Successful implementation of ERP Systems: issues and obstacles

Introduction: Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are packaged (but customizable) software applications, which manage data from various organizational activities and provide a fully integrated solution to major organizational data management problems. It integrates all data and processes of an organization into one single and centralized system. These systems comprise of many components of hardware and software, in order to achieve integration from various departments in the organization. With the development of new technologies it’s an essential part of their long-term competitive strategy. ERP software applications can be used to manage product planning, purchase, inventory, interacting with suppliers, customer relationship management service, and order tracking.Discussion: Enterprise resource planning (ERP) packages touch many aspects of a company’s internal and external operations. Consequently, successful deployment and use of ERP systems are critical to org anizational performance and survival. This paper presents the results of a study of the problems and outcomes in ERP, a project which was conducted under the sponsorship of an ERP systems vendor. Enterprise systems (or enterprise resource planning systems – ERP) have been instrumental in advancing efficiency in organizations throughout  the world.However, David Hebert of the Hackett Group stated, â€Å"Only a select few companies have gotten value out of their ERP implementations, and those are world-class companies†. Many companies are radically changing their information technology strategies to maintain a competitive advantage, become more responsive to change markets, and deliver better service at lower cost by purchasing off-the-shelf integrated ERP software instead of developing IT systems in-house. [1][2][3]ERP System: Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are software packages that use relational database technology to integrate various units of an organ ization's information system. ERP systems provide several separate, but integrated modules, which can be installed as a package for any organization [4]. Many large corporations use several different and separate information systems, often because they have merged with and/or acquired other companies with varied systems. An ERP system integrates these separate information systems and results in improved data reliability and processing efficiency.ERP systems quickly became popular with large corporations that needed a seamless integration of their business, but are now frequently used by small to mid-sized companies. The excellent ability of ERP systems to simplify business transaction processing, eliminate work that adds little or no value, and simultaneously improve customer service are the main reasons for the outstanding success and popularity of these systems [5] ERP Model:Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are off-the-shelf software packages that support most of the key functions of an enterprise, such as logistics, sales, and financial management. These systems are generic, and the functionality they provide can serve a large variety of enterprises. ERP is a critical strategic tool to achieve business goals. However, ERP adoption is not always successful despite using substantial amount of time and human and material resources. To prevent ERP failures, proper adoption processes and selection criteria should be considered to minimize possible losses. To explain the ERP Fig: Modelin an easily understandable format you have to know about the 4ps marketing  model. Usually the 4Ps marketing model was a general marketing model where the 4Ps originally stood for people, product, promotion and price [6]. Over the years, this model has been changed to become a business model and was modified by replacing promotion and price with process and performance [7]. The modified 4P business model was created to architect the ERP Conceptual model because several people working in management are familiar with the concept of the 4Ps.The ERP model is made of 4 components that are implemented through a methodology. This figure demonstrates the integration between the components. Methodology encircles all four of the components to illustrate that each component is addressed and implemented in an integrated manner. [7] [8]ERP System implementation: With the development of new technologies many companies now consider technological improvements an essential part of their long-term competitive strategy, and consequently try to apply these technologies. Computer technology has brought about many benefits in helping the construction industry meet increasingly complex challenges. It has achieved a wide range of successful applications at the project level such as engineering design, project estimating, scheduling, planning and control, and integrated project management.H. Klaus and G. Gable analyzed the concept of ERP, in order to explain its origin. T hey consider that the designation is not related to the role and characteristics of this system. The integrated system of type ERP is not focused on the resource management and it