Anthem Essay Outline

Is it due to error, incompetence, or a more sinister motivation? Explain. II. The Solution A. Objectivism 1 . Objectivism is the belief that certain things, especially moral truths, exist independently of human knowledge or perception of them. 2. Objectivism, as defined by Any Rand in the book Objectively Speaking is that man exists for his own sake, that he must neither sacrifice himself to there nor sacrifice others to himself and that his highest moral purpose is the achievement of his own happiness.This shows that man exists for himself and that his greatest value is the achievement of his own value, or happiness. Objectivism is a near synonym for individualism and a near opposite of collectivism. B. Collectivism 1 . The society portrayed in the novel Anthem is one where collectivism is the main form of government. The word â€Å"l† is destroyed and substituted for the words â€Å"us† or â€Å"we†. This shows that Collectivism is an evil which will create a d yspepsia society similar to the one described in Anthem. . Collectivism shows that people exist for the society and this causes jobs to issued not to the ones most skilled in the field but because of the need for the job in society. For example, in the novel Anthem Equality, a man with a high intelligence is given a small position or post of â€Å"street sweeper†. Here street sweeper, is one of the jobs society requires so goals can be reached and the needs of society are answered.Equality exhibits objectivism which is detailed in the previous paragraph, and because of this he is assigned this position. This shows the true purpose to why Equality is assigned this occupation. C. Freedom 1 . Another reason why the Council assigns Equality this loathsome occupation is because of Equality idea of freedom. This is frequented illustrated throughout the novel: â€Å"l do not surrender my treasures, nor do share them. The fortune of my spirit is not to be blown into coins of brass a nd flung to the

Gender and Video Games Essay

The current development in the literature concerning videogames and gender constitutes the formulation of perceptions of how not only game developers but also players establish their individual and collective identity in this process. Their relationship then corresponds to creating specific norms and principles that seek to identify specific ideas concerning their representation of reality and also their ability to capitalize on existing genres for cultivating game play and the issues related to acceptance of existing norms. Due to this, to better understand the relationship circumventing around video games and gender, fair amount of analysis must be made not only in its ability to represent the gaming public but also in the impact it creates towards taking the issue into a bigger picture as it relates to the construction of social norms and roles. Assessing Video Games and Gender Indeed looking at previous literature studies, it can be seen that misrepresentation remains apparent especially among the representation of gender in video games. Here, common patterns of male masculine figures and characters continue to dominate different platforms and games. Such idea remains to be seen particularly, during the earlier times wherein there is a corresponding depiction of players that are relatively male and ultimately dominate both the primary and secondary characters. Here, Williams, Martins, Consalvo and Ivory (2009) study highlights these apparent trends by arguing that â€Å"the most popular games are less representative than the typical game produced by developers, indicating that players also play a role in the cycle of creation and consumption† (p. 828). Similarly, such actions then establish the formation of implications relating towards both businesses and gamers alike. Given the constant marketing and exploration of new strategies to expand the level of gamers within a specific platform, there are indeed restrictions that this gender bias and formulation of games create. It necessitates not only hindering the potential appeal of these games towards consumers but also induce common means for limited appreciation and also shortage in sales. These dynamics in turn necessitate a constricted response to the ever growing number of patrons of video games as it encompasses the majority of participants and involve other actors who also place emphasis in their capacity for media to exhibit their common associations and relationship within the platform (Williams, Martins, Consalvo, Ivory, 2009). Opening up Patterns for Diversity and Change Assessing the validity of how video games embrace diversity, careful analysis needs to be made in the manner that video games seek to portray and outline the views concerning the gaming culture. Since social symbols often connote this process to be a male/masculine endeavor, earlier platforms somehow inhibit female participation in such activity and more often than not associated with male roles and tendencies (Williams, Martin, Consalvo and Ivory, 2009). However, this started to change as new designs and models have been introduced to cater to the changing perceptions of gender roles related to video games and adherence to the objectives to transcend over common representations that platform has over male and female responsiveness. Recognizing the current needs for embedding gender equality within the video game platforms, many game developers now seek to apply these strategies in the formulation of new titles that seek to connote better ability for people to utilize their perception of themselves within a particular game. This brought about significant changes as designers brought into consideration diversity and equal representation of male and female roles in the process. This dynamics then consolidated better means for outlining not only significant areas related to the overall game play but also in the appeal it gives towards different individuals regardless of their racial and gender associations (Brandtzaeg and Heim, 2009). Seeing this, the study by Jansz and Vosmeer indeed offer a good analysis of how the game ‘Sims 2’ address these changing trends and outline the evolution of gaming from a masculine and male dominated genre to a more lax and diverse area that induces common connections between masculinity and femininity. By using this game as an example, the study was able to highlight significant changes in these perceptions and was able to ascertain common ideals shaping and furthering opportunities accounting to how diversity serves as an instrument in merging the idea of gender and video games together. To complement this process, it takes into account creating video games that are not only responsive to the needs of gamers but also reach out towards their ability to utilize connections over the roles specific characters play. Here, Jansz and Vosmeer (2010) argues, â€Å"developing gender and games theory requires more detailed insight into the mutual shaping of game content, game play, and gender identities† (p. 247). By collaborating on these three aspects accordingly, the ability of growth of video games have indeed showcased a reality that is more conducive and responsive to the needs of individuals by offering a variety of platforms wherein interaction and associations remain possible. Videogames, Violence, and Gender Roles Another precept shaping the understanding concerning the idea of videogames and gender is the corresponding perceptions and roles it provides participants. Since this element is one part of media, it is through this that representations about culture and gender roles are provided among individuals regardless of age, race, or cultural affiliations. These dynamics in turn necessitate both positive and negative responses in terms of the establishment of identity and formulation of specific patterns of behavior innate within the characterization of primary and secondary characters in a particular game. In essence, there continues to be a relationship in the way individuals ascertain their preferences in games with their innate social behavior and ability to denote a particular response to each theme of a video game played (Brandtzaeg and Heim, 2009). Seeing these diverse variations concerning the ability to extract experiences and ideas from video games, it then presents the formation of specific behavior and inputs depending on the themes provided. Such actions then result in current diversity of games available in the market today. As Brandtzaeg and Heim (2009) argue, â€Å"the new electronic gaming landscape is complex, and consists of a vast array of choices in different game content genres tailored towards a range of user profiles in regards to highly different interests and content preferences† (p. 71). These in turn result in the formulation of specific behavior that equally shapes an individual’s personality and the manner that each one seeks to equate this in the formulation of their identity and role within social institutions. Associated with the formulation of gender roles, there are also instances of video games promoting violence as themes in its platforms. Such dynamics then necessitate impact on individual behavior as they try to ascertain specific tendencies towards the acceptance of violence to be a social norm and apparent in different scenarios and environment. Though research and literature may argue differently concerning this stance, it also goes to show the impact that video games can provide towards the inducement of violent and aggressive tendencies among gamers. Here, it is what Kim refers to as desensitization of violence within video games genre and points out its impact not only in the formulation of gender roles but also the acceptance of its role within the development of a player’s identity (Kim, n. d. ). Under this process, there continues to be new developments happening in video game technology that aides the desensitization of violence among consoles. These in turn contributes to further exposure and creates a real-life scenarios wherein players experience an almost-real setup where violence as a theme is depicted. Here, Kim (n. d. ) argues that â€Å"as video games become more sophisticated, there is a wide range of input devices at various levels of realism – from pushing keys on a keyboard to a turning wheel to drive or actually shooting a gun† (p. 5). Such realities then brings about the question of how such games provide the means to explore means to correspond the manner to ascertain violence, videogames and gender. It does take into account the value of how these themes permeate within choices and ability to partake in the gaming experience of individuals. By establishing these relationships, it can help analyze the formulation of behavior as well as how it corresponds to the nature of furthering opportunities to extract behavioral responsiveness on the part of individuals who partake in such endeavor. (Jansz, and Vosmeer, 2010). To conclude, the idea of gender and video games have undergone an expansion of literature that takes into account its development from a more conservative and masculine-oriented dimension towards the creation of games that seeks to highlight and induce elements of diversity. By taking account of these areas, it was able to consolidate better means to reach out towards different gamers and allow better means for access among people. Though there may still be corresponding bias views concerning gender, it was able to construct a new playing field wherein new games are able to cater towards the dynamic needs among gamers. Alongside this development, there is also the corresponding perspective of shaping new means to carry out effective means to extract gender roles among players. These elements manifest in the themes and perceptions utilized by individuals who participate in such endeavor. One element that can be seen in these areas is the corresponding violence that video game creates. Though there are contrasting views in the impact on human behavior, it plays a crucial role in establishing analysis in its association with the interplay of social norms and roles through the spectrum of perceptions and choices of video game genres. References Brandtzaeg, P. B. and Heim, J. (2009) Children’s Electronic Gaming Content Preferences and Psychosocial Factors: Is there a connection? Nordicom Review. 30 (2), pp. 69-86 Jansz, J. , Avis, C. and Vosmeer, M. (2010) Playing The Sims 2: An exploration of gender differences in players’ motivations and patterns of play. New media and Society. 12 (2), pp. 235-251 Kim, O. T. Effects of Violent Video Games on Desensitization: The Role of Gender, Previous Exposure, and Input Device. Williams, D. , Martins, N. , Consalvo, M. and Ivory, J. (2009) The virtual census: representations of gender, race, and age in video games. New media and society. 11 (5), pp. 815-834

