This letter revealed that her friend had been raped from girl ‘As mothers boyfriend. Girl ‘A had prior to this letter disclosed to the nursing team that she herself had been raped from her mothers boyfriend. She decided not to take action for fear of losing the relationship she had recently built up with her mother. At this time the girl wanted her mother to never find out about the disclosure of this rape ordeal. The friend told girl ‘A that this situation was going to court. At this point girl ‘A decided it was time to put closure on her own rape ordeal and therefore wanted to go to court and declare her own rape ordeal. The ethical dilemma is should the girl called go to court or not? Reference Reading from Leathard, A. McLaren. (2007) Ethics contemporary challenges in health and social care. The Policy Press: UK. There are three more approaches which often conflict with many ethical problems they are deontology, conceptualism and virtue ethics (Leathard McLaren, 2007). It approaches can give directions to ethical dilemmas. Consequentialism -also referred to as utiliarism discovered by Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill. The aims of this approach are consider the consequences of taking a particular form of action (ibid). All areas of an ethical dilemma using this approach would be given equal weight when considering the outcome (ibid). In health care this approach can be seen to be used when considering decisions that need to be made about the allocation of resources (ibid). Personal Values my personal values You will describe your values but there is no right/wrong answer to this. It is basically how you presented your dilemma to the ethic group |Julie. How does my personal knowledge, culture, and life experience affect this dilemma for you? feelings What values are in conflict and how has this made you feel? What were your fears? Given similar circumstances with another person would the outcome be the same? how do these impact on the questions you asked resp. to me as a person PROCESS How and why am I making a choice I am making i.e., what did I think, feel, and what did I do or not do? How was my decision making affective by what factors of legislation, standards, policies and organisational policies/procedures and values? What other resources would be helpful to me in making the decisions about the dilemma? Keep using reflection I think this part Julie is where you have begun to described the different ethical approaches. Deontology deon means duty and ology is the science, this approach was discovered by Kantian. The aims of this approach does not consider the consequences rather it acts on what is morally right, in particular deontologists treat the situation or client with respect for individuality which is its greatest importance. This approach would not approve of telling lies to a client even if it was in the best interest. Any decision is made using deontology would have to be based on fact. Duty based theories which would allow the worker and the client to acts of the greatest outcome which would avoid harm. This approach recognises autonomy, trust and the equity of provisions (ibid). Virtue derived from Aristotelian ideologies. Thomas Aquinas (1990) defines virtue ethics is not only knowledge but also the approach taken to provide integration using this knowledge for an ethical dilemma situation, an area of â€Å"manifestation of ethical professional behaviour† (ibid: 71). Virtue ethics describe a persons character beliefs and values quality is in actions that they believe are morally sound. Beauchamp and Childress (1989) describe four ethical principles that should be considered when dealing with any ethical dilemma they are: beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy and justice (ibid: 72). However these four ethical principles at times can conflict therefore critical judgement is required when choosing a particular procedure to take. These four ethical principles they can provide a framework to assist the worker(s)/client(s) situation by empowering the thinking process, this helps with the decision process of the ethical dilemma (ibid). In virtuous practitioner must take into account the different viewpoints by recognising the potential conflicts that can happen between these four ethical principles. It is therefore recommended that a practitioner makes critical judgements as to which approach would be more appropriate to the ethical dilemma. â€Å"Gardiner (2003) comments that the virtuous practitioner is driven by deep desire to behave well and that this approach has a flexibility that can encourage innovative solutions while acknowledging that there will often be elements of pain or regret† (ibid: 76). So from the ethical dilemma if beneficence was applied the patients best interest and wishes and feelings would have been considered using this approach. Although, it could appear harmful to the patient, if the sole views of her situation were considered because this could have had an adverse effect on the best interests of the patient. Non-maleficence applying this approach to the ethical dilemma could show how the professional has protected the patient from actual or potential harm; this is particularly successful when the practitioner evaluates his/her knowledge and skills realistically ensuring any form of intervention is taken within their professional capacity. However should the worker feel there could be limitations then they should seek and share this information with the team of professionals caring for the girl? This particular approach may have been applied from support worker/primary care workers point of view this is because non-maleficence provides the support worker/primary care worker with more details from the clients perspective of the situation whereas; a professional