is not very developed within planning area, as its name may suggest it. It is rather focused on the integration of all organization departments, functions and processes within a single computer informational system, capable of supporting all these areas, with their individual and specific requirements. [8]Design of Evaluation Model for ERP System: ERP allows employees to share information, query data, and run reports. This eliminates the need to store duplicate information in more than one place and reduces the amount of work necessary to gather and analyze information  [9]. ERP systems increase efficiency by freeing employees from performing time consuming, manual work. For example, legacy systems often require hours or days to run reports. With ERP, reports can be produced in seconds. These efficiencie s allow employees to spend time on other tasks; reducing operating expenses. Here’s a proposed evaluation design model for ERP system-The proposed ERP evaluation model [8]Issues in Implementing ERP: A Case Study: Information technology/systems play a major role in improving the competitiveness of organizations. There are numerous enterprise information software packages available in the market. One of them is enterprise resource planning (ERP). ERP can provide signiï ¬ cant improvements in eï ¬Æ'ciency across a company, but only when implemented correctly. Otherwise, an ERP system could be a curse and drag the whole enterprise into spiraling ineï ¬Æ'ciency.Planning for ERP systems and their implementations requires an integrated approach to meet the requirements of various functional areas. With a brief overview of ERP implementations, this paper describes some experiences of an ERP implementation in a water corporation. The case study reveals some of the intricacies duri ng the planning and implementation stages that may occur in any company in any part of the world. Suggestions are oï ¬â‚¬ered in resolving the issues of implementing ERP.The criteria for success (and failure): Whether a system is branded as a success or a failure is a judgment, usually made at some point in time by one or more people with the benefit of hindsight. Most people, for example, consider that the new system at Heathrow airport’s Terminal 5 was a failure when it opened in 2008. Now, however, that same system (more accurately, system of systems) is operating successfully with few reported problems on a day-to-day basis.[10] The judgment of whether a project has ‘failed’ is not a simple yes/no decision. It is common for systems that initially did not live up to expectations to evolve over time to deliver useful services. However, management usually regard a project tends as a success if it meets three high-level criteria:It should be delivered on time It should be delivered within budget It should deliver the expected functionalityIn addition to these should be added the considerations of the users, to make sure that the system fits in with their everyday working: It should be acceptable to the users (and hence used).If a project fails to satisfy one or more of these criteria when it is deployed, it is likely to be labeled a failure. If we closely examine the causes of system failures, we see that most of them are not attributable to failures of the technology. Instead, they are failures of the socio-technical system, often arising because the social and organizational aspects either have not been appropriately considered, or have been separated from the technological aspects.It is important that the social and technical aspects of the overall system are developed in parallel, because they are often interdependent. If they are developed separately, any mismatches may not be detected until late in the project when they are invariabl y expensive and time-consuming to correct, and can even lead to the project being abandoned.The most important problems of ERP system implementation: There are several studies dealing with difficulties in enterprise system implementation. The researchers use different concepts, which have various scopes and meanings. As a result, comparing and integrating their findings is difficult. The number of recognized categories of problems and issues experienced by companies adopting ERP system varies from two through three to five. The identified groups cover issues of various nature and scope, e.g., technical, operational, legal, business/economic, organizational, managerial etc. The respondents opinions regarding the problems observed in ERP system, divided into the described categories, are presented in Table 1. Within each category, various difficulties are listed together with a short description. [11]Table: Problems occurring during ERP system implementation [11] ProblemDetailsOrganiz ational problems: Project goalsLack of clearly defined goals of the implementation project; incorrectly defined goals; lack of prioritiesCompany’s conditionPoor company organization; unclear organizational procedures; unclear strategyCommunication Problems with communication and information flow; different understanding of the same ideas by different departmentsDecision makingProblems with decision making (e.g., regarding personnel); indecisiveness of