Employment Law Essay

Early this year, there are reports that the number of employees calling in sick has risen to staggering levels. According to an absence management company, there are about 3. 6 million employees who called in sick the first week of January (Pitcher, 2008). The United Kingdom ranked as second as having the most number of employees with long term sickness in a survey conducted by the European Community (Tehrani and Rainbird, 2005). The level of absence for UK was 27. 2% as against an average of 16. % of the European Union (Tehrani and Rainbird, 2005). An approximate figure of 14. 1 million days ‘were lost to stress and anxiety in 2001† (Tehrani and Rainbird, 2005). Absences due to stress and mental problems significantly affect both the employer and the employees. This matter apparently has been taken for granted and unaddressed for sometime until the enactment of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA), Employment Act 2002, Employment Rights Act 1996, and the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. This paper shall show the manner by which the pertinent provisions of these pieces of legislation are applied to a hypothetical case and it shall also seek to identify and explain the remedies of an employee in case of violation of the provisions. Disability—Sickness Absence The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 defines disability as one having a ‘physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on his ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities’ (Section 1(1), Part 1, DDA 1995). The Industrial Tribunal has applied the definition to the different cases brought before it. For instance, in the case of Greenwood v. United Tiles Limited; the employee concerned was suffering from diabetes and was held to be disabled by the Tribunal (Greenwood v. United Tiles Limited 1101067/97/C). In the case of O’Neil v Symm & Company Limited, the Tribunal considered ME or chronic fatigue syndrome as a disability (O’Neil v Symm & Company Limited, 2700054/97). Even abdominal pains which had no medical diagnosis with respect to its origin was declared as a disability by the Tribunal in the case of Howden v Capital Copiers (Edinburgh) Limited (400005/97) (Thompsons Solicitors web site, 2007). Anent mental disability, Walton v LI Group Limited case involved an employee who had learning difficulties. The Tribunal ruled that the employee is considered disabled under the DDA basing its conclusion on the testimonial evidence of the employee’s parents and the fact that the employee was receiving disability living allowance (Walton v LI Group Limited, 1600562/97). The increased awareness for mental health and issues associated with it has accelerated in time, clinical depression is in fact already considered as a disability. Clinical depression is a ‘common mood disorder in psychology and psychiatry in which a person’s enjoyment of life and ability to function socially and in day-to-day matters is disrupted by intense sadness, melancholia, numbness or despair’ (Farlex Free Dictionary web site, n. d. ). In the recent appealed case of O’Hanlon v Commissioners for HM Revenue & Customs, the Employment Appeal Tribunal ruled that clinical depression is considered a disability and therefore falls within the coverage of the DDA 1995 [O’Hanlon v Commissioners for HM Revenue & Customs (2007) EWCA Civ 283]. Applying the above discussed legal principles to the given hypothetical case, Vangeer has been diagnosed to be suffering from clinical depression. This was brought about by the incident when she accidentally pricked herself with a needle which she picked up while cleaning a bus in the depot of her employer. This caused panic attacks and anxiety and for which she was given a year off from work. At this juncture, it is important to stress that the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 requires the employers to ensure the health and safety of its employees in the place of work. Towards its realization, the law imposes upon the employer the duty to make ‘the provision and maintenance of plant and systems of work that are, so far as is reasonably practicable, safe and without risks to health’ (Section 2 (2)(a), HSWA 1974). This means that Snail Pace Bus Company should have provided a system of work including protective gear for those who clean their buses (Health Safety Executive, 2006). In addition, the employer is also supposed to take measures to protect their employee who may return to work considering that there is more likelihood that the employee may be weak because of the injury or disability (Health Safety Executive, 2006). Vangeer went on sickness absence for about a year. Sickness absence may be short term or long term. A long term sickness absence connotes serious medical reasons such as in the case of Vangeer. Long-term absence is ‘usually defined as a period of absence in excess of two weeks’ (Corcoran, 2006). When she returned for work, a new team leader made discriminatory remarks about her race. In hindsight, this may be considered as a violation of the Race Relations Act 1976. It may be shown that there is direct discrimination of Vangeer because she is black such as when she is treated less favourably than another (Thompsons Solicitors, n. d. ). Moreover, it may be shown that there is some form of harassment under the Race Relations Act 1976 as amended by the New Regulations of 2003 (Thompsons Solicitors, n. d. ). Harassment is broad as to include ‘abusive language, excessive monitoring of work, excessive criticism of someone’s work etc. ’ (Thompsons Solicitors, n. d. ). It may be claimed that Vangeer suffered by because she was degraded, intimidated and her dignity violated. The violation of her dignity is subjective and the Tribunal would need to rule using the ‘reasonableness’ standard (Thompsons Solicitors, n. d. In this case, the effect of Bob’s conduct has caused Vangeer to go on sickness absence for three weeks more based on the recommendation of her psychiatrist. Her transfer to another team was also suggested. Even before the period of sickness absence has lapsed, Snail Pace Bus Company was bought by Slow Coach Ltd. and Vangeer was called to a meeting about her absence. Thereafter, she was dismissed from her employment with pay. Her dismissal is illegal. ‘In relation to long-term sickness absence, the employer who dismisses an employee faces three potential legal risks’ (Lemon & Co. 2008). Vangeer may file for a claim for unfair dismissal, for disability discrimination and for violation of her contract of employment. It is axiomatic that there exists between the employer and the employee, a contract of employment. It is an agreement whereby the rights and obligations of both the employee and the employer are specified (Direct. Gov web site, 2008). When the employee accepts employment, there is an automatic contract of employment that is created regardless of whether this has been reduced into writing (Direct. Gov web site, 2008). Generally, employment contracts contain the following clauses: ‘commencement, term, job title and duties, place of work, hours of work, pay, holiday entitlement, pension, sickness absence, intellectual property, confidentiality, termination disciplinary, dismissal and grievance procedures, and collective agreements’(Clickdocs web site, n. d. ). The terms of employment in respect of hours of work, pay, termination of employment and other benefits are provided by the statutes. This being the case, the employer is mandated to comply with the provisions of the statutes. For instance, dismissal procedures should be observed. In the instant case, Vangeer was invited to a meeting to discuss her absence and after a day she was dismissed from employment with pay. The Employment Act 2002, Part 3, Section 30 (1) provides that, ‘Every contract of employment shall have effect to require the employer and employee to comply, in relation to any matter to which a statutory procedure applies, with the requirements of the procedure’ (EA 2002). The law requires that the employer observe the procedure in cases of dismissal as provided for under section 29, Schedule 2 Statutory Dispute Resolution Procedures, Chapter 1 and 2. Substantially, the employer is required by law to put into writing the circumstances and acts of the employee which he led him to initiate disciplinary or dismissal steps and invite him to discuss it in a meeting. The employee must have notice and reasonable opportunity to be apprised of the same. After the meeting, the employer must inform the employee of his decision and inform him of his right to appeal. Should the employee opt for an appeal, another meeting should be scheduled before the dismissal or the disciplinary penalty shall have been effective (Section 29, Schedule 2, Chapter 1, EA 2002). In the instant case, Vangeer apparently may have been given an unfairly short notice and was not informed of her right of appeal if she was not satisfied with the decision. In retrospect, the jurisdiction over wrongful dismissal cases were lodged in courts until 1994 when jurisdiction was given to the Employment Tribunals which were authorised to grant only up to GBP25,000 (British Employment web site, 2007). A contrary rule is observed with respect to unfair dismissals and discrimination cases, where the courts can award greater amounts of monetary damages. Wrongful dismissal results when employer fails to give the employee notice in accordance with the employment contract and without appropriate pay (British Employment web site, 2007). It has been observed though that it is better for the ‘employee to sue if the contract provides a fairly long notice period’ (British Employment web site, 2007). Monetary damages in these cases are computed based on the amount of loss in terms of compensation and other benefits. Unfair dismissal occurs when the employee is terminated from employment and the employer in doing so had no valid and justifiable reason (Direct. gov web site, 2008). The Employment Rights Act 1996, specifically Part X sections 111 to 132 provide for the remedies in case of unfair dismissal. In a nutshell, there are three options: an order for reinstatement, an order for re-engagement or an order for compensation. Reinstatement is when the Tribunal orders the employer to put the employee back to work with the same position and assigned tasks. There is re-engagement when the employee is placed back to work with a new post and tasks but under the same employer ((British Employment web site, 2007). In cases where the Tribunal issues an order for reinstatement or re-engagement, it cannot also order compensation [Wilson (HM Inspector of Taxes) v Clayton (2003) EWCA Civ 1657]. In the instant case, Vangeer was unlawfully dismissed because of her long absence. The Employment Rights Act 1996 provide for the employer’s responsibilities in case sickness absence and dismissal are due to ill-health (Mace & Jones web site, 2007). Bad health may be considered a good basis for dismissal of an employee because it affects the ability and capacity of the employee to perform his assigned duties and tasks. The law mandates that in order for a dismissal based on ill-health can be considered as fair, the employer must observe and comply with the legal requirements (Mace & Jones web site, 2007). The employee must be given the reasonable opportunity to recover and return to work before they can be dismissed’ (Lemon & Co. web site, 2008). In the instant case, Snail Pace Bus Company gave Vangeer about a year to recover from her clinical depression. A return to work programme was drawn up for her. Her relapse was instigated by her new manager. She was given a three week off from work and before the lapse of that time she was dismissed after the discussion with Slow Coach Ltd. Vangeer apparently was not given a reasonable opportunity to even use her three week off when in fact, the relapse was caused by management. However, it should be pointed out that not in all cases shall the employer be liable even if he partly or wholly was responsible for the incapacity of the employee. In the case of McAdie v Royal Bank of Scotland [2007] EWCA Civ 806, the Employment Appeal Tribunal reversed the decision of the Employment Tribunal when it ruled that the dismissal was justified even if the employer, partly or wholly caused the employee’s incapacity because based on the medical evidence obtained ‘there was no prospect of the employee returning to work’ [McAdie v Royal Bank of Scotland (2007) EWCA Civ 806]. Another requirement would be is for the employer to seek evidence of the medical status of the illness of the employee. The employer must request for medical reports from the employee’s physician upon the authorisation of the former (Lemon & Co. web site, 2008). The employer may also request for the examination of the employee by the employer’s own physician. The meeting should be for purposes of assessing the current medical state, the existing medical advice and medical evidence. In the case of Vangeer, Slow Coach Ltd. ailed to request the medical reports from her physician. Moreover, the employee must be consulted through a series of meetings for purposes of exploring ways and issues for alternative options and reasonable adjustments (Lemon & Co. web site, 2008). Albeit, there is one meeting conducted with Vangeer, no exhaustive discussion seemed to have been made. Finally, ‘The employer must consider the possibility of making adjustments to the working environment in order to permit the employee to return to work’ (Lemon & Co. eb site, 2008). When Vangeer was ill the first time, the employer made a programme which allowed her to start work late and go home early. However in the case of relapse, the suggestion that she be re-assigned to a different team was not deliberated upon and carried out by Slow Coach Ltd. It is the responsibility of the employer to seek and accept suggestions from the employee on how she can work when she returns. In a complaint for unfair dismissal, the Employment Tribunal shall take the following factors into consideration: ‘nature of the employee’s illness, the likely duration of the illness, the nature of the job, the needs of the employer, the employee’s length of service, the type (and amount) of sick pay paid to the employee and alternative employment’ (Lemon & Co. web site, 2008). The most important factor that will be considered is whether the employer took measures in gathering information and ascertaining medical reports from which he would base a fair and reasonable conclusion and decision. There must be recent, comprehensive and competent medical findings (Direct. gov web site, 2008). He must also comply with the procedures in dismissing an employee in accordance with the Employment Act 2002 and the Dispute Regulations 2004 (Direct. gov web site, 2008). Failure to follow the â€Å"statutory minimum dismissal and disciplinary procedure† shall make him liable to ‘a minimum basic award of 4 weeks pay. Furthermore, any compensation awarded by an Employment Tribunal may increase by 10-50%’ (Direct. gov web site, 2008). There is no distinction between sickness absence and disability. In the case of Clark v Novacold (18901661/97) ‘the Industrial Tribunal concluded that there should be no distinction between the two, and dismissal for sickness absence does in fact relate to the disability and accordingly is prima facie unlawful’ (Thompsons Solicitors web site, 1997). According to Solicitor Michael Corcoran, if the disability is the cause of the long term sickness absence and the employee was in fact dismissed, such dismissal is tantamount to discrimination unless it is shown that dismissal is justifiable (Corcoran, 2006). The lack of knowledge of Slow Coach Ltd. may have on the disability would be irrelevant and immaterial to the issue of whether Vangeer was treated less favourably (Corcoran, 2006). Under Section 20 of the Discrimination Disability Act 1995, direct discrimination is committed when the employee is ‘treated less favourably’ than another not suffering from such disability and that such treatment is by reason of the employee’s disability (DDA 2005). Moreover, the employer shall also be liable if he failed to make reasonable adjustments so that the disabled employee can continue his or her employment (HSE, n. d. ). The law requires that the employer ‘go an extra mile’ for the disabled employee, albeit the law does not set parameters of its extent. However, case law has laid down legal principles based on each of the precedent-setting case (HSE, n. d. ).

