Compare and Contrast for Montana 1948 Essay

Is it right to say a man with wealth and power can do whatever he wants? From the viewpoint of the novel â€Å"Montana 1948†, the answer is absolutely no. The novel has drawn a picture of Hayden family, the most respectful and dominating family in town, being thrown to chaos just because of the crime a family member committed. Even though two main characters in this novel, Frank and Wesley, share some similarities from their childhood environment, the three main contrasts between them lead them to different endings. Frank and Wesley grew up together and shared the same education background, therefore they are alike in their appearance, credentials, spouses choices, and prejudice attitudes. They are both tall, broad-shouldered and pleasant-looking. They are all intellectual people as Frank is a doctor and Wesley is a law school graduate. They both marry to two beautiful and highly-educated women from another town. We can see how alike they are from David’s observation: à ¢â‚¬Å"From that height I noticed something I had never noticed before. I noticed how the two men were brothers in posture and attitude (page 73)†. The significance of this quote is they resemble each other so closely that it’s not strange if they share the same attitude towards some matters. One specific example of this attitude is that they both have prejudice against Indian people, just like their father. Despite their similarities, David still respects and admires his uncle Frank more than his father Wesley. David claims: â€Å"It was the way I always felt when the two of them were together. Brothers naturally invite comparison, and when comparison was made between those two, my father was bound to suffer (page 24)†. From this quote, we understand that the more David admires about Frank, the more he feels sorry and disappointed in his father.. David has this feeling towards his father because as being compared to Wesley with his severely injured leg, Frank looks more well-built with an athletic grace that Wesley lacks. Moreover, Wesley doesn’t fit neither David’s ideal of what a sheriff should be nor his mother’s ideal at all. On the other hand, Frank is a genuine war hero, a dedicated doctor, his father’s favorite son, and a proud of Hayden family. Another difference between Wesley and Frank is the degree of their racism towards Indian people. Wesley doesn’t like Indian people because he thinks they are ignorant, lazy, and irresponsible. His racist reaction stops at the level that he forbid David to wear the moccasins that he received in his birthday. Regardless of that attitude, he treats Indians like human beings with generosity, kindness, and respect. Unlike Wesley, Frank doesn’t express any discrimination on the surface; he accepts treatments for all white and Indian patients. However, his racist attitude is expressed at a higher degree; he took advantage of his occupation to sexually molest many Indian women and even committed murder. The most important difference between them is that Wesley is brave and courageous to execute justice while Frank is too coward to take his responsibility. Facing Frank’s horrific crime, Wesley chooses to go after the truth by investigating the accusation. Although he is placed in a complicated situation that compromises his position as a sheriff and his position as a son and brother, his final decision is to stand up to his father to execute justice. Wesley states clearly his opinion: â€Å"David, I believe that in this world people must pay for their crimes. It doesn’t matter who you are or who your relations are; if you do wrong, you pay. I believe that. I have to (page 150)†. This quote explains how Wesley is thinking about the whole situation and why his final decision is to choose justice over family. Furthermore, it also indicates his opinion towards the rights and wrongs that Wesley wants David to understand. Contrary to Wesley, Frank doesn’t take any responsibility for what he did at all. When he molested those Indian women, he doesn’t think about the impact to his family at all. When his crime is revealed, he doesn’t even try to confess to either his parents or his wife. On top of that, he shows his cowardice by choosing suicide instead of being punished. He has never concerned about the shame and pain he might have brought to his family. Although Frank and Wesley grew up under the same childhood environment and had some similarities in characteristics, the contrasts between them set them apart. Frank committed crime and ended up with his death, while Wesley chose justice and ended up losing his family. Obviously, a man has to pay for what he did, no matter how powerful, influential, or wealthy he is.

Dr. Spock

When Babies are put on their stomach to sleep, the babies sleep soundly and get startled less. So for parents that haven't gotten sleep for days they tend to choose to put babies in this position because, finally they get to get some sleep. Parents do this of course taking precaution, buy not smoking keeping baby close by while sleeping and by breastfeeding. The American Academy of Pediatrics PAP recommends that babies should only be put on their stomachs during what they call â€Å"tummy time† while the child is up, alert and playing.The PAP also recommends to reduce the risk of KIDS parents should â€Å"Use a firm mattress (avoid soft bedding) Not letting your baby sleep in your bed. Breastfeeding your baby, if possible. Protecting your infant from exposure to cigarette, cigar, or pipe smoke. Running a fan in your baby's room at night to improve air circulation† (â€Å"Sleep†). The PAP only recommends baby to be put on their stomach only if the pediatrician rec ommends it or if â€Å"Infants with complications of severe spitting up (reflux)† (Children).The other disadvantage to putting baby to sleep on its back is that they can develop â€Å"philologically' a flattened head. DRP. Spook didn't recommend it, he said that it was â€Å"more comfortable with colic babies the pressure on the abdomen relieves the gas main, and if they vomit they're less likely to choke on their vomits† (Spook and Rottener 210). He also opposed it, because â€Å"babies tend to keep the head turned toward the same side, this may flatten that side of the head, this can be helped by putting the baby's head where the feet were the first time each time you put them to bed† (Spook and Rottener 211).An associate professor of neurosurgery and pediatrics in the New York University Medical Center DRP. Jeffrey H. Wisdom, said â€Å"that since the ‘Back to Sleep' campaign began, the head condition had become an epidemic. † Wisdom said  "now we see up to a dozen kids a week with asymmetric heads. â€Å"(Breaker). The Back to Sleep campaign which is driven by the PAP has been advocating to put children to sleep since 1992. DRP.Wisdom stated that â€Å"the PAP should do a better Job of telling parents to turn infants 180 degrees in their cribs occasionally and to place them on their stomachs while they are awake, called tummy time†(Breaker). Studies that have been conducted at the Boston Children's Hospital report, â€Å"that over the past two decades that infants who die suddenly, and without explanation whose death has been attributed to KIDS- have differences in brainstem chemistry that set them apart from infants dying of other causes† (â€Å"Brainstem†).They are stating that when these sleeping babies come upon danger, they are not able to wake themselves up to remove themselves from danger. Researchers say that â€Å"these abnormalities impair brainstem circuits that help control breathin g, heart rate, blood pressure and temperature control during sleep, this preventing sleeping babies from rousing when they reprobate too much carbon dioxide due to poor ventilation or become over heated due to over bundling† â€Å"Brainstem†).So with new information found on KIDS, researchers continue to advise parents to take necessary precautions, like not using soft-bedding, using a pacifier, good air ventilation and continue to put babies to sleep on their backs. Also in some circumstances there are still good reasons for putting babies to sleep on tummy due to reflux. The Interiors school approach has been acclaimed as the most developmentally appropriate model currently available. Maria Interiors first woman physician in Italy, began this scientific education for young children with developmental capabilities, she went on to use this for normal children. Experimenting over a period of years, she developed a large series of objects which required gradually increasi ng amounts of skill and maturity to manipulate, after a child mastered one skill, she was given the object that required the next greater amount of skill†(Spook and Rottener 516). There has been questions about the performance of Interiors students when they move on to conventional academic settings. Because there are not many Interiors schools that offer kindergarten to twelfth grade many students have to transfer to public school.This is where the issue begins some students have a hard time adjusting to the new learning environment where some excel and do well. Research done in Milwaukee where they â€Å"tracked 400 students where half the students received public school and the other Interiors before they transitioned to public schools system say that , Students who attended a Interiors school Preschool – Grade 5 and got Interiors education not only outperformed the other students in math and science test scores, but graduated with higher Gaps† (â€Å"Transit ioning†).The negative side of this is that when students enter public school â€Å"they may be behind or ahead of their new peers in certain subjects because of the self-guided study they did. Concepts will be taught differently, student will need to adapt to more traditional teaching methods†(â€Å"Transitioning†). On the other hand Interiors students enjoy social, emotional and academic benefits from their education, making them reliable. â€Å"Remember this is a child who has learned how to learn, where to find information on their own if they need it.They are accustomed to research and tackling new subjects† (â€Å"Quarter†). Many researchers along with parents believe that Interiors as a huge impact on children long after the child has left a Interiors school. Interiors schools differ from traditional school in several ways, â€Å"children are grouped in multi-age class room from three to six, six to nine, nine to twelve, twelve to fifteen, an d fifteen to eighteen† (Task). The age mix allows older students to be leaders, mentors and help teach lessons, younger kids get to experience working with older classmates.At the same time young students working next to older students get to see what they will be working on in the near future. The teachers work with dent's one on one or in small groups. They fuel the fire in the child's interest, â€Å"one teacher noted the children's hunger for words, and they wrote as many as they knew, and came to me for more, having exhausted their simple vocabulary' (Task). Interiors allows children to grow in their natural development guiding them as they grow into bigger lessons.After transferring to a traditional school is where the issue begins, â€Å"the goals and objectives follow the school's vision. â€Å"(Task) In traditional classrooms teachers have an assigned group of students and instruct students from assigned text books. Assessments, test, worksheets are given to studen ts to memorize and there is never a true learning experience. The traditional school has their own vision for learning, going along with the states standardized testing. Leaving the children no time for their own developmental learning to grow, leaving children behind and lost in the learning process.Discipline is an ongoing process. It begins early in a child's life and changes as they mature, continuing as self-discipline. DRP. Spook says, † that good parents who naturally lean toward strictness should raise their children that way. Moderate triteness-in the sense of requiring good manners, prompt obedience, orderliness- is not harmful to children so long as the parents are basically kind, and so long the children are growing up happy and friendly. But strictness is harmful when parents are overbearing for a child.This kind of severity produces children who are meek and colorless or mean to others. â€Å"(Spook and Rottener 25) The Bible also states â€Å"Fathers, do not b e so hard on your children, so their spirit may not be broken† (Bible N. I. V. Colombians 3:21). Expecting reasonable behavior from children means parents need o be kind, loving, moderately strict, flexible and have consistent expectations. If parents learn early on how to be firm and consistent, children will have an easier time getting along with people.Some studies show that parents who fear disciplining, have children who suffer from being â€Å"insecure and develop anxiety and stress when there is lack of consistent guidance. Children who do not learn appropriate boundaries when they are young experience difficulty with self-control later in life† (Brown). A parent's firmness trains the child to get along reasonable with there people, so when they get out into the world no matter at what age they won't be in for a surprise when others dislike them for their selfishness and won't go through life being unpopular.Spook's advice was not so different from the advice giv en now from many professionals. Especially, learning how to take care of children was so important for new families. That the schools parents choose was important for their children's learning development. And most of all how to raise children that are well-disciplined so that they will be self-controlled adults with good relationship skills.

