Popular Music and Its Use in Propaganda Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Popular Music and Its Use in Propaganda - Essay Example The observation was also conveyed that pictures of violence are prominent in song descriptions especially for the rock genre. The report was purportedly to show the destructive repercussion of popular music on the juveniles. (Music's Deadly Influence. August 3, 1999. CWA Concerned Women for America. [internet]). Another paper says that on a daily average, two and a half hours are being spent by teenagers listening to music more than half of which containing allusions to drugs and alcohol. (Parker-Pope, Tara. Under the Influence of...Music February 5, 2008. The New York Times. [internet]). How popular music sways the human individual was once explained by the philosopher and composer Theodor W. Adorno in that mass habitual listening first results into the tune being first perceived, then recognized and finally accepted. That cycle finally ends singly in acceptance and becomes a way of everyday life. It was on this premises that Adorno, together with his friend Max Horkheimer, likewise a philosopher, strongly argued against the aspect of popular music having the tendency to be used for propaganda purposes. (Adorno, Theodor W. assisted by George Simpson. Theory about the listener. Institute of Social Research. New York. 1941. soundscapes.infor [internet]). Music is admittedly universal and is estimated to have started its development as early as fifty thousand years ago in Africa and must have undergone numerous evolutions as generations come and go. (History of classical music traditions. Wikipedia. [internet]). Naturally, genres and styles likewise crop up and fizzle out. Music itself in general could have already been used in announcements, declarations and in other forms of communications for thousands of years, that is, even before the emergence of pop culture. Known is the fact that music has been historically linked with political and social activities, including dynamics in expressions such as those pertaining to anti-war themes, patriotic songs and other varieties of delivering a message. In these instances, since the object is the people, the song or music must be one readily acceptable by the masses. (Music and politics. Wikipedia. [internet]). In the specific case of popular music, if indeed it is a valuable tool for propa ganda, then its use for that purpose must have already traversed the period from the middle of the 1950's or even before and up to the present. Presidential candidates in the United States of America have oftentimes used well-known songs in their political campaign or propaganda. The themes can vary from political platform or planned programs of government to direct or subtle character assassination against the adversaries. Music in politics has been used even during the time of George Washington, the first president, whose supporters had flutes blown out while rejoicing when the general was unanimously nominated. John Adams and Thomas Jefferson had also their campaign songs, ironically composed by the same talent, in the election of 1800. Eisenhower, Franklin Roosevelt and John Quincy Adams likewise had their own. William Henry Harrison famously campaigned with the song entitled Tippercanoe and Tyler, Too; he had other songs for his political advertising one of which attacked Martin Van Buren as someone like Satan. Franklin Roosevelt

Iterature Review of Papers and Books regarding the development of a Literature

Iterature of Papers and Books regarding the development of a loyalty program - Literature review Example 9). This is because it costs less to retain existing customers than it does to recruit new ones. Moreover, existing customers cost less to manage, as they are less likely to call the company during peak hours and are more likely to know about the product. Additionally, loyal customers are more likely than satisfied customers to buy additional products from the company, which increases profits still further (Szwarc, 2005). Rust et al. (2000) views the issue of customer loyalty in terms of transactions verses relationships. They state that the era between 1920 and 1960 was a product-focused era, in which the emphasis, in advertising and marketing, was on the product itself. This mind-set gradually changed, however, as companies began to realize that the relationship between the customer and the service provider was more important than the individual transaction. Thus, customer satisfaction came to be viewed as more important to these companies than product ads and single transactions. Current sales became less important to companies than the prospect for future sales (Rust et al. 2000). Levitt (1993) states that customer loyalty comes from effectively managing relationships. To do this, the company must build awareness of problems and opportunities. It must also assess what is necessary to get desired results. Accountability is another prong that Levitt (1993) states is important, as businesses must establish regular reporting on individual and group relationships. Actions is the last prong of effectively managing relationships, and this means that companies must make decisions and establish routines and communications that target important relationships (Levitt, 1993). Reichheld (1996) states that there are three rules of thumb to remember regarding customer loyalty. The first rule is that some customers are inherently loyal, in that they inherently prefer predictability and stability in their relationships with stores and brands. The second rule is that some cu stomers are more profitable than others – they pay their bills on time, they spend more money and they require less service. The third rule is that the company should not try to be all things to all people, and needs to find its particular strengths and match these strengths with customers’ needs and opportunities (Reichheld, 1996). Regarding the first rule, that some customers are inherently loyal, Robinson and Etherington (2006) argue that most customers want to be loyal, especially in today’s ever-changing world. They argue that individuals have a need to belong, and want to belong to customer communities for brands and companies that they like (Etherington 2006). Among the developments in the past 20 years which have affected loyalty, according to Szwarc (2005) are new technologies and exporting jobs overseas. While new technology, such as â€Å"phone trees† in which a customer talks to a computer, as opposed to a live person, as well as transporting jobs overseas, are cost-cutting measures, they also affect customer loyalty. Customers want and need to talk to a human being, so phone trees are often off-putting. Moreover, companies get a bad image when it becomes known that they are sending jobs overseas, and customers become frustrated talking to foreign workers when they call to try to solve a problem

Systems Theory And Change Management Information Technology Essay

Systems Theory And Change Management Information Technology Essay Change Management is important for any business transformation like new technology implementation, merger or acquisition. A common framework breaks down change management into three stages: Freeze, Change, and Unfreeze. This paper explains the concept of change management and relate it to the concepts in general systems theory. The case study on an organization is based on my experiences while implementing the change management. This case study is my understanding and analysis of the respective organization as a system of people, process and technology. This analysis will help students and change management consultants to broaden their view and correlate the general systems theory for effective change management. Whenever we have a business transformation within an organization, it impacts the process, the people and technology (Larkin, 2003). Change Management emphasis on the people side of change. Mc Kinsey and Company recently surveyed 1546 business executives from around the world, asking them if they consider their change program completely/mostly successfully: Only 30 percent agreed (Isem, Joseph and Pung, 2006). The change management approach for an organization was based on three stages: Freeze, Change, Unfreeze (Nickols, 2007). The key to the success of a change initiative is to access the previous changes and implementing the change by learnings from previous experiences and by avoiding repeating errors. To analyze the organizations readiness for a change we interact with the people who are responsible and are part of this change. In this paper we will discuss how the steps followed in change management to implement a change are also explained by Bertalanffy in General Systems Theory. We will discuss my experiences to access organizations readiness for change and correlate them with General Systems Theory. Systems Theory would enhance the understanding of an organization that would help to implement an effective change management. II. Theoretical Background: Change Management in Organizations. The first and foremost definition of change management refers to the making of changes in a planned and managed or systematic fashion (Nickols, 2007). A change within an organization could be a business transformation like implementation of new technology, merger or acquisition, layoffs etc. These changes not only affect the process and technology of an organization but also the people affected by this change. A business process transformation impacts the process, people and the technology (Larkin, 2003). Change management concentrates on the people side of change. Change Management is a process through which an organization can achieve its objective. In a conventional approach the various steps through this journey may be delineated but change management facilities to align these steps in a systematic manner to achieve success. It has not been determined whether change management is an art, science, a profession or a discipline. It is more likely composed of a little of each and a totally separate entity in itself (Ledez, 2008). It is a process through which we can predict the success of a change initiative by assessing the readiness of the organization towards change and then implement strategies to achieve the transition from the present scenario to the final transformation. Another definition of change management refers to the efforts it takes to manage people through the emotional ups and downs that inevitably occur when the organization is undergoing massive change (Sieber, Nah, 1999). With the increase in competition and technology it is necessary for an organization to initiate business transformation. The most crucial stage in the change management methodology is Freeze. As a change management consultant my focus was based on assessing the organizations readiness for change. To analyze the organizations readiness for change, we assess the change history, cultural conduciveness of the organization and the overall perception of the senior management towards this change initiative. Systems Theory and Systems Thinking. Systems Integrity is one of the underlying concepts of systems theory emphasizes on understanding the intricacies of a system before making any changes to it. A system becomes more complex with the advancement of technology. As the systems become more complex it is imperative to understand the system as a whole and the interactions within the system. Systems theory focuses on the relationships between parts and the properties of a whole, rather than reducing a whole to its parts and studying their individual properties (Ackoff, 1971). A system is defined as an entity which maintains its existence through mutual interactions of its parts (Bertalanffy, 1976). The interactions within a system occur due to its hierarchical order. The different sub-systems within a system have a particular role to play within a larger system of which it is a part (Sanford, 2004). The underlying structure of which is a nested hierarchy of increasing orders of complexity (Sanford, 2004). Ackoff believes that a systems theory concept approach is fundamental to the study of organizations, so he translated von Bertalanffys original definition of a system to organizational context (Chun, Song, Arling, Granados, 2008). A system is composed of subsystems that interact with each other. At any given time, a system or its subsystems exhibits a state, defined as its current properties or characteristics (Chun, Song, Arling, Granados, 2008). A change in the state of a system is called an event (Chun, Song, Arling, Granados, 2008). In simple terms, an event is any observable occurrence. The behavior of a system can be regarded as an event. Behaviors are events that initiate other events(Chun, Song, Arling, Granados, 2008). For example, providing incentives to the employees is a behavior that will cause another event to motivate the employees. A process is a sequence of behaviors within a system that can lead to reach its final goal (Chun, Song, Arling, Granado s, 2008). This is also related to the concept of equifinality. Equifinality is an idea that suggests that in an open system a similar result may be achieved in many different ways (Cumming, Worley, 2005). Any system that interacts with the external environment is an open system. The open systems interact with the sub-systems within or external environment through feedback mechanism. The final goal or objective of a system can be achieved by the various subsystems in an open system through different ways, paths or procedures. This concept of an open system is called Equifinality. Towards a Systems Theory approach in Change Management. The backbone of change management is composed of a variety of hard and soft sciences drawn upon psychology, sociology, business administration, economics, industrial engineering, systems engineering (Nickols, 2007). It is imperative to study the long term cultural and behavioral patterns of a system to analyze the scope of change within that system. Change Management theory includes a series of models, beliefs, concepts and principles known as General Systems Theory (Nickols, 2007). The concepts of systems theory enhances the effectiveness of change management in an organization. We will now describe the research methodology and the case study of the company where I implemented change management. Lets call that company as LSD (hypothetical name). III. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY: CASE STUDY The organization as a whole can be considered as a system with various departments within the organizations acting as subsystems interacting among each other and the outside world. The people within an organization are the integral part of this system. Change is also a psychological even and any organizational change may involve some real and perceived threat of personal loss for the people involved. This event may lead to the resistant behavior by the people involved in the change initiative. The success of a change program can be brought about by appropriate connections of many activities related to human behavior. Change management in all about predicting the future. To analyze and predict the success of a change initiative within an organization we need to assess the long term patters or history and behaviors of events within the organization. Current State Assessment consisting of evaluation the change history and assessing the Cultural Conduciveness for the change will provide suggestions how to manage the change within the organization. Organizational readiness assessment will help LSD to determine how prepared they are for the future. Current State Assessment and Organization Readiness Assessment were based on the following inputs- (1) Discussions/ Interviews with the top management, (2) Dialogue with the Core Team i.e. people working on the new technology, (3) Workshops and Questionnaire administration among the key stakeholders i.e. people who are either affected by the change program or can have an impact on the successful implementation of the change program, (4) Workshops and Questionnaire administered to the Core Team , (5) Questionnaires administered among the larger work force across all the offices in the country. Workshops were conducted to sensitize the stakeholders about the importance of the change initiative (ERP implementation) prior to the questionnaire administration. In all 90 responses were collected from all the departments and offices across the country. Also a variety of designations ranging from C-Level executive to lower staff , were covered to gain a comprehensive understanding of LSDs Change History , Culture and Organizational Readiness. IV. CHANGE MANAGEMENT AT LSD LSD is one of the leading government organizations in the power and energy sector. The organization has around twenty three offices across the country with four head offices in metropolitan cities. With the growth and expansion in the last twenty years the company is deciding to switch from the paper-work procedure to ERP implementation. This implantation will streamline and shorten their business processes to cope with the industry standards and competition. I was part of this change management team that facilitated this challenging transformation. Out team included four third-party change management consultants and ten change agents across the organization. These change agents were the employees who were influential within LSD. Applying Systems Theory to Change Management at LSD. We will now correlate the methodologies used by us in change management with the concepts in systems theory and systems thinking. The approach we used to implement this change included both the quantitative analysis (i.e. by administering questionnaire and analyzing the scores) and qualitative analysis (i.e. by conducting interviews and workshops with the employees). In the change readiness assessment we included the survey from all the employees across the country that would be part of this change program. All these employees are part of the whole change management system and relates to the concept that the focuses on the relationship between parts and the properties of a whole (Ackoff, 1971). Change History Assessment. We assess the history of the previous changes within the organization to understand the system better before altering it. The analysis of previous history data will provide us with the previous trends, patterns or behavior of the system. This helps a change management consultant to predict the system better in case of any future changes and manage the system accordingly. The parameters used in the change history assessment are:- Stakeholder Identification and Commitment It is imperative for us to include all the people as a subsystem to interact within the system as a whole. Resistance Analysis and Management The change from one event to another may cause some change in behavior. When we consider the people as part of a system, changes in human behavior is also predominant. Resistance analysis is to gauge the human behavior within our system. Benefits Identification and Management This is one of the parameters that play a very important role in a balancing process. The change management approach is a goal-seeking process that tends to reach the equifinality. The various departments and the people across the organization work together to reach the final change. The resistance from the employees may imbalance the system and diverge it to reach the final goal. Benefits Identification and management is a balancing act to make the resistant employees realize the benefits for them from this change initiative. This will lead the whole system to balance and reach the objective. Communication effectiveness This is also an important variable in any change management process. As the organizations become more complex and large the effectiveness of communication is a challenge. The more effective is the communication, the more aware and supportive the employees are. We can also explain this balancing process through the diagram below: Cultural Conduciveness: Culture is something that is difficult to define accurately, but everyone knows when they sense it. The pattern in the culture helps a change consultant to sense the mindset of the organization. The culture of the organization was assessed on the basis of the following parameters like trust , team work, openness , interpersonal learning , respect for the individuals , organizational support , rewards and recognition. After realizing the problem areas from previous history assessment, we had interviews with the stakeholders to understand the story of the problem. These interviews provided very useful information on the viewpoints of the employees with respect to this change initiative and their perspective on the culture of the organization. This helps the change management consultant to be a part of the system and sensitize to the structure of the organization. The key findings of my project were: The culture for rewards and recognition was less prominent and didnt motivated employees to be enthusiastic about any developments within the organization. The lower level employees felt alienated by the senior level executives. The communication and trust between the senior and lower management was missing. This lead to dissatisfaction among the lower level and they never took in the organization activities.