Elements of Corporate strategy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Elements of Corporate strategy - Essay Example Currnt ppr dls with th qustion of orgniztionl mission nd dfins it s n importnt tool for shping businss objctivs nd sing th prioritis, strtgis nd plns of compny. mission sttmnt is n orgniztion's vision trnsltd into writtn form. It mks concrt th ldr's viw of th dirction nd purpos of th orgniztion. For mny corport ldrs it is vitl lmnt in ny ttmpt to motivt mploys nd to giv thm sns of prioritis. Mission of n orgniztion is succinct nd inspiring sttmnt of wht th orgniztion intnds to bcom nd to chiv t som point in th futur, oftn sttd in comptitiv trms. Mission rfrs to th ctgory of intntions tht r brod, ll-intrusiv nd forwrd-thinking. It is th img tht businss must hv of its gols bfor it sts out to rch thm. It dscribs spirtions for th futur, without spcifying th mns tht will b usd to chiv thos dsird nds. Th corport succss dpnds on th mission rticultd by th chif xcutiv or th top mngmnt. For mission to hv ny impct of th mploys of n orgniztion it hs to b convyd in drmtic nd nduring wy. Th most ffctiv missions r thos tht inspir, usully sking mploys for th bst, th most or th grtst (Cmpbll, Twdy, 2000:15). Givn th cclrting rt of chng w r xprincing in our fmilis, our orgniztions, nd our communitis, w cnnot fford to wit for chng to com to us tomorrow. Using visioning, w cn gnrt th futur tody. Visioning nd stting up mission involvs ths four ky stps, with thir cntrl qustions: 1. Mission sttmnt. This nswrs th most fundmntl qustion: Why do w xist Mission sttmnts dfin public orgniztion in trms of its xprtis nd srvics, its constitunts nd stkholdrs, its impcts nd outcoms. 2. Cor vlus. Onc dfind, ths nswr th nxt qustion: Wht do w bliv in Cor vlus rflct wht th orgniztion blivs in, wht it is committd to, nd wht it wishs to b known for. 3. vision. Th visioning procss trnslts cor vlus into ctions by nswring such qustions s: Wht do w wnt to bring bout Wht diffrnc do w wnt to mk Wht do w spir to Wht lgcy do w wish to lv bhind Unlik mission sttmnt, vision sttmnt is not bout wht locl govrnmnt dos; it is bout wht it hops to do. 4. Strtgic plnning. In this procss of dsigning bluprint to chiv th mission nd vision, its contribution is to outlin th orgniztion's gols, with th strtgis nd tctics th orgniztion will us to clos th gp btwn tody nd tomorrow. Strtgic plnning nswrs qustions such s: How do w gt thr from hr Wht do w do nxt Vision is th criticl lmnt tht givs lif, brth, nd mning to th mission sttmnt, th cor vlus, nd th strtgic pln. Visioning is procss by which community of popl coms togthr to wrstl with ths qustions. Strtgic plnning mks sns only if w r willing to sk strtgic qustions. This concption of strtgic plnning is criticl to public gncis nd govrning bodis bcus of th nd to involv th public nd numrous stkholdrs in ny plnning procss. Public officils cn us visioning s mns of furthring strtgic convrstion mong citizns nd stkholdrs bout th kind of socity nd futur thy wish to build. In so doing, officils not only crry out thir dministrtiv rsponsibilitis but lso contribut to th dmocrtic wll-bing of thir constitunts. Mission or Purpos is prcis dscription of wht n orgniztion dos. It should dscrib th businss th orgniztion is in. It is dfinition of "why" th orgniztion xists currntly. ch mmbr of n orgniztion should b bl to vrblly xprss this mission. dditionlly, ch prson nds mission for his or hr lif. Th lignmnt of lif mission with

Texas Lottery Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Texas Lottery - Essay Example Thesis: It is right for Texas law to restricts the lottery commission from introducing new forms of gambling. Texas Lottery runs by the Texas government thus it is often criticized as a typical gambling which has a negative impact on the society. In 1991, the legislation to create a state lottery was introduced and Texas population approved the Lottery. Since that time, the Texas Lottery communion has introduced a lot of new forms of gambling including Mega Millions, Looto Texas, Daily 4 (The Texas Lottery 2008). The goals of the Texas laws are to restrict gambling in the state and protect citizens from "exploitation" by the Lottery commission. Also, Texas laws regulate the gambling industry and stipulate strict norms and principles for the Lottery. The advisability of legalizing the Lottery in order to generate revenue for the state must be assessed in terms of the equity of gambling as a tax source, i.e. the regressivity of taxes, and the efficiency of raising revenue through gambling taxes, i.e. the cost-effectiveness of the Lottery legalization (Dee 2004). Thus, current laws do not accomplish their goals and permits emergence of new forms of Lottery and gambling. Daily 4. is an example of this process. The right thing is that the Texas laws legalize the Lottery and reduce illegal gambling in Texas (Sandberg 2008).