Methadone: government’s answer to heroine addiction

Methadone is a pain reliever similar to morphine that belongs to the group of drugs known as opioid. Opioids have chemical structures and actions similar to morphine. Methadone’s effects are longer lasting than that of heroine and are considered to be safe, well-tested medication for treatment of opioid addiction withdrawal and dependence state.Methadone as an opiate has something in common with Heroine. They occupy the same mu opioid receptors in the brain. Methadone is a synthetic drug, long-acting opioid whose effects last for 24 hours. It was proven to mimic heroine’s action in the brain without necessarily occupying all the mu opioid receptors. It therefore leaves enough of these receptors free to perform their specific roles and is the reason why methadone patients do not experience high. Methadone reduces the cravings with heroine and blocks the high from heroine use.Benefits of MethadoneMethadone has its own cost benefit by which a patient will only incur $13 pe r day because of its duration of action and very low cost (ONDCP 2000). This is taken a better and cost effective alternative to rehabilitation and incarceration. Withdrawal is much slower than that of heroine. The government finds it much possible to maintain an addict on methadone without undesirable harsh side effects. Methadone detox is only effective for addicts of heroine, morphine, and opioid drugs. Patients may require continuous treatment over a period of long years. Withdrawal symptoms may be regulated by gradual reduction of dosage medication.The truth about MethadoneMethadone is a synthetic drug which is habit forming. Methadone brings about a biochemical balance in the body but the patient remains physically dependent on the opioid. Regular usage develops certain tolerance. Methadones do not cure heroine addiction it only sustain addicts habit by its long-lasting effect characteristics. Methadone has this side effect that may impair thinking and reactions since it still is a form of opioid synthetic drug. The only success that can be attributed to Methadone is its ability to harm some mu opioid receptors while leaving others free to function. But what if the occupied receptors cannot accommodate Methadone anymore? Will it result to giving more harm by affecting the free receptors?The dos and don’ts of Methadone usageMethadone shall be used solely with no other drug combinations. The patient must avoid drugs that contain narcotics that may induce one to get drowsy or sleepy like cough, cold or pain relievers, muscle relaxants, medicine for seizures, depression or anxiety.Allergic reactions are known to be difficulty in breathing and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Serious side effects are known to include hallucinations or confusions, swelling of ankles or feet, urinating less than usual, chest pains, and feeling light headed or fainting.Overdose symptoms were observed to be shallow or decreased breathing, slow heart rate, sma ll pupils, cold clammy skin and coma or even death.Methadone administrationThe drug can be taken as a liquid or as a tablet for oral administration. The correct dosage shall be measured with a marked liquid measuring spoon or medicine cup. It can be also administered through injections.ConclusionsI do not believe that government has been helping its people by the introduction of methadone. Tolerance means the possibility of a tolerant person to function normally with a dose that may prove fatal to a non tolerant person. It does not treat nor cure the addiction but only sustain the habit economically for 24 hours because of its long-lasting effect. Methadone can proved fatal when the patient is out on the streets and may not be known to be using it. When plagued with cough and colds, there is a very big possibility that his mind and control defenses will go lax and buy over the counter drugs to treat the illness which is a big NO for this kind of treatment.The way I see it, it is the highway to free addiction and free fall to individual fatality. The free fall may not be on its effect as a treatment but purely on its established harmful effects when combined with other drugs that may be bought over the counter for relief of mild ailments. The harm is laxity and ignorance of the person being held responsible for his own treatment. Methadone may increase the effects of these other drugs and make drowsiness and dizziness even worse. The danger is from the aspects of over dose and side effects.Methadone only reduces cost for treatment some aspects of drug addiction. It also reduces crime and violence but do not ultimately reduce the misuse of this drug and of the other drugs. We don’t hold the thoughts and the hearts of our patients. They have a different meaning for responsibility and laxity of control. Patients do not actually follow what you teach. It has been established that their sense of responsibility and control are not outstanding by the addiction that they were in. The treatment can serve as a freeway to the highway of unknown, uncontrollable, fearsome consequences.[1] What will become of this nation then?I do not mean harm with the theory that the government may find relief in the patient having to commit government assisted unwanted induced suicide. How will the government justify the danger of the treatment? How will they be able to justify giving aids to third world countries when they are limiting financial aids to their citizens themselves? I cannot see the reason of helping first other people then trying to limit own cost of rehabilitation of drug addiction centers and people with mental illness.How can a group of senators and scientist fail to underestimate and assess the relation between over dose and the patient’s sense of responsibility? I absolutely will not deregulate and increase methadone availability. There is already an array of harmful drugs over the counters that were regulated, we cannot add more t o these dangers. I see human sacrifice and cost effective governmental measures that were not helping to the health of these people. It is frantically pushing them to their ends. We cannot justify harm with cost effectiveness.We need to STOP methadone treatment and be back on the basics of rehabilitation strategy. Relapse and withdrawal will never be a problem if we continue to clean our body, our environment, and our policy. If we find it hard to change policies, then we need to push the change on the persons that made it to their seats so we can effect proper changes.ReferencesFinn, S. & Tuckwiller, T. (2006, June 4). The killer cure: Deaths tied to methadone escalate4across State, Nation. The Charlestone Gazette. Retrieved May 21, 2007 from thewebsite of Medical Assisted Treatment Website: http://www.medicalassistedtreatment.org/475719/486926.html?*session*id*key*=*session*id*val*ONDCP. (2000). Methadone April 2000. Retrieved May 21, 2007 from the website of ONDCP.Websites: http: //www.whitehousedrugpolicy.gov/publications/factsht/methadone/index.html[1]â€Å"Methadone, once given mostly to heroin addicts to ease their cravings is being prescribed now by more doctors to treat pain.  Ã‚  Insurance companies favor it because it is cheap and effective. But methadone helped to kill three times as many Americans in 2003 as it did in 1999, death certificates reveal, and medical examiners blame it for more overdose deaths than any other narcotic drug except cocaine. This previously unpublished information comes from an analysis of death certificates requested by the Gazette-Mail and conducted by the National Vital Statistics System, part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics. West Virginia led the nation in accidental overdose deaths blamed on methadone in 2003, with a death rate four times higher than the national average, the data shows. It was followed by Kentucky, North Carolina, Maine and New Hampsh ire. Methadone contributed to 2,992 deaths nationwide in 2003, up from 790 four years earlier, according to the data. That’s more deaths in one year than the U.S. military has suffered during the conflict in Iraq.   Medical examiners ruled 82 percent of those deaths accidental.† (Finn & Tuckwiller 2006)

Film Journal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Film Journal - Essay Example Moreover, there is Gorge, who has shown the interest of marrying Tracy. Moreover, we have the family of Tracy, and that is; Margaret, Dinah and Seth Lord. Also, there is the boss of the Spy magazine by the Kidd among other characters featured in the film. However, the primary objective of this study is to examine the plot Philadelphia story critically as well an analysis of the principal characters in the film. The director of the film introduces us to the Main characters by showing us their character traits. For instance, the director presents Cary Grant as a violent character in the play. His violence features are seen when he pushes Tracy down in their time of divorce. Moreover, Cary is seen to gullible for Kidd blackmails him to sneak Ruth and Jimmy ( Liz and Mike) to the mansion impersonating to be Junius, the son of Seth. On the other hand, Katherine is presented to be a violent and temperamental individual. Her characters are clearly seen when she smashes Dexter’s suitcase at the doorway during their separation. Besides, Catherine is seen to be arrogant towards other people’s weakness. On the other hand, Ruth is introduced as a secretive because of her silence on her last divorce and at the same time she is presented as a loving parson. Costume changes in the film have contributed a lot towards the presentation of the real characters, more so the ladies. The designer of costumes in Philadelphia story (Adrian) has a lot of positive comments as well as an excellent reputation for his great influence in the female fashion industry. For instance, provision of men’s wear to Katherine was the first most revolutionary thing that he did in the introduction of the film. Therefore, putting on means’ wear depicted Katherine to be a strong woman who can handle any challenge before her. Therefore, the designer designed Katherine’s’ clothes in that, they can show her braveness.