The Whiteness Of The Whale Essay -- essays research papers

The Great White Whale and its Many Meanings   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Herman Melville, in his epic novel Moby-Dick, utilizes the symbolism of the color of the Great White Whale to demonstrate his theme of duality. However, Captain Ahab tragically had a single mind set towards Moby Dick, as he believed that the whale was the symbol of the world’s evil and had to be destroyed. On the other hand, Ishmael sees that the color white can mean many various and opposing things. It would be dangerous to settle upon any one single meaning. In the chapter, The Whiteness of the Whale, Melville explains the importance of duality of meaning in the world, as opposed to man’s (and Ahab’s) desire to see only one meaning in any one thing. Melville utilizes the symbol of the color white to show us that, no one thing means only one thing. Instead, the color white and the meaning of all things depends upon the experiences and perception of the person viewing that object.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ahab viewed the White Whale only as the symbol of all evil in the universe, which eventually leads him to his downfall. On the day that Ahab threw his harpoon into the White Whale and Moby Dick ate his leg, Ahab decided that the Great White Whale meant only one thing, evil. From then on Ahab decided that there was something unusual about this whale, as if it had hidden inside him all the evil in the world. Since Moby Dick attacked Ahab, he then had cherished a wild vindictiveness against t...

Individual Gathering and Evaluating Information Essay

List the APA reference citation for the source. Determine the credibility of the source. Consider the following criteria: What is the purpose and affiliation of the organization or author related to the article? What are the author’s credentials? Is the information current? When was the information last updated? Does the information cross-reference with other sources? Does the source contain bias without evidence to support the claim? Explain in at least two to four sentences what information you can gather from this source. Source (formatted consistent with APA guidelines)What makes the source credible or noncredible? What information can you gather from this source? Curfman, G. D., Morrissey, S., & Drazen, J. M. (2013). Affirmative action in the balance. The New England Journal of Medicine, 368(1), 73-4. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1266235513?accountid=458 What impact the outcome may play on school admissions. Hu, H. (2012). Debate over affirmative action in college admissions continues. Diverse Issues in Higher Education, 29(19), 8. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1117362730?accountid=458 This article has been peer reviewed for credibility.Another perspective of Fisher vs. University of Texas. The role NACAC plays in admissions to schools. Julia S. Jordan-Zachery, Richard Seltzer, Responses to affirmative action: Is there a question order affect?, The Social Science Journal, Volume 49, Issue 2, June 2012, Pages 119-126, ISSN 0362-3319, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.soscij.2011.08.012. (http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0362331911001169) This article has been peer reviewed for credibility.This source will be used to show the public’s response of Affirmative Action, and its varying degrees. This source also has great experimental results that can be incorporated. Fullinwider, Robert, â€Å"Affirmative Action†, The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (Winter 2011 Edition), Edward N. Zalta (ed.), http://plato.stanford.edu/archives/win2011/entries/affirmative-action/ This source is from the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy.This source will be utilized for various information since it covers many topics. This source will also be used to explain the beginning of affirmative action. American Association for Affirmative Action. (2013, July). American Association for Affirmative Action. Retrieved from American Association for Affirmative Action: www.affirmativeaction.org The American Association for Affirmative Action is the association of professionals managing affirmative action, equal opportunity, diversity and other human resource programs.This source will be used to explain AAAA and its role in Affirmative Action. Illustrate any current legislative cases that may be happening. †¢What strategies did you use to gather reliable information for your research paper? Affirmative action has many policies about race, color, religion, and/or sex. In essence affirmative action is equal opportunity, not only in a work environment but also admissions. Looking at search results gave way to sub topics. In order to write a streamlined paper a subtopic will be the focus of this paper. The subtopic will need to be relevant and current. When having a relevant and current topic, there must me multiple credible sources to back up the information on that topic. Searching through the University of Phoenix Library yielded many positive results on the topic of Fisher vs. the University of Texas. This outcome of this case could change the course of affirmative action when it comes to admission into school. This is a historical case of today’s time, similar to many landmark cases from the civil rights movements of the 1960’s. The sources that are to be used will be from peer reviewed articles or websites that are the authority on this topic. †¢What other strategies might you use? Provide a rationale for your choices. Other strategies that will be used through this paper will include a devil’s advocate approach. When talking about affirmative action there are two groups, those in favor and those against. The goal of this essay is to explain the reasons behind both groups’ arguments and allow the reader to make their own decision. All information will be relevant data. The question that will need to be answered â€Å"is affirmative action still needed today?† By illustrating both viewpoints the reader should have enough base information to research more. Once they have research more on their own they will be able to formulate an answer. This essay will give the reader a start of materials to research, and may have those asking questions never before thought of. The word count associated with this essay does not allow the author to get too far into detail on such a vast topic.