may only work with the girl on if few occasions. Therefore the implications of the support worker/primary care worker not sharing information with other professionals can cause great harm to the patient. If the support worker/prima ry care worker advises the patient â€Å"there is nothing more I can do† then this will be harmful and unhelpful to the patient (ibid: 74). Autonomy the principle of autonomy and impact on disclosure and confidentiality. However a patient has a right to information about their condition and their situation, the patients views beliefs and values should be respected. Although, legally the girl in the ethical dilemma was sectioned under the 1983 mental health act section 2 and therefore their grounds a practitioner must take with regards to an appropriate decision this can conflict the patients best interest/wishes and feelings. Using the ethical dilemma in this instance shows when â€Å"beneficence or non-maleficence overruling patient autonomy† (ibid: 75). The practitioner will endeavour to the first duty to the patient however the practitioner must balance this duty to the patient with regard to the wider risks and involvement of others. Gillon (2003), autonomy is a component of the other three ethical principles and autonomy should take priority with respect for the patient (ibid). Justice and equity â€Å"The Aristotelian principles suggest that I trust system should ensure equal and should be treated equally and unequals unequally† (ibid: 77). Considering justice and equity to the ethical dilemma the patient may feel the decision to not go to court un-fair. However the practitioner should deliver an Albanys about the criteria that was used to make the decisions they made about this ethical dilemma. The principles of justice and equity can allow for decisions to be made and distributed according to the patients need, merits, capacity or rights. In this situation a practitioner may remind the patient of her rights in respect to a complaints procedure (ibid). ISSUES POWER/polices What are the rights of the child? What rights as a person? Are there any rights in terms of seeking closure? All your doing here is answering and showing Why and what policies may be used with this dilemma. Julie notes for power every child matters is a Green paper that was published in 2003 by the government as a response to the death of Victoria Climbie. In 2000 for the childrens act became law from a thorough consultation process and it is this legislation that underpins the legalities of Every Child Matters, by ensuring five necessary outcomes are followed when ensuring the health, safety and well being of children from birth to 19 years. The five outcomes are being healthy, staying safe, enjoying and achieving, making a positive contribution and achieving economic well-being (Every Child Matters, 2003 Cited in http://www.dcsf.gov.uk/everychildmatters/about/ on 20/10/09 @ 13:05). RESP.OF ORG. What is the organisations point of view? Ie NHS, CAMHS why do they use them what are the values of these principles to s/u Organisations policies This report sets out a new vision for the future of mental health and well-being in England. Based on four principles, it outlines the priorities we believe should underpin mental health policy for the next decade. Our four principles for mental health policy are: Mental health and well-being is everybodys business. It affects every family in Britain and it can only be improved if coordinated, assertive action is taken across Whitehall and at all levels of government. Good mental health holds the key to a better quality of life in Britain. We need to promote positive mental health, prevent mental ill health and intervene early when people become unwell. People should get as much support to gain a good quality of life and fulfil their potential from mental health services as they expect to receive from physical healthcare services. Mental health care should offer hope and support for people to recover and live their lives on their own terms. We need a new relationship between mental health services and those who use them. Service users, carers and communities should be offered an active role in shaping the support available to them. With these principles at the heart of policy, we believe we can create a society in which good mental health is nurtured and in which mental ill health is managed well. As a consequence, our mental well-being will be a core concern of government. Effective action to promote good mental health will be taken among people of all ages and diverse backgrounds. People who experience mental distress will receive timely support to live well and have a fair and equal chance to fulfill their potential. The actions that would be needed to make our vision a reality are summarized overleaf. (Health, 2009) Organisation/mental health What is sectioning? Most patients in hospital wards cannot be prevented from leaving when they wish, and their consent must be obtained before treatment is given. The same applies to most patients who are in hospital for psychiatric treatment. They do not object to being in hospital or being treated and are referred to as ‘informal or ‘voluntary patients. However, the Mental Health Act 1983 allows some people to be detained in hospital. When this happens, they are called ‘detained patients and their consent to treatment may no longer be required. This is often known as being ‘sectioned. Some people are detained in hospital by the courts after being charged with a crime. (See Mind rights guide 5: mental health and the courts.) However, most people are detained under the ‘civil sections of the Mental Health Act, which does not involve a court at all. This booklet sets out what must happen before someone can be detained under a civil section, and outlines some of