Westye Article Analysis Essay Example

Westye: Article Analysis Essay The first part of the process of selection of an applications software package was to determine what Westye needed. Under this process, they sought to develop criteria for how business solutions companies would address their specific needs. Here, they outlined these through the creation of 160 issues related to Westye’s business processes. The second step included determining the specific small midmarket business solutions that can address Westye’s needs. In here, considerable attention was given by the company towards finding competent providers and was equally reduced to 27 companies who shall then be subjected interview and questioning. The third process that the company took was the selection process. Here, Westye based their choice in the capacity of small midmarket business solutions to address their needs. Given the specific criteria, the company was able to consolidate effective responses coming from Microsoft Business Solutions – Navisione and became the primary choice. The last part involved finding the necessary partner that can help address the issues and problems of Westye. Here, the choice of ICS Advantage revolved around the ability of the company to facilitate better means of integrating a collaborative long term strategy and relationship with Westye. Likewise, the company also sought a committed and driven partners who can fulfill the company’s needs accordingly. We will write a custom essay sample on Westye: Article Analysis specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Westye: Article Analysis specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Westye: Article Analysis specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Analyzing the specific strategy employed by Westye, it could have improved its selection process if it had tried (1) to set specific standards for choices above the 160 criteria, (2) provided inputs on how the old MAPICS system can be integrated towards the recommended changes, and (3) considering long term strategies and options for employees. Seeing this, the value then of the first input corresponds to the capacity to examine further not only the technical and operational business schemes influencing Westye but also try to integrate it in the way people do business. By setting up these standards, vendors can then align their proposals to meet these realities accordingly. The second part corresponds to allowing Westye proper transition from its old system and incorporating them into the new one. This can help new participants to have a grasp of what the new system is and leverage increased costs in education and training of people. The last part corresponds to outlining how these new strategies impact the workforce in both education and application. By inducing opportunities to include feedback and reaction, it can help facilitate better means of transcending competency and ability to harness effective skills for operation and diversification of tasks by employees within Westye. (2)  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Analyzing the specific advantages of utilizing a package development, it revolves around (1) revamping the old MAPICS system, (2) effective support mechanism, (3) allows standardization of Westye’s processes and (4) infusing simple means to increase efficiency of production. Here, the first process takes into consideration deriving valuable opportunities for Westeye to address the loopholes and inefficiencies of the old MAPCIS system. By incorporating packaged software, it can veer away from the old system and incorporate new ones that can be synchronized with the companies needs. The second advantage is that technicians can effectively carry out repairs and updates of a packaged system compared to a customized one. Such directions also provides standardization of processes as the new software then incorporates actions by the workforce and takes into account key trends in a more facilitative and effective manner. Lastly, using the tools of a packaged software, it can help Westye align these to infuse efficiency in production and consolidate these with the goals of the company. On the other hand, specific disadvantages of a packaged system revolves around (1) associated costs, (2) lack of innovation, (3) issue of control, and (4) the issue of customization. In the first part, it considers the value of costs related to training employees once again with new processes and how to operate such packaged system. Another hurdle that packaged system can contribute is the lack of innovation wherein companies have the last say in the design and applications included in the design of the software package. The same can be seen with the issue of control. Though ICS provides Westye control over data and inputs, it limits the capacity of businesses to take into consideration establishing a user-interface that is efficient for their use or responsive to their needs.   The last one revolves around the process of customization. Here, additional costs can be incurred if new changes and amendments may be undertaken by Westye in expanding its business processes and integratin g new means for gathering data necessary for production. Seeing this, the idea of using a Navision package is more suited to the needs of the Westye group. Such analysis revolves around the need to revamp and change the old MAPICS system and consolidate better means of acquiring information in a more effective and efficient manner. By using a packaged solution, the company can cater towards creating better means to address the problem in a faster manner and take advantage of its comparative advantage over its competitors. Similarly, this decision can also align the company’s processes to what is essential to the needs of the company both in its short and long term strategies. (3)  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Responding to the advantages of Navision compared to ERP, they include (1) filtering inefficient processes, (2) consolidating data effectively, (3) incorporating new technological features, and (4) new structure to cater for the needs of Westye. The value of the first advantage corresponds to taking into consideration changing the loopholes and boundaries within the old MAPICS system and generating better means for analysis and acquisition of data. In the second part, Navision gives better means of consolidating data with its new framework and platform different from that of the old system. Alongside this is the associated new features wherein employees can take advantage of. By using these new technologies, it has developed effective means to cater the needs of Westye in terms of determining inputs and data necessary to transact and establish partnerships with clients. On the other hand, there are also associated disadvantages that Navision has over adding ERP modules which include (1) costs, (2) employee integration and education, (3) adjustments, and (4) value of time. One essential setback by the Navision involves the corresponding costs. Since the overall system shall be revamped, it takes into account changing the business processes. Alongside this are the new means of training personnel and employees of proper procedures and mechanisms necessary. Such then brings about adjustments and puts into the table the question of time in achieving specific goals and objectives. These then create necessary implications for the company especially in the short term as it may affect the overall productivity of the company during these times of adjustment and changes. Though there are indeed associated setbacks with the application of the Navision package, it can be seen that it has consolidated better means for Westye to expand and develop its business processes. By utilizing specific strategies related to determining loopholes in the previous system, it was able to create a new framework that supports the interests and goals of Westye. At the same time, by infusing these directions, the company can then legitimize its opportunities to create competitive advantage and standardize the dynamics related to finding the means to diversify business processes and generate increased productivity. (4)  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Analyzing the advantages of the customization scheme created by Navsion, they correspond to (1) wider company control, (2) taking into consideration competitive advantage, (3) access to real time data, and (4) consolidating to the needs of employees. In the first one, it caters to the formalization of how employees control the system. The customization process furthered this by giving opportunities for personnel to make important decisions concerning specific business processes. Such dynamic then provided the ability to establish competitive advantage as it opened up means to establish efficiency in decision making and harness the skills in responding to such. Alongside this direction, Westye was also able to provide effective access to trends and data necessary. Since they are heavily reliant in these, the customization process help employees fulfill their roles without having to sort and tabulate trends, hence easier transmission of data to clients. On the other hand, there are also associated negative reactions to such customization. These revolve around (1) re-training of employees, (2) hampering of production, (3) difficulty in establishing technical support, and (4) complexity in administering changes. In here, the customization process hampers employee’s responsibilities because they are given new training about the system and what they do. Such actions then hamper time and capacity to work at their optimal level and in turn hamper production. Another setback is that it creates difficulty in pointing out problems particularly if these processes remain intertwined and correlated with one another. The same can be seen with the application of changes within the system. Since it is designed to fit Westye’s needs, Navision may find it difficult to correlate including new features as it may need to be synchronized with other related processes. (5)  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Analyzing the point established by the case that Westye’s system provides ‘real-time data access’, it can be argued that it is the same with the term ‘online input’ plus ‘online processing’. Here the idea of real time corresponds to the actual input of data provided by a specific program or software wherein it analyzes specific trends and issues inputted by the user. Seeing this, such process then corresponds to ‘online input’ plus ‘online processing’ for it utilizes specific measures in generating effective patterns of analysis and justifying its scope and value to whatever purpose it may seek to serve. Seeing this, the company indeed has ‘online input’ plus ‘online processing’.   This can be seen in the manner of how the company adheres to its business processes. In here, the derivation and analysis of information remains crucial for the company to remain competitive. That is why it needs up-to-date information to give its clients so as to harness effective means in making crucial business decisions and Westye provides such information to them. Reference Westye Group. (2005) Distributor Improves Competitive Edge with Business Management Solution. ICS Advantage LLC. pp. 1-7