Minimising risk in fashion

Explain how Buyers and Merchants minimise hazard when planning ranges for their manner company. Gabrielle ( Coco ) Chanel stated ‘Fashion does non merely exist in frocks, manner is in the air, it is brought in by the air current, one feels it coming, breathes it in the sky and on the paving, it depends on thoughts clients and happenings’ ( Charles-Roux, 2005 p.11 ) . The undertaking of construing how the changing universe is likely to impact the consumer’s desire for manner merchandises is hard, and this is why manner purchasers and merchants turn to command tools.There are many control tools which a manner company will utilize throughout its concern construction in order to accomplish maximal net income borders and to assist understate hazard and to give themselves a strong competitory advantage over rivals. Control tools are a critical portion of a manner company in order for it to turn successfully and to stay competitory. Despite supplying a figure of advantages to a manner company, control tools besides present a figure of disadvantages and restrictions whereby they are merely utile to a certain point, and this is when other control tools need to be put into the equation. A cardinal control tool used in the purchasing procedure is Range Planning. Range Planning involves roll uping a commercially acceptable aggregation of garments within fiscal and design parametric quantities, prior to production and bringing ( Goworek 2007 ) .The development of a scope of merchandises for a new season raises of import strategic issues for manner retail merchants about new merchandises and markets. In any season there is ever a balance struck between updated rudimentss that will be repeated in some signifier, and wholly new manner merchandises. A utile tool to assist entree the scope of merchandises for a season and to assist understate hazard is the Ansoff product-market matrix. This planning tool helps separate the basic options for increasing gross revenues by pull stringsing merchandise and market chances. It works good for the manner industry where merchandises are of all time altering and new markets continually developing, hence this will assist to understate h azard when planning ranges. Buyers and merchants should recognize the strategic options indicated by the Ansoff Matrrix, and the differing deduction of each to developing merchandise ranges in a season ( Watts, 1998 ) . Basically these options represent different methods of increasing gross revenues which will basically assist to maximize net incomes. The trouble manner retail merchants face is where to strike the balance between the breadth of the scope they offer and the deepness of pick available in their scope of merchandises. ‘Range width’ refers to how broad a pick of merchandises is to be offered to clients. Some manner retail merchants e.g. Miss Selfridge, began selling vesture and accoutrements but have widened their merchandise ranges to include jewelry, make-up and a whole host of other merchandises reflecting the lifestyle demands of the consumer. The deepness of a scope refers to the picks of manners, colorss, sizes and monetary values available to clients in important Numberss of units within production classs. When purchasers and merchants are be aftering the scope, they need to look at their mark consumer to place what merchandise categorization should be included and how many of each categorization, this is to assist understate hazard. Product Mix is an of import component of Range planning. If assess ed right, harmonizing to consumer demands and wants, the right merchandise mix will assist to maximize net incomes. The advantage of holding a merchandise mix is that it can potentially increase the volume of gross revenues, widening the scope on offer helps to distribute the fiscal hazards which are potentially involved. In add-on adding new scopes to the trade name will assist to diversify the manner company and convey approximately new concern chances and aid to increase possible gross revenues and net incomes. Having a wide merchandise mix will besides assist to aim new clients every bit good as making and prolonging the involvement of current consumers. Furthermore Product Mix is a cardinal driver in the scope planning procedure. The disadvantage of Product Mix as a control tool is an increased hazard of stock markdowns if Product Mix on offer is excessively broad ( Shaw, 2005 ) . When be aftering a scope program construction many retail merchants and purchasers struggle to make up one's mind whether to go on with merchandises which have sold good in the yesteryear but which are going ‘old fashioned’ such as the Laura Ashley jumper daisy print frock ( Shaw, 2005 ) . A clear and up to day of the month statement of the retailers’ market place and mark client, based on uninterrupted research, will give the purchaser assurance to be ruthlessly matter-of-fact over what to include and what non to maintain in a scope. This will assist to understate hazard within the manner company. When be aftering a merchandise scope, the Product Mix and categorization program are of critical importance ; each merchandise will hold its ain single merchandise life rhythm ( Doha, 2013 ) . The merchandise lifecycle of a merchandise has four really clearly defined phases, each with its ain features, that average different things for concerns that are seeking to pull off the life rhythms of their peculiar merchandises. These four distinct phases consist of: Introduction, Growth, Maturity and Decline. These four phases will change well harmonizing to the type of merchandise which is being sold, and whether it’s a authoritative, craze or manner merchandise. Product lifecycle direction is an of import control tool within calculating gross revenues and seasons. It makes it possible to command the whole lifetime of a merchandise and the information connected with it. Efficient merchandise lifecycle direction enables companies to vie successfully in international planetary markets ( Stark, 2006 ) . Product life rhythm direction is the activity of pull offing a company’s merchandises all the manner across its lifecycles in the most effectual manner. In so making, it enables the company to take control of its merchandises. If a company loses control of its merchandises this can hold black effects. Therefore merchandise life rhythm direction is a cardinal control tool, for merchants and purchasers. During the development of a merchandise, it doesn’t physically exist, so during that stage of its life it’s hard to command. PML helps to convey better merchandises to market faster, and enable better support of customersâ€℠¢ usage of merchandises. It is of import to convey a merchandise to market rapidly, otherwise the client will take a competitor’s merchandise before yours get to market. An advantage for purchasers and merchants of utilizing the merchandise lifecycle as a control tool is that it helps cut down the cost of a merchandise. The merchandise life rhythm can be used by purchasers and merchants to assist understate hazard for their manner companies by reexamining old products’ lifecycles, where they peaked and where they started to worsen. This can be used to an advantage to assist be after the merchandise life rhythms of similar futuristic merchandises which will assist to command and gauge the life rhythm of a merchandise. It’s of import to cut down merchandise costs ; otherwise consumers may halt utilizing your merchandise and utilize a competitor’s alternatively. PLM enables the value of a merchandise to be maximised over its lifecycle. With accurate consolid ated information about mature merchandises available, low-priced ways can be found to widen their revenue-generating life-times. PLM gives transparence about what is go oning over the merchandise lifecycle ; it offers directors visibleness about what is truly go oning with products.. However the disadvantage of utilizing the PLC is that the merchandise lifecycle is merely a theoretical theoretical account and the merchandise lifecycle is non needfully reflective of all manner merchandises. Forecasting gross revenues and seasons is a critical control tool which purchasers and merchants have to implement in order to understate hazard with planning scopes for their manner company. Manner prediction looks at the fiscal parts and the comparing of the seasons’ gross revenues last twelvemonth. Additionally manner companies have to equilibrate the customer’s pick with the demand to accomplish the best return of stock investing. The get downing point for many manner retail merchants is gross revenues history, as it identifies what clients expect to purchase from the concern based on their current and past demands. Gross saless history may mention to last week’s gross revenues, and as such besides reflects customers’ current seasonal demands ( Douglas 1997 ) . There is much valuable information available to the purchaser from the gross revenues history of old seasons. Forms have likely been established of the type of manner ware which the retailers’ clients have purchased in the yesteryear. Best sellers from old seasons need to be replaced with new yet every bit profitable ware, The purchaser needs to through ally analyse which fact ors contributed towards an points bestselling position ( Goworek 2007 ) . Manner season is an of import component of the control tool ‘Forecasting gross revenues and seasons’ . Historically there have been two clearly defined and traditional manner seasons, which are Autumn/Winter and SS. Easy ( 1995 ) explains that retail merchants have organised themselves around consumer demand that has traditionally been influenced by conditions forms. In the yesteryear there have been two clearly defined and traditional seasons and these are still steadfastly ingrained in our civilization, even though they have progressively less relevancy to consumers and manner concerns. With a greater accent on fulfilling the manner demands of customers’ altering life manners, manner retail merchants have to purchase more rapidly and maintain scopes focused on what clients want at peculiar times of the old ages, as opposed to fulfilling two big period of demand, i.e. summer and winter. Another factor which has influenced client demand is greater travel, as clien ts require vesture for a assortment of climes and occasions out of season, e.g. swimsuit in winter. In order to understate hazard manner retail merchants have to purchase more rapidly and maintain scopes focused on what clients want at a peculiar clip of the twelvemonth, as opposed to purchasing to fulfill two big periods of demand. In order for purchasers and merchants to understate hazard is it critical that they besides ‘buy’ in order to fulfill discreet ‘user occasions’ . Increasing consumer demand is coercing retail merchants to retink merchandise ranges about changed client behavior. Product categorization is a cardinal component of Range Planning. It is critical for the merchant and purchaser to calculate the merchandise lifecycle of merchandises with different categorizations such as Fashion, Fad and Classic. The merchant plays a cardinal function in working with the purchaser to accomplish the right balance of merchandises within the seasons range. This is done by utilizing a combination of gross revenues history combined with forward gross revenues and tendency anticipations. The sum of manner and fad merchandise in the Product Mix will find the sum of flexibleness needed. It is noted that the manner manner tendency reviews begin many months in progress of a season. Normally at the terminal of the old season the purchasing and selling squad will hold undertaken what is known as a ‘seasons station mortem’ . The advantages of set abouting a seasons station mortem is that it is a utile papers for be aftering the future manner way of a manner concern and is helpful during the planning of a new season. It is of import to command the degree of stock and type of stock that is in the concern at any given clip ; this is carried out through manner prediction, and the scrutiny of merchandise classs to utilize in a season, such as Authoritative trench coats manner or crazes. The ware program is an of import control tool in order to understate the hazard of holding excessively much ‘cost’ that hazards being unsold ( Shaw 2005 ) . This relates to be aftering and profitableness. It is critical to observe that one of the most of import ends in successful selling is to help the procedure of accomplishing the planned degree of purchasing profitableness. ‘Buying profit’ can be defined as the difference between the cost monetary value paid for the garment and the retail merchandising monetary value in the store. The grade up or net income made between the two monetary values can be explained by the undermentioned merchandising monetary value equation. Retail merchandisin g monetary value ( RSP ) -Cost Price ( CP ) =Gross Margin ( or gross net income ) . WSSI is an of import control tool which is used every twenty-four hours in the life of a purchaser and merchant. Throughout the twelvemonth, it is critical for the merchant and purchaser to construct stock degrees in expectancy of trading extremum periods such as Christmas and high summer. The WISSI is really good at assisting the purchaser and merchant program frontward stock consumption into the DC. Every Monday gross revenues figures are awaited in order that purchasers and merchants can place fast selling lines that need reiterate bargains to guarantee that they are kept in stock. On the other manus it is besides the Monday figures which reveal the worst Sellerss that finally will necessitate holding their monetary values marked down. Thus the WISSI helps to pull off and command hazard. The WISSI is one of the most valuable studies used by the purchaser. It includes gross revenues and stock list degrees by manner for the old hebdomad. The WISSI acts as an overall control mechanis m to guarantee that the flow of stock and money in the concern is go oning expeditiously. WSSI is an of import control tool for purchasers and merchants because it significantly works alongside the bringing agenda. It lists the hebdomad and the twenty-four hours when the providers have been requested to present the garments to the DC. Being cognizant of precisely what is traveling to be delivered is besides of cardinal involvement to shop and promotional direction maps of the administrations ; this can assist pull off hazard and supply a competitory advantage for the manner company. One of the cardinal selling activities controlled by utilizing the WISSI is the facet of line degree monetary value change that regularly occurs within all manner concerns. Ideally at the start of the season, the purchaser and merchant purpose to make a monetary value construction that relates to the type of clients to whom they are selling. Monetary values must besides be competitory to guarantee they a re in line with major competition. Overall WISSI acts as the cardinal selling direction papers within manner retailing ; it is lone portion of a wider scope of be aftering paperss. It is shamelessly an internal fiscal control papers which is a sum-up of all the trading activity within the section and finally the full concern. There are disadvantages of WISSI as a control tool. Taken out of context, it can be a nonmeaningful page of figures. It requires careful reading, utilizing experience to pull strings both it and the purchasing, if the section is to win. It is of import to retrieve that manner is non formulaic ; merchants try to utilize it in a formulaic manner, bring forthing it without understanding. Therefore it is of import that merchants and purchasers do non respond excessively rapidly to sudden good and bad gross revenues forms ; reaction to the WSSI must be both considered and careful. Overall the of import of understanding the workings of WSSI should non be underestimated. Using this control document the merchant has considerable advantages and is able to maintain hebdomadal updates of yesteryear, nowadays and likely future public presentations of the section and direction to on a regular basis look into their public presentations against the original program. More significantly it acts as a decision-making tool to assist the concern make up one's mind what action to take on an on-going regular footing. This will more significantly assist to understate hazard and aid to maximize net incomes. To reason there are a figure of control tools which purchasers and merchants can utilize in order to understate hazard and maximize net incomes when planning ranges for their manner companies. There are considerable advantages of utilizing a figure of control tools in order to derive competitory advantages over similar manner companies and rivals and to assist increase net income borders. Manner companies will strategically utilize a combination of control tools in order program in front to give themselves the greatest opportunity of success. For a manner company to win it has to â€Å"reflect the demands and the desires of a coevals at a peculiar point in clip. It has to be of the minute, but with ageless values that will ever be recognised† ( Menkes 2001 ) Mentions: Ahmed Doha, Ajay Das, Mark Pagell, ( 2013 ) â€Å" The influence of merchandise life rhythm on the efficaciousness of buying patterns † , International Journal of Operations & A ; Production Management, Vol. 33 Iodine: 4, pp.470 – 498 Charles-Roux, E. ( 2004_ .The universe of Coco Chanel. Friends Fashion Fame. London: Thames and Hudson, p.11 Douglas C. West, ( 1997 ) â€Å" Pull offing Gross saless Forecasting † , Management Research News, Vol. 20 Iodine: 4, pp.1 – 10 Easy, M. ( 1995 )Manner Selling.Oxford: Blackwell Science. Goworek, H ( 2007 ) .Manner Buying. London: Blackwell. p44-45. Hines.T, et Al. ( 2007 )Manner Selling: modern-day issues.Routledge ; 2 edition ( 2006 ) Jackson.T, et Al. ( 2000 )Manner Buying and trading direction #Gerald Watts, Jason Cope, Michael Hulme, ( 1998 ) â€Å" Ansoff’s Matrix, hurting and addition: Growth schemes and adaptative acquisition among little nutrient manufacturers † , International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behaviour & A ; Research, Vol. 4 Iodine: 2, pp.101 – 111 Stark, J ( 2006 ) .Product Lifecycle Mangament 21stCenturyParadigm for Product Realisation. London: Dordrecht: Springer 2006. P 4-5