the effects. Mind rights guides 2-5 describe, in more detail, other relevant information about consent to treatment and what to do if you are being detained and you want to leave hospital. What is the process for detaining someone under a civil section? There are two main civil sections of the Mental Health Act 1983, which are used to detain someone: section 2 and section 3. For each section, three people must agree that the individual needs to be detained. Usually, they would be an Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP), a section 12 approved doctor and a registered medical practitioner. The two doctors must agree the person needs to be in hospital and recommend detention. Then, the AMHP decides whether or not to make an application for the persons compulsory admission to hospital. The Nearest Relative (NR) (see below) has the right to make an application. However, the Mental Health Act Code of Practice makes it clear that an AMHP is the preferred applicant and applications by an NR are very rare (the preference for the AMHP as applicant over the NR is re-stated in the new Code of Practice at para 4.28). It does not matter where the person is at the time. They may be at home, in hospital, in a place of safety, or in a police station following an arrest for an alleged criminal offence. In an urgent situation, someone may be admitted to hospital compulsorily, with only one medical recommendation to support an application (section 4). This is allowed if it is felt the criteria for section 2 (see below) are met, but there is no time to wait for another medical recommendation. The second medical recommendation must be obtained within 72 hours. It is important to note that people need not have committed a crime to be detained under a civil section. The law allows anyone to be detained under the procedure described above. What do the different civil sections mean? Section 2 allows for a person to be detained if they are suffering from a mental disorder and they need to be detained, at least for a limited period, for assessment (or for assessment followed by medical treatment) for their own health or safety, or for the protection of other people. Detention can last for up to 28 days. The section cant be renewed, but you may be assessed before the 28 days expires to see if detention under section 3 is necessary. Section 3 allows for a person to be detained if they have a mental disorder, and it is necessary for their own health or safety, or for the protection of other people, and treatment cannot be provided unless they are detained in hospital. A patient cannot be detained under this section unless the doctors also agree that appropriate medical treatment is available for him or her. Detention can last for up to six months. The section can then be renewed by six months, initially, and by a year at a time, subsequently (MIND, 2009). Other professionals Alan suggest the Mental Health Act could be one. What rights does she have under this ACT? Who was present? Consider their positions, charaters, virtues, values ect. why is it a dilemma DEONTOLOGY This is what is meant by your code of conduct this is the link between philsophy and practice it is through the codes of conduct. You will show how the philosophy feeds into codes of conduct and then feeds into practice. Alan explains this is about respect for the person and autonomy. So you need to say A deontology approach would argue this. and this approach would be used because of this Alan gives an example of how to apply this to your scenario: Julie you could argue from one position that deontology is a person in her own right, this does not exist therefore the duty is to the right of this person this is quite deontological this approach also looks at Law, human rights, that sort of thing. Most social workers are this approach All you have to do here is say how and why this approach may be applied to the scenario and where it come from i.e., KANT Consequential/Unitarianism This is what is meant by your code of conduct this is the link between philsophy and practice it is through the codes of conduct. You will show how the philosophy feeds into codes of conduct and then feeds into practice. Alan notes. â€Å"A unitarism approach would argue this. and this approach would be used because of this.Alan example of how to hit this, Consequentialism would suggest you look at the outcomes, if we do not intervene at this point and show some support then this person will suffer damage, they could be harmed that is more this approach and this is the link I want you to make. Most social worker are this approach. All your doing here is saying where did this approach come from how and why would it be used in your dilemma virtue ethics Virtue ethics = the character of the person, so in the same way that I was arguing with the boys you could argue your point of view with your dilemma Alan. Questions to ask and answer with these approaches are: What is the thing that makes one of them valid? â€Å"Probably the character of the person doing the argument†! other words you Julie are very dominate and persuading and therefore one needs to ask is your position genuine? I s it a valid argument? Are you taking it from integrity (honesty, goodness) or serenity (calm, peace, composure, calmness)? All you doing here is saying where this approach came from and why and how would it be used in this dilemma Code of ethic Values These three streams of values in social work influence our practice and are described as TRADITIONAL (being to the tradition route), EMANCIPATORY (to give independence to free someone from something) AND GOVERNANCE (controlled or overlooked by government) Values. How did the GSCC; BASW; and NOS codes of ethics guide your decision and practice outcomes? social constructionist view bibliography