Pok-Ta-Pok essays

Pok-Ta-Pok essays The Maya called it Pok-ta-pok. The Aztec called it Tlachtli. In Puerto Rico it was called Batey. Though may cultures had it, and although they called it different things it was still the ball game. It is difficult to tell exactly what the Mesoamerican ball game was. Of course it was a game played with a rubber ball that weighed any where from six to ten pounds. The object of the game was to score points, more points than your opponent. The players had to bounce the ball to the place to score points, which varied at the different courts, however the catch to this was that they could not use their hands or feet. "No other prehistoric sporting event has received as much attention or has been the subject of so much controversy, but no other game has been so well represented in the archaeological record." (Blanchard, 99) The origin of this game is not easily determined, and has caused as much controversy. Franz Blom, an archaeologist has argued that the ball game originated with the Maya. "The game which played so great a role in the life of the Middle American peoples was of Maya origin." (Blom, 487) The evidence for Blom's claim comes from the Maya ball courts dating back to the Classic period. Other evidence, mainly figurines, point to the Preclassic period. "While no ball courts are known for this period, it nevertheless is certain that the ball game was played, for many figurines show players with the protection for the hand and knee required for that sport." (Coe-Mexico:Olmec, 49) Another archaeologist, Michael Coe, argues that the ball game dates back to the Olmec period. "Early ball playing figurines have been found at many Olmec sites. Coe suggests that the helmet like headpieces of the colossal Olmec carved heads may be ball game head gear, evidence that the Olmec people may have been pl aying the game over three thousand years ago." (Blanchard, 100) There are even a few people who believe that the ball game orig...