“the Awakening” from a Feminist Perspective Essay Example

â€Å"the Awakening† from a Feminist Perspective Essay Example â€Å"the Awakening† from a Feminist Perspective Essay â€Å"the Awakening† from a Feminist Perspective Essay Essay Topic: The Awakening Running Head: â€Å"THE AWAKENING† FROM A FEMINIST PERSPECTIVE In Kate Chopin’s novel, â€Å"The Awakening†, Edna finds herself in a society where women were socially confined to be mothers and wives. This novel embodies the struggle of women in the society for independence along with the presence of women struggling to live up to the demands that their strict culture has placed upon them. A part of Edna wants to meet the standards of mother and wife that society has set, however her biggest desire is to be a woman free from the oppression of a society that is male dominant. Readers will find that the foundation of â€Å"The Awakening† the feminist perspective because of the passion that Edna has for gaining her own identity, and independence, which was not customary in the era of the 1800s. Kate Chopin reveals the social construction of the setting in the novel in subtle phrases placed throughout chapter one. Readers start to understand that a male is the dominate gender from the choice of word Chopin uses to describe how Leonce’s expression after Edna returned home from bathing, â€Å"looking at his wife as one looks at a valuable piece of personal property which has suffered some damage† (Chopin, 2005). This description of the husbands expression in chapter one a vital phrase when analyzing the novel from a Feminist Perspective. Leonce viewed Edna as a piece of property that he owned rather than his partner in life. Feminism, in general, is the idea that people regardless of gender, should not oppressed and devalued by being treated as property. Reading further it is evident that, Edna is quite aware of what society expects of her. Because of this awareness of social demands and her own personal desires, Edna begins to struggle with her identity creating an inner turmoil when confronted about the care of their children. Edna becomes so overwhelmed because she is struggle to decide whether she should conform to societies demands of serving her family, or breaking free of society to follow her desires of obtaining her independence from her husband and men in general. Edna, after understanding her oppression fully, starts to utilize the ocean as comfort and also as a means to practice being independent. In the novel, Chopin uses the ocean as a setting and also symbolism. Looking t how the ocean is used from feminist perspective, readers will understand that Edna find comfort in the ocean because since the ocean is not judgmental toward her. To Edna, the ocean is a safe zone where she can be herself. The ocean allows Edna to express her feel from site and the sounds that she hears and see, â€Å"and the everlasting voice of the sea, that was not uplifted at that soft hour. It broke like a mournful lullaby upon the night. The tears came so fast to Mrs. Pontelliers eyes that the damp sleeve of her peigno ir no longer served to dry them† (Chopin, 2005). It Begins to become apparent to readers that the ocean reflect, and comfort to Edna as she is confronted with the emotions of how unhappy she was with her marriage. The personification of the ocean in this particular excerpt gives readers the sense that the ocean is serving as a manifestation if Edna’s thoughts and feelings. The ocean being said to voice a â€Å"mournful lullaby† is the reflection of what Edna is experiencing within. The ocean also gives Edna a chance to practice her independence when she decided to swim without guidance. Swimming is a symbolic element of Edna taking a small step to gaining her independence. Edna views the action of swimming without guidance as a chance to test whether she is, in fact, strong enough to break free of social oppression, â€Å"She grew daring and reckless, overestimating her strength. She wanted to swim far out, where no woman had swum before† (Chopin, 2005). While venturing into the ocean, she turns and notices that she didn’t get far from the shore as she thought. This realization made Edna become frightened enough to head back to the shore. The fear that came over Edna was not just because she was swimming alone but also because she took this experience as a prediction of what would happen to her if she decided to free herself from the oppressive society she lived in, â€Å"She made no mention of her encounter with death and her flash of terror, except to say to her husband, I thought I should have perished out there alone† (Chopin, 2005). Although she was just attempting to swim alone, she saw this experience as a great failure because the fear or â€Å"encounter with death† prevented her from moving forward with the goal that she set for herself. The frustration that stemmed from this experience carried to that night where she asserted herself to her husband by defying his wishes. Her assertion was her first experience of freedom from oppression. â€Å"The Awakening† gives readers different view of feminism. The novel not only displays how Edna begin to gain independence from the role of an obedient wife but the novel also embodies of how Edna gains control of her body. The idea of Feminism rebukes people from being treated as property. This notion of feminism not only applies to independence but also freedom of making decisions, in Edna’s case, Decisions about her body and sexuality. Edna cared for her husband and appreciated how well he took care of their family. However, she didn’t love him, â€Å"she had married without love as an excuse† (Chopin, 2005). This being evident in the novel, it’s no surprise the Edna started to stray from her marriage to Leonce. The estrangement between the couple started earlier in the novel with Robert Lebrun. Although there were no indications of a physical encounter with Robert, Edna did develop an emotional relationship with Robert. Edna reaction of Robert leaving for Mexico shows the readers that she had already distanced herself emotionally from her husband and started an emotional relationship with Robert, â€Å"For the first time she recognized the symptoms of infatuation which she had felt incipiently as a child, as a girl in her earliest teens, and later as a young woman† (Chopin, 2005). The distance in Edna’s marriage grew when she came into contact with Alcee. Edna’s relationship with Alcee was first emotional because she became fonder of him the more time they spent together; â€Å"They became intimate and friendly by imperceptible degrees, and then by leaps† (Chopin, 2005). However the new relationship with Alcee was not abruptly ended like the relationship with Robert. Edna’s relationship with Alcee then turned physical, â€Å"When he leaned forward and kissed her, she clasped his head, holding his lips to hers† (Chopin, 2005). Slowly, throughout the novel readers can see that feminist idea of Edna having the freedom to have control over her body and sexuality. This control that only she possessed to make the decision on furthering her relationship with Alcee brought her great sorrow but it also shows how Edna had grown in obtaining her freedom from oppression. In light of Edna’s newfound freedom to control her body and sexuality, readers can connect two perspectives, Feminist and also Psychoanalytical. The Psychoanalytical Perspective enables readers to see deeper into the text and reveal deeper meanings to the story or novel. In â€Å"The Awakening†, readers can conclude that Edna’s encounters with both Robert and Alcee are both unconscious decisions that were a result from childhood experiences. Edna reflected briefly over her childhood in chapter seven where she question why she married a man that she was not in love with. When reading this reflection in a Psychoanalytical Perspective the readers can conclude that Edna married her husband Leonce out of fear of disappointment by her father. â€Å"Add to this the violent opposition of her father and her sister Margaret to her marriage with a Catholic, and we need seek no further for the motives which led her to accept Monsieur Pontellier. For her husband†(Chopin, 2005). Because of Edna’s fear of disappointment she looked no further for love and settled on marrying Leonce, whose religion and respectable personality would be accepted by her father. Her Father is shown to be a somewhat important force in Edna’s life by her servitude when he arrived for a visit â€Å"His coming was in the nature of a welcome disturbance; it seemed to furnish a new direction for her emotions† (Chopin, 2005). Given the fact that Edna only married her husband Leonce because of family expectation, readers can also conclude that this is why Edna was more susceptible to committing adultery both emotionally and physically. In light of the feminist perspective, there is also a trace of the historical perspective in the novel â€Å"The Awakening†. One dominates area where Historical evidence is found in when Edna commits suicide. Although this act does mirror the idea of feminism because this was the ultimate choice that Edna could decide to do to herself there is also evidence of that the time in which the events happen played a bigger part in her decision. In the time era of the 1800s the society was male dominated. The social construction of society left very little room for many females to seek independence from men. Edna’s passion to seek her independence from men left her secluded from the social world. The seclusion that Edna experienced made her feel like the outcast of the community. After slowly escaping the oppression that society demanded of women in the 1800s, she than found herself oppressed by her passionate personality, which distance her from her family. However, she does care about her family she thinks that if they did not think that they could posses things would have turned out differently She thought of Leonce and the children. They were a part of her life. But they need not have thought that they could possess her, body and soul† (Chopin, 2005). â€Å"The Awakening†, is a novel about a women who struggled to find herself and freedom from the social construction in the late 1800s. The social construction that Kate Chopin chose for this novel mirrors the view of feminism for women both mentally and physically. However in this time era the character Edna was at a disadvantage since there were limited social outlets for women of her social standing. Because of these factors, Edna ultimately made the biggest decision, committing suicide. This bittersweet novel embodies elements of feminism, historical and psychoanalytical perspectives that gives the reader a deeper and more fulfilling understanding of the novel. Reference(s) Chopin, K. (2005). The awakening [VitalSource digital version]. Raleigh, NC: Hayes Barton Press.