Consumer Behaviour - NIKE Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Consumer Behaviour - NIKE - Essay Example Also, in the year 2008, the company presented the Air Jordan XX3 which was identified to be a high-performance basketball shoes created with the environment in mind (Kapferer, 2012). Some of the Nike Companies’ newest shoes contain Lunarlite and Flywire foams to lessen weight. In addition, Nike Company is well recognized and popular in young adult and hip hop philosophy for their delivering of city fashion clothing (Kumar, 2009). However, The Company being well recognized for its performance, the question is â€Å"What constitutes the capability of the Company to capture its targeted consumers?† There is a bundle of attributes presented by the Nike Company for their targeted consumer consideration. Some of this attribute are discussed in the following paragraphs in detail. First, is the logo â€Å"swoosh† which is the company’s signature or trademark. With or without the name Nike underneath the logo, the general consumers can perceive the logo and visualize Nike. Regardless to a check of excellence, the flowing nature of the logo has played a vital role to the marketing of the brand. The role of visual rhetoric is to influence the company’s targeted consumers visually. The logo represents competition, athleticism, and victory. With a single brush stroke, viewers of the logo anticipate that this what it means (Hawkins, 2013). Also, the logo looks like a check mark which, for instance, in American philosophy, has become illustrative of a job well done or success. Nike prides in making state of the art athletic items from running shoes to football and using a logo that rhetorically illustrate success. The logo visually ties into the early gods of sports, elaborating its achievement as a successful, recognizable, and uncomplicated tr ademark. Second, attribute is the slogan â€Å"Just Do It† which is the tag-line allied with the Nike logo. Together, the tag-line and the logo feature the

Strategic Marketing Plan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

Strategic Marketing Plan - Essay Example The valley of Swat is known for its amazing natural beauty and therefore there is a huge attraction for domestic and international tourists. In order to resume tourism in the valley after the removal of terrorists hold, this report presents a three year long marketing strategy which is categorized into three phases. The first phase will focus on attracting domestic tourists; the second will focus on domestic and international tourists, while the third phase will concentrate only on attracting international tourists towards Swat valley. The marketing plan presents an overview of the financial aspects of the strategy. Strategic Marketing Plan Resuming Tourism in Swat Valley (Pakistan) Introduction This report covers a strategic marketing plan for resuming tourism in the Swat valley located in the South Asian state, Pakistan. The valley of Swat had been under the control of terrorists and extremists before a successful military operation conducted by the Pakistan Armed Forces in 2009 (K han 2010). The structure of the report is based on the marketing plan structure presented by McDonald (2008). The marketing plan is based on the following structure: Part 1: Goal Setting This part presents the goal set to be achieved from the marketing plan presented in this report. ... Moreover, the monitoring of the outcomes of the marketing plan after its implementation are also being discussed in this part. 1. Goal Setting The aim of this market plan is to resume tourism activities in Swat Valley in Pakistan by taking into consideration the competitive advantages of the place as against the tourist destinations in the region of South Asia. 1.1. Marketing Objectives In order to present a direction for the goal of this marketing plan based on SMART objectives (Doran 1981), following are the strategic marketing objectives which are planned to be attained: To resume tourism activities in Swat valley; To promote the soft image of Swat valley and its people by conducting various events and projecting them to the outside world; To resume tourism activities in Swat by following a step wise strategy which focuses on domestic tourists first and then international tourists; To generate positive cash flows from tourist activities in the second year of the implementation of the marketing plan; To increase cash inflows from domestic tourists visits by 60 percent as compared to the first year in comparison with the first year; To increase cash inflows from international tourists’ visits by 33.33 percent in the third year in comparison with the second year. 2. Situation Analysis Following is an analysis of the situation relating to tourism in Swat valley, which considers different aspects relevant in devising a tourism marketing strategy for Swat. 2.1. Swat Valley Swat is a famous tourist destination in the northern regions of Pakistan, administered under the government of â€Å"Khyber Pakhtunkhwa† Province of Pakistan. The valley of Swat lies in the upper parts

The Art of Teaching Life Lessons Effectively Through the Use Of Fables Essay

The Art of Teaching Life Lessons Effectively Through the Use Of Fables and Parables - Essay Example Weather it is to teach a child or a youth fables and parables play an important role. In bible, there are several instances when Jesus uses parables to explain to his disciples and his people the basic principles of life. This paper explains how fables and parables are useful in the art of teaching life lessons effectively. Before we get into the discussion it is essential to define the terms fables and parables and also find the basic difference between the two. Fable (from the Latin fabula, "a telling") puts the emphasis on narrative (and in the medieval and Renaissance periods was often used when speaking of "the plot" of a narrative). Parable (from Greek parabole, a "setting beside") suggests a juxtaposition that compares and contrasts this story with that idea. Allegory (from Greek allos and agoreuein, an "other-speaking") suggests a more expanded use of deceptive and oblique language (Jesusi.com, 2001). According to the Wikipedia encyclopedia a fable is defined as a brief, succinct story, in prose or verse, that uses animals, plants, inanimate objects, or forces of nature which are anthropomorphized (given human qualities), and that illustrates a moral lesson (a "moral"), which may at the end be expressed explicitly in a pithy maxim (Wikipedia, 2007a). In simple terms the fable is generally a tale or a story of animals that come to life and behave as though they were humans. The fable tends to concentrate on animating the inanimate. The only difference between a fable and an ordinary folktale is that a fable always carries a moral (Jesusi.com, 2001). In simple words fables are knowingly fictional, unrealistic fantasy stories with moral that illustrate previously discovered human wisdom (Chopra, 2004). On the other hand a parable does not take the help of animals, plants, inanimate objects, or forces of nature as actors (Wikipedia, 2007a). The parable also tells a simple story. But, whereas fables have a tendency to personify animal characters, the typical parable uses human agents. Parables generally show less interest in the storytelling and more in the analogy they draw between particular instances of human behavior. For instance, in bible Jesus through the parable of good Samaritan proves the true neighborly kindness required in human behavior at large. Preliterate oral cultures are the common roots of parable and fable and both are means of passing down through generations the traditional folk wisdom (Jesusi.com, 2001). Deep spiritual truth is demonstrated using parables that are not previously understood by man (Chopra, 2004). The parables make it easier to set up unexpected connections. The parable is built on characters, images and situations already known by the reader or the listener, allowing the author or the storyteller to set up, unexpected links with new ideas or situations. The art of metaphor rests exactly in the capacity of establishing comparisons between ideas and situations that, at first sight, do not have much in common, thus revealing unexpected truths and new aspects of truths in life (Badenas, 22-40). Similar to poems, fables, parables, and allegories have some hidden truths. These are like imaginative literature or spoken utterance constructed in such a way that their readers or listeners look for meanings hidden beneath

Health Policy Issues Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Health Policy Issues - Essay Example Policies and programs put into action should focus on these issues. Results from studies done in the past have shown that health institutions or hospitals with adequate and appropriate nurse-to-patient ratio provides high quality care as compared to those with inadequate staffing levels. The cost of healthcare is very high today in the US. This has been attributed to the high cost s of living that consequently elevates the cost of available services. Some individuals have also been unable to pay for their healthcare insurance. Therefore, many Americans have limited access to healthcare as individuals ought to have health coverage for them to access affordable and high quality care. There are various policy issues that affect our aging population of the United States. One of the most significant issues of concern is long term care. It is evident all over the world that there has been a persistent or constant increase in the percentage of senior citizens particularly in the US. Such an increase leads to elevated requirements whereby more individuals in the senior citizens category necessitate continuing and long-standing care. There is therefore a need to design healthcare programs geared towards increasing the quantity and quality of institutionalized care as well as care practices at the community level. Another important health policy issue facing older people’s lives is access to healthcare. A large proportion of Americans have limited access to appropriate and affordable healthcare. This is attributed to the ever increasing rates of insurance cover. An individual is necessitated to pay up his/her health insurance during his/her younger and working ye ars (Pescosolido, 2010). Therefore, those individuals unlucky in life and hence are poor heave a lot of problems when they get old. Some of them lack healthcare insurance at this crucial and vulnerable stage in their lives. There are a few challenges that face the US

The Influence of Capoeira on Hip Hop Dance Forms Research Paper

The Influence of Capoeira on Hip Hop Dance Forms - Research Paper Example This Afro-Brazilian form is called capoeira, a game of movement in which the intent is to mimic fighting moves to outdo an opponent. Capoeira is uniquely suited for the origins of Hip Hop and aspects of it can be found throughout the culture. According to Emmett George Price, hip-hop evolved in the 1970’s as a reactionary cultural movement based on concepts that evolved from the civil rights movements of the 1960’s (1). Price says that the movement is considered to have begun in the Bronx in New York where the neighborhood had developed into an impoverished, gang-based culture that thrived through violence and criminal behavior (9). The gangs provided a sort of â€Å"family’ for the displaced youths that suffered from inadequacies of all types from low-quality nutrition, poor educational opportunities, and a bleak future outlook. Under the leadership of Afrika Bambaataa who rose to lead a gang named the Black Spades, an alternative to violent conflict between the gangs arose to fill the needs of the adversarial youths. Hip-hop developed from a need to find respect and honor without entering into a battlefield of bloodshed. Hip-hop culture developed through a need to find a way to save a culture from its own violent destruction. As ‘crews’ developed rap and movements intended to outdo rival groups, the appeal began to spread and become commercialized. Where the origins of the music developed for private purposes, the commercial potential began to find its way into the music industry. With the release of Sugar Hill’s Gang’s work titled â€Å"Rapper’s Delight†, the revolution of the music industry began. As the music industry developed, so did the dance associated with the music and the culture worked its way into mainstream American entertainment (Fitzgerald 42). Hip-hop is urban and global, a representation from the poor inner-city youth that has expanded into a multi-million dollar financial benefit.