Reaction Essay on Global Warming

Reaction Essay on Global Warming Reaction Essay on Global Warming The major purpose of a reaction essay is to allow the writer to carefully assess his or her feelings or thoughts concerning a given topic. With this purpose in mind, the tips on writing a good reaction paper are very simple. The obvious need is to obtain a clear understanding of the phenomenon to which one is required to react. In the process, one must evaluate his or her feelings concerning that phenomenon. This involves identifying the arguments with which one concurs, and those that he/she opposes. It is also helpful for the writer to consider whether he or she agrees with related allegations. It is a fact that the world is experiencing a significant climate change, as is evident in unpredictable weather patterns. This has led to an international discussion of global warming and its threat to future existence of life on earth. For example, it is difficult to predict each year what geographic locations will experience rainfall and to what extent. Additionally, ice caps are melting, resulting in the rise of the sea level in some low-laying land areas, many of these highly populated with people. Furthermore, for the past couple of years, world media has aired news of huge wildfires in a number of locations world-wide. Moreover, deadly heat waves are occurring more frequently. Severe storms have also been witnessed in various parts of the world, causing loss of human lives and destruction of property. In addition, severe droughts that had hitherto never been experienced are becoming commonplace in many countries. These are concrete examples that global warming is a real threat . With these concerns in mind, scientists have warned that mankind is to experience more serious consequences if immediate action is not taken to address the issue of global warming. One  incontestable fact is that global warming is presently occurring. How else can one explain the alarming rise in the earth’s temperature, if it is not because of global warming? The trend of rising temperatures is clear, at least by observing the standard surface temperature all over the world. Before the start of the millennium, the situation was relatively better than it presently is. Rainfall was pretty predictable, and surface temperature was generally lower than has been witnessed since 2000. This observation is sufficient to validate the hypothesis that global warming is bound to continue if the present patterns of human activity do not change in such a manner has to alleviate the problem. The implication is that human beings are the major cause of global warming. While governments in every nation have imposed environmental safety standards on manufactures and industries, it is regrettable that very few companies strictly observe such legislation. Industrial emissions are known to overload the atmosphere with too much carbon dioxide, which in turns traps heat, thereby driving the earth’s temperature up. Apart from industrial activities, human activities such as deforestation generate huge carbon dioxide emissions, particularly in tropical countries. Since evidence strongly indicates human beings are the cause of global warming, the inference is that human beings can slow down global warming and its damaging effects. Through collaborative efforts, the world’s nations can take immediate action to lower carbon an emission, consequently decelerating the pace at which global warming occurs. This action is of utmost urgency and importance since it determines the viability of future generations. Success in minimizing global warming can only be achieved by involving everyone. For instance, elected leaders must be put under pressure to pass necessary legislation. At the individual level, proper waste disposal must be practiced. Tips on reaction essay writing: To compose a good reaction essay on any topic, the writer needs to conduct some research on that topic. For example, if you are not fully aware of the causes and effects of global warming and how it impacts mankind, you would need to read some studies before writing a reaction essay on global warming. Otherwise, how do you know what your thoughts are on the topic? Do not forget to take notes as you read and to develop an outline for your paper. This will make the writing process go smoother and easier for you. To finalize your essay, you might read the reaction essay aloud, listening for correctness in grammar and word choice, as well as organization of ideas. Visit our essay writing service to order a custom essay on any global warming topics. will provide you with professional essay help at affordable rates.

Reflection paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 28

Reflection paper - Essay Example As a proponent of conservative ideologies, Burke opposed the actions of revolutionaries. He maintained that the revolution was likely to cause anarchy and, therefore, presented the threat of terror (Burke 1). Burke maintained that subjects should surrender to established authorities with minimal opposition. It is imperative to maintain the institutions and uphold established order in the society. In Burke’s view, the French destabilized the very institutions that upheld order while justifying their claims as the search for equality. He asserts that France â€Å"disarmed its cabinets of princes of its most potent topics through tyrannous distrust† (Burke 1). Consequently, the French initiated instability and corruption. In defense of conservative ideologies, Burke supported the English form of governance. The English form of governance was a form of monarchy set by rule of law. It was not an absolute monarchy considering English form of governance consisted of a balance between the king’s control and rule of law. Similarly, Burke did not support absolute democracy for fear of control that emanates from the tyranny of the popular numbers. Tyranny and control by majority, in Burke’s view, would not form a perfect form of governance. Marx had earlier established the historical background of the middle-class population. He notes the importance of describing plight of those working for daily wages, usually considered as low class persons or industrial workers (Marx, Engels and McLellan 1). He starts by describing the reality regarding the living status of the proletariats as only able to live depending on the availability of livelihood jobs. He establishes that work mechanization renders this group jobless and vulnerable. Exploitation of proletariat is cyclic, starting at work and extends to the bourgeoisie landowners, bringing about an open revolution. He also notes that apart from the

The Tenant of Wildfell Hall by Anne Bronte Essay

The Tenant of Wildfell Hall by Anne Bronte - Essay Example The structure of the novel is a story within a story. The writer introduces a diary entry in the middle of the novel to tell the story of how Helen married and ran away from her former husband. The diary, told from Helen’s point of view, forms the bulk of the novel and most of the themes are to be found in this part of the book. Through her diary entries, Helen lets the reader know exactly what she went through in her marriage and what pushed her to want to leave her husband. It is through the diary narrative that the reader gets to know more about what society expected of women and the role of men during the Victorian era. The complex structure of the novel depicts the complex social situation of the woman during the Victorian era. The Tenant of Wildfell Hall talks about the issues of marriage, divorce and remarriage during the Victorian era. The main focus is on the place of the woman in a patriarchal society which considers a woman to have no rights whatsoever once she is married. In this society, the woman is supposed to be the angel in the house, the good person who is there to serve her husband and take care of her children. The heroine in the story is Helen, a woman who gets married to Arthur Huntington, a character presented as lacking in basic morals and sense of responsibility. Huntington represents the male figures during the Victorian era who drink themselves to stupors, gamble and party without having any regard for the consequences of their actions (106). On the other hand, their faithful spouses are required to put up with their roguish behaviors and ask no questions at all. Helen’s outspoken nature often puts her in conflict with those around her since it is expected that she should not question what her husband does. At the beginning of the narration, Helen meets and falls in love with Huntington who is handsome and has a charming personality which Helen falls