Government Funded Health Care in United States Essays

Government Funded Health Care in United States Essays Government Funded Health Care in United States Paper Government Funded Health Care in United States Paper Government Funded Health Care is an idea that has been around the United States for some time. The question as to whether or not the United States should adopt this idea as other countries have chosen to do has still yet to be decided. What is Government Funded Health Care? Why should the United States have a National Health Care Plan? Why do people that live in the United States have to make sure to have health insurance when it could be automatic upon United States citizenship? Other countries have succeeded in providing this type of service, why should the United States be any different? These are numerous questions that will be answered through the rest of this research. As citizens of the United States of America the government’s responsibility is to take care of the people of which can be done by a Government Funded Health Care Plan. What is Government Funded Health Care or National Insurance? Government Funded Health Care is a health insurance plan provided by the government at a Federal or State level that would give health insurance coverage to all people no matter how old, what race, or what gender; provided they are a United States Citizen. : This is an idea that may be appealing to some, and not so appealing to others, however it should be in effect. The United States should have a National Health Insurance Plan for one specific reason. Having such a plan would prevent those that do not have enough money to provide health insurance for themselves from not getting the care that they need and deserve. Numerous individuals within the United States have to do without proper health care because of either lack of money or not having a job that provides health insurance for them. As a man stated in Neil Rolde’s book, Your Money or Your Health, â€Å"In Canada, yes, we have to pay more for gas to put in our cars, but we don’t mind because we know that’s going to health care and to the security we have of knowing we won’t get wiped out if we happen to have an illness. † Why do people that live in the United States have to make sure to have health insurance when it could be automatic upon United States citizenship? The answer to this question is very simple; a person only has three choices. Either a person can choose to have a job that has health insurance provided, spend money out of pocket for health insurance (i. e. Sole-Proprietors), or do with out health insurance coverage. Most likely the first option would appeal to everyone that lives, works, and becomes ill from time to time, but National Health Care would be the better alternative. If an employer did not have to worry about spending money to provide health care insurance for the employees, then this would could lead to more wage increases, better wage increases, and an increase in bonuses and commissions. It is true; other countries have succeeded in providing this type of health coverage to their citizens. Two perfect examples of these countries are Canada, and Japan. Canada has succeeded in providing health care to the citizens that live within the country in a two-fold manner. As found on Health Canada, the federal government is responsible for: â€Å"setting and administering national principles or standards for the health care system (for example, through the Canada Health Act),† â€Å"assisting in the financing of provincial health care services through fiscal transfers,† â€Å"delivering direct health services to specific groups including veterans, native Canadians living on reserves, military personnel, inmates of federal penitentiaries and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police,† and â€Å"fulfilling other health-related functions such as health protection, disease prevention, and health promotion. † The provincial and territorial governments are responsible for: â€Å"managing and delivering health services,† â€Å"planning, financing, and evaluating the provision of hospital care, physician and allied health care services,† and â€Å"managing some aspects of prescription care and public health. † Japan is another country that has succeeded in providing their citizens with a Government Funded National Health Care Plan. A web page titled Tips on National Health Insurance points out several key points with regards to Japan’s National Health Insurance Plan. Japan has two types of medical insurance. Worker’s Health Insurance and National Health Insurance. This web article states that â€Å"Anyone not enrolled in the Worker’s Health Insurance Plan is required to enroll in the National Health Insurance Plan. † It also states the following: â€Å"The personal expenses for medical fees is 30%. † â€Å"The head of the household is the person responsible for paying insurance premiums based on the number of people in the family enrolled in National Health Insurance and the yearly income of the family. † â€Å"When a member of the National Health Insurance Plan dies, the person in charge of the funeral arrangements will be paid a fixed funeral allowance. † These are just a few examples of how Japan’s Health Insurance Plan is set up.

History and Geography of Germany

History and Geography of Germany Population: 81,471,834 (July 2011 estimate)Capital: BerlinArea: 137,847 square miles (357,022 sq km)Coastline: 2,250 miles (3,621 km)Highest Point: Zugspitze at 9,721 feet (2,963 m)Lowest Point: Neuendorf bei Wilster at -11 feet (-3.5 m)Germany is a country located in Western and Central Europe. Its capital and largest city is Berlin but other large cities include Hamburg, Munich, Cologne and Frankfurt. Germany is one of the most populous countries of the European Union and it has one of the largest economies in Europe. It is known for its history, high standard of living and cultural heritage. History of Germany: Weimar Republic to Today According to the U.S. Department of State, in 1919 the Weimar Republic was formed as a democratic state but Germany gradually began to experience economic and social problems. By 1929 the government had lost much of its stability as the world entered a depression and the presence of dozens of political parties in Germanys government hampered its ability to create a unified system. By 1932 the National Socialist Party (Nazi Party) led by Adolf Hitler was growing in power and in 1933 the Weimar Republic was mostly gone. In 1934 President Paul von Hindenburg died and Hitler, who had been named Reich Chancellor in 1933, became Germanys leader.Once the Nazi Party took power in Germany nearly all democratic institutions in the country were abolished. In addition, Germanys Jewish peoples were jailed as were any members of opposing parties. Shortly thereafter the Nazis began a policy of genocide against the countrys Jewish population. This later became known as the Holocaust and around six m illion Jewish people in both Germany and other Nazi occupied areas were killed. In addition to the Holocaust, Nazi governmental policies and expansionist practices eventually led to World War II. This later destroyed Germanys political structure, economy and many of its cities.On May 8, 1945 Germany surrendered and the United States, United Kingdom, USSR and France took control under what was called Four Power Control. Initially Germany was to be controlled as a single unit, but eastern Germany soon became dominated by Soviet policies. In 1948 the USSR blockaded Berlin and by 1949 East and West Germany were created. West Germany, or the Federal Republic of Germany, followed principles set forth by the U.S. and U.K., while East Germany was controlled by the Soviet Union and its communist policies. As a result, there was severe political and social unrest in Germany throughout most of the mid-1900s and in the 1950s millions of East Germans fled to the west. In 1961 the Berlin Wall was constructed, officially dividing the two.By the 1980 pressure for political ref orm and German unification was growing and in 1989 the Berlin Wall fell and in 1990 the Four Power Control ended. As a result, Germany began to unify itself and on December 2, 1990 it held the first all German elections since 1933. Since the 1990s, Germany has continued to regain its political, economic and social stability and today it is known for having a high standard of living and a strong economy. Government of Germany Today Germanys government is considered a federal republic. It has an executive branch of government with a chief of state who is the countrys president and a head of government who is known as the chancellor. Germany also has a bicameral legislature made up of the Federal Council and the Federal Diet. Germanys judicial branch consists of the Federal Constitutional Court, the Federal Court of Justice and the Federal Administrative Court. The country is divided into 16 states for local administration. Economics and Land Use in Germany Germany has a very strong, modern economy that is considered the fifth largest in the world. In addition, according to the CIA World Factbook, it is one of the worlds most technologically advanced producers of iron, steel, coal cement and chemicals. Other industries in Germany include machinery production, motor vehicle manufacture, electronics, shipbuilding and textiles. Agriculture also plays a role in Germanys economy and the main products are potatoes, wheat, barley, sugar beets, cabbage, fruit, cattle pigs and dairy products. Geography and Climate of Germany Germany is located in Central Europe along the Baltic and North Seas. It also shares borders with nine different countries - some of which include France, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Belgium. Germany has a varied topography with lowlands in the north, the Bavarian Alps in the south and uplands in the central part of the country. The highest point in Germany is Zugspitze at 9,721 feet (2,963 m), while the lowest is Neuendorf bei Wilster at -11 feet (-3.5 m).The climate of Germany is considered temperate and marine. It has cool, wet winters and mild summers. The average January low temperature for Berlin, the capital of Germany, is 28.6ËšF (-1.9ËšC) and the average July high temperature the city is 74.7ËšF (23.7ËšC).To learn more about Germany, visit the Geography and Maps section on Germany on this website. Source:Central Intelligence Agency. (17 June 2011). CIA - The World Factbook - Germany. Retrieved from: https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/gm.html ï » ¿Infoplease.com. (n.d.).Germany: History, Geography, Government, and Culture- Infoplease.com. Retrieved from: infoplease.com/ipa/A0107568.html United States Department of State. (10 November 2010). Germany. Retrieved from: state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/3997.htm Wikipedia.com. (20 June 2011). Germany - Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany

Litigation public relations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Litigation public relations - Essay Example One should remember that litigations against companies are only brought about when there is a strong suspicion of wrong-doing, and the litigation is raised usually by competing companies or the general public. While lawyers can argue that every company has the right to defend itse is lf, PR managers on the other hand usually act out of loyalty as well as their own investments in the company. In this sense, one can see that ethics are not the primary motivation for LPR exercises. As opposed to publishing and reporting the truth as it exists, LPR efforts attempt to color this truth and make it favorable to the company's cause. This might ultimately prove beneficial to the company by reducing negative publicity and consequently not affecting its bottom line, but the general public and the broader industry might suffer due to the misinformation being generated. To be fair to the defendants, one has to concede that media coverage generally tends to be hostile to them. For example, most la w-suits are covered from the viewpoint of the plaintiff or the prosecutor and their case gets presented in greater detail. There is a slight negative bias toward the defendant, for they are deemed as wrong-doers until proven otherwise.