Discussions wk2 Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Discussions wk2 - Term Paper Example After marriage breakups most of the women has to take custody of the children leading to extreme financial burden. Vocational training might be provided to those living below the poverty line, especially the women to reduce outside dependency. At this point of time many US national below poverty line are dependent on the government; such mind set needs to be changed, certain awareness campaigns might be done to resolve such issues. Marriage break down is also a real course of action. Government may start conducting counseling sessions or other awareness campaigns to control the rising rate of marriage of break ups. After analyzing certain sources it is to believed that the rich are not be blamed present state of Economy in the US. Rather a certain factions. According to experts certain factions or circles running the key financial institution are the real course of concern. Such circles have driven the people of US of the state of economic unrest. According experts this has resemblance with other troubled economies. Such instances were visible even during the modern industrializations. Each and every American aspires to be that billionaire: they said. They want to live the American dream. However off late have some people have really taken some rash decisions. They have brought homes that they couldn’t afford. Due to such actions people who did the all the right things and played by the rules have suffered. So it’s not the reach it’s the bad call made by certain average Americans are to be blamed. Before moving to the specific topic let us just understand what a living wage is. It is a minimum income necessary for an employee to meet the very basic needs. It is the morale right of every employee and the duty of every organization to pay them. (Stabile. D, 2009, p.53). Reports once suggested that 46% of the children of Walmart workers’ are uninsured or on medicated. Although the CEO begs to differ on this but actions suggest

Buy USA Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 2

Buy USA - Essay Example Moreover, the website highlights things that need to be avoided by the exporters when it comes to an improper marketing strategy. The website assists the exporters in giving information based on how an export plan should be organized and processed to gain the target goal. The website is so substantial to address the effectiveness of export plan, which includes objectives and specific time-frame for each activity. Hence, the website contains a wide array of resources that could be gathered in order to gain knowledge as well as to save time and money. Moreover, export.gov highlighted how important it is to evaluate a product for its potential to be an export product. One of the most important qualities of an export product is its ability to meet the demands of the customers especially if the sales in the U.S bugs down (Export, 2011). The website is generous to share the motivational factors (e.g. long-term expansion) and organizational factors (e.g. management commitment) as needed in considering the potential of an export product. One of the two sources of short-term planning is the export credits. Export credits would make the convenience of a customer to delay order payments. For exporters, it is very important to manage a credit risk of the exported products to avoid the deterioration of amount in the world of business (â€Å"Principles,† n.d.). One of the main things that should be managed in this style as part of short-term process in exporting products is to make sure that the bank for the money transaction is well developed, organized, and safe. Thus, the export business lies on how accurate the bank is. For example, if the senior management of the bank did not implement and develop policies to identify the risk factors of an export credit card, then the very possible thing to happen would result to a delay of service for the export product. Thus, the need of a foreign customer would not be granted, and the delay would cause the

International Trade Ph.D. Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

International Trade Ph.D. - Essay Example Along with specificity, the transaction is time ordered. Each actor involved in the transaction must handle all matters within the time period stipulated within the content of the term or type of payment. In this particular instance, the negotiating process has commenced and the quantity and cost of the items have been identified, therefore the process of tinder of an offer has previously taken place. The process now proceeds to a formal finalization of quantity, type, cost, terms, marks, type of shipment; i.e., free on board, full container load, and whether the buyer will engage an agent; freight forwarder, etc. International transactions contain many pitfalls—make a mistake with customs clearance and the transaction can be subject to delays in payment or wastage of human or financial resources. Sustained international trading success calls for investment in the skills and expertise necessary to master international trade procedures and to get the documents right. (Sitpro).. . Thus, the volume of product marketed is not as important as the consistent product supply. Do not take your foreign responsibilities for granted; lack of service and attention to foreign accounts can cripple your efforts to export. (Exporting) Again, in-house matters must be clear and specific to achieve long-term success. Therefore, ample considerations must be focused on the following items: (1) Management and Personnel---who will be responsible for the exports department'sorganization and staff ---What are management's expectations for the effort ---whatorganizational structure is required to ensure export sales are adequately servicedWho will follow through (2) Production Capacity---how is the present capacity being used ---will filling exportorders hurt domestic sales ---what is the cost of additional production ---are therefluctuations in the annual workload When Where Why ---what minimum orderquantity is required ---what is required to design and package orders for export 3 (2) Financial Capacity---how much capital can be tied up in exports ---what exportoperating cost can be supported ---how will initial expenses of the export effort beallocated ---what other new development plans are in the works that may competewith export plans ---by what date must an effort pay for itself ---is outside capitalnecessary (Susta) Once there is a representative and positive response to the items mentioned above, you are then prepared to approach the specifics of exporting electronic widgets to the targeted company

Quality Management in Business Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

Quality Management in Business - Assignment Example What is most important is the way in which a business puts arisen issues to bed such that there will not be a repetition of the same issues. The first part of this paper seeks to identify as well as apply strategies to come up with appropriate solutions. Continuously, well performing companies have come up with ways to be much better in their business. Some companies do believe that waste, scrap as well as defects are a mere cost of running a business. To some extent, they are right because this is a cost. However, this cost can and should be avoided give the reason that it is the cost of poor quality. It adds up once and repeatedly in the form of different currencies; Euros, dollars, pounds, and affects the ability of a company to remain profitable as well as the ability to remain in business. It is always advisable to remember that lack of cash happens to be what kills businesses most eventually. Problem solving art is referred as jidoka by the Japanese. The term simply means plain and simply a method that sports a problem as it arises in business, stopping it as well as analyzing the problem and finally spending time in resolving it such that it will not come up again. The thing involves a continuous culture improvement, which ta kes a great leadership and time. Failure to use effective strategies for solving problems for identification, containing as well as elimination of root causes of the problems has a detrimental and massive impact on business stability and performance. It seriously jeopardizes the competitiveness of the business and its existence as well. Errors are usually made in businesses; issues arise. Too many problems may exist, so how does one know the issue to deal with within the many? The best strategy must be put in place to help in diagnosing and eliminating the causes within the myriad of these issues. To start with, one needs to look for the issue carrying the biggest impact. The method

Managing Organisational design and change Essay

Managing Organisational design and change - Essay Example The primary objective of an organisation is to fulfil the common objective of concerned people. It is very crucial entity for society that collected individual efforts and execute these effort for meeting its primary aim. For example, business organisations have different functions like financial functions, marketing functions, human resource functions and operational functions etc (Hoffmann et al, 2008, p.39). Organisations are composed of various human resources who work together for a common objective. The management is the most crucial factor, since it is responsible for ensuring the well being of human resources and in turn accelerating the growth of the organisation. The composition of organisation varies according to its type and nature. The management teams are responsible for developing an organisation. These management teams are divided as per the requirement and each team looks after a particular area. For example, account and finance department takes care of financial activity and human resource department manages the employee related activities. In this process, proper leadership and relevant management style determines the efficiency level of the organisation. The primary for organising an organisation, three factors are important. These are the constitution, management committee and staffs & volunteers (Object, n.d.). The purpose of creating organisation varies in accordance with the objective of its people. Therefore, organisation structure and type differs. They can be categorized as profit making or non-profit making; governmental and non-governmental organisations. For example, the profit making organisations are the business organisations and its primary objective is to increase its shareholders’ wealth. Whereas, the non-profit making organisations work for a social cause. One of the primary reasons for these differences, stated above, is the objective

Films of Alfred Hitchcock Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Films of Alfred Hitchcock - Assignment Example After he answers to this name, he is immediately mistaken for the CIA agent, named George Kaplan ("North by Northwest"). Throughout the story, Roger tries to make everyone believe that he is not Kaplan. His life becomes a nightmare because he is being tracked down. The abduction of Roger and his desperation when he tries to explain that he knows nothing about Kaplan defines one of the intriguing scenes in the film. The case of mistaken identity is the film is one of the interesting aspects that viewers are interested in. Roger’s effort to clear his name and prove that he is not Kaplan failed terribly. The fact that even his mother does not believe him makes his case more complicated. Hitchcock’s expertise in developing an intriguing plot is evident because Roger finds himself facing murder charges. There is evidence of a photograph depicting him holding a weapon. Therefore, it is impossible for Roger to deny the charges. The suspense of the story surrounds Roger’s mistaken identity. Roger is determined to find the true Kaplan something that all the viewers are interested in (Wakelin 86). However, at the end of the movie, it is revealed that George Kaplan does not exist. Roger plays his role extremely well, making the suspense so realistic. He finds himself in a strange world without anyone to turn to because he is unable to prove his innocence. He depicts his desperation t o find the true Kaplan to clear his name. He is the favorite character for many viewers because the entire story surrounds him. A close analysis of the film reveals that Roger faces a great deal of isolation. The viewers understand that he does not have a family of his own and he faces a critical case of mistaken identity. In his desperation, nobody believes that he is innocent. It is unfortunate that even his mother does not trust his story. He faces extreme danger, especially after he is framed for murder. He seems to be alone and against the entire world. The cinematography of