Privacy - Information Collection and National Security :: Argumentative Persuasive Essays

Information and National Security Many people believe that the U.S government is hiding information from their citizens. But has anyone stopped to think that perhaps the government withholds information for the nation's safety. I disagree with the college student who said, "Despite the horror stories of war, I would want to know the truth. If you know the truth of a situation, you might be able to do something about it." I do not believe that 'we' can do something about it. It is ultimately our government who decides on how to act. For the most part, the government should be allowed to conceal the truth for our nation's safety. If the government was to tell the public the truth about everything, it could lead to an uneasy nation. The government releases information that we need to know. If the government were to tell us everything that they have been withholding, it might break citizens into chaos. Our government is here to protect us and not to insight violence in us. We should have faith in our government. For example, if the public were told about a planned attack that could not be prevented, chaos would ensue. People would panic and perhaps cause more damage. Our country needs unity and not chaos. The government is only trying to protect us by keeping secrets. In this time of war, the government has more of a reason to be secretive. The enemies are watching information that goes public. During this time our country needs to be very careful of what kind of information they divulge. If the government were to release important information it may be used against us. It is understandable that the public has curiosity of what is really going on during this war. But ultimately, the public needs to have faith that our government is doing what needs to be done. Many people argue that the government also holds a lot of petty information away from the public. While people may understand why certain information is kept a secret, they would like to know why some 'not so important' information is not released. In my opinion, if the information is petty why should anyone care what it is anyway.