company representativesPersonnel availabilityKey employees unavailable; workers’ lack of timeConflicts Conflicts between a company’s departments; conflicts during organizational changeImplementationMistakes in project management; lack of risk management; lack of implementation tasks’ coordinationmanagementOrganizational and ownership changes during the project; changes in requirements;Changes in a companychanges in company organizational structure imposed by the introduced systemTrainingInadequate training p hase of a project; cutting trainingSocial problems: Employees’ knowledge and educationLack of management competence; lack of personnel computer literacy; lack of knowledge about company operations, enterprise systems and their implementationTop managementLack of top management support and involvement; lack of project understanding by top managementImplementation teamLack of implementation team members’ commitment; inadequate composition of implementation team (e.g., too few people, people not empowered to make decisions)MotivationLack of employees’ motivation to perform implementation tasks and learn new skillsResistance to new systemResistance of middle management, IT staff, and system users; people avoiding implementation dutiesResistance to changePeople highly accustomed to existing solutions and unwilling to changeProject managerLack of a project manager; inadequate person appointed as a project manager; necessity of sharing time between implementation tasks and organizational dutiesSystem provider’s competenceConsultants lacking competence, knowledge, and experience; problems with the availability of system provider’s servicesProject acceptancePeople not convinced about the project; lack of general acceptance for the project; problem with project acceptance by people not involved in implementation dutiesPersonnel’s fearFear about possible consequences of implementation project: loss of job, position, and statusUsers’ responsibility Lack of responsibility and care among people entering data into the systemTechnical problems: DataProblems with completing and organizing system data; problems with transferring data from legacy systems to ERP systemSystem efficiencyUsers unable to enter data on-line; problems with customer and provider order handlingSystem drawbacksImplementers unaware of program’s errors and shortcomings; lack of efficient application testing;Economic problems: High costsInadequate finan cial budget for the project; loss of financial resources; lack of financial flexibility and resource allocationThe problems discovered in Table 1 refer to practically all stakeholders involved in the project: employees, implementation team members (who are functional departments’ managers in enterprise X), and top management representatives. Next, the organizations suffered from the high costs involved and problems connected with goals definition.Conclusion: There is no silver bullet that can be used to kill off the potential for failure of ERP system development projects. The proportion of failures remains stubbornly high, even though several of the factors that are associated with failures appear to be known. A quick look at several of the  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Top 10† style lists of factors associated with failures (and successes) reveals that no two lists are identical, although there are several factors that recur on many lists.The lack of agreement suggests that the analyses of the reasons for failure may be overgeneralising, by treating all failures as being more or less the same, whereas there are really different types of failure that arise through different combinations of factors. Reference 1. Markus. L. â€Å"learning from adopters’ experiences with ERP: problems encountered & success achieved†, online journal , available at- http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CEUQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.farrell-associates.com.au%2FBPI%2FPapers%2FERP%2520Research.pdf&ei=fWEdUPOyGIWIrAez_oGwAg&usg=AFQjCNFh8bwBuLBbiHMbCVvoLWoej1TJOQ&sig2=Oe695TrVDvjagLr3jWUNbA , accessed on 26th July 2012. 2. Marnewick. C. and Labuschagne. L. (2005),†A conceptual model for enterprise resource planning (ERP)†,Information Management & Computer Security, Vol. 13 Iss: 2 pp. 144 – 155, available at- http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/09685220510589325 , accessed on 1st aug 2012 . 3. Hooks, A. (2002), â€Å"Change management: how to reduce the risk of change†, available at: www.internext-group.com 4. Bae. B. 2004. â€Å"Implemantation of ERP Systems† Journal. 5. Gibbs, Jeff. â€Å"The power of enterprise computing.† Internal Auditor . Feb. 1997. 6. Alexandrou, M. (2002), â€Å"Supply chain management (SCM) definition†, available at: www.marialexadrou.com/glossary/scm.sp 7. Marnewick, C. and Labuschagne, L. (2005),†A conceptual model for enterprise resource planning (ERP)†,Information Management & Computer Security, Vol. 13 Iss: 2 pp. 144 – 155 8. Bryson, K. amd William E. Sullivan, (2003),†Designing effective incentive-oriented contracts for application service provider hosting of ERP systems†, Business Process Management Journal, Vol. 9 Iss: 6 pp. 705 – 721. Available at- http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/14637150310506648. Accessed on- 25th july 2012. 