How Useful is it to See the World as a Society of States Essay

How Useful is it to See the World as a Society of States - Essay Example These individuals will experience a sense of solidarity and unity which drives them to establish, in essence a common social identity (Bar-Tal, 2000, 1). Conversely, the state is the body that according to Weber has the sole right or monopoly of power over anyone living within its jurisdiction. Lenin, on the other hand, has a similar definition of the state as being bodies of armed men (Parkin, 2003, 13). In the definitions of both men, one overriding theme in the interpretation of the state is the monopoly of power. If a body of people can claim this monopoly and have legal backing, for example, through elections or constitutions, they will then have then the right to claim the state tag on them (Dunne, 1998, 124). Origin of societies, states and man The societies and states have their origin in the Homo Sapien Sapien. This is the modern man starting from the Cro-Magnon Man all the way to the current man. There are a number of evolutionary stages, three in number that led to the com plex societies that exist today (Buzan, 1992, 343). The first stage is the structure of consciousness emerging, which consists of the magical, the mythical, the deep consciousness, and the ego-focused mental consciousness. The second stage is that of the development of communication from development of speech, writing, print, wired and wireless, electronic and now internet, and the third stage is that of three evolutionary stages namely the â€Å"human revolution† causing emergence of the Homo Sapien Sapien, the agricultural revolution and the scientific plus industrial revolution (Banathy, 2000, 107). This article wishes to recognize the Genesis story in the bible and will continue to draw comparisons between the evolution story and the creation story. A lot of similarities will be drawn from the two stories. For example, the evolution of agriculture features on both stories. The creation story is based around this stage, for example, the statement in Genesis chapter 3 verse s 17-19 where man is cursed to tend to the ground so that it may produce food for him. This ground is cursed to produce weeds and thorns as per the need to punish man. The bible is replete with agricultural settings that enhance this argument. The same applies to print technology, which allows the ancient writers to preserve the various works of God and Jesus as they form the state of Israel. Though many may beg to differ with this article, the facts are that the two stories are more similar than they are different. Back to Banathy’s argument, there are six stages of the change to the current status of man. These stages are archaic sapiens at the bottom; the Cro-Magnon Man who comprises the first stage in Homo Sapien Sapien’s evolution, the next stage is that of agriculture/ancient Civilizations, the next stage is that, of scientific and industrial evolution, the next stage is emerging stage. The final stage comprises the consciousness, intellect and the way of life cl usters. It is not easy to quantify the actual origin of human society. Question that begs an answer is when exactly human society began. Early man was quite social. This is driven by the fact that evidence points to small groups coming together to hunt, gather fruits as well as protection. At

Getting Lost Essay Example for Free

Getting Lost Essay I can vividly remember the first time I visited my aunts and uncles in their hometown when I was still a child. It was a big city and the malls during that time were so huge in my eyes. I was with my grandparents then because my parents were so busy with their jobs. As a child, I was very excited to visit other place and see new things especially when I have not visited yet the place of my relatives. It was totally my first time to visit there and my first time to travel without my parents so I told myself that it would be a lot of fun without their presence. I undoubtedly and excitedly packed up my things and told my parents that it would be a memorable trip with my grannies. Besides, nobody can’t watch and reprimand me whatever I wanted to do because grannies were so lax in dealing with me. Unlike with my parents, they were so tight and disciplinarian when I was younger. To make the long story short, when I arrived in my relatives’ place, I was so astonished and surprised. The things I heard were really true. I happened to passed by in the heart of the city and I was so delighted of what I see. There were big buildings and modernized malls. I immediately told myself to ask my grannies if I could stroll around the city and look at the malls. Well, since they were not so tight, they allowed me to go to the mall but with two conditions, I should be back before eight in the evening and should take one of my cousins to the mall that was three years older than me. Wow, eight? It was still one in the afternoon and I can do many things with those hours of being in the mall. The mall we went to, I forgot its name because it happened many years ago, was so huge. It had 7th floor and the area was so vast. I was very excited as I got in. I immediately roamed around the mall and looked at the latest fashion. I was very happy at that time and could not speak because of excitement. I told my cousin to wait for me in the fast-food inside the mall because I am going to look at clothes first and promised to be back soon. However, I was so unconscious with the time that I was not able to go back to her as I promised. I was talking to myself that it was my time to enjoy because there were no oldies around. I started to go up and see what’s more on the rest of the floors. I enjoyed playing with the games in its amusement park and feasted on delicious ice cream (and totally forgot about my cousin who accompanied me) which was my delight when I was younger. When it was about past six in the evening, I went to the seventh floor and tried to have a look. I was able to see there big stuff toys and other toys for the kids. I was tempted to buy one but my money was not enough though so I just looked and fed my eyes with beautiful things I saw. I started to go down and plan to go back to my cousin around seven. When I was about to go down, I can’t traced anymore where I passed. I started to become startled and nervous. Because of my excitement, I forgot to remember my cousin who was waiting for me in the fast-food. I tried to remember the floors but I could not. I did not know that there were many entrances and exits in that mall and was not informed by my cousin that we passed in the second floor to get in the mall. I was roaming and roaming in order to trace where I previously passed by and get back to my cousin. But I could not find the fast-food where I left her especially there were a lot of people in the mall at that time. My heart pounded so fast not because of excitement but because of worry and nervousness. I wanted to cry but hold back my tears and started to blame myself why I did that. I regretted why I did not take her with me when I roamed around. In spite of that, I did not lose hope. I continue to look and look until I can pass again the path I passed hours ago. Since it was almost eight, my cousin was also starting to worry about me. It worried her where am I already and what happened to me, because I only told her to be back soon but I never did. Because of that, she went to the information and paged me. I was so relieved when a lady was paging me to meet my cousin at the information area. But since I did not know where the information was, I unashamedly asked one of the salesladies and fortunately I was able to get there. When I saw my cousin, I started to cry because of nervousness and was thankful that I saw her.