The Cost of Coronary Heart Disease to Society Essay Example for Free

The Cost of Coronary Heart Disease to Society Essay â€Å"Coronary heart disease (CHD), also called coronary artery disease (CAD), is when the vessels supplying blood and oxygen to your heart become narrow or constrictedâ‘ ºÃ¢â‚¬  The main causes are: Smoking cigarettes Cigarette smoking is a major cause of strokes. High blood pressure Can put strain on your heart and can lead to CHD. High cholesterol levels Cholesterol is essential for healthy cells, but if there is too much in the blood it can lead to CHD. Unhealthy diet A bad diet can lead to diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension and uncontrolled weight. Each of these factors independently contribute to a high risk of heart disease. Physical inactivity Regular physical activity decreases the risk of coronary artery disease because it makes the coronary arteries wider and more flexible. Alcohol consumption Raises blood pressure; puts more pressure on arteries. Obesity Reduces HDL cholesterol which enable lipids to be transported within the water-based bloodstream. The cost of coronary heart disease to society cannot be viewed in terms of just money, but also the loss of 166,000 lives every year, this figure is the number of people who died of coronary heart disease in 1961 in the UK. The figure in 1997 however had fallen to 140,500. In 2000, this figure had fallen still to 125,000, and in 2010 more than 65,000 people died from coronary heart disease; more than for any other diseaseâ‘ ¹. The total direct healthcare costs of coronary heart disease in 1999 came to  £1.73 billion. The major costs were those used for hospital inpatient care, which accounted for  £917 million (or 53% of the total) and drug treatment, which accounted for  £558 million (or 32% of the total). Rehabilitation and community care, prevention and primary care, accident and emergency (AE) and outpatient care accounted for 7.4%, 3.6%, and 2.9%, respectively, of total direct costs. People aged 65 years and above and men utilised 63% and 52% of total expenditure, respectivelyâ‘ ´. In 2006, coronary heart disease cost the UK NHS approximately  £3.2 billion, this represents a cost per capita of just over  £50 for each condition. The cost of hospital care for people who have coronary heart diseases accounts for about 73% of these costsâ‘ µ. The hospital costs for stroke account for 94% of the total health care costsâ‘ ¶. In 2006 the total cost of coronary heart disease to the UK economy was approximately  £9.0 billionâ‘ ¸. Some patients with coronary heart disease will be referred for cardiac rehabilitation, particularly following bypass surgery or if they have experienced angina or a heart attack. The rehabilitation may consist of an exercise plan to help regain stamina safely based on individual ability and needs, and education, counseling, and training. Training may include ways to better manage stress, as well as how to manage other lifestyle factors that contribute to coronary heart disease. An estimated 401 000 people provided informal care to coronary heart disease patients in the UK and about 408 million hours were used to care for them. Informal care of coronary heart disease sufferers was estimated to cost  £2.42 billionâ‘ ´. About 150 565 working years were lost from deaths from coronary heart disease in England and Wales; 71% of these working years lost were from deaths in men in the 45–64 year age rangeâ‘ ´. There were 65.4 million working days lost because of incapacity resulting from coronary heart disease in the UK. In 2004, the average length of stay for an individual entering the hospital for CHD complications was 4.3 daysâ‘ ´. To the UK population, an estimated 765 000 men and 698 000 women had experienced a coronary heart disease event in the past year, with those aged 55 and above accounting for 88% of cases, also to the UK population, an estimated 1.42 million men and 1.14 million women have a history of doctor diagnosed coronary heart diseaseâ‘ ·. In 2006 over 2.2 million people were living with CHD; 1.3 million men and 860,000 womenâ‘ ¸. The mortality cost of coronary heart disease in the UK was estimated to be about  £1.81 billion (of which  £1.68 billion can be attributed to men and  £0.123 billion to women)â‘ ´. The total cost of illness associated with coronary heart disease in the UK is  £7.06 billion per yearâ‘ ·. CHD, by itself, is the most common cause of premature death in the UK. About one fifth (18%) of premature deaths in men and one in ten (9%) premature deaths in women from CHD, which caused over 28,000 premature deaths in the UK in 2008â‘ ¶. Rates of CHD are higher in men than in women and rates increase with age. However CHD is also a major cause of premature (under 75) deaths. In 2010, there were over 21,000 premature deaths from CHD in Englandâ‘ ¸. CHD rates are not distributed evenly around England. Death rates are much higher in the North of England compared to the South. Premature mortality rates in the North West are about 50% higher than in the South East for men, and 60% higher for women. But CHD rates in England are lower than in the rest of the UKâ‘ ¸. Approximately 85% of those who die of coronary artery disease are age 65 or olderâ‘ ½. People that are diagnosed with coronary heart disease may feel worried or anxious about their personal well being and how this diagnosis will affect their lifestyleâ‘ ». Patients diagnosed with heart disease may experience guilty feelings. They may believe that their chosen lifestyles may have contributed to them acquiring coronary heart diseaseâ‘ ». Patients with coronary heart disease may isolate themselves socially from their friends as a result of side effects of their medications or symptoms of their disease, such as fatigueâ‘ ». Depression is a condition that patients with coronary heart disease may experience. This may be caused by a variety of reasons. They may become less motivated and less functional in their roles in life; achieving goals and getting jobsâ‘ ». Depression is strongly correlated with the presence of angina within a patients with coronary heart disease. Also patients with physical health problems such as coronary heart disease often have worse quality of lifeâ‘ ¼. In conclusion, the cost of coronary heart disease to society are the mass amount of people lost to this disease every year, the pain that the relatives and friends endure and the economic burden from the cost of all the healthcare and time invested to help those in need.