Visa Company Essay Example for Free

Visa Company Essay Internet shopping is just one of the many types of â€Å"Shopping from Home† (Trading Standards Service, New Jersey, p. 1). The convenience of shopping online had encouraged shopping for airline tickets, computer hardware, books and even stocks and mutual funds. In the United States studies in 1997 showed that Americans spend as much as $5 trillion annually (Strategies Group Inc. , 1998). In another study, Visa Company estimates that 30% of Internet users, corresponding to 18.3 million shoppers will have to shop online in 2002, which mean that it will triple the 1997 figures (Visa, 1996). Visa also found that 25% of Internet users in 2002 have visited websites for shopping purposes while 12% have undergone banking transactions. Relative to percentage of internet shoppers by age group, Strategies Group Inc. estimates that 77% of consumers ages 25 years and below are willing to shop online while 67% pertains to consumers ages 26 to 34 (Strategies Group Inc. 1997). Technology and the globalization trend has made even shopping more convenient to people. These factors have influenced much of the shopping behaviors of consumers and Internet shopping is not an exemption. Several other factors include the following: (1) experience in conventional in-home shopping methods, (2) internet experience, (3) work in the computer branch, (4) convenience factors, (5) uniqueness of the product sold in the Internet, (6) perceived risk and (7) the desire of consumers to experiment (Yankelovich Partners 1996). Aside from these factors, there are studies that show some other factors that are somehow related to the consumer’s Internet shopping behaviors. Time and internet experience according to Network Wizards influence internet shopping behaviors stating that online shoppers are frequently people who spend more time over the Internet or those people who regard Internet surfing as a habit (Network Wizards, 1996). TAKING THE RISKS OF INTERNET SHOPPING The convenience and fun of Internet shopping have corresponding risks that consumers must take and must seriously consider. Because Internet shoppers are required to give their personal information such as name, address, phone numbers, credit card numbers and even Social Security Number (SSN), shoppers are at risk of fraud and identity theft. Our main concern in this paper is to trace back the processes that Internet shoppers undergo before the actual purchase of the product in order to find out where is the loophole located. There have been studies and surveys including criminal records that prove fraud and identity theft to be true. Surveys provided by the Privacy Rights Organization revealed that there are about nine million victims of this crime each year. Studies also show that there are various ways criminals have been using in order to steel one’s identity. They can acquire personal information such as SSNs, driver’s licenses, credit card and ATM numbers including birthdates, addresses and phone numbers that they use to spend the victims’ money without permission. This is done through the process of impersonation. There are two types of identity theft: Account takeover and application fraud (Privacy Rights Clearing House, 2007). Account Takeover happens when the criminal â€Å"acquires your existing credit account information and purchases products and services using either the actual credit card or simply the account number and expiration date. † On the other hand, Application Fraud (true name fraud) happens when the criminal opens new account in your name using your personal information he acquired somewhere. There are several ways by which personal identifications are stolen by these criminals. The website of the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse has provided the following information relative to the most common methods by which one’ identity is stolen. One way is called Dumpster Diving wherein criminals may come as scavengers who fish for unshredded credit cards, loan applications and other documents containing personal information such as SSNs in trash bins. Criminals may also steal mails by unlocking mailboxes. They may also other documents in the mailboxes such as issued credit cards and other documents containing vital information relative to one’s identity. Shoulder Surfing can also be one way wherein criminals can acquire PINs by looking over your shoulders while doing business on ATM booths. Finding identifying information on Internet sources, via public records sites and fee-based information broker sites are ways wherein criminals acquire personal data but they remained unnoticed. Criminals also send email messages that look like they are from your bank, asking you to visit a web site that looks like the banks’ in order to confirm account information. This is called phishing. Take note that of the five methods enumerated above, two are related to the use of the Internet. This therefore suggests that Internet shopping, using the fact that the process requires the use of personal identification numbers, is risky. It is therefore important that each Internet user, especially shoppers, have knowledge on the risks of Internet shopping. Moreover it is important that they too have at least the basic knowledge of Internet and email security information. WHAT SHOPPERS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT INTERNET SECURITY There is basic security information that every shopper should be aware about the Internet. Take note that this information is required by websites who are into the business of online retailing. The terminologies that we are going to discuss are defined and described based on the information provided by the Office of the E-Envoy (Security Tips: Beginners’ Guide to Computer Security). One should learn the importance of a password. A password is a code which the website asks in order to have an individual and exclusive access of the site and the account you have created. Passwords may either be a series of numbers, letters or a combination of both. It is basic and a requirement that such password is a secret code that should be exclusively revealed between the user and the company and therefore should not be disclosed or shared to anyone else. A Security Lock Layer (SSL) is a software tool which ensures that information sent to or from a website cannot be viewed during transmission. It uses a public and private key encryption system. Another security tool common in the Internet is the Padlock. There are cases wherein the Internet user comes across with a padlock (a figure displayed as in a real padlock) displayed in the browser. A padlock in the browser suggests that the website is secure since they are using the SSL software. A site in the padlock therefore means that the information you are transferring from your computer to the operating system of the website offers the assurance that they cannot be intercepted by anyone during the transferring process. Each shopper is also advised to look consider only secure browser when doing online shopping. A secure web browser complies with the standard technical security protocols. This compliance gives the website visitors the assurance that the information they provide to the site cannot be viewed by unauthorized persons. Secure web browsers necessarily has the padlock symbol which when double clicked will reveal a â€Å"digital certificate† which confirms that the site is authentic. Needless to say, Internet shoppers should always shop only on authentic websites. Remember that â€Å"phising† is one of the many ways you can be fooled by imposters.

Microenvironmental Factors Affecting Toyota Essay Example for Free

Microenvironmental Factors Affecting Toyota Essay Microenvironmental factors are â€Å"The factors close to the company that affect its ability to serve its customers† [principles of marketing]. The microenvironmental factors that affected the introduction and sale of the Toyota Prius were it customers, competitors and publics. Customers are anyone who buys or rents from the company. Customer are the most important microenvironmental factor that affect company as they survive on meeting the wants and needs of the customer and failure to do so will result in the company failing. Toyota study their customers and saw that they wanted a car with better fuel consumption and as a result Toyota decided to make the Prius, their first hybrid car. Toyota dealt with their customers by setting up website to educate the customers about the Toyota Prius. They took advantage of Earth Day to send out green seed cards shaped like Toyota’s logo to prospective buyers and they also gave away some green Prius at Earth Day events. However, Toyota did not recognise that consumers normally don’t buy cars for the saving in the long-run so â€Å"fuel savings are not going to be the key it convincing people to purchase the Prius† [principles of marketing]. As a result of this Toyota have asked governments to give tax cuts to cars with better fuel consumption. Competitors are any company in the same market place as your company. In order of a company to be successful in the market place a competitors most grain a competitive advantage over its competitors. Toyota has been successful in maintaining its competitive advantage although competitors like Citroen have cars which are just as efficient as the Toyota Prius, â€Å"Toyota is still the market leader in this segment† [principles of marketing]. They have done this by capturing people imagination by being the first Hybrid car on the market and through the effective use of advertisement. Publics are any group that has an actual or potential interest in an organisation’s ability to achieve its objectives. Good relations with the public help to enhance the company’s reputation so helping to increase in sales. The biggest factors of the Toyota Prius’ microenvironment are media and the government. Toyota has worked with Government bodies and has asked for tax incentives encourage people to buy more environmentally friendly cars to increase the amount of hybrids sold. Toyota also has spent 15m of its 200m annual marketing budget on the Prius. It has introduction ads that appealed more to peoples’ emotion to get them to buy the Prius. Overall, Toyota has analysed its icroenvironment extremely well as it has maintaining its competitive advantage over it competitors and has sold over 1m Prius with the waiting list of the Prius waiting list being over 18 month and becoming a status symbol among Hollywood stars. Question 2: The macro environment consists of six forces that affect the whole microenvironment, demographic, economic, natural, technological, political and cultural forces. The Toyota Prius is such a highly technologically advanced vehicle with its four cylinder petrol engine and 33-kilowatt electric motor. This could be one of the demographic factors that prompted the introduction of the Prius for Toyota. The Prius appeals to Generation Y also known as the â€Å"echo boomers† who were born between 1977 and 1994. Their comfort with computers, digital technology and overall technical advances prove they are and attractive target for marketers wanting to create a device at the high end of new, innovative devices on the market today e. g. iPad , Toyota Prius. The economic environment consists of the factors that affect consumer buying power and spending patterns. With many countries experiencing economic recession, consumer purchasing power is reduced. People have less money and now have to spend more carefully. The recent high petrol prices are causing a rising demand for greener, more fuel efficient cars that are cheaper to run. Several governments are providing incentives to people to buy these hybrid cars. In the UK, the government is offering reduced car tax on initial purchase. Electric car drivers can also avoid the ? 8 per day Congestion Charge in London. Toyota must be aware of and keep up with the technological environment which includes the forces that create new technologies, creating new product and market opportunities. This is the most rapidly changing environment. By introducing the Toyota Prius, the company has gained a technological initiative in the hybrid market. Toyota knew that their target market for this product would include technology enthusiasts, or ‘techies’ as they are known, and included reference to the cars leading technology in their advertisements. Natural forces also affected Toyotas decision to manufacture a hybrid car. Consumers are becoming more concerned about the environment and about how the products they purchase have an effect on it. Petrol and diesel are both non-renewable fossil fuels which release carbon emissions that contribute to global warming. Therefore there is a demand in the market for alternatives to petrol-powered vehicles, such as electric cars. Hybrid cars like the Toyota Prius offer improved gas mileage and emissions standards. Toyota have used this opportunity to position themselves in the market as an ‘environmentally concerned company’ Toyota needs however, to be aware of the political environment which may pose restrictions on its business activity. The political environment includes laws, government agencies and pressure groups that influence and limit various organisations and individuals in a given society. Recently, the EU commission announced new legislation which will be brought in that requires all manufacturers selling cars in the European Union to lower average CO2 emissions of new cars. The governments of some countries have intervened and offered tax incentives to stimulate the purchase of clean-fuel and high-mileage hybrid cars. Cultural values have an effect on the products people choose to buy. Although core values and beliefs held by society are quite persistent, secondary cultural values are more open to change. Recent changes in cultural values include a greater appreciation for nature. People are starting to realise that nature is finite and fragile. They are beginning to seek out more environmentally-friendly products, one of these being fuel-efficient cars. Toyota has responded to this by introducing the Toyota Prius onto the market. Even in Hollywood it seems that it is now cool to be environmentally responsible as a range of A-listers are now owners this hybrid car. Question 3:  Toyota has ran a masterful marketing campaign so far. It has become the â€Å"environmentally concerned† car manufacturer and the technology leader in the hybrid car market. It has targeted â€Å"techies† and early adopters by educating consumers about the new car. Toyota have used the power of the internet to promote the Prius. The first thing they did was educate consumers about the prius. They launched a website to distribute the information and sent 40000 e-brochures to likely buyers. It worked. The Prius â€Å"flew out of dealer’s showrooms† and they even had difficulty â€Å"keeping up with demand†. They also ran print ads with tag lines such as â€Å"when it sees red it charges†, an emotional reference, and they ran television ads as well. By using these marketing tools to great effect the company was firmly established as a caring brand in the consumer’s mind. The new â€Å"environmentally concerned† Toyota is clearly a hit with customers as it sold 400000 hybrids in 2006 alone. It has even succeeded in making being green cool as a host of Hollywood celebrities like Cameron Diaz and even Arnold Schwarzenegger has one to park, ironically, beside his giant hummer. Another effective strategy was to become the market leader in a new technology. It was risky to jump into the market that soon as it could have cost the company a lot of money if it didn’t work out. Toyota always subtly stresses the technology aspect of the car in its advertising. Surprisingly hybrids aren’t all that efficient. The citroen CZ, C1 and C3 all have better fuel consumption than the Prius, but it doesn’t matter as Toyota â€Å"have captured people’s minds†. It’s marketing campaigns have won over the environmentally conscious companies like IKEA, who are switching their car fleet to hybrids. Toyota’s efforts have left other car makers â€Å"racing to catch up†. Marketing segmentation was used to great effect by Toyota. It set out very early on to target the â€Å"techies† and the â€Å"early adapters† through emails and the online website. â€Å"Many Prius owners are immersed in technology†, they even have their own website called â€Å"Priusenvy. com†. It really has taken off with the â€Å"techies†. They were able to make changes such as â€Å"cruise control† and a â€Å"sniffer† to the car without the help of a qualified mechanic or engineer. This success can be attributed to the narrow targeting of the cars. Toyota could improve its strategy by appealing more to the general market for cars. Today the cost of a Prius is significantly lower than it was when it first came out. Perhaps it’s time to focus on what a great small family car it would make or how it might suit a professional, like a teacher for example. There are many environmentally conscious people among the ranks of the middle class families of Ireland. By honing in on the small family market Toyota could bring an alternative to the Ford Mondeo and the Volkswagon Passet. Overall Toyota has done almost everything right with the Prius. When we think â€Å"Hybrid† we think â€Å"Prius† exactly like â€Å"MP3† and â€Å"iPod†. That is the sign of an extremely efficient marketing campaign.