The Express Transportation And Logistics Industry Commerce Essay

The Express Transportation And Logistics Industry Commerce Essay Using examples from FedEx Corporation and your own research on the Global Transportation and Logistics Industry, critically evaluate the: Strategic Vision and visionary Leadership behind FedEx Corporation Federal Express is a global express transportation and logistics company that offers customers a single source for global shipping, logistics, and supply chain solutions. It was founded in 1973 by Frederick W. Smith. Since its inception FedEx pioneered the express delivery industry. The company focused on the core business of express delivery and provided overnight delivery services to the customers globally. However, the transformation of businesses and customers from old economy to the new economy forced FedEx to reposition itself from overnight delivery service to a one-stop-shop for the entire logistics requirement of the business. The company became the logistics service provider of leading organizations, like, General Motors. Background: During the late 1960s, Frederick Smith (Smith) chanced upon an idea to start an airline courier company. During this period, it was common practice to send packages as cargo on commercial carriers like American, United or Delta Airlines. This practice had a number of drawbacks because passenger airlines usually operated during the daytime and were grounded at night. In addition, freight forwarders (the company responsible for carrying the packages from the airport to the destination address) usually did not offer home delivery. Smith felt the need to start an airline courier company that would address all these problems. During his college years, he recognized that the United States was becoming a service-oriented economy and needed a reliable, overnight delivery service company designed to solely transport packages and documents. He wrote a Yale term paper on this idea, and received C grade. His professor thought it would never work. Fortunately for Frederick Smith, he didnt take it to heart and ended up building that company he dreamed of.Smith found investors willing to contribute $40 million, used $8 million in family money, and received bank financing. He started Federal Express with over $80 million, making it the largest company of its time ever funded by venture capital. In the last 36 years, FedEx has expanded horizontally with its five subsidiaries to include FedEx Express (formerly Federal Express), FedEx Ground (formerly Roadway Package System), FedEx Custom Critical (formerly Roberts Express), FedEx Logistics (formerly Caliber Logistics), and Viking Freight. As a result, the FedEx family has been able to compete collectively in the express transportation and logistics industries. FedExs strategy is to corroborate on selling and synergies for all FedEx companies, but run operations separately and keep each companys strengths and markets separate. Today, services offered by FedEx include worldwide express delivery, ground small-parcel delivery, less-than-truckload freight delivery, and global logistics, supply chain management, and electronic commerce solutions. Federal Express is the worlds largest package delivery company today. FedEx began its operations with the sole focus of improving customer segmentation, pricing and quality of services for the overnight delivery market in the United States. Since then, it has grown to provide leading document and freight services for the entire North America and for over 212 countries abroad. Federal Express Corporation had the visionary leadership to become the first mover in the express transportation and logistics industry leaving FedEx with one source of differentiation: their ability to help in the control of the entire supply chain management. FedEx Firsts Company dedicated to overnight package delivery Offer next-day delivery by 10h30 Offer Saturday deliveries Offer a time definitive service for freight Money-back guarantees and free proof of performance services that now extend to its worldwide network The companys ability to use technology and create its own supply of resources has made it difficult for competitors to match the companys standards for service.FedEx has been successful mainly because of their technological advancements. Technology has allowed them to have superior customer service and quality that was unparalleled by any company. No company was able to offer overnight delivery of packages with the speed and precision that Federal Express did. FedExs modeling capability gave them a competitive advantage as they implemented new methods and technology. They currently have a SuperHub with several regional hubs and packages are managed and tracked by a system called COSMOS. COSMOS Customers, Operations and Services Master Online System, a centralized computer system to manage people, packages, vehicles and weather scenarios in real time. This system allowed customers to know where their packages are at all times and was later integrated for web use, allowing customers to track packages over the Internet. In addition, the customized delivery service of the company is unique in the market. Mission Statement The Mission Statement of FedEx is to produce superior financial returns for stockholders, by providing high value-added logistics, transportation and related information services through focused operating companies. Customer requirements will be met in the highest quality manner appropriate to each market segment served. FedEx will strive to develop mutually rewarding relationships with its employees, partners and suppliers. Safety will be the first consideration in all operations. Corporate activities will be conducted to the highest ethical and professional standards. This mission statement shows that FedEx has a clear focus. (1) The main focus is to bring returns to stockholders. (2) They will emphasize adding value above and beyond just their service of transporting an object from one place to another. (3) Their focus of operations will be logistics, transportation, and related information. This mission statement is focused enough to keep FedEx from diversifying into for example, food products; yet vague enough to allow growth in all of those areas.   Philosophy Federal Express holds a People-Service-Profit philosophy. The People goal is the continuous improvement of managements leadership. The Service standard is 100 percent customer satisfaction. The Profit goal is much like any other companys goal, and is essential to long-term viability. This philosophy governs how FedEx runs its business, and defines strategies. Federal Express Five-Point Strategy Federal Express has five strategies that govern business tactics. These are to improve service levels, lower unit costs, establish international leadership and sustain profitability, get closer to the customer, and maintain the People-Service-Profit Philosophy. The unique FedEx operating strategy works seamlessly and simultaneously on three levels. Compete collectively  by standing as one brand worldwide and speaking with one voice. Operate independently  by focusing on our independent networks to meet distinct customer needs. Manage collaboratively  by working together to sustain loyal relationships with our workforce, customers and investors. Values People: We value our people and promote diversity in our workplace and in our thinking. Service: Our absolutely, positively spirit puts our customers at the heart of everything we do. Innovation: We invent and inspire the services and technologies that improve the way we work and live. Integrity: We manage our operations, finances and services with honesty, efficiency and reliability. Responsibility: We champion safe and healthy environments for the communities in which we live and work. Loyalty: We earn the respect and confidence of our FedEx people, customers and investors every day, in everything we do Transportation and logistics infrastructure within FedEx Corporation FedEx started its operation by sending eight packages on the first night, of which 7 were trial run addresses from one employee to another. The company has since grown to handling an astonishing 9.8 million shipments per day. An overview of FedExs Infrastructure: Handling 9.8 million shipments per day More than 700 aero planes, Daily lift capacity of 12 million kilograms Servicing more than 220 countries through 375 airports Workforce of more than 140,000 permanent employees worldwide 500,000 calls are dealt with professionally With this Infrastructure and new ones being added over time , the Purple Promise of I will make every FedEx experience outstanding is achieved with the collection and delivery of each shipment. Physical goods when transported over trucks on a highway usually travel the most frequented routes. But as more vehicles start traversing that highway, and as the trips become longer, packages get delayed, go astray, arrive spoiled, or dont arrive at all. To solve this problem, faster, more attentive carriers with their own hardware and infrastructure came into being: FedEx, UPS, Airborne Express, and so on. These new carriers pay attention to speed, tracking, billing, quality of service and automation. They also devised systems that didnt travel through the middle of town, except for final delivery, and didnt change hands en route. And finally, they offered lots of optional services to make life easier for both shipper and recipient. Home delivery infrastructure: As part of Infrastructure expansion plans of its U.S. delivery network, FedEx Corp. will add another 9 distribution hubs, bringing its total number of hubs to 39. In addition, a new home-delivery facility planned for Florida will be able to process more than 10,000 packages per hour. The three hubs that are under construction are in Dallas, Cincinnati and Hagerstown, MD, the fourth hub in Memphis, TN. The hub expansion project will also expand the 30 existing hubs; this will nearly double the companys average daily hub package volume capacity by the end of its 2010 fiscal year. The expansion project will support a sharp growth in FedExs shipments to consumers on behalf of online retailers. The new Florida satellite distribution center, in Pompano Beach near Fort Lauderdale, will be three times the size of the two existing facilities combined, and will open with a workforce of approximately 356 employees and independent contractors, an increase from the current combined figure of 200 employees and independent contractors. FedEx Smart Posts best-of-breed technology ensures swift package processing and delivery. This technology provides shipment visibility throughout the delivery process of the packages while they are en route to their destinations. This enables to know always where the packages are and where theyre going next. Advanced control systems, sophisticated automated sorters, and state-of-the-art data-collection devices enable FedEx to collect detailed information about every package. And the highly proficient logistics team is fully equipped to sort hundreds of thousands of packages each day. The client tools are housed on a secure Web site, customized to meet the unique needs of each client. These tools provide timely access to package delivery information, logistics analysis, manifest detail, and billing statements, as well as the ability to create necessary reports needed in planning the package delivery strategy. As a leader in the package delivery industry, FedEx provides with data and reporting needed to examine and enhance logistics operations on an ongoing basis. Virtual information infrastructure at FedEx Corporation. Though FedEx began as an express air delivery company in the early 1970s, it has successfully transformed itself into an integrated transportation and logistics service provider. A major part of FedExs success is directly attributed to its committed use of information technology (IT). IT has not only facilitated its business processes like operations, customer service and employee training but also integrated its information network with that of its clients to provide them with seamless logistic and supply chain solutions. Dennis Jones, former Chief Information Officer (CIO) of FedEx says IT (information technology) is a function that has a strategic value because the essence of our business is taking a basic service and adding information technology services to transform into a value added product. And that is very important. Any company can move freight from point A to point B. But the way you make it a valuable product to your customer is to wrap it with intensive information technology capabilities. Leveraging Information Technology In the late 1970s, FedEx saw a great benefit in using IT to simplify its business processes. Smith had very early on understood that speed, reliability and customer service was an essential factor for success in the global transportation industry. IT in Human Resources FedEx had in place Interactive Video Instructions (IVI) that allowed employees to take advantage of slack periods to train themselves at any time of the day. The program was used for training and test preparation (Customer service employees at FedEx were tested twice a year on job knowledge). IT in Customer Service FedEx also used IT to improve upon its customer service, by monitoring various aspects of a customers transaction. The goal was to achieve 100% accuracy, quality, and customer satisfaction on all transactions. One such system that FedEx used was the Service Quality index (SQI) that quantified every part of a transaction like Was the package undamaged? Was the customer billed correctly? Using the Internet The widespread use of the Internet from the early 1990s threw open significant opportunities for FedEx. Since the company already had an EDI based system on which it had spent a lot of money, FedEx decided to use a combination of Internet and the EDI. One example was the implementation done for the purchasing of products. FedEx purchased a product from a company called Ariba. Ariba was a requisitioning system that was housed on the FedEx intranet. The system was set up so that suppliers could maintain a database of catalogs that could be accessed by any FedEx employee. The company website hosts more than 6.3 million unique visitors per month and handles on an average over 2.4 million package tracking requests daily. More than 2 million customers connected with the company electronically every day, and electronic transactions accounted for almost two-thirds of the more than five million shipments FedEx delivered daily. FedEx operates one of the worlds largest computer and telecommunications networks- more than 75,000-networked computers and thousands of hand-held computers that recorded and tracked shipments. FedExs data center processes more than 20 million information management system transactions daily, more than any other US company. The company is involved in connecting 39 hubs across the globe, operating 677 planes and 90,000 vehicles, monitoring 200,000 employees and delivering six million packages daily in 220 countries where every second was important. This is the FEDEX EDGE, for which the company is known for. FedEx transformed both customer and business transportation model with higher speed, reliability, application of information