The Story Of Sweetheart Of The Song Of Tra Bong: The Use Of Setting :: essays research papers

The Story of Sweetheart of the Song of Tra Bong: The Use of Setting Where does the story of Sweetheart of the Song Tra Bong take place? Upon reading the story, one would first assume that it takes place in Vietnam. Upon further examination, however, it becomes quite evident that it really takes place inside Rat Kiley's head. This isn't to declare the story false; instead, one should examine the influence and literary freedom that Rat flexes upon the truth. "For Rat Kiley†¦ facts were formed by sensation, not the other way around." (101) The story occurs in two separate but equally chaotic places: Vietnam, and Rat's head. The story intertwines between the two settings, and in order to completely grasp the idea behind them, one must first recognize, then separate and analyze the two settings. Upon the first reading of this work, the reader finds himself dropping into the story of a seemingly misplaced girl in Vietnam. The role of Rat Kiley seems somewhat minor and irrelevant. Upon the second and third times through, however, his role as the storyteller stands out. It becomes more evident that he holds Mary Anne with the highest regard. He romanticizes her relationship with the war. He is so amazed with the fact that a girl can be seduced by the lure of the wilderness that he begins to talk about her with the listeners as if she were the attractive girl from school that everyone knows but nobody dates. " 'You know†¦I loved her. Mary Anne made you think about those girls back home, how clean and innocent they all are.' " (123) Rat is pushing his views upon the listener. He is shaping how the story is seen. The reader sees "triple- canopied jungle, mountains unfolding into higher mountains, ravines and gorges and fast-moving rivers and waterfalls and exotic butterflies and steep cliffs and smoky little hamlets and great valleys of bamboo and elephant grass." (103) The actual reality of the situation is added by the narrator, as extrapolated from Rat: that they were in an almost completely indefensible situation. Had somebody cared enough to take control of the little base, there would be no resistance. Rat wanted to let the reader know his opinion on the citizens of the Viet Cong, how he wants the listener to think of them. "Mary Anne asked, 'They're human beings, aren't they? Like everybody else?' Fossie nodded. He loved her." (107) Rat lets us know that he thinks the VC are less then human. Why did Fossie nod, in Rat's opinion? Not because he thought Fossie felt she was The Story Of Sweetheart Of The Song Of Tra Bong: The Use Of Setting :: essays research papers The Story of Sweetheart of the Song of Tra Bong: The Use of Setting Where does the story of Sweetheart of the Song Tra Bong take place? Upon reading the story, one would first assume that it takes place in Vietnam. Upon further examination, however, it becomes quite evident that it really takes place inside Rat Kiley's head. This isn't to declare the story false; instead, one should examine the influence and literary freedom that Rat flexes upon the truth. "For Rat Kiley†¦ facts were formed by sensation, not the other way around." (101) The story occurs in two separate but equally chaotic places: Vietnam, and Rat's head. The story intertwines between the two settings, and in order to completely grasp the idea behind them, one must first recognize, then separate and analyze the two settings. Upon the first reading of this work, the reader finds himself dropping into the story of a seemingly misplaced girl in Vietnam. The role of Rat Kiley seems somewhat minor and irrelevant. Upon the second and third times through, however, his role as the storyteller stands out. It becomes more evident that he holds Mary Anne with the highest regard. He romanticizes her relationship with the war. He is so amazed with the fact that a girl can be seduced by the lure of the wilderness that he begins to talk about her with the listeners as if she were the attractive girl from school that everyone knows but nobody dates. " 'You know†¦I loved her. Mary Anne made you think about those girls back home, how clean and innocent they all are.' " (123) Rat is pushing his views upon the listener. He is shaping how the story is seen. The reader sees "triple- canopied jungle, mountains unfolding into higher mountains, ravines and gorges and fast-moving rivers and waterfalls and exotic butterflies and steep cliffs and smoky little hamlets and great valleys of bamboo and elephant grass." (103) The actual reality of the situation is added by the narrator, as extrapolated from Rat: that they were in an almost completely indefensible situation. Had somebody cared enough to take control of the little base, there would be no resistance. Rat wanted to let the reader know his opinion on the citizens of the Viet Cong, how he wants the listener to think of them. "Mary Anne asked, 'They're human beings, aren't they? Like everybody else?' Fossie nodded. He loved her." (107) Rat lets us know that he thinks the VC are less then human. Why did Fossie nod, in Rat's opinion? Not because he thought Fossie felt she was