Differentiating Brands Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Differentiating Brands - Essay Example However, they are the ones trying to keep up with the large brand nowadays, and it is through different strategies that they aim to realize their lost glory. Some individuals may say that Google is at a place where losing its market to some of its competition is next to impossible (Scott, 2008). This paper will examine three of Google’s main competitors, and find out if any of the strategies being implemented can work to topple the giant. Google, with regards to its competition, may have a difficult time trying to maintain the top position in terms of market share. Microsoft, Yahoo, and Facebook, as the three top contenders for the number one spot, are bringing in new ideas, innovations, and attitude to the IT world. They are trying to be the best at what they do, and to be the best, one has to beat the best. This is what they aim at achieving. They are now offering various products and services to their brand users across the globe, and their reward is the growing number of c onsumers they can boast of in the past year. The competition from all corners may make Google sweat a little as they work hard to maintain the strong grip on the ever-expanding market (Duthel, 2008). Google’s main competitors Microsoft In the IT world, Microsoft can be likened to no other. At this point in time, it is fair to assume that Google’s main competition comes from this dominant force that has ruled the technological world since time immemorial. Google reigns as champion when it comes down search engines. Microsoft’s differentiation strategy when it comes to search engines has led to the creation of image searches, mapping, and the rising Bing. This leads to a discovery that the success of one company leads to the determination and rise of another. This means that, Google is paving the way for more innovation and more competition from the other forces present in the business market (Hill & Jones, 2012). Yahoo A series of changes is being made to this we b phenomenon. This search engine, over the years, has helped millions across the world to access some of the many things that need addressing. Presently, users can now perform searches while getting educated on how to get the relevant and much needed results. A lot of other innovations are coming up, for example; Flickr integration and embedded video are some of the different products Yahoo is hoping will gain them their foothold in the market (Hill & Jones, 2012). Facebook Google and Facebook have been known to complement each other when it comes to the business and IT side (Hill & Jones, 2012). In truth, Facebook has helped Google attract a large share of consumers over the past two years, and due to this, both companies are growing at a particularly rapid pace. During the launch of a feature that could assist individuals find places and each other, Facebook is likely to create a huge challenge to Google. People can do this while on the social network so everything may be done whi le people are still connecting. This is a major product launch, which may see Facebook’s consumer base increase. How Google integrates differentiation into its marketing communication vehicles In terms of Google’s communication vehicles, there are different channels which are being utilized. Being a giant in the IT world, Google has millions of pages that have some of the products and services they offer. During the day, a lot of people in various organizations and institutions use the internet to carry out their

Discussion Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 26

Discussion - Assignment Example It is unfortunate that judges and other top government officials have personal immunity, which comes by professional courtesy and law. After one going through several blogs, one realizes that tyranny is greatly used as a strategy and the best example to illustrate this is the fact that Hamilton had tactics that worked with regard to tyranny. It is obvious that words are not sufficient and there must be true change in the United States of America when it comes to industrial espionage since the threat is not overblown. The main reason behind the US changing is the intelligent activity that the United States gathers foreign intelligence similar to that gathered by all nations globally. Being the superpower country, there must be some data protection, which can only happen with the help of changing the industrial espionage. Having data protection will be beneficial to almost every American citizen but mostly the leaders. Claims that America spies on other nations mean that the threat is not overblown but true change in industrial espionage will cover up

Construction contract Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Construction contract - Assignment Example Engineers are opting for NEC because it is more flexible and can suit the whole construction industry. It is also highly adaptable, provides a range of options for risk allocation. Compared to other construction contract forms, it is the simplest using understandable language where the roots of many disputes have been left out. The use of flow charts also makes it more clear and easy to use. In this paper, the core clauses of NEC and FIDIC are compared with particular emphasis to the core risks and insurance. NEC assigns risks cover according to contemporary principles. Nevertheless unlike FICID, it defines the contractors’ risks in reference to those risks not listed under the employers’ risks. Under NEC conditions, the responsibility of care of the contractor goes beyond the completion of a contract. In the clause 80.1of NEC 3, the employers risks are articulated. They are categorized into six broad groups which include: one, risks involving the site or works and the legal and general liabilities and defaults that may arise from his design. In cases of risks that may crop up from the employer design fault can be insured against through a professional indemnity policy. If it is the employer own design or covered by NEC professional service contract where an outside contractor is involved. In dealing with unexpected situation, NEC has a range of provisions offering compensation for the events or occurrences that are at the employer’s risk. This goes a long way in assisting the project manager and contractor to man the construction projects without being obscured by these events. In the sub-clause 60.1 provision for variations are made where the contractor may request for extension of time for completion and even addition of payment. In such cases, the contractor only articulates his desire for time extension or rising of payment in a quotation. In sub-clause 61.6, affirms that in instances where the results of compensation of an event are

Personal Development Planning Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Personal Development Planning - Assignment Example According to the report findings the most important part of a student’s personal development planning is the communication skills. Communication skills according to Smith, is not only about talking to fellow students and tutors but listening to them as well. Listening is a very powerful tool for a student as it is through listening that they learn the art of patience as well as end up learning more than they already know. A student has to for example, listen to the professor in class, if they are to learn the concepts of the course. Communication is a two-way process, which is listening and talking.As the discussion highlights communication skills also incorporate non-verbal form of communication. When one is communicating with classmates or others that will aid in developing their future goals or in capitalizing their strengths, they can rely heavily on their non-verbal communication to know whether they are on the right track or not. In communicating goals to mentors for exa mple, they may praise the goals verbally but their facial expressions are different and indicate otherwise. This way one learns that they need to make changes. This constant relying on both the verbal and non-verbal form of communication is what eventually leads to a student having strong reflection as well as address their weak areas as a way to have stringer future with more developed and realistic goals that can be easily attainable.  

Pollution of environment during, petroleum and gas synthesis Essay

Pollution of environment during, petroleum and gas synthesis - Essay Example According to Obadina (2007), oil production in Canada rose from 1.8 million barrels to 3.1 million barrels per day between 1984 and 2003. Appreciating the widespread global use of petroleum and gas products, this paper seeks to outline the environmental pollution resulting from the synthesis of petroleum and gas, giving recommendations on prevention approaches. Environmental pollution would be appreciated as the process of man introducing energy or substances into the environment that could cause hazards to the health of human beings, harm ecological systems and living resources and interfere with or damage the legitimate use of the environment (Walker et al. 2006). The petroleum industry encompasses various activities in exploration, production and transportation of about 3.5 billion tons and 2.5 giga m3 of crude oil and natural gas respectively and other derivatives around the world each year (Walker et al. 2006). After the exploration process identifies a commercially viable reser ve, the extraction of oil and gas would be carried out through drilling by use of special technologies (Vidal 2012). The extracted hydrocarbon product would then be separated into gas and liquids and dehydrated to get rid of excess water. This would then be split into various petroleum and gas products. ... The synthesis process involves exploration and production of the products of natural gas and crude oil. It encompasses the exploration and preparation of well sites, drilling, production of crude oil and gas and on-site processing. The synthesis of petroleum and natural gas products as observed by Kaiser and Pulsipher (2007) starts with the bringing to above the ground crude oil and natural gas which would in turn be processed to various products for distribution to consumers. In the process, the industry contributes to air, water and soil pollution with the components of the resources being processed and the subsequent by-products and products, the latter being the key pollutants. Natural gas would mainly contain methane with water and carbon dioxide as impurities. Crude oils vary widely in viscosity and colour but studies by Kaiser and Pulsipher (2007) indicate 79.5% to 87.3%, 10.4% to 14.8%, 0 to 8%, 0 to 2%, 0 to 0.1% and 0 to 0.005% carbon, hydrogen , sulphur, oxygen, nitrogen a nd metals composition respectively. The main constituents are hydrocarbons of varied types and molecular masses with between 1 and 60 carbon atoms. The synthesis of gas involves processing natural gas by dewatering and removing its acid components such as hydrogen sulphide followed by eventual removal of carbon dioxide. Despite taking appropriate precautions against environmental pollution, Obadina (2007) appreciates that accidents occur periodically in the course of producing petroleum and gas. Air pollution in the process of petroleum and gas synthesis occurs through combustion emissions, fugitive emissions, process emissions, secondary emissions and from handling and storage of petroleum liquids

Personal Development Planning Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Personal Development Planning - Assignment Example According to the report findings the most important part of a student’s personal development planning is the communication skills. Communication skills according to Smith, is not only about talking to fellow students and tutors but listening to them as well. Listening is a very powerful tool for a student as it is through listening that they learn the art of patience as well as end up learning more than they already know. A student has to for example, listen to the professor in class, if they are to learn the concepts of the course. Communication is a two-way process, which is listening and talking.As the discussion highlights communication skills also incorporate non-verbal form of communication. When one is communicating with classmates or others that will aid in developing their future goals or in capitalizing their strengths, they can rely heavily on their non-verbal communication to know whether they are on the right track or not. In communicating goals to mentors for exa mple, they may praise the goals verbally but their facial expressions are different and indicate otherwise. This way one learns that they need to make changes. This constant relying on both the verbal and non-verbal form of communication is what eventually leads to a student having strong reflection as well as address their weak areas as a way to have stringer future with more developed and realistic goals that can be easily attainable.  