GAP Competitive Analysis

GAP Competitive Analysis Information resources: The research has been based on industry and marketing information from Mintel, Verdict Research, and Fame, which has been analyzed using different strategic theoretical frameworks such as the PESTEL analysis, Porters completive forces and blue ocean strategies, among others. (2) The overall strategic position of GAP Inc. in UK: The essay is mainly focused on two of its the sub brand of GAP Inc., which are GAP, and Banana Republic, analyzing the strategy of both operating situation. what are the advantages, such as the growth recent fiscal year 2009, market share? Distribution channels? Supply chain network? What are the disadvantages? What are the strategies that GAP Inc. should take? i.e. Gap needs to change the product to offer to a more fashionable and differentiated fashion one and turn to its initial brand identity of offering fashion forward apparel to a safe fashion consumer. Introduction (1) Fashion retail market The macro environment of fashion retail market. Disposable fashion is dead, says Carl McPhail, which means the consumers will more value the quality and the sustainable of the clothes. E-commerce trend Market demand: strong? The whole world value chain is changed (2) The purpose of the essay The purpose of the essay is to assess Gap competitive and strategic situation given this new market structure. This analysis will be based on the different strategic and marketing theoretical frameworks, in order to give the necessary business recommendations to the company for succeed in the UK market. (3) The structure of the essay This paper is organized in 4 sections. The first section evaluates the main literature and analytical frameworks that will be used along this research. The second section presents the Gap case study in terms of the companys background, the underperforming areas, and a thorough strategic and competitive evaluation of the external and internal forces that affect this company. The thirds part states the formulation of the recommendation strategies based on the strategic situation analysis of the company. The final section consists of the conclusions of the research Theoretical framework The theoretical framework is mainly based on Johnson et al. (2008), to analyze the strategic position and strategic choices of a company, it is necessary to evaluate the external and internal environment that affects the organization, as the strategic performance of an organization depends on the matches between its internal resources and capabilities and the opportunities and threats that are present in the environment (Day and Wensley, 1988, Porter 1991, Hunt, 2000). PESTEL Porters five forces Blue ocean strategy And all the theories are concluded into the framework of SWOT as the overall analysis of the case The above analysis will help determine what competitive strategies to adopt in order to gain a sustainable advantage in UK market. Gap Case study Background The Gap Inc., a brand that had been incorporated in the USA. As a global specialty retailer, the companys range of clothing is based on traditional US casual clothing, with a focus on t-shirts, hooded tops, trousers and denim. It has 142 GAP retail stores in the UK. GAP is positioned for a wide range of customers through its product lines, which including Gap, GapKids, babyGap, GapMaternity and GapBody, and offers iconic American style for all age who are looking for something with good quality and classic style. The company also extended its range over the years to include ranges such as Gap Maternity, GapKids, babyGap and GapBody by the end of the review period. (Euromonitor International, 2010) For the childrens wear sector, the company also teamed up with UK designer Stella McCartney in order to produce a range for its Baby Gap and GapKids Outlets. Gap was once considered to be the foremost US fashion brand in the UK, with a Gap Hoodie being an obligatory wardrobe staple for many fashionable consumers. However, this positioning slipped towards the end of march 2010, and the brand had to compete with an increasing number of US brands for fashion-conscious followers, such as Abercrombie Fitch and its sister brand Hollister. In addition Jack Wills, a British casual wear outfitter, became increasingly popular with younger consumers, with who Gap was traditionally popular (Euromonitor International, 2010). The retailer built its global growth on basics, but has struggled to rival fast fashion. (Jeremy Lee, 2008 p19). Gap operate inside the UK market that is seeking for added value that more than just basic and sustainable, and competitors within the fashion market are dynamic and drastic as well. One hurdle to Gaps growth was its reluctance to operate within dynamic and remunerative internet retailing, which largely inhibited its growth in a long-term. Without any option to buy Gap clothing and footwear online, many will not wait until their next trip to the high street to buy Gap jeans. They will instead simply purchase jeans online from another retailer. Gaps decision to partner with Asos.com and sell its goods online indicates that the company is aware that it is lacking in this channel. Consequently, Gap may launch its own UK internet retailing site in the near future, should its arrangement with Asos.com prove fruitful.

Good Business Writing Essay -- Education Educating Write Essays

Good Business Writing As the discussion of good writing evolved in class, I began to wonder what made good business writing. I thought about the purpose in writing both within a particular company and between different companies and organizations. I decided that most writing in business is meant to be either informative, persuasive, or a combination of both. Whether informative or persuasive in nature, I have decided that most good business writing is very similar to other good writing. I have chosen to focus on three elements that contribute to good usage in business. They are: Simplicity Jargon for the target audience Grammar Some business writers mistakenly believe that by adopting a lofty tone and utilizing complex sentences containing numerous subordinate clauses along with multiple polysyllabic words, they will be taken more seriously. The previous sentence contrasts directly with George Orwell's advice to cut out words if possible. I think Orwell means the writer is to get rid of the excess, the fluff that fails to really communicate an idea or concept. Orwell seems to advocate simplicity. Simplicity does not dilute the author's intended message. Simplicity actually clarifies the author's meaning since it is direct and uses common English words. This type of writing is also efficient. Readers can easily understand the content and can move along to the next task. Since many employees in business today suffer from information overload, given the choice, most people will read a shorter document first. If a writer can communicate the information in either three or twelve pages equally well, it is to bett er use the more tightly written three-page version. While both documents may have equal merit, it is simply co... ...onventions. These conventions may vary slightly from business to business, but are basically the same across the United States. These devices include: The use of bullets to emphasize particular points Large amounts of white space Gender neutral language I have explored some of the elements I think are present in good business writing and result in good usage. Through this exploration, I see that there are other elements of good usage I could have examined, but chose not to. A variety of advice on writing is available, but there is not one definitive rule or even one handbook to which a writer must strictly adhere. There are guidelines a writer might consider, but ultimately, the writer must adapt his or her writing according to each writing situation. Rules are guidelines meant to be helpful. When rules cease to be helpful or become too dogmatic, disregard.