Hold the Future in Your Hand

â€Å"Hold the Future in your Hand† In 1962, Sony put an ad out to introduce one of the first micro televisions (TV). This tiny box was a milestone in television viewing at that point in time. Who could believe that in is era that Sony would create a television that could actually be held in the palm of the hand? At only 8lbs. it is not much larger than your telephone. Think of it, it’s the early 60’s and a typical household only had one television, then suddenly an advertisement comes out describing a television that can be held in your hand.Imagine it, a rechargeable TV, one that could be used by normal battery, auto battery or by plugging it into the wall. Now all of a sudden this was not only a small TV to fit in a person’s hand, but one that could be brought anywhere. No longer was a family tied to watching TV just at home, now television was able to be watched anywhere. The 1962 ad â€Å"Hold the Future in your Hands, by Sony† is an effective advertisement that in it’s time was cutting edge technology; Sony shows appeal to men and women, versatility as well ad keeping up with a demanding future.To begin with, Sony’s attempt in bringing portable televisions to the horizon was very effective in the way they advertised. They created a television that was not only designed to appeal to both sexes but to show their leap in technology as well. Sony did not just put out a hand held television they also made one that you could use without having to watch television in the home, but rather one that you could watch on the road or outside.Secondly, over the past 66 years, Sony has continually shown us that they are always on the cutting edge of something big. Even back in the 1960’s when they were well ahead of their competitors; Sony produced a product that was not only new and inventive but versatile as well. Sony jumped ahead in the competition by creating a television that was not only useful at home but on the go as well. At that point in time they were the first on the market to design a television with portability.When Sony created this ad showing a woman holding the television in her hand Sony created an appeal to both sexes with this Micro TV, which made it an easier sell. In the 1960’s men were the primary television watchers when they got home from work, but by Sony using the type of ad they did they were able to appeal to the women. Although, this is not as characteristic today as it was in 1960, back then more woman were stay at home wives and mothers and their job was to ensure that dinner and housework was completed.Having this Micro TV that did not have to be plugged in was a blessing for women to be able to watch television wherever they were in the home. Finally, over the years Sony has continually surprised me with their ability to create electronics that make our life easier, as well as give us items to make our life more enjoyable. I would fully recommend Sony to anyone who was in the market for cutting edge electronics. References Yue, Michelle (2012, November). Retro Ad of the Week Retrieved from: http://mascola. com/insights/? p=5460

A Necessary Evil Essay

After listening to people in various careers, I’ve found that the most abused and underrated professions are those connected with public service. People who work in law enforcement, fire prevention, medicine and education are underpaid, overworked, and taken for granted. Without the benefit of these professionals we would be less likely to live our lives with relative safety, the benefit of education and the good health most of us possess. However, when it comes to salaries, working conditions and public support for the people in these fields, very little is given without long, com- plicated labor disputes. Many people would deny even the chance for them to take a stand for the rights they deserve for fear their walkout would endanger the public welfare. I agree that when people in these professions call for a strike hospitals go haywire, criminals are freer to roam and kids miss important weeks of class work. But striking may be the only way for these people to draw attention to their low wages, poor working conditions and lack of public support; and they should have the right to do so. Low wages are obviously the priority issue discussed when contracts are up for renewal and one of the basic reasons for calling a strike. Even though most union officials often seem to go overboard in their demands, it may be a necessary tactic used to wake up the administrators who never want to give even the basic cost-of-living raise. While teachers and nurses are called â€Å"professionals† and spend years of time and money to train for these positions, when it comes to dollars and cents, their paychecks never come close to what other professionals receive. Police and firemen leave their houses every day unsure they’ll make it home uninjured – if they make it back at all – but their salaries hardly reflect the risk they take to chase criminals or fight fires. Money, however, is only one of the major issues public workers take with them to the bargaining table. Working conditions, especially for medical support personnel and educators, are always a reason for voting to strike when demands are not met during contract discussions For example, many teachers spend a great deal of time in old school buildings (full of flaking asbestos) with inefficient heating systems creating a rather frigid atmosphere for learning. Children sit in classrooms dressed in coats, hats and gloves reading textbooks dating back to the 1960’s. From their vantage point, teachers notice the peeling paint, broken chairs and children with problems they can’t begin to tackle. Obviously, without the proper tools with which to teach in an atmosphere of decay or the proper placement for children needing individual attention, the job of teaching becomes frustrating and even futile, and creates a growing apathy towards the children and the profession in general. Another example is the nurse or nursing assistant who has just completed a twelve hour shift and has been told she must stay through the next because so and so called in sick. According to a close friend who is an L.P.N., this kind of request is nothing unusual and refusal to work the extra time can cause stomach ulcers quicker than if she stays and works without protest. The guy who scrubs the hospital corridors works under better conditions; and while sanitation is important in a hospital, he’ll never have to read bottles of medication or cardiac monitors through half-shut eyes. Lack of public support is another factor forcing these professionals to strike. So taken for granted are our public service workers that many of them receive far more complaints than compliments for their daily work. A fire fighter called in the middle of the night with only moments notice is on his way to save a burning building. Reaching his destination, he grabs an ax and breaks a window to gain entrance to the property and put out the fire. Two days later the fire company receives a nasty letter complaining about the broken window. Lack of support for the police officer may even be felt from within the law enforcement system. The policeman who arrests a person for robbery or rape is constantly faced with the court’s decision to let the offender out on bail or completely free to repeat the crime for which he was originally arrested. Again, frustration and apathy are sure to give way to poor self-esteem and a growing desperation caused by lack of caring and support by the public. People who teach, work to make our environment safe and those who help to keep us healthy are our support personnel. Although they are trained professionals working to make our lives richer, we take them for granted and leave them little choice but to let us know what life would be like if they were not here at all.