Comparison of Associate Degree and Bsn Essay Example for Free

Comparison of Associate Degree and Bsn Essay There are three pathways to become a Registered Nurse (RN) the first is a diploma nurse which consist of one to three years training in a hospital these nurses are strongest clinically since the training is usually hospital based. The other two choices are the Associate Degree Nurse (ADN) and the Baccalaureate Degree Nurse (BSN) all of these graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN licensing exam. This paper will discuss the differences in the competency levels between the ADN and BSN. The Associate Degree Nursing program provides an efficient, economical pathway to becoming a registered nurse. Graduates are competent in clinical and proficient in technical skills required to practice safely in multiple settings and to fully assume the RN role. Associate Degree Programs began in 1952 at Fairleigh Dickinson University. This type of nurse is usually educated at community colleges and completes training in twenty to twenty-four months after pre-requisites are met. The facts would suggest that ADN has less theory and more clinical training and according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing-Fact Sheet â€Å"Creating a More Highly Qualified Nursing Workforce† is less likely to notice a critical change in patient condition. The BSN completes their four years of education at the University level training is more focused on patient outcomes and nursing theories. Receiving more theoretical training they are better prepared for management. Also multiple studies show that due to their assessing, critical thinking,communication, leadership, case management, health promotion and their ability to practice across a variety of inpatient and outpatient settings the BSN trained RN has a lower mortality rate and better survival rates for patient resuscitation. (AACN Fact Sheet 2011) At the University of Pennsylvania it was found that surgical patients in Magnet hospitals had 14% lower odds of patient death, 12% lower failure-to-rescue rates when compared with non-Magnet hospitals. This improved outcome was attributed to the higher proportion of baccalaureate prepared nurses on staff. The Journal of Nursing Scholarship published an article in January 2011, researchers found that nurses with baccalaureate education levels had an impact on lowering patient mortality and failure-to-rescue rates. (AACN, 2012) To date it is not sure why advance training improves patient safety and saves lives RNs report a transformative experience when returning for their Baccalaureate degree with changed perspectives about nursing practice and finally seeing the big picture. Post BSN RNs noticed changes in the way they practiced nursing and in knowledge and professionalism they also reported becoming better patient advocates RNs reported noticing subtle changes in their perceptions which included changes in thinking, reasoning and questioning skills. (Whats all the Fuss; http://www. nsna. org/careercenter/fuss. aspx). Having a BSN opens more employment opportunities in 2005 the Department of Veteran’s Affairs began requiring all new hires to possess at least a BSN degree. (AACN 2013). And soon many more hospitals will be requiring the BSN degree. In time we may even see the passing of the ADN. As one of the most dynamic professions nursing requires us to keep our educational knowledge current and progressive to continually meet the ever changing needs of patients to provide excellent care. In 2007 the American Association of Colleges of Nursing based on the Institute of Medicines (IOM) report, â€Å" To Err is Human: Building a Safer Health System†, found that most errors were due to system and process problems and felt that BSN and higher educated nurses were better prepared to find solutions because of the curriculum emphasis on leadership and management. (AACN, 2007) The BSN prepared RN has the educational knowledge to excel in leadership and management, wellness and community nursing. The need for higher education is required as the nurse role increasingly becomes more autonomous and as society depends more on the RN to complement the Physician shortage our nation is facing. The baccalaureate degree also leads to higher level graduate degree programs, which greatly benefits the health system. Overall in my opinion each type of nursing degree diploma, ADN or BSN contributes in its own way to the workforce environment. By bringing different aspects of nursing, they all provide quality patient care and become leaders in the workplace. Yet, ADN programs offer an affordable means to access the nursing profession and  offer the nation its largest population of RN’s. For those with adult responsibilities it gives one of the most flexible ways to earn their degree by use of LVN to ADN to BSN ladder of education. References: 1. (2011). Conceptual foundations: the bridge to professional nursing practice . (5 ed. ). Pageburst. 2. American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (n. d. ). Retrieved from http://www. aacn. nche. edu/media-relations/EdImpact. pdf Fact Sheet: The Impact of Education on Nursing Practice 3. Fulcher, R. , Mullin, C. M. (n. d. ). Retrieved from http://www. aacc. nche. edu/Publications/Briefs/Documents/2011-02PBL_DataDrivenNurses. pdf 4. AACN. (n. d. ). Retrieved from http://www. aacn. nche. edu/publications/position/bacc-degree-prep The Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing as Minimal Preparation for Professional Practice 5. Orsolini-Hain, L. (n. d. )Retrieved from http://www. nsna. org/CareerCenter/Fuss. aspx What’s all the Fuss? Working Towards a Baccalaureate or Graduate Degree in Nursing 6. Robert, R. (n. d. ). Retrieved from http://www. aacn. nche. edu/media-relations/fact-sheets/nursing-fact-sheet 7. Rosseter, R. (n. d. ). Retrieved from http://www. aacn. nche. edu/media-relations/fact-sheets/nursing-workforce.