Cerebral Palsy Essay -- Disease, Disorders

Cerebral Palsy Cerebral Palsy (CP) is brain damage. It cannot be cured, it is not contagious, it is not a disease, and it does not get worse. According to Funk & Wagnalls New World Encyclopedia, "Cerebral Palsy is a broad term for various nonprogressive disorders of motor function in people, resulting from brain damage around the time of birth. Damage to the brain could occur before, during, or shortly after birth"(â€Å"Cerebral†). Since the damage is done during the brain’s formation, and occurs in the part of the brain that controls motor and muscle functions, people with CP might have problems with motor skills, muscle tone, muscle weakness, reflexes, balance, excessive drooling, difficulties swallowing or speaking, shaking, tremors, and difficulty with fine motor skills (â€Å"Cerebral Palsy: Hope†). Although it may not be diagnosed until a child is a few years old, most children with CP are born with it, and even though it does not get worse the symptoms caused by the bra in damage can change and people with CP may have problems with vision, speech, hearing, or language, but with early intervention, support and treatment, many people with CP can manage their condition and lead full, productive lives. Dr. William Little wrote the first medical description of the disorder in the 1860’s. He thought most cases of CP were caused by complications at birth resulting in lack of oxygen to the brain. Cerebral Palsy was called Little's disease for many years. CP refers to neurological disorders that appear in early childhood and affect movement and coordination (â€Å"Cerebral Palsy: Hope†). Although CP is caused by damage to the motor areas of the brain and affects body movement and muscle coordination, it is not caused by problems in the muscles o... ... Work Cited â€Å"Cerebral Palsy.† (n.d.): Funk & Wagnalls New World Encyclopedia. Web. 15 Feb. 2012. Polzin, Scott; Odle, Teresa. â€Å"Cerebral Palsy.† Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine, 3rd ed. 2006. Encyclopedia.com. 15 Feb. 2012 â€Å"Cerebral Palsy: Hope Through Research.† National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). Web. 14 Feb. 2012. Morgan, A M, and J C Aldag. "Early Identification Of Cerebral Palsy Using A Profile Of Abnormal Motor Patterns." Pediatrics 98.4 Pt 1 (1996): 692-697. MEDLINE. Web. 19 Feb. 2012. â€Å"UCP: Press Room - Vocabulary Tips.† UCP: Home Page. Web. 16 Feb. 2012. .

Economic Discrimination in Frank McCourts Angela’s Ashes Essay

Economic Discrimination in Frank McCourt's Angela’s Ashes As Jerome K. Jerome once said, â€Å"It is easy enough to say that poverty is no crime. No; if it were men wouldn’t be ashamed of it. It is a blunder, though, and is punished as such. A poor man is despised the whole world over.† This famous quote describes the way poor people are discriminated against and despised around the world by those who are better off. In the novel Angela’s Ashes, by Frank McCourt, the characters are greatly discriminated against by all different parts of society because of their poverty. This makes their constant struggle to survive even harder and prevents them from climbing to the next rung in the social ladder. The poor are discriminated against and held down by the church, school, and their fellow impoverished neighbors, as well as the rest of the world around them to the point where they often give up trying to get out of poverty all together. Shockingly, the place where the McCourts are most discriminated against is the one place where they should feel wanted, loved, and equal to those around them, the Catholic Church. Frank McCourt, the main character who was a young teenager at the time, had the door slammed in his face by the Catholic Church on at least two occasions because of his poverty. The first time he is turned down by the church, Frank’s quest is to become an altar boy. The priest declares that the church is not looking for any more altar boys. However, the real reason Frank is turned down is because of his poverty. Angela, Frank’s moth er, is infuriated and exclaims, â€Å"I’ll tell you what it is, ‘Tis class distinction. They don’t want boys from lanes on the altar. They don’t want the ones with scabby knees and hair sticking up. O... ...d them to the point where they often give up trying to get out of poverty all together. The church will not allow them to be in any sort of position in the church, namely altar boys or priests. The school holds them back by putting them into filthy, run-down schools and teaching them very little while drilling into their minds the fact that no matter how hard they try, they cannot succeed in life. Unfortunately, even their neighbors hold them back by discouraging them to try anything in order to succeed and making fun of their impoverishment. The discrimination that they face daily holds them back and eventually stops them from even trying to succeed and better their lives. As Jerome K. Jerome once explained, the poor will be discriminated against, snubbed and despised the world over. WORKS CITED McCourt, Frank. Angela’s Ashes. New York: Touchstone, 1999.