Corruption in Russia

Corruption in Russia Introduction Corruption has become a livelihood for many government officials worldwide. Russia is no exception with government officials being the most involved in corruption cases. The rising corruption cases have been related to the 2006 Russian president’s policies that were meant to strengthen the state on the expense of the Russia’s civil society. The vice even expanded in 2007 – 2008 elections as well as in other aspects of Russian public life.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Corruption in Russia specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Though anti-corruption organizations such as Transparency International agree that corruption in Russia has decreased over the years, the amounts of bribes being given are increasing as well (Welu 1). Many corruption cases in Russia have been associated with bureaucrats which instead of developing economic growth, they are more involved with corruption. The most in cidences of corruption cases in Russia are occurring in the cities where large numbers of bureaucrats are found. However, corruption is basically everywhere in Russia. Traffic police have been shaking down motorists, bribes by government officials especially from businessmen, just to mention a few. As a matter of fact, Transparency International has ranked Russia as one of the major corrupt economies in the world with the prime minister being alleged of having obtained wealth by illicit ways. Law enforcement agencies including the police are no exception. Some even go to the extent of tricking drivers roads in order to get them to break the law so as to obtain bribes from them. Institutions like schools and hospitals are also involved in corruption where students pay their teachers in order to get good grades, patients pay doctors in order be given health services that should be given free. The greatest percentage of Russians has admitted having given bribes to the extent of threate ning the nation’s economic stability. The core of Russia’s corruption has always been the law enforcement which has made alliances with a number of crimes. Most of the law enforcement officials spent most of their time looking for possible ways of obtaining corporate raid. This has drained great Russian citizens especially businessmen who have fled to other countries for fear of getting mixed up with the law (Owen 1). Corruption has destroyed many citizens’ relationships with the police, politicians as well as non- governmental officials. The amounts of bribes given by businessmen have been reported to be more than the national budget. What is disturbing is that bureaucrats take bribes from businessmen promising them to provide legal business operation regulations, but they do not keep their promises. Studies have described this kind of corruption as being a great threat to the nation’s economy. Corruption has been linked to low salary levels of most offi cials. Due to these claims, they get involved in corruption with the claims that it is the governments fault after all. Corruption has been described as a symptom of other nation problems. Such problems in Russia include an impassive parliament, intimidated media or an influenced judicial system. Failure to practice democracy in Russia has been another cause of corruption.Advertising Looking for essay on political culture? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More However, public servants have been received salary increments but this has not stopped their corrupt deeds. This is because are much lower than what they always get from bribes. For instance, judges’ salaries have been raised and still bribery levels in this department are increasing. This scenario is worsened by the fact that current bureaucracy operates without any supervision and control of power since the internal checks have been abolished from the admini stration. As a result, basis for corruption is created especially in the nongovernmental organizations which now have the rights to control actions on them by the government. Consequences of corruption in Russia A number of negative outcomes have occurred in Russia due to corruption. Most o them have affected the nation’s economy as well as political systems. The 2007 and 2008 parliamentary and presidential elections respectively were greatly influenced by corruption. It is obvious that official who were in office before the elections were afraid of losing power to new groups since they can only obtain wealth illegally when in office. They were also afraid of being prosecuted once they leave office and lose power. This has caused a battle between the new group and that of Putin being left behind. Formation of political parties have also been a problem since the bureaucrats have an already established party of their own that is only based on staying in office to preserve their power(Feifer 1). However, the opposition party made the fight against corruption its main agenda during the campaigns which resulted to be a powerful tool for them. However, these anti corruption claims were not real since both groups used the claims only to gain support in the elections. Government officials have cracked down the Russian media in order to prevent exposure of their corrupt dealings. The most influential television networks are now operating under the direct control of the government. Printing companies that were initially private are now being run under the state’s control. Political officials are ensuring that there is no information publication in regional media and the internet. However, some anti-corruption efforts have bared fruits with a Russian governor being jailed recently while other political officials are facing charges over abuse of power. Despite the success however, the corruption fight was used as a political tool by Kremlin which means that after he gets into office, he no longer fought against the vice.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Corruption in Russia specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The energy sector has been the most affected as the government is taking over most of the assets of this very vital sector. The state has bought and moved most of the assets of the important oil companies to the company that is controlled by the state. Russia’s oil pipelines are also exclusively owned and controlled by the state giving it control over foreign energy firms that are involved in Russia’s energy sector (Englund 1) . The banking sector has also been affected by corruption with the state making no efforts to reform the financial institutions whose operations have not been clear. This is in order for the political officials to control the country’s economy. These intentions were clearly demonstrated with the murder of the country’ s great economy regulator, Andrei Kozlov, who was working on shut down of corrupt banks. The increased crime and terrorism attacks have been facilitated by corruption especially in the law enforcement department which is supposed to protect the country against such vices. Instead the officials are involved in allowing the operations of crime and terrorism in order to get bribes all at the expense of fellow citizens. Corruption has also enabled the entry of illicit goods to the country by corrupt border guards. Most of these goods are drugs which have affected the youth negatively. A number of mayors responsible for city property management have been assassinated to allow corrupt political officials to access the property. Addressing corruption The initial effort in fighting corruption in Russia should be the reformation of the bureaucracy. The government too should be accountable to citizens and this can only be achieved by allowing free media. Power should be decentralized to local levels to allow for efficient checks and balances between the federal and local levels of governance. Initiation of equal economic developments all over the country can provide a great base for the fight against corruption. Policy makers especially from U.S. should help Russia in realizing its anti-corruption policies. Russia has been advised to join an Anti-Bribery Convention which will evaluate Russia’s current anti-corruption efforts and enforce implementation of policies to prevent corruption by all member officials. Conclusion It is clear that corruption in Russia has diminished economic growth in the country with the most affected being the poor citizens who, in most cases, are deprived of their rights. Instead only the rich enjoy the state’s services through bribery which are meant to freely serve everyone. Since corruption is deep-rooted from the government officials, only they can twist the situation by stopping abuse of power to get everything they want.Adve rtising Looking for essay on political culture? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Power should also be decentralized to allow the local authorities check and balance the state’s operations. A transparent and efficient commission against corruption should be formed to investigate those who are faced with corruption allegations and ensure that they are dealt with by the law. Most importantly, for the fight against corruption in Asia to succeed, federal officials should start the process from a personal level by not accepting or giving a bribe. Englund, Will. â€Å"Russian corruption takes on a life of its own†. Web. Feifer, Gregory. â€Å"Corruption in Russia, Part1: A Normal Part Of Everyday Life†. Web. Owen, Matthews. â€Å"Corruption is forcing Russia’s best and brightest to flee the country†. Web. Welu, Carol. â€Å"Corruption: Russia’s Economic Stumbling Block†. Web.