technology, improved material handling system and streamlined logistics network. The company popularized the concepts of just-in-time and build-to-order which reduced customers lead time and increased productivity. Apart from venturing into logistics solution provider the company was able to maintain its leadership position in small package and light freight market through its unique hub and spoke model. The role information technology has played in FedExs strategy is exciting. By using IT as a major part of its business, FedEx has reached an almost entirely new group of people. It has maintained its reputation and increased its business at the same time. IT has created a greater opportunity for customers in the global market. They can now request service, pay for that service, and track the package online. Customers no longer need to speak to FedEx. They are now free to order as they need, twenty-four hours per day, seven days per week. Because of this, FedExs strategy has changed. It is now focused on the use of the Internet and other technological advances. Because this is such a critical aspect of the strategy, the implementation of the strategy had to be almost immediate. To compete with other major businesses in the industry, FedEx had to provide a service to customers that could be accessed using technology. They also had to provide a package tracking service. As they develope d this service, their reputation and business grew. FedEx has done several things with its value chain to develop new business. First they have always recognized the need to have technology and IT work to communicate the logistics that they run. They have developed internet technologies that work simply and efficiently to enable customers and sellers to use FedEx as a go between. This has enabled many companies to integrate FedEx technology into their own web sites for customers to use. Question Two: Branding and business structure up until 19 January 2000 Using information from the case study and your own research, critically evaluate the benefits and limitations of Merger and Acquisition (MA) strategies in the Global Transportation and Logistics Industry. Discuss how FedEx Corporation managed the acquisition of Caliber Systems in 1998, and determine whether or not the acquisition of Caliber Systems was a success or failure? Mergers acquisitions in the Transportation Logistics industry The Transport and Logistics (TL) sector is characterized by a significant level of privatisation, finance-raising and merger and acquisition activity. Transactions are often complex and impacted by the regulatory environment, competition issues, or need for contracted subsidies to support operations. We have witnessed many privatizations of bus companies, ports and airports which have created successful private sector groups that have continued to grow via further acquisitions. In other segments there is ongoing global consolidation within and between operators from the courier, parcel, freight forwarding and contract logistics arenas. Postal organizations and railway companies that have historically been more nationally oriented are now seeking opportunities to expand into cross-border markets driven by a more commercial focus and liberal regulatory regime. Transportation Logistics The Transportation Logistics (TL) industry forms the backbone of global supply chains. Postal operators as well as large logistics providers play a dominant role as key stakeholders in the TL industry. In recent years some former national Posts have undergone an extensive transformation to emerge as multinational providers of complex logistics and financial services. These evolved entities face new competition in their core markets of mail delivery through the liberalization of markets and privatization. At the same time, former Posts may be able to leverage their years of experience in collecting, processing, transporting and delivering national and international mail in order to develop and provide a broader palette of logistics based services, upstream with direct mail activities and downstream with package delivery and payment services. Further, many existing logistics and express companies have expanded well beyond simple delivery services and are now managing all aspects of the supply chain. These ongoing trends have changed the face of an industry which has become increasingly focused on serving customers in all parts of the world. Mergers and Acquisitions: Three types Merger: A transaction where two firms agree to integrate their operations on a relatively coequal basis because they have resources and capabilities that together may create a stronger competitive advantage. Acquisition: A transaction where one firm buys another firm with the intent of more effectively using a core competence by making the acquired firm a subsidiary within its portfolio of businesses. Takeover: An acquisition where the target firm did not solicit the bid of the acquiring firm. Problems in Achieving Success Integration Difficulties/Cultures Inadequate evaluation of target Too much diversification Large or extraordinary debt Inability to achieve synergy Managers overly focused on acquisitions Too large Increased market power Overcome ent entry barriers Lower risk compared to developing new products Cost of new product development Increased speed to market Increased diversification Avoid excessive competition Acquisitions Reasons for Acquisitions Benefits of Acquisitions Increased Market Power: Acquisition intended to reduce the competitive balance of the industry Overcome Barriers to Entry: Acquisitions overcome costly barriers to entry which may make start-ups economically unattractive Lower Cost and Risk of New Product Development: Buying established businesses reduces risk of start-up ventures Increased Speed to Market: Closely related to Barriers to Entry, allows market entry in a more timely fashion Diversification: Quick way to move into businesses when firm currently lacks experience and depth in industry Reshaping Competitive Scope: Firms may use acquisitions to restrict its dependence on a single or a few products or markets Problems with Acquisitions Only a financial team assembled and they make the decision (should have two teams: one financial and one organizational where the organizational Team says Yes or No Integration Difficulties: Differing financial and control systems can make integration of firms difficult Inadequate Evaluation of Target: Winners Curse bid causes acquirer to overpay for firm Large or Extraordinary Debt: Costly debt can create onerous burden on cash outflows Inability to Achieve Synergy: Justifying acquisitions can increase estimate of expected benefits Overly Diversified: Acquirer doesnt have expertise required to manage unrelated businesses Managers Overly Focused on Acquisitions: Managers may fail to objectively assess the value of outcomes achieved through the firms acquisition strategy Too Large: Large bureaucracy reduces innovation and flexibility FedEx Corporation has made 31 acquisitions while taking stakes in 3 companies. FedEx Corporation has 22 divestitures during this period. FedEx-Caliber Merger: Reason for Merger: FedEx and Caliber believe that the combination of the two companies will permit their customers to take advantage of a broader portfolio of services and choices at a level of excellence unmatched by any competitor. Stockholders of both companies will become stockholders of a $15 billion powerhouse in global transportation and logistics. When FedEx announced in October 1997 that it was buying Caliber System for $2.4 billion, observers warned that the merger could disrupt FedExs already profitable express shipping business. Observers were wrong. FedEx finalized its Caliber System merger in January 1998, and by the end of that year, the new company, FDX, was posting a seven percent increase over the same quarter the year before. Domestic income grew 30 percent that period, from $168 million to $217 million. The company claimed that its tough cost controls and low fuel prices contributed to this short-term growth. FedEx subsidiaries that came from Caliber Systems also grew. RPS, the largest subsidiary besides FedEx, grew 14 percent for the period, while Viking Freight grew seven percent. In the long-run, the merger strengthened FedExs overall health. UPS largely rebounded from a crippling 15-day strike in 1997, and now the two companies compete head-to-head for the express-shipping business in most markets. While FedEx does battle, several smaller companies continue their reliable service for niche markets, such as logistics operations, business-to-business transportation, overseas shipping, and small package delivery. FedEx has ensured its long-term survival by buying several of these smaller companies. After the Caliber System merger, FedEx included six operating divisions: FedEx; RPS, the second-largest small-package shipping business; Roberts Express, the worlds largest express trucking firm; Viking Freight, a leading regional trucking company; Caliber Logistics, a logistics outsourcing firm; and Caliber Technology, an order fulfillment operation. Question Three: Events leading up to the January 2000 reorganisation Using appropriate examples from FedEx Corporation, critically evaluate FedExs financial and non-financial performance in the context of developments in the Internet market and e-tailing up to the January 2000 reorganisation. Financial Performance Analysis FedEx has an impressive performance record. In 1998 they had revenues of $15.9 billion grown 15 percent from 1997. Sales have been growing steadily for the past five years. The net income, though, isnt that impressive. It even declined in 1997, from the rising fuel costs during that year. However, in 1998 it grew from $200,000 to $500,000. That could be from reduction in operating costs, or from the acquisition of the subsidiaries which had lower operating costs compared to Federal Express. FedExs financial statements shows that its assets have not been utilized as well as other firms in their industry, but their profitability is better than other industry firms. Still they must decrease selling and administrative expenses while increasing sales. Many of their technological advancements have been financed primarily with internal cash, which decreases long-term debt. Future assets possibly and should be invested in the international market and new businesses, while still investing a decent percentage for technological advancements. Today FedEx has a competitive advantage over other firms and if they continue the practices that they have in the past, while also opening up to new ideas, FedEx will remain a powerhouse in the package delivery industry. The financial ratios for FedEx clearly show that it is the market leader in this industry, have outstanding sales, a healthy profit, and a safe amount of debt. These ratios over time show a steady increase, except for year 1997, where fuel costs hurt FedEx deeply. Company Analysis In this section we shall discuss FedExs strengths and weaknesses as a company, opportunities and threats. S.W.O.T. Analysis Company Strengths and Resource Capabilities: Globalism: Federal Express operates on a global scale in 211 countries. They provide services that appeal to most of the world, realize tremendous revenues and also achieve global economies of scale. Innovation: Federal Express took airplanes and trucks and used them differently than any other company before them. This is innovation. They have first-mover advantage in name recognition because of this innovation. This has helped them to remain the industry leader since 1973. Technology and Communication: Federal Express uses and continues to search for new technology. They allow spending of $1billion a year, 10% of total revenues, for information technology. That commitment keeps customers from switching to other providers. Federal Express also has excellent communication with their customers. They use tracking devices on all shipments, and customers can find out where their shipment is through many different avenues including a user-friendly Web site. Federal Express customers are assured that FedEx will always be on top of technology. Strategic Vision: Federal Express will always have competent top managers in charge of strategic direction. Frederick Smith built an industry leader, and kept it in that position since 1973. First-Mover Advantage: Federal Express has had first-mover advantage in several areas. (1) Being a global express transportation company. (2) Advanced technology and communication throughout the companys operations. (3) Incorporating smaller companies with similar operations under its belt to synergize and control more of the market. Strong Brand Image: In 1990, Federal Express became the first company awarded the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award in the service category. In 1994, Federal Express became the first global express transportation company to obtain simultaneous system-wide ISO 9001 certification in international quality standards. Federal Express has also developed their own quality system that matches their customers standards. Company Weaknesses and Resource Deficiencies: Rising Prices: Federal Express prices are above their competitors. This can be a weakness if their customers do not perceive a difference between Federal Express and its competitors services. Labor Disputes with Pilots: Federal Express pilots have formed the Fedex Pilots Association. This organization demanded changes in the pilots salaries, retirement benefits, and the fact that Federal Express outsources some foreign flights instead of giving their own pilots the job. The pilots have a Web site where news is posted and feelings are discussed. During the busy Christmas season in 1998, the pilots threatened to strike. Federal Express and the Fedex Pilots Association have developed a tentative agreement, which is published on the pilots Web site. However, the pilots do not believe this agreement fully meets their expectations. This dispute is definitely an internal weakness for Federal Express, considering they have 3,500 pilots employed with them. Their operations would suffer if there were strikes. When UPS employees went on strike in 1997, Federal Express took the extra 800,000 shipments a day. If Federal Express employees went on strike, their competitors could gain an advantage. Running Subsidiaries Separately: FDX has deliberately chosen to keep their companies separate. In FDXs 1998 Annual Report, CEO Frederick Smith states, Simply layering the unique resource and operating requirements of a time-definite, global, express-delivery network onto a day-definite, ground small-package network would surely result in diminished service quality and increased costs. Under the FDX umbrella, we will leverage our shared strengths while operating each delivery network independently, with each focused on its respective markets. Frederick Smith is confident this will be a strength, instead of a weakness. Time will tell. Company Opportunities: Expansion Globally: Federal Express can continue to expand globally, including the other companies under FedEX. Expansion Internally: Federal Express can continue to acquire more companies, and expand into new technologies or areas in their industry. Run Subsidiaries Together: If FDX doe