Manage group living Essay

Introduction (What you are going to cover in this document) I am going to cover group living for adults. There are various groups living for adults and each have a positive and negative impact. Group living can be beneficial for adults who are unsafe to live on their own and for individuals who are lonely. I will focus on residential care for group living. When individuals reach the stage where either they or their families have to decide it will be of their best interests to be moved into residential care, there are many factors that influence this. Age Mental capacity to make decisions Safety factors/risks Financial Living in a group can pose problems as individuals are brought together, individuals may not always get on with one another due to their views, morals, background and general preferences. The difficulties is pleasing everyone and ensuring they all live amicably together. The benefits in group living is having companionship/friendship and plenty of activities that they can attend with individuals they know and live with, still enabling them to have their own space and privacy if they so wish. Various group living: Residential care Elderly care complexes Hostels Supported living Residential enables 24 hour care Elderly complexes ensures they have a warden and activities if they so wish to join in, care provisions if they so wish Hostels are temporary living Supported living offers more choice and freedom, activities, meal provisions and warden input, where if needed they can have homecare provisions. Whichever an individual or their families choose they all have to promote a happy/safe environment for individuals, ensuring they meet standards set out for residential or group living provisions. Every group living environment/care home has to meet standards set out by the government, these are monitored by CQC, GSCC and local authorities to ensure standards are met. Within group living the environment has to be safe, clean and ensure individuals wellbeing, while Promoting their independence and uphold their rights to human necessities. It is important that standards identify the requirements associated with leading and managing group living provision; it includes developing the physical environment, daily living activities and group activities in such a way that they support the achievement of positive outcomes for individuals. By respecting each individual and their individuality, making a setting that enables individuals choice, freedom and to be able to express themselves. Comfort and warmth, meal choices and variation, respecting cultures and backgrounds and focusing on their wellbeing, health and happiness. Fitness for purpose: The regulatory powers provided by the CSA are designed to ensure that care home managers, staff and premises are ‘fit for their purpose’. In applying the standards, regulators will look for evidence that a home whether providing a long-term placement, short-term rehabilitation, nursing care or specialist service is successful in achieving its stated aims and objectives. Comprehensiveness: Life in a care home/group living is made up of a range of services and Facilities which may be of greater or lesser importance to different individuals. In applying the standards, regulators ensure the service package offered by the care home contributes to the overall personal and health care needs and preferences of individuals and how the home works with others services / professionals to ensure the individual’s inclusion in the community. Meeting assessed needs: In applying the right standards, inspectors will look for Evidence that the care home meets needs of individuals and that Individuals’ changing needs continue to be met. The assessment and service user plan carried out in the care home should be based on the care management. Individual care plans that meets and specifies their needs. Good residential care poses a variety of challenges, and requires high levels of expertise and creative ability from managers, staff and external supports. They need to be committed to enabling residents to take as much responsibility as possible for the planning and management of their own care. Managers should adopt a planned approach to meeting the needs and promoting the potential of individual residents, within a regime and culture for the unit, and groups within it, which provides the right balance of security, stimulation and scope for independence. ( Et al CQC website residential care) Quality services: The Government’s modernising agenda, including the new regulatory framework, aims to ensure greater assurance of quality services rather than having to live with second best. In applying the standards, regulators will seek evidence of a commitment to continuous improvement, quality services, support, accommodation and facilities which assure a good quality of life for individuals It is important individual have rights to their own choices that include risks. The risks they take need to be evaluated to ensure the decision does not outweigh the risk to individual or others. The difficulty within group living is what may be safe for one individual may not be for another, for instance one individual may be safe to come and go as they please whereas another may need supervision to go outdoors. This can pose a problem if fully independent individual leaves access door open or invite an unsafe party to go outdoors with them. There are risks associated with everyday living but ensuring everyone’s safety can be a challenge. Ensuring equipment, living quarters, and environment is kept safe and secure while promoting independence and choice. If a risk cannot be eliminated I would look at ways to reduce the risk, this way the individual is still in control but has measures in place to ensure their safety and the safety of  others. Addressing risks with individuals and fully informing them why something is classed as a risk enables them to make an informed decision as to if they want to continue to take the risk, dependant on the severity. Working with individual and listening to how they deem or see something works, but if they are adamant and the risk out weights the benefits then measure have to be put in place. The physical environment can promote wellbeing by having a nice homely atmosphere, allowing each individual to contribute to this. The lighting, warmth, setting, fixtures and fittings as well as what activities everyone enjoys and encouraging all parties to participate. By having a safe but nice environment it promotes wellbeing, by allowing and including individual to say what they like and dislike promotes inclusion. Encouraging them to participate in various activities gives stimulation and helps build friendships within group living. It is also important that the staff have good training and engage with individuals, that they remain friendly and impartial. Choice is one of the main factors whether this be meals, settings, activities getting the right balance and promoting their independence and involvement. All this contribute to their wellbeing and happiness. If the environment was a cold, damp, dark, with no opportunities for activities, there was no freedom of choice and made individual have set meals, toileting times and took their rights and independence away, I cannot imagine any individual would be happy and their wellbeing would decline. Maintaining and the upkeep of furnishings and decorations are important, the cost of this can be substantial, with the right budgeting and setting aside of finances will help maintain this, that way the upkeep can be maintained and the finances will be readily available. Part of this reflects in the amount it will cost for individuals to live there. Another way is to hold charity/fundraising days. I believe you can have cut backs but still maintain quality assurance without delivering low quality surroundings. Part of this is looking after the environment, if the environment is of good  quality to begin with individuals are more likely to maintain this and respect it as their home. Not allowing items that need repairing to get to the stage where they are in repairable or unsafe. Ensuring electrical items and gas servicing is maintained, this is a legal requirement within group living environments. Ensuring the environment is kept clean, safe and hygienic maintains it’s daily living requirements and reduces the risk of cross contamination. There has to be adequate space for each individual and the correct amount of staff ratio. When making decisions regarding the environment it is important that the individuals who live there are included, they may want some of their own belongings, like a chair of dressing table. All of these things are important to them as without been given the choice they will feel as though it is not their home. Each individual will have different taste, likes and dislikes, although this may prove difficult to please each one, if each one has some input they will feel included and are more likely to come together as a group to decide on what everyone wants. This should include decisions down to cost, what furniture, fitments; decorations they feel are the most important and make their environment safe, the safety aspect needs to be looked at the same as comfort. Chairs that support individuals and offer the right height, wash ability etc. Beds, dining room furniture, decor, plants, pictures, easy access between chairs. Ensuring the environment offers stimulation and relaxation. Daily activities are an important part of group living and these also need to be agreed upon. Trips, bingo, sing-along’s, flower arranging, exercise classes, outdoor activities, gardening, vegetable plots and planting. By offering choice and ensuring daily activity times are adhered to,  implementing an activities co-ordinator and ensuring staff encourage participation and inclusion of individuals and staff. It is nice for individuals when family members attend and this should be encouraged when possible. The best times for activities tend to be afternoons and early evening times. By offering activities throughout the day enables all individuals to include themselves at some point or another. Legislation states that individuals must have choice and ensure the activities are appropriate for age, genders, and cultures. The outcomes from these have to be achievable, ensuring individuals do not feel belittled or restrained. Individuals must have the opportunity to exercise their choice in relation to: leisure and social activities and cultural interests; food, meals and mealtimes; routines of daily living; personal and social relationships; Religious observance. The outcome must find the lifestyle experienced in the home matches their expectations and preferences, and satisfies their social, cultural, religious and recreational interests and needs. interests are to be recorded in care plans and that they were given opportunities for stimulation through leisure and recreational activities in and outside the home which suit their needs, preferences and capacities; particular consideration should be given to people with dementia and other cognitive impairments, those with visual, hearing or dual sensory impairments, those with physical disabilities or learning disabilities. When supporting others in the implementation of daily activities it is important they treat individuals with dignity and respect. That they encourage inclusion and allow individuals to do as much as possible for themselves. They also need to respect individuals who do not want to be included in group activities and mealtimes. Some individuals may prefer to  eat in privacy, by respecting their rights, choices and preferences. Some individuals may need more support than other, for instance if playing bingo they may not be able to mark the numbers off or see the card properly. Supporting these individuals is important for their wellbeing and to enable them to participate. Ensuring staffing levels are adequate so that workers are able to encourage and assist active participation without causing undue stress to staff members or residents. Each individual has the freedom of choice, this should be respected. An individual may not want to join in a certain activity but no others, for instance exercise or stimulation classes, All of these need to be specified in the care plan for each individual. By getting feedback and involving everyone in the decision process I can implement activities for everyone. Certain activities may need to involve numerous risk assessments to reduce risks but still allowing the individual to safely participate. Systems put in place will ensure all questions relating to each individual are clear and precise and cover all aspects of their needs, preferences and choices. No assumptions should be made and neither should anyone be forced to participate in anything they do not want to. Reviewing daily activities is important as individuals may become bored and activities become stagnant, less stimulating over time and frequency. When individuals participate a log should be made of how they participated and what level of participation was involved, these go into the care plans and activity log sheets. A quiz for instance may be easier for some but hard for others, by ensuring all levels are catered for by dividing classes or varying quiz questions for different groups. Reviews are made weekly when activities are organised for the week ahead, circumstances may arise that require a daily review. If new individuals become home members or the dynamics change. Positive group livings are established by ensuring individuals are supported to remain independent, given choices. By ensuring staff remain happy and supported in supporting individuals. Listening to individual’s preferences, choices and needs and maintaining a calm, warm and welcoming environment.  The decoration, cleanliness and staff all play a huge part in ensuring a positive atmosphere/establishment. Group living can promote positive outcomes for individuals due to the fact they are with other likeminded individuals, socialising each day, stimulating and building new relationships. They can be monitored more closely compared to living alone in the community. Friends and groups encourage each other and they have access to constant support. By living in an environment that is focuses on quality care whilst encouraging individuals to remain independent. Through group activities individuals are less likely to see a goal as a hurdle, it is more enjoyable as a group and tends to forget they are actually working towards a goal or find it easier as a group, having support encouragement from others. If an individual has mental health issues and tends to become depressed and withdrawn, we are able to work towards a positive outcome within a group living environment by supporting them to socialise, less likely to become withdrawn, there is more support available for them. If an individual tends to have frequent falls due to the fact they neglect to use a walking aid, through group living the risk could be reduced by the constant reminder/prompting to use a walking aid and monitoring of their wellbeing and current health conditions. Group living can have a positive impact on individuals if the right conditions and support is readily available. Each individual is encouraged and supported to maintain relationships by activities, group talks and staff members interacting with them. When individuals build relationships this is maintained by seating and setting but not to the point that it disinclines others or creates a divide. Creating divides creates problems, therefore this should be discouraged. Creating an open warm caring environment starts with the staff and generally flows towards residents, encouraging individuals to accept and understand other individuals they live with. Having days out, meetings and group talks and activities encourages individuals to build relationships and maintain them, by dealing with problems and issues as and when they arise, fairly and  openly. When conflicts arise they should be dealt with fairly and non-judgemental. Looking at each individual’s aspect of how they view and how they feel, by encouraging resolve and not allowing conflict to cause divides or non resolutions must be adapted. A conflict arose where 2 individuals who had previously been very close friends argued when it came to mealtimes; one was unable to sit by the window due to her dislike of watching people walk past whilst she ate her meal. The other loved sitting by the window, neither of them had explained to each other their reasons. By getting both of them together after speaking to each individual first we were able to come to a resolve and they were more understanding of each other’s needs and choices. By seeing this they both sat where they wanted and built further relationships with other residents. It is important to have working schedules and patterns in group living so that individuals have continuity of care. Assigning workers to groups of individuals and ensuring staffs are not over worked is also imperative to not only their wellbeing but the wellbeing of the residents. There are times when schedules will affect residents such as mealtimes, activity times and times when staffs need to attend team meetings. Fill care plans in and ensure the home is running smoothly. It is at these times that I need to ensure staffing levels are adequate and residents are still tended to. By having a good rota structure, staff that is reliable and choosing the best times that suit not only staff but also the residents. You cannot make individuals go to the toilet at the same time or have meals at set times. Baths and other necessities that individuals need, this would be institutional abuse, therefore maintaining good staff levels and been prepared for unforeseen circumstances are so importa nt, this will contribute to the smooth running of the home and environment. Changes to schedules are made when staff members who possibly do better at certain times of the working day to others. For instance one staff member whose shift patterns are late but they appear to be able to encourage individuals to participate in activities or certain activities. Then they  would be moved. By knowing my staffs strengths and weaknesses I am best able to place them in shifts that are organised around activities, days out or other requirements. Another instance is a certain individual may become accustomed to a certain staff member and prefer them to bath her/him. All of these things need to be taken into account when rota’s/schedules are being prepared. Meal times, activity times and such alike will need more staffing. Evening and bedtimes also require staffing levels to be adequate. If schedules/rota’s are looked at properly and ensuring there is sufficient levels for unforeseen circumstances/having a contingency plan in place helps and if good communication is made with staff then these can easily be resolved. Ensuring staff have a good development plan and supporting staff in training and knowledge is so important. This ensures staffs do not become stagnant in progression/ knowledge. In house training is beneficial so that staff can address current issues with current residents. However sending staff on training courses will also be just as beneficial, but training is a requirement that needs to be maintained. Staff have to be trained in the right areas: NVQs, Moving and handling, POVA, Medication, Health and safety, First Aid amongst others. By supporting staff in training and ensuring there is room for progression within the workforce staff retention and further progression will have a knock on effect for residents, ensuring the best care practises that are up to date. Whilst it is good for care staff to build a relationship with residents it is important they maintain professional boundaries. I support them in doing this by maintain professionalism at all times, I ensure I deal with any concerns appropriately and if needed involve family members of the individual. By explaining to individuals the reason we are supporting them and why relationships need to remain professional between workers and residents is for their best interests so that both staff and residents are able to make the best decisions without emotional attachments. Obviously there will always be a level of attachment but by maintaining a professional  one, individuals are less likely to ask staff for things or to help with needs that are not within their remit or put either party at risk of say abuse, neglect Etc. The last thing anyone wants is a worker or staff member to get attached to the level where either party feels obliged to do something and then keep secrets. This puts both parties at risk and does not give a good example to others. By setting our clear professional boundaries to staff and toward residents helps maintain clarity, I give examples of why it is important to maintain these and the risks should these not be maintained. Supervisions and appraisals all go towards this process and these are regularly maintained for the benefit of staff and business. Residential care is not a cheap option. Because it caters for those with complex disabilities, a high degree of dependency needs for intensive staff support and supervision, or for high levels of professional skill and expertise. It must be properly resourced to be safe and effective; this is not to say that residential care may not be the most economical way of providing proper support for some groups of people with extensive or complex needs. But care on the cheap will generally be bad care, and will often do more harm than good. Residential care requires adequate funding, and a clear framework of quality controls and quality assurance to ensure high standards of service and practice. I have a responsibility to see that the residential service is well-managed and staff at all levels properly equipped through training and development programmes for the task they have to do. A framework of external regulation, registration and independent inspection is essential, including the General Social Care Council, if the public is to have confidence in the standards of care, conduct and practice competence provided. Providing a positive group living environment starts with the management of the home and maintaining this environment, staff training and interaction. By ensuring and training staff to encourage choice, preferences and encourage the residents to remain as independent as possible, ensuring adequate monitoring of staff, supervisions and appraisals remind staff to adhere to care practises. A short summary of what you have written or the conclusions you have come to: I have come to the conclusion it is imperative for the individuals whom live in residential care to remain as independent as possible. That they are involved in the decision process of their care, daily activities and the home environment. The boxes will expand to fit as much as you want to type in them. When you have finished first go back and proof read what you have done, checking for spelling, punctuation and grammar errors. Then read it through with the criteria next to you and show, by putting the criteria number in the end column, where you have covered the criteria.