Definition and Examples of Modality in Grammar

Definition and Examples of Modality in Grammar In grammar and semantics, modality refers to linguistic devices that indicate the degree to which an observation is possible, probable, likely, certain, permitted, or prohibited. In English, these notions are commonly (though not exclusively) expressed by modal auxiliaries, such as can, might, should, and will. They are sometimes combined with not. Martin J. Endley suggests that the simplest way to explain  modality  is  to say that it has to do with the stance the speaker adopts toward some situation expressed in an utterance...[M]odality reflects the speakers attitude toward the situation being described (Linguistic Perspectives on English Grammar, 2010). Deborah Cameron illustrates with an example: [Modality] is what makes the difference between a factual assertion like  unicorns never existed, and a more guarded view, such as  it seems unlikely that unicorns could ever have existed- or a bolder claim like  the existence of unicorns must always have been a myth.  Modality, then, is a resource  speakers  and writers use when they are staking claims to knowledge: it allows them to formulate different kinds of claims (e.g., assertions, opinions, hypotheses, speculations) and indicate how committed they are to those claims. (The Teachers Guide to Grammar, Oxford University Press, 2007) Indicating Modality Grammatically Just as tense indicates a time aspect of a verb, words that are used to show modality indicate the mood of the sentence- that is, how factual or assertive the statement is- and it can be done in any number of ways, including with adjectives. Martin J. Endley in Linguistic Perspectives on English Grammar  explains: Thus, a situation might be described as  possible, probable, necessary, or  certain. The  noun  counterparts of these adjectives also express modality so that a situation can be described as a  possibility, a  probability, a  necessity, or a  certainty. Moreover, it is possible to use ordinary  lexical verbs  to convey modality....And think  about the difference between saying that you  know  something and saying that you  believe  something. Such differences are essentially a matter of modality. Finally, English also contains certain semi-fixed lexical phrases (e.g.,  rumor has it) that are, basically, modal expressions.  (IAP, 2010) Other terms that express modality are marginal modals, such as need, ought to, dare, or used to. In Depth: Types of Modality The range of possibilities expressed when using modality is a broad spectrum, ranging from not very likely to very likely; to express these different levels, modality comes with named gradations, as explained by authors  Gà ¼nter Radden and Renà © Dirven, in Cognitive English Grammar:   Modality is concerned with the speakers assessment of, or attitude towards, the potentiality of a state of affairs. Modality, therefore, relates to different worlds. Assessments of potentiality, as in You must be right, relate to the world of knowledge and reasoning. This type of modality is known as epistemic modality. Modal attitudes apply to the world of things and social interaction. This type of modality is known as root modality. Root modality comprises three subtypes: deontic modality, intrinsic modality and disposition modality. Deontic modality is concerned with the speakers directive attitude towards an action to be carried out, as in the obligation You must go now. Intrinsic modality is concerned with potentialities arising from intrinsic qualities of a thing or circumstances, as in The meeting can be canceled, i.e. it is possible for the meeting to be canceled. Disposition modality is concerned with a things or a persons intrinsic potential of being actualised; in particu lar abilities. Thus, when you have the ability to play the guitar you will potentially do so....Modal verbs have a special status among modal expressions: they ground a situation in potential reality. (John Benjamins, 2007)

Askweek3 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Askweek3 - Essay Example your son might not be so committed to steer ahead the company, and this could probably be in terms of not being active in the organization, perhaps because the organization belongs to the father, or on the other hand, he may work hard to improve the status of the organization to please the father. With such deliberations, how would you ensure your son is in the right course? Another way through which your organization may deem appropriate to solve its challenges is through adoption of a more fractal system approach. What does this approach entails? What are challenges accrued from the use of this approach? According to Stacey (2011, pp. 491-493), people embracing the concept of complex adaptive systems might go about â€Å"rethinking the roles of leaders and managers†. In this regard, do you find this being applicable in your organization? If you were given an opportunity to advise your senior managers on ways through which their behaviors can help improve the status of your organization, what advice would you give? Leaders who fall into the neurotic forms of leadership fails to meet the long-term goals of the organization. Their behaviors exhibit short term strategic thinking. In this regard, and given an opportunity recommend the best strategies to oversee realization of long-term goals of your organization, what strategies would you