Do Women Lust

Do Women Lust? I think that all women lust because every female has a hormone that comes out when they see a hot guy. They begin to start thinking about the guy and what he looks like with his clothes off. Some women even go as far as telling their friend that’s around them what they would do to the dude. Most people don’t really realize or notice when a lady lust after something. Most females don’t show there expressions on their face but on the inside her mind is running wild about the person whether it’s a male or another female.Most women won’t typically show that their lusting like men try to do. Sometimes the ladies eyes can tell you if they might be lusting or see a man that has caught their eye and they will probably watch them until they leave their sight. Women thoughts are just like men because they have their thoughts and ideas of how they can please the guy. Women know exactly how to turn on a man. They know how to turn them on by manip ulating this hardwired â€Å"quirk† that absolves them of the need to actually know anything about a woman.This means that the women start acting sexy but acting distant at the same time. They do things that they know will make the man want to see what they really can do once they are able to take the woman’s clothes. The women know what they be doing when the start teasing the guy by slowly taking off her clothes and a sexy dance with it. The women know most of the times that they don’t really want to have sex with the man so she will play with his emotions until she gets tired of doing that or until she take it too far and wants to have sex for real with him.

Free Essays on A Life Of Pleasure

A Life of Pleasure In a fast paced society, where everyone is always working and striving to be on top there is always a need for pleasure. Many people today enjoy living for the moment. A Latin phrase known as Carpe Diem quickly comes to mind. This phrase when translated to English means seize the day. That means to suck out everything possible out of life that you possibly can. There is no need to save anything for tomorrow because you may not get another chance. Why should we look into the future when we are in the present? In numerous poems written by Li Po he showed to us that he led a very pleasurable lifestyle. In his poem Bring in the Wine, Li Po states, â€Å" Taste pleasure to the limit,† and â€Å" all I want is to stay dead drunk and never sober up.† Through these statements he makes it very clearly shows his wild and pleasurable lifestyle, similar to many lifestyles led by people today. Clearly Li Po enjoys being intoxicated. Some may question what the need for stimulants may be. Some people may find enjoyment while intoxicated but it doesn’t mean everyone needs to be drunk to have fun and enjoy themselves. Everyone has something that is pleasurable to them. Some people enjoy shopping for themselves or for others. Whereas somebody else may enjoy watching a Sunday football game on their big screen television. There are even those people who find enjoyment working twelve or more hours a day and seven days a week. No matter what it may be that pleasures you, it is suggested to become indulged in it, to such an extent where nothing else matters. Is money an object? Can we put a limit on how much to spend for pleasure? Li Po did not put a price on pleasure. Li Po sent his servant to pawn and trade his possessions for more wine. Some may look at this as if he can’t control himself or that he may have problems with his desire to drink and be drunk all the tim... Free Essays on A Life Of Pleasure Free Essays on A Life Of Pleasure A Life of Pleasure In a fast paced society, where everyone is always working and striving to be on top there is always a need for pleasure. Many people today enjoy living for the moment. A Latin phrase known as Carpe Diem quickly comes to mind. This phrase when translated to English means seize the day. That means to suck out everything possible out of life that you possibly can. There is no need to save anything for tomorrow because you may not get another chance. Why should we look into the future when we are in the present? In numerous poems written by Li Po he showed to us that he led a very pleasurable lifestyle. In his poem Bring in the Wine, Li Po states, â€Å" Taste pleasure to the limit,† and â€Å" all I want is to stay dead drunk and never sober up.† Through these statements he makes it very clearly shows his wild and pleasurable lifestyle, similar to many lifestyles led by people today. Clearly Li Po enjoys being intoxicated. Some may question what the need for stimulants may be. Some people may find enjoyment while intoxicated but it doesn’t mean everyone needs to be drunk to have fun and enjoy themselves. Everyone has something that is pleasurable to them. Some people enjoy shopping for themselves or for others. Whereas somebody else may enjoy watching a Sunday football game on their big screen television. There are even those people who find enjoyment working twelve or more hours a day and seven days a week. No matter what it may be that pleasures you, it is suggested to become indulged in it, to such an extent where nothing else matters. Is money an object? Can we put a limit on how much to spend for pleasure? Li Po did not put a price on pleasure. Li Po sent his servant to pawn and trade his possessions for more wine. Some may look at this as if he can’t control himself or that he may have problems with his desire to drink and be drunk all the tim...

The life of Jane Alexander

The life of Jane Alexander Jane Alexander was born in Johannesburg in 1959. From a very young age she started showing great artistic talent, and is now one of South Africa's most acknowledged sculptors. She studied at the University of Witwatersrand and obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art degree in 1982. That same year, she was the winner of the National Fine Arts Student Competition as well as the Martienssen Student Prize. In 1988 she completed her Masters in Fine Art. She had initially started her degree majoring in painting, but eventually changed to sculpture as she found it much more appealing and realized that she was more suited to it. At university, Alexander was exposed to information about the political situation in South Africa through students' underground organizations and activities, and this contributed greatly to her work.When growing up in the suburbs, Alexander had been shielded from everyday police- and street violence.Alexander gets in on the ActHowever, when she moved to city of Braam fontein in order to be closer to her university, she was faced with reality and was directly confronted with these aspects of society. At the same time, the political situation in the 1970's was changing, and black consciousness had become very noticeable - the 1976 Soweto uprising had been an eye-opener for many people. Despite the fact that Alexander, herself, was not politically active and did not contribute to the struggle in any way, her work was extremely influenced by the socio-political situation in South Africa at the time. Her work clearly responds to the violence in South Africa during these years, and because of this she is seen as one of West Coast African Angel, '85 the most important artists of the Resistance.After completing her degree, Alexander went to a school in Rehoboth, Namibia to teach English. She now lives...