9. D.P. Goyal, Gurbinder Randhawa, (2007),†Design of evaluation model for ERP systems: an empirical study of Indian Industry†, Journal of Advances in Management Research, Vol. 4 Iss: 1 pp. 63 – 73 available at http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/972798108000125. Accessed on 28th july 2012 10. Kakouris, A.P. and Polychronopoulos.G, (2005),†Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System: An Effective Tool for Production Management†, Management Research News, Vol. 28 Iss: 6 pp. 66 – 78 11. Joseph R. Muscatello, Michael H. Small, Injazz J. Chen, (2003),†Implementing enterprise resource planning(ERP) systems in small and midsize manufacturing firms†, International Journal of Operations & Production Management, Vol. 23 Iss: 8 pp. 850 – 871

Differences Between the Movie and Play: Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

There are key differences and similarities between the play Cat on a Hot Tin Roof and its movie equivalent. Major differences would include the character Maggie, the possible homosexual relationship between Brick and Skipper, and the reason for Maggie’s distaste for Skipper. Similarities include most of the cast, the overall plot, and the bitterness that the family seems to not so secretly hold for each other. The character Maggie in the play version and in the movie version differs.In the play she admits to sleeping with Skipper so that both of them could be closer to Brick, so that both of them could feel like they were making love with Brick. But in the movie Maggie denies and apparently never had relations with Skipper. With this being said, in the play version Brick’s hostility for Maggie seems much more unjustified. Also, Maggie was the one to tell Brick of his father’s terminal illness in the movie version. This job had been left to the doctor in the play version.A second difference between the movie and play would be the possibility of a homosexual relationship or homosexual feelings between Brick and Skipper. In the 1950’s, when the movie was produced, it was unheard of to have any form of homosexuality in a production. This is a big difference because it leads to Brick not necessarily being weak because of the loss of a could be homosexual partner/friend but being weak because of the lack of love and compassion he received from Big Daddy. This leads to more drama between Brick and his father in the movie version.With the previous being stated there has to be a difference for the distaste between Maggie and Skipper. In the movie, Maggie apparently never had relations with Skipper and the only reason she had for disliking Skipper was the time that he took from her and Brick. She felt that as a young married couple that Brick and Skipper spent far too much time together, time that Brick could be spending with her. Though there are many differences between the play and movie (this is usually the case when it comes to Hollywood) there still are some important similarities between the two.The cast, with the exception of Maggie, are mostly unchanged. Brick’s alcoholism and the pain he feels after losing a dear friend, Gooper is hell bent on getting Big Daddy’s plantation, Mae is still a very easily dislike character who seems to be constantly birthing babies. , Big Momma is full of love and wants nothing more than to have one big happy family, and Big Daddy is still holding together the family for what seems to be the wrong reasons. The overall plot also seems to be unchanged.It starts the same, introducing with hidden distaste between members of the family and not so hidden distaste that Brick feels towards Maggie. Big Daddy’s terminal illness, Gooper and Mae being hell bent on getting what the believe should be coming to them, and the end all seem to be unchanged either way you look at it. Though it has been mentioned more than once before, it is important to notice a big part of both the play version and movie. That is the distaste that the family feel for each other.The feelings Brick has for Maggie, that Maggie has towards Mae and her children and vice versa, the way Gooper feels about Brick, and the way Big Daddy feels towards Big Momma are unchanging. In either, the family is completely separated and out for themselves. Each one, in their own way, are only out for themselves. With any comparison between a play and its movie counterpart there are bound to be major differences and key similarities between the two. In this case, both the play and the movie were spectacular for the same and different reasons.

Othello, the Moor of Venice