the performance of Dubai Islamic Bank

the performance of Dubai Islamic Bank Dubai Islamic bank is a bank that offers services related to Islamic sharia. In the year 2009 the total revenue gained by the bank was 5,133 (million AED) as compared to the report of FY 2008 the net revenue had decreased by 2.6%, and the total profit earned by the bank was 1,207.49 (million AED) a net decrease of 22.31% as compared to the FY 2008, with the total assets of AED 90.14 billion in the year 2010, the bank stands among one of the largest Islamic banks in the world, currently the bank has a customer base of 1.2 billion which is quite appraisable customer base when compared with other banks. The share price of DIB is computed to 2.22 AED (per share) updated latest to 31st march, 2011, the net value of the market cap is evaluated to 8,429 (million AED), the enterprise value is evaluated to 7,450 (million AED), and the net shares outstanding is evaluated to 3,797 (million AED). The net capital base of Dubai Islamic bank counts up to AED 10.53 billion as of December 2010, which is 17.2% higher than the previous year? B. Strategic posture 1. Mission the Dubai Islamic bank is currently providing services like retail banking, private banking, johara banking, corporate banking, mobile banking, phone banking, online banking, sharia board services, structure trade finance, treasury and investment, project financing, syndication services, wealth management services, business banking, investment banking, contracting finance services, and real estate finance. The DIB is incorporated in all these services because they want to expand their scope in terms of banking and investment services in almost every field, so as to compete with other players in the business. 2. Objectives The companys main objective is to setup its market all across the world and to expand them as much as possible, and to increase its customer base so as to increase their revenues and popularity in the global market. 3. Strategies The main objective of DIB is to diversify and manage organic growth, as growth in any sector is a must for a company especially a banking corporation where the opportunities are endless for any corporation DIB is focusing majorly on the diversifying of its business, and this strategy is very much consistent with the missions that is stated by the bank. The other strategies of DIB includes expansion of its branches and the increase in its overall customer base, this strategy of DIB helps DIB to expand its trade in other countries of the world too. The increase in overall customer base is an obvious strategy of any banking corporation as the profit and revenues earned by any banking firm is dependent on the issue that more the customers the bank has the more is its profit earned. 4. Policies The major policies of DIB includes conversions of key Islamic economic policies into firm practices for the need of mankind and to welfare them with the Islamic policies, the policies of the DIB is consistent with the mission, objectives and strategies of the corporation as the end user of any firm is the consumer itself, and if the consumer is not happy with the companys policies and services then every strategy of that company is vain, and also the companys policies are consistent with every external and internal environmental features. The companys major strategy includes the expansion of branches and the addition of new customers to the companys customer base; these policies reflect the companys international and global trading strategy. 2. Corporate governance A. The board of governance The board of governance of the corporation consists of H.E. Mohammad Ibrahim abdulrahman alshaibani as the chairman, H.E. Sheikh Khalid bin zayed al nehayan as the vice chairman, ahmad Mohammad saeed bin humaidan as the director, saeed Mubarak Abdulla Mohammad al muhairi as the director, abdulrahman hareb Rashed alhareb as the director, tariq humaid matar mohammad al tayer as the director. They all are the external employees of the corporation i.e. they are non-executive members of the corporation i.e. they dont take part in any decision making processes of the corporation. This group of executives consists of the top management of the company. The internal or the senior management members of the coporation consist mainly of Abdulla ali al hamli as the chief executive officer, ahmed fathy al-gebali as the chief financial officer of the corporation. These persons are the part of the senior management i.e. they have influence in all the decisions making and strategy making discussions and processes. These executives comprise of the internal management or the senior management of the company and involved in major decision making processes of the corporation. All the internal and the external members of the corporation that is discussed above especially the non-executive members hold significant part in the stocks. The stocks are publically held by some of the major acquisitions are held by many other peoples and companies, also the stock is traded in the market, with some of the board members acquiring major shares of the corporation. Some board members are the permanent board members of the corporation and they are in the non-executive group of the corporation and thereby they are the permanent members of the company, but the senior management members are not-permanent members of the corporation, the chief financial officer of the corporation is the newest member on the board of directors as he had joined the company in the year 2011 itself. The top management consists of chairman itself and the other directors of the company, though the non-executive members dont take part in some decisions but in major decisions like acquisitions and budget related discussions their involvement is must. B. Top management The top management of the company comprise of H.E. mohammad Ibrahim as the chairman, H.E. sheikh khaled bin zayed al nehayan as the vice chairman, ahmed mohammad saeed bin humaidan as the director, saeed Mubarak Abdulla Mohammad al muhairi as the director, abdulrahman hareb Rashed alhareb as the director, they all are part of the non-executive board. But the major part in the decision making policies are taken by the senior management group or the top management group i.e. the CEO and the CFO of the corporation. The board members of the corporation have a significant knowledge of the international market and of market policies and as the key peoples are experienced enough therefore they contribute a significant amount of knowledge to the corporation and thereby taking the corporation to the next level. The companys senior management is highly skilled and are capable of taking the company to a new height, the CFO for ex. had joined the corporation in the year 2011 itself, the CFOs profile shows that he has a very good managerial base, he had worked for boubyan bank as a CFO and various other investment houses, thereby he had gained enough experience and he had served for many companies therefore his skills must be remarkable. The companys senior management had developed a systematic strategy to be implied, some of them are global acquisitions and expansion of business. The companys senior management interacts with the lower level managers and the board of directors quite frequently as they are keen to make new strategies and decisions for the company and they believe in including everyone in the process of decision making. The companys decisions are quite ethical as the companys main motive is to use the teaching of Islam for the welfare of mankind in economic terms. The top management is highly skilled and is expected to survive the company in future and to cope up with any problem affecting the corporation. 3. External environment: opportunities and threats A. natural physical environment Apart from banking the bank is also engaged in products and services like textile products, aluminum fixtures, motor vehicles. Products like Aluminum fixtures and textiles depend on the sustainability of the environment i.e. textiles are made from cotton and other natural products and aluminum are obtained through mining therefore the climate of the place plays a very important role in the development of products of DIB. Apart from the climate one more natural force that affects the manufacturing of DIBs products is availability of water in adequate quantity, and natural disasters. The opportunities for DIB in these sectors are limitless but the only thing that matters is that how they could implement their strategies into their products and services. All these forces have different affects in different countries of the world for ex. climatic and weather conditions are different in different countries of world, for ex. in Africa and Asia where climate are suitable for the growth of cotton and jute products, moreover natural disasters and calamities also depends on the location of the manufacturing plants of DIB for ex. in countries like Japan, and Hawaii where earthquake and volcanoes are frequent. Solar winds and sun spots also affect the crop as it destroys the crop. B. societal environment The major factors that are affecting the product manufacturing are economical forces, technological forces, political forces, and socio-cultural forces. The economic forces are the force that defines a corporations power in the market in terms of revenues and share price, therefore economic forces are also very important forces that influence the manufacturing of products and services. The technological forces are also one of the most important forces which affect a companys manufacturing of products and other technological processes. The other forces that affects a companys manufacturing of products and services are political forces, these are the forces which comes into play when the company had to make major political decisions about its company when trading in own country or in other country. The socio cultural forces are the forces that define the environment that surrounds the company, i.e. in UAE the socio cultural environment are different whereas if DIB will setup its branches in other countries of world like India, or USA then they have to face a total different environment and that will affect the bank. All these forces varies at other places of the world as the technological advancement of one country can be very good and DIB can take the best use of that, and the political forces also depends on the type of country they are dealing with for ex. whether the country is an democracy, monarchy, anarchy etc. all these forces plays a very vital role in the development of a company in any country, especially for DIB it is a very important factor and the strategies of DIB should include techniques to tackle with political situations in other countries. Socio-cultural is by far the most important aspect for DIB as DIB is based on the teachings of Quran and believes in its principles, therefore there may exist a line between them and customers when the bank operates in non-Muslim country. C. task environment There are six major forces that drive a companys industry competition these are: Threat of new entrants: these forces vary from country to country, these forces are of high risks because there have been chances always that new entrants enters the market, and if the quality of products and services provided by them are proved to be good then obviously the older players has to suffer, more or less. Bargaining power of buyers: the bargaining power of buyers depends from country to country and according to situation, this force is rated as a medium force as not many buyers bargain on products i.e. good in quality. Threat of substitute products and services: the threat of substitute products and services are always high as any company can come up with an idea of better substituted product, and if that product is better than the companys product then the company has to suffer. Bargaining power of suppliers: bargaining power of suppliers is high as the supplier is the person whose quality of raw material decides the overall quality of product. Rivalry among competing firms: the rivalry among competing firms is of medium type as the rivalry depends on the number of competitors in the market and the quality of products they manufacture. Relative power of unions, governments, special interest groups, etc. have a high affect on the company as the companys trade at any place is subjected to the fact that they have good or not so good relations with the government of that country. D. Summary of external factors Socio-economic and task environment are the most important for the company and to the industry in which it is currently competing. Sustainability issues will be important for the company in the future. 