Toyota Knowledge Management

Toyota Knowledge Management In present, most of the management professionals and academics have distinguished knowledge as a significant source of competitive advantage. Potentially, it is a substantial resource to a firm as it includes precious, unusual, unique and non-commutable features and an implicit aspect. Importance of knowledge is increasing day by day in the society and due to this a shift is occurring in individuals thinking regarding business innovations. These innovations can be technical, process or product innovation and strategic or operational. Innovations due to knowledge-based organizations are occurring all over the world and similar is the situation with Toyota Motor Corporation that is discussed in this report. In this report, existing knowledge management practices of Toyota Motor Corporation is discussed along with the interventions that it can use to improve its present KM practices and strategies. In this report, intervention proposed for Toyota is the use of KM as a management tool. As well, here, elements that are essential for effective KM strategy are also given so that the company can develop a new and much more effective KM strategy to deal with its existing KM flaws. The report provides all inclusive information about Toyotas past knowledge management strategies and some new effective strategies that it can used to make effective use of knowledge and its related aspects. Introduction The field of knowledge management has developed in concern to the management of the data, information and knowledge within an organization and as well as employing it to gain competitive advantage (Armistead 1999, p. 143). Knowledge management basically comprises of procedures and tools to efficiently captivate and share data. As well, it is also related to the potential use of knowledge of individuals within a firm. From last several years there have been serious discussions on the significance of knowledge management (KM) in our society (Hicks, Dattero Galup 2006, p. 19). Almost all researchers, scholars and management science professionals agree that substantial transformation had occurred and management of knowledge had become crucial. The excessive business operations failures, due to the traditional modes of operations have intensified the significance of knowledge and its management (MaÊrtensson 2000, p. 204). In the increasing competitive situation, KM and associated strategy concepts had become essential and significant components for present organizations to survive and maintain their position in the long run (Armistead 1999, p. 143). Due to the significance and advantages of KM, it has become vital for executives and managers to deal with KM and related strategies. Nowadays, it is considered as a precondition for attaining higher productivity and flexibility in both the private and the public sector firms due to its significant advantages (MaÊrtensson 2000, p. 204). Toyota Motor Corporation also makes use of knowledge management for managing its different business operations and processes. With this the company has become able in gathering, organizing, sharing and analyzing its knowledge in regard to resources, documents, and people skills. Here, in this paper the current role of KM in Toyota will be analyzed along with the specific recommendations in the form of new interventions will be presented to the company. This will enhance companys ability to manage all its resources in a way through which, it can enhance its knowledge organization and sharing (Wiig1997, p. 7). Existing Knowledge Management Plan of Toyota Motor Corporation Toyota Motor Corporation has attained immense growth from the time of its initiation and with this the company have also confronted several troubles related to expansion and its management. In starting the company use to develop and produce cars only in Japan and export in some abroad countries but with increasing demand and globalization it started operating in several different foreign markets. With this increase in its operations base, the company confronted troubles related to management of its resources. For resolving this trouble the company made use of knowledge management as it become aware with its significance and need (Ichijo Kohlbacher 2006). The company operations started growing significantly and in this concern it also made use of several advanced approaches like lean production, total quality management etc. All these approaches assisted the company in attaining a significant place in emerging markets. In addition to these approaches, the company also understood the significance of knowledge and its use for company and its employees management (Armistead 1999, p. 143). The company understood that managing knowledge among its organization is essential and for this it adopted several knowledge management approaches like development of knowledge sharing networks and use of tactic knowledge (Pena 2002, P. 470). Knowledge Management The company management is aware with the fact that the creation of knowledge is not only an aggregation of information but it is a distinctive human process that cannot be decreased or replicated easily. The company management tries to alter data into information that can be used a knowledge for all by collection, organizing, summarizing, analyzing, synthesizing and making final decision (Alwis Hartmann 2008, p. 134). Management of Toyota is also aware that effective management of knowledge is essential that includes knowledge creation, sharing, security, and abandonment (Wang Ahmed 2005, p. 327). All this relies on enabling context that can be developed with the help of significant knowledge enablers that are as follows: Introducing a knowledge vision Handling conversations Displacing knowledge reformers Establishing appropriate context Globalizing local knowledge (Ichijo Kohlbacher 2006). All these knowledge enablers are introduced by Toyota that evidences its knowledge management practices. Although Toyota Motor Corporation has adopted a significant approach towards knowledge management and knowledge sharing but still it is not able to effectively manage knowledge among all its resources (Towill 2010, p. 335). Nowadays, the company is operating in different foreign markets but still it is not able to improve its production efficiency and quality and it is all because of lack of knowledge management and knowledge sharing (Bailey Clarke 2000, p. 236). The company management has still not gone through the fundamental issues of knowledge sharing or organizational learning that are key drivers behind a firms significant attainments. For attaining assured success in 21st century it is essential that its leaders develop intellectual capital with the help of knowledge creation and sharing on an international basis. The company had to work hard in the direction of knowledge sharing as its main issues are related to knowledge sharing. If company adopts effective approaches and networks it can easily resolve its issues related to knowledge sharing that in turn will render it with competitive advantage (Pena 2002, P. 470). For successful execution and operations, it is essential that the Toyota Motor Corporation significantly improves its knowledge management issues. Without this, it would not be possible for the company to manage its leading position in the long run as now knowledge has become crucial for running a business successfully (Randeree 2006, p. 145). The company had effective knowledge management plan but it is lacking at some aspects that if improved can deliver it with substantial advantages of knowledge management and business operations management (Jost 2010). Knowledge Management Interventions for Toyota Motor Corporation Toyota Motor Corporation that is the Japans largest company and the worlds second leading automobile company is known as the worlds paramount knowledge company (Jost 2010). Till now, the company has three times, won the Global Most Admired Knowledge Enterprises (MAKE) Survey 4. As well as, it is also a five-time winner of the MAKE Japan Survey. This award is given for the unique practices in the field of Knowledge Management. These awards were given on the basis of measures like knowledge-based culture and products, knowledge sharing and cooperation and organizational learning (Bateman n.d.). All these aspects were managed effectively but still the company need to take extra efforts as it is lacking in some aspects of knowledge management. The most substantial aspect that needs to be improved is sharing knowledge and it can be done only if knowledge management is used as a management tool. The most substantial KM intervention that can be used by Toyota Motor Corporation is the use of KM as a management tool (Jost 2010). By making use of knowledge management as a management tool, the company can effectively improve all its existing flaws of KM in regard to its business operations. In addition to this by understanding the concept of intellectual capital also the company can improve its KM practices. The company management needs to understand that KM is a vital part of the wide concept intellectual capital because KM itself is about the management of the intellectual capital. Intellectual capital can be understood with the help of two terms strategy and measurement (MaÊrtensson 2000, p. 205). Strategy pertains to the formation and utilization of knowledge and as well on the association between knowledge and value creation (Rao 2005). Other aspects of intellectual capital that is measurement concentrates on the development of new information systems that are proficient to measure non-financial data along with traditional financial data (MaÊrtensson 2000, p. 206). The abstract bases of intellectual capital that can be used by Toyota can be understood in this figure. The company management should try to make attempts for exploring the creation and use of knowledge in a way through which it can be leveraged into value as given in the figure. By managing intellectual capital the company can significantly enhance its existing knowledge management practices and improve the flaws in KM. This will also assist the company in making use of KM as a management tool that is essential for making it effective in all aspects of a business (MaÊrtensson 2000, p. 206). Knowledge Management as a Management Tool: Usually, KM is depicted as a management tool but it is made up of two aspects in which first is KM as an informational handling tool or operational tool and second is as a strategically focused management tool. By managing KM as operational and strategically focussed management tool, Toyota can easily increase knowledge sharing and organizational learning among its business processes (MaÊrtensson 2000, p. 209). If company and its management handle both the aspects of KM, it can significantly attain all essential benefits of KM for its business and its assured growth. Knowledge Management as an Information Handling Tool In the field of knowledge management, knowledge is usually considered as an information handling trouble. It basically includes the formation, organization and utilization of knowledge (Morey, Maybury Thuraisingham 2002). Toyota Motor Corporation also need to use KM as an information handling tool that can be done by managing different but associated stages. In the first stage, the company should acquire information and in the second stage the collected information should be entered into storage system and then need to be structured rationally (MaÊrtensson 2000, p. 209). KM is all about the attainment and reposition of employees knowledge and making this information available to others so that they can also use it. This can be done by making use of several advanced technologies like Internet and databases. In this way, the company can transform tactic knowledge to explicit knowledge that can be used by everyone for increasing their efficiency and productivity (Rao 2005). By storing information in several company databases the company need to initiate third stage that is related to make stored information accessible to maximum employees of the firm (MaÊrtensson 2000, p. 209). Knowledge Management Stages This third stage is related to the maximum delivery and use of information. In the last stage, the company management can significantly utilize information. This process of information utilization can be commenced by employees sharing knowledge and socialising with each other. As well as information can also be utilized or shared through digital and in analogue pattern. Knowledge Management as a Strategic Management Tool: The next substantial aspect of KM that needs to be managed by Toyota is KM as a strategic management tool. It is said by management professionals that effective knowledge management begins with a strategy. In concern to a KM strategy, knowledge is distinguished as a most valuable and less used resource (MaÊrtensson 2000, p. 210). For improving knowledge sharing and existing knowledge management practices, it is essential that the company improve its existing KM strategy as it plays a substantial role in successful knowledge management. For creating an effective KM strategy, the company need to develop systems that significantly capture and reassign internal knowledge into unique practices. The company management need to consider all of its aims, objectives and anticipated results in regard to KM as it varies for organization (Rao 2005). Sometime, KM can be worked out as a way to enhance performance, productivity, collaboration and competitiveness and sometimes it may be used for meliorating effective attainment, sharing and utilization of information within the company (MaÊrtensson 2000, p. 210). In addition to this it can also be used as a technique for enhanced decision making, a tool to captivate unique practices, a way to become an innovative firm etc. The purpose of employing and using KM should be clear as in this way only the company can effectively manage its KM practices and strategy. By working on all these things, the company can develop an effective KM strategy (Reimer Karagiannis 2006). Recommended Strategies for Implementing Proposed Interventions For implementing proposed interventions, the Toyota Motor Corporation needs to consider following elements and strategies: Interrogative Questions and Assessments: First substantial element that should be included by Toyota at the time of creating and implementing its KM strategy is interrogative questions and assessments. The company management should associate its KM strategy with what it wants to attain as well as with it aim and objectives. This can be done with the help of interrogation and assessments of different aspects like what company want to attain and in which aspect it wants improvement (MaÊrtensson 2000, p. 211). How its KM strategy will render it towards benefits and increase in employees performance etc. By identifying the answers of all these questions, the company can develop an effective KM strategy. Effective Communication: In most of the companies effort to implement KM strategy, a significant problem that has occurred is about ineffective communication. For successful implementation, effective communication is essential and similar is the case with Toyota (Hlupic 2003). For its successful KM strategy implementation, the company should develop an effective communication plan that should be flexible enough to adopt changes in communication pattern at the time of critical business decisions. Well developed communication plan will also help the company in increasing its knowledge sharing and becoming a learning organization (Morey, Maybury Thuraisingham 2002). Top Management Support: For successful implementation of KM strategy, it is essential that the company management have significant support from its top management. The company management should try to convince top management for promoting procedures that will prop up learning and sharing. Top management should be convinced in a way that it helps in setting-up fund knowledge networks and promotes further improvements (Reimer Karagiannis 2006). If, Toyota become able to receive full support from its top management it will substantially become able in developing and implementing a successful KM strategy (MaÊrtensson 2000, p. 211). Significance of People and Culture: The next substantial element in concern to the development and implementation of an effective KM strategy is people and culture. Successful execution of KM is significantly associated with a firms people and culture. The management of Toyota also needs to develop an effective association between its KM strategy implementation its people and culture. By focussing on its employees and their significant role, the company can have a distinctive KM strategy implementation (MaÊrtensson 2000, p. 211). The company that concentrates on its people and culture are much more able to attain its goals in comparison to the firm that concentrates more on technology. This should also be understood by Toyota and then only it will become proficient in the thriving implementation of its KM strategy (Jasimuddin 2008, p. 59). By understanding that the people and culture plays a central role in the creation of thriving knowledge based firm the company management can easily resolve all its people and cultural related issues. These issues are vital to be handled in a timely manner as otherwise it may direct company towards several disadvantages (Morey, Maybury Thuraisingham 2002). Adoption of Creativity: The next substantial element that should be considered by Toyota for improving its existing KM practices is the inclusion of creativity as it is vitally linked with strategy. By establishing a link between strategy and creativity, the company will become able in maintaining its position in the long run (Hlupic 2003). By associating KM and creativity, the company management can attain business creativity so it is essential to consider creativity at the time of developing a KM strategy. Creation of Learning Networks: One more critical element of KM is the creation of learning networks so that employees can learn from each other and maximize their knowledge. By creating learning networks, Toyota can also resolve its existing troubles of knowledge sharing and becoming a learning organization (MaÊrtensson 2000, p. 212). In present employees of the company are not so focussed but by evidencing them KM benefits, they can be encouraged for the development of learning networks. Significance of Sharing Knowledge: Another important element that needs to be included by Toyota at the time of developing and implementing its KM strategy is sharing knowledge. The company strategy is lacking in concern to this element and should work hard for improving it and including it in its KM strategy. Nowadays, it is seen that employees does not prefer to share their knowledge with other due to increasing competition (MaÊrtensson 2000, p. 211). Management of the company should try to build a positive environment in which everyone like to share knowledge with others so that they can increase their knowledge (Liebowitz 1999). In this concern, the company management should try to share existing knowledge with its new and present employees through groups discussions and regular seminars. They should try to develop an open and flexible environment in which everyone has intensity to increase its existing knowledge base. By adopting these approaches employees habit of sharing knowledge can be intensified in a significant way. Appropriate Incentives to Employees: The next critical element in regard to KM strategy is the creation of appropriate incentives for employees to share and implement knowledge. In present, Toyotas reward system does not support its sharing knowledge culture so by making changes in it, the company can improve its troubles related to sharing knowledge. The company management should try to develop a reward system that encourages its employees to use their expertise and understand the importance of KM (MaÊrtensson 2000, p. 212). All aspects related to employees and their knowledge sharing should be involved in company reward system as it may come from any level of organizational structure (Despres Chauvel 1999, p. 112). Effective Evaluation System: The last substantial element that is vital to consider is the employment of effective evaluation system for evaluating the efforts made in the direction of making use of KM. The creation of system can range from informal to formal system. Toyota should also develop effective evaluation system so that all its knowledge practices and strategies can be evaluated in a timely manner and deliver effective use of KM (Reimer Karagiannis 2006). By following all these elements, the company can develop an effective KM strategy that in turn will assist Toyota in sharing knowledge and creating a learning organization. KM as a management tool will direct Toyota towards the development of successful KM strategy and implementation (Liebowitz 1999). Conclusion With the help of above discussion, it becomes evident that the Toyota Motor Corporation needs to improve its existing KM practices and strategies. For this, the company should adopt suggested interventions that are related to use KM as a management tool. By making use of KM as a management tool the company will become able in resolving its difficulties related to operation and strategy (Reimer Karagiannis 2006). KM as a management tool will serve the company with an ability to handle its information handling issues and becoming strategically focussed (Quality Counts 2008). In this way, it can be said that Toyota should adopt the above discussed interventions and should try to develop a new and effective KM strategy. For the development of effective KM strategy the company should consider all the above discussed elements as it will render it with specific and distinctive approach to KM and its utilization. By adopting recommended strategies the company can develop a new and more effective KM strategy that will help it in resolving all existing KM related issues like knowledge sharing and becoming a learning organization (Liebowitz 1999). The proposed interventions will direct Toyota Motor Corporation towards the development of effective and distinctive KM strategy.