Iago (Othellos ensign) uses love against Othello (general of the Venetian army) to cause him to experience jealousy. He not only utilizes the Moors love for Desdemona, but also his love for Iago and their friendship My lord, you know I love you(1. 3. 117) Funny enough, Iago gives warning to Othello of the very negative emotion that he hopes to inflict upon him! (1. 3. 166). Oh beware, my lord, of jealousy; it is the green-eyd monster which doth mock the meat it feeds on The first time that Iagos plan is seen is (3. 3. 33). Iago: Ha! I like not that! Othello: What dost thou say Iago: Nothing my lord: or if-Know not what. Othello: Was not that Cassio parted from my wife Iago: Cassio, my lord! No, sure, I cannot think it, that would steal away so guilty-like, seeing you coming. He continues his manipulating of his friend (3. 3. 95). Iago: Did Michael Cassio, when you wood my lady, know of your love Othello: He did, from first too last: why dost thou ask Iago: But for a satisfaction of my thought; no further harm. Othello: Why of thy thought, Iago Iago: I did not think he had been aquatinted with her. Othello: O, yes; and went between us very oft. See how he makes it almost seem as though Othello discovered this out on his own and Iago seems as a mere friend when the find is made. Iagos true nature is seen at this point. Iago refers to himself as a devil, but to say that he is bad because he is bad doesnt explain why he is repeatedly explains himself to himself. Your honest friend is one who is always there for you and who will always tell you the truth. Iago has a reputation for honesty and uses it for dishonest purposes. His nature is ugly in the way that compares others to animals, especially when referring to their sexuality. Othello is a military man who is often looked at with respect in this category. However, when taken away from the military eye where he offers so much safety, he is constantly mentioned by his color in a degrading way. Brabantio, Desdemonas father uses Moor as a derogatory name for Othello, but Othello is called other things, including my lord and general.. After the first two scenes of the play, Othellos color is rarely mentioned, so we may forget that when the play is seen Othellos blackness always makes him different from everyone else. Reference to him as the Moor emphasized that difference, but it is emphasized in other ways, as well. He is strong and firm in character but also has a loving side where Desdemona ( Othellos wife, Brabantios daughter) comes into play. He came from a loving mother and father which was mentioned in the importance of the handkerchief In Shakespeares time obedience was though to be one of a womans primary values, and Desdemona thinks herself to be as obedient, but as in the case with her father, she seems to have her own interpretation of what that means. She is beautiful, both in body and spirit. Its not something she mentions, or even seems to be aware of, buy it affects how others treat her and think of her. Desdemona spends much of her time making a case, for herself, for Cassio, and finally for Othello. Iagos devilish character is seen throughout the play. Towards the end of scene two in which Iago brings about Cassios downfall, he persuades Cassio to appeal to Desdemona, and plans to make Othello believe that Caossio and Desdemona are having an affair. Then he says, By the mass, tis morning;Pleasure and action make the hours seem short (2. 3. 378-379). In other words, hes been having so much fun during his busy night, so the time has just flown by. In the last scene of the play, after Iagos treachery has been proven, Othello says to Lodovico, Will you, I pray, demand that demi-devilWhy he hath thus ensnared my soul and body (5. 2. 300-302). Iagos reply is famous. He says, Demand me nothing: what you know, you know:From this time forth I never will speak word. (5. 2. 303-304). Iago is ready and willing to explain himself to Othello,Roderigo, and to us. So then why does he choose to silence himself now Maybe he cant think of another lie. In the characterization of Othello, no one describes him best than his wife and unfortunate victim. In the Venetian Senate, Othello tells the story of how he and Desdemona fell in love. Brabantio urges that Othello used magic and drugs on Desdemona, and that she be brought to testify; he says to her, Do you perceive in all this noble companyWhere most you owe obedience (1. 3. 179-180). In reply, Desdemona affirms her duty to her father, who gave her life and education, but asserts that she has a higher duty to Othello, because he is her husband. She says, My noble father, I do perceive here a divided duty: To you I am bound for life and education; My life and education both do learn me how to respect you; you are the lord of duty; I am hitherto your daughter: but heres my husband, and so much duty as my mother showd to you, preferring you before her father, so much I challenge that I may profess due to the Moor, my lord. (1. 3. 180-189). Further in the act, she says, My hearts subdued even to the very quality of my lord: Saw Othellos visage in his mind, and to his honor and his valiant parts did I my soul and fortunes consecrate. 1. 3. 250-254). Subdued means in harmony with and Othellos quality is both his character and his profession as a warrior. Desdemona asserting that she is very much like her husband and belongs with him, even in war. She shows tat she understands and rejects the bigotry that is directed at him. A persons visage is his face, and she understands that most Europeans consider black to be ugly, but she saw past his face to his honor and courage, which she adores. Her charter is well described here as beautiful both inside and out.