4. Internal environment: strength and weakness A. corporate structure The decision making authority is centralized around one group of person which are known as the top management of the company. The corporation is organized on the basis of all these factors like functions, projects, and geography. The structure of the organization is pretty much clear as there is only one major group of decision makers and that is constituted under the top management of the company. The companys current structure consists of highly skilled international level CEOs and CFOs and as the companys main objective and strategy are consistent with the expansion of the company, therefore the present structure of the company is consistent with the firms international operations. This type of structure can be seen in similar organizations as every company has a top level of management that decides all the strategies and procedures for any company. B. corporate culture The culture of DIB is well emerged culture and is composed of shared beliefs, expectations and values. The current culture of DIB is very much consistent with the corporations current objectives, strategies, policies and programs as the major objective of the corporation is to expand their business. Environmental stability means a lot to DIB as some of their products are related to environment and other natural factors their work culture is defined by the environmental objectives. The corporation is well known for its banking basics and current position in the world, the bank is one of the top banks in this world to offer banking services related to Islamic sharia. The bank is internationalizing itself i.e. it is expanding their trade in other countries of the world. The culture is somewhat not very consistent with the employees background i.e. they will prefer those peoples who believes in Islamic sharia principles and according to them who have Islamic ethics. Thus much diversity in background is not encountered in the bank. The bank usually acts in Muslim based countries like UAE, Pakistan, Iran, Iraq etc. therefore it does not have much problems in this countries, but if we have to consider other countries that is not Muslim oriented then the corporation might find some problem in coping up the culture of that country. C. corporate resources 1. Marketing A. the current marketing objective of the company is to expand their market all over the world, and to increase the number of customers. Strategies that DIB is applying to complete this objective are clear and are consistent with the objectives and strategies of the company and are not implied just for mere implications. The 4ps i.e. product, price, place, promotion are the fields where the bank is doing exceptionally well, however there have been an ir-regulation performance of the bank for ex. the net income of the bank is 2,696 (AED m) in 2005, 4,577 (AED m) in 2006, 6,083 (AED m) in 2007, 5,270 (AED m) in 2008, and 5,133 (AED m) in 2009. The market of the bank is not very big in the current scenario but it is doing very good in Muslim countries and considered as one of the best muslim banks in the world. The bank is gaining its market in the muslim countries and loosing it in non- muslim countries. A high percentage of revenue were collected from the developed region as the number of wealthy customers who can take benefit of the services provided by DIB is more in developed regions. The bank is not consistent considering the revenue generated by it in the five year period from 2005-2009. The current and past performance of the corporation is the base for its future performance; the bank has to make strategies to increase their performance. Companys marketing performance is very good though they are facing a competition from leading banks like abu dhabi commercial bank, emirates NBD bank. Though the DIB operates on Islamic principles but the managers of DIB is still using traditional marketing techniques in terms of product lifecycle, market segmentation, market research etc. Usually DIB dont have to face different culture therefore it is not very difficult for them to market them in other regions or countries. Marketing manager considers all the major aspects of environmental sustainability when making decisions, a marketing managers role is very crucial in strategic making process as he has to suggest marketing policies when trading in some other country. 2. Finance The corporations current financial objective is to increase their net revenue collected, all the financial strategies, objectives, and policies are based on this fact. These facts are clearly stated and implied just not for the sake of show off but performing as well. These financial strategies if implied will be proved to be beneficial for the company. The companys efficiency ratio increased to .43 according to the stats of sep-2010, the debt to capital ratio increased by a ratio of 9.91 according to the data of sep-2010, the earning per share of the company increased by a ratio of 0.07 according to the data of sep-2010. The earnings per share increased by a ratio of 0.32. the operating cost of the company went up by 33.88% of sales. The investors expect that the price of the shares will go up in the current fiscal year. The trend in the companys financial stability is unstable i.e. it was never been consistent. No significant difference was reported when statements were calculated in constant versus reported dollars. The past trends will surely affect the future performance of the company as the new CFO will develop strategy that will cope up the net loss. The finance of the company is by far considered good but the company can very well utilize their resources to increase the financial stability. The company is facing challenge from some of Dubais lead Muslim banks in terms of finance, the financial managers are nowadays using traditional finance concepts and techniques to solve their finance related problems. The financial situation of the company is different in different parts of the world depending on the economy of that place for ex. developed and developing regions. Financial managers role is very crucial in the strategic management process, as finance is the most important section in a banking sector. 3. Research and development The corporation besides concentrating on its banking services is also indulged in core sectors like textiles, and aluminum fixtures. These strategies are meant to increase the products and services of the company and to increase their business. These strategies are consistent with the corporations mission, objectives, strategies and policies. The technology that they use to implement their policies plays a great role in manufacturing processes. The RD of the companys new services gives the company a competitive advantage, the return from the new products and services is not much because it is the newest field in the companys yard. The RD of the company depends on the environmental and climatic conditions of that country, companys technological discontinuity plays a vital role because the technology plays the most vital role in the manufacturing processes. The RD manager plays a very role in the companys strategic management process. 4. Operations and logistics The companys current manufacturing/service objectives, strategies and policies are clearly implemented and implied from performance and budget, the companys policies and strategies are in accordance with the companys main policies, strategy, and objectives. The company has to face problems in the external and internal environment regarding logistics and operations. The corporation deals with their products with suppliers who provide them with the raw materials, international export of materials is done in products and services. The company is currently engaged in flexible manufacturing, equipments are of new technology. Transportation facilities are available in most of the parts. The manufacturing and logistics of the company is affected by the various factors like natural disasters and climatic conditions. Operations manager are using new technology and services to evaluate and improve current technology. 5. Human resource management The corporations current HRM practice is to utilize their human resource to expand the companys business and to increase the customer base, along with introducing and developing new products. The net income per employee is 175,151 AED of the DIB, it is considered a descent income therefore it is clear that the company is very conserve towards their employees and do good care of them. The HRM of the company has the capability to increase their net profit and to affect other factors positively. The corporation is paying the employees heavily and they are giving them other incentives too, but other competitors are also conserved related to their employees. The HRM manager is utilizing the resources to the highest and often created strategies to do well in future like engaging their human resources in other products and services, and introduction of new posts. The company doesnt seems to have a diversify workforce from all over the world, but whatever they have with them they are managing them quite efficiently. Outsourcing plays a very important role in HR planning, as outsourcing provides manpower to complete objectives and tasks related to the company. Moreover the HR manager plays a very important role in the strategic management process, as every strategy requires manpower and the best use of human resources. 6. Information technology The organizations current IT objectives, strategies and policies includes modernization of all technologies in the context of IT, and this strategy is very well in accordance with the modern era in which the company is operating. The company has a proper database management system and analyst who can make changes in the database whenever required. After the use of modernized technologies it is very much predictable that the company will do well in the future regarding the advantages of the softwares used. All the leading banks in Dubai is using IT as a tool for performing processes and for services therefore DIB is facing a cut-throat competition in this field and must have to look upon for new technological services and tools. DIB has got a place in the worlds internet database and the information is very well conveyed regarding the company on the internet. IT manager is playing a very important role in developing the companys strategies as, many processes in the corporation is dependent on IT. D. Summary of internal factors Marketing, human resource and financing are the core-competencies for the company at present. The distinctive competencies of the corporation is its IT and logistics and operations. Finance, marketing and human resource are the most important factors that the company are engaged in presently. Human resource is the functions that are most suitable for outsourcing. 5. Analysis of strategic factors A. situational analysis The main analysis that affects the companys present and future performance are the finance performance, marketing, human resource and the sustainability issues. B. review of mission and objectives The current mission and objectives are appropriate for the companys progress but to some extent because the net profit, revenue generated and the share prices of the company is decreasing, therefore they need to have a look at its finance and marketing areas. If the finance and marketing sections are thoroughly reviewed an corrected then the corporation will grow larger momentum in the future. 6. Strategic alternatives and recommended strategies A. Strategic alternatives The current strategies if revise will prove to be very beneficial for the company. The recommended strategies will surely help the company to improve their performance. The recommended corporate strategies are stability, growth, and retrenchment. The recommended business strategies are cost leadership and differentiation. The corporate strategies will help the company to maintain the stability, but the corporation would have only static growth i.e. growth at a slow rate. The business strategies are however suggested taken into account the cost cutting and utilizing methods, they will surely help the financing section of the company, but however risk could not be taken if we implement these strategies. B. recommended strategies The main strategic options that the company has are: To utilize and to execrate most of their strength. To outwit their weakness. To make the most of their opportunities. And to manage their threats in the business. These strategies should be first implemented on ground level first and if prove to be affective they could be used further and prove to be of great use for the company for both long term and short term. 7. Implementation Instituting TQM would help the company to maintain better account of their services and processes. Software professional who has got a little idea about financing, marketing and system analysis can develop this software. As this is a high level program therefore the CEO should be the in charge of this program. The programs are financially feasible as it would not cost much, instead it will help the company in various cost-reduction processes. And also help maintaining their database and accounts. The software should be in beta phase first and then new inclusions will be made depending on the requirements. 8. Evaluation and control The company has an updated information system that helps them to track every activity in the corporation and also provide sufficient feedback on implementation activities and performance. The tools that the company uses can give accurate information about everything about the profit, loss, share prices etc. The information i.e. conveyed is timely and is very well implemented. The corporation is using benchmarking techniques to evaluate its functions and activities. Appropriate standards and measures are being taken while conformance of the recommended strategic plans. Reward system is a bonus for any employee in an organization therefore appropriate rewarding system is taken into account in the corporation.