Educational Opportunities for Homeless Children Essay

Educational Opportunities for Homeless Children - Essay Example In addition, in any state with a compulsory residency requirement, an attempt should be made to revise such laws. Homeless children and youth should have equal opportunity to meet the same challenging State student academic achievement standards as other students. According to Sec. 725-2 of the Act, homeless children and youth are those who do not have a regular and adequate nighttime residence or have a primary nighttime residence in a supervised public or private shelter on a temporary basis. This definition goes on to include: Homeless children should be eligible for all services offered by the local school district in which they are residing and efforts are being made at present to update the Act (U.S. Government, 2001; Federal, 2007). In this election year, it is important to be aware of the education policy of the candidates. One problem that arises in the effort to meet the needs of homeless children is finding the children who are considered homeless and bringing them into the mainstream (Harris 2002). How do homeless children come to the attention of schools According to Harris, the temporary aspect of their lifestyle makes it difficult to give these children the proper benefits. Even if they are brought into a school, it is likely they will have to move on more than once before they can take advantage of available opportunities. Another problem in some districts is the lack of keeping records and being unaware of the number of homeless children eligible for assistance. Many students, Harris notes, have difficulty enrolling in a school without an address, a birth certificate, or immunization records, even though this is not acceptable according to the Act. Also, sufficient staff to offer personal assistance to children in need is often not available. An article by online journalist Beth Hawkins (2008) notes the embarrassment homeless children feel at knowing they are different from their classmates and describes one resolution in Minneapolis where homeless children are picked up by a bus at a central location and dropped off at school just like other students. Unfortunately, Hawkins says, even though the homeless children are absorbed into the mainstream, the problem remains hidden from the general public, and several Minnesota districts have started programs aimed at doing a better job of helping homeless children without focusing undue attention on them. Why homeless One reason for homelessness is family poverty. Children cannot participate in some school projects because their family has little money and may be living in a shelter. Another reason, perhaps the main reason, according to Hawkins, is single mothers who are destitute and often lack education needed to find employment or lack childcare opportunities because they do not have a place to live. Although some are in shelters, some are on the street or living in a car. Also, migrant parents often do not have a permanent address. Some school districts are reluctant to address the needs of homeless child

Business and international bribery Research Paper

Business and international bribery - Research Paper Example An example of a business that was subjected to a legal prosecution is Weatherford International Ltd. From 2004 to 2011, as a multinational organization, Weatherford International Ltd indulged with internal controls violations. Though Weatherford International Ltd operated in Angola and Iraq, court documents did not make specifications on the country wherein the vice took place. Weatherford International Ltd. Among many things did not: institute effective internal accounting controls; have a committed compliance officer; conduct anti-corruption training; and create a system for investigating ethics violations reports. Weatherford International Ltd. Employees also bribed a foreign official to see a renewal of a contract go through. In the case, U.S. v. Weatherford International Ltd., Weatherford International Ltd. was made to pay a penalty of USD 87,178,256. The case gave rise to the case law U.S. v. Weatherford International Ltd., No. 13-cr-733 (S.D. Tex. 2013) (Baughn, 19 & Pacini, 5 45). According to Lane and Simpson, There are indicators that attest to the adding power of the FCPA Act and the legal proscription of bribery by US multinationals. One of the values that the FCPA Act brings is its ability to rein in corruption and to protect meritocratic capitalism. The crux of the matter herein is that corruption [which bribery is a form of] undermines meritocratic capitalism by un-evening the playing field; subverting proper and legitimate functions of institutions; and encouraging or furthering the misallocation of economic resources. Again, according to the World Bank, corruption slows down the rate of an affected country by 0.5% to 1% annually and increases a marginal tax rate and clumps positive effects on inward investment (Lane and Simpson, 40). An example of an organization that has found corporate bribery in foreign land expediency is Siemens. In 2008, Siemens had to pay 1.6 billion USD as legal settlement to European and American