Screening report Movie Review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Screening report - Movie Review Example As Sirk intended All that Heaven Allows to be a critic of the conventional American values, the movie successfully resorts to the exploitation of appropriate angles of vision, to accentuate this theme. The movie typically opens up with a high-angle shot of a cold and aloof church spire in New England, thereby making the values symbolized by it that governed the lives of the people inhabiting that town look petty, insignificant and flimsy. The other theme that the director intended to accentuate was the literal and thematic asphyxiation of Cary, by the dominant social norms and values. Metty successfully managed to visually develop this theme by resorting to placing frames within frames. Many a times the main character Cary is shown to be positioned within frames, as behind the windowpanes or the foreboding reflection of Cary in the television set, symbolizing and pointing towards her metaphorical and actual

Women in top management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Women in top management - Essay Example The essay will apply the use of secondary research, which means that it will solely rely on secondary data in order to meet the set objective. In order to attain the objective stipulated above, this study will begin with a literature review that aims at discussing the feminist theory, women’s position in the society, and the positive contribution women can make towards an organisation if their level of participation is increased. In the third sub-section, the essay presents case examples that demonstrate how increasing women’s participation in top management teams can be beneficial for organisations. In the conclusion, the essay will provide a recommendation to the managers in regards to the benefits of increasing women’s participation. Theoretical background This section will discuss the theory related to discussion of how increasing women’s participation in top management team can be beneficial for organisations.... ory, since the study is related to increasing women’s participation in the top management teams of organisations and the likely impact this can have on the performance of the organisation. Women’s position in the society The position of women in the society has been an issue of debate more so in the 21st century where numerous efforts have been made to redefine this position as well as the role of women in the society. According to McKee (2006), these efforts have been aimed at giving women a more vibrant role and a significant position in the society rather than the ones confined by the earlier traditions or cultural beliefs and attitudes. For example, in the biblical times, writings indicate that women were confined to lower ranks than men in the society were, and they were expected to be submissive to demands and wishes of men. The Biblical writings even hint to the fact that that women owe their origin to the male gender (the story of God using Adam’s rib to create Eve). From the earlier cultural beliefs that are not only exhibited in the Christian faith but also in the Islamic faith as well as other cultures, women were naturally excluded from certain roles and positions within the society mainly because of gender bias. Brush et al. (2010) argued that in the modern world and more in particular the years before, the new millennium, gender segregation was mostly exhibited in the working environment and in the political environment whereby the participation of women was limited to minor roles. However, Brush et al. (2010) noted that in the 21st century there have been tremendous improvements in women trying to gain equal status as men in the work environment and in the political arena. For example, the present Chief Executive Officer of Yahoo, Inc is a woman

International Perspectives in Employment - Individual Business Report Essay

International Perspectives in Employment - Individual Business Report - Essay Example The next step will be to devise a packaging that is made from recycled products. This will not only reduce costs but will also be a good strategy to attract customers from the Corporate Social Responsibility Perspective. The next step will be a challenge for the marketing department. Their marketing strategies especially advertising will have to take a 360 turn and promote products as healthy, environmentally friendly and low in cost. 2 Findings 3 Conclusion 5 Recommendations 5 Following are the recommendations for the company after this evaluation: 5 Bibliography 6 Terms of Reference Introduction In order to conduct an evaluation for Nature Foods about how it should react to the changing business environment, it is extremely vital to take care of a few important points that will help in changing the way it operates. The evaluation is intended for the internal usage of the company, as an analysis of its position that is declining because of the global economic downturn as well as env ironmental concerns for customers that have become strong enough to make them switch brands. The recommended changes will help Nature Foods to adopt new strategies that will help them increase their sales as well as customer satisfaction. Following the research that has been conducted by the relevant staff of Nature Foods, a plan needs to be developed for making the required strategic changes for the company. This process of evaluation will try to involve as many people from the organization as possible, so that a unanimous decision can be made regarding the changes, and so that relevant people can be gathered who on one table can together decide what strategies are likely to be more effective. Procedure For attaining the objectives above, the procedure to be followed will long and will be implemented throughout the organization. First of all, the production department will be called for a meeting to help devise modified products that are entirely focused on health. The formulas and ingredients of the products will be changed after discussions with the senior management as well as the operations department, in collaboration with relevant medical help such as nutritionists. The next step will be to devise a packaging that is made from recycled products. This will not only reduce costs but will also be a good strategy to attract customers from the Corporate Social Responsibility Perspective. The next step will be a challenge for the marketing department. Their marketing strategies especially advertising will have to take a 360 turn and promote products as healthy, environmentally friendly and low in cost. Findings Global Business involves more than just making money After all the research that had been conducted, available material on this subject indicates that Global business is not just about making money anymore according to Czinkota, Ronkainen, & Moffett (2008). It involves many other things such as complying to international standards, a sustainable busine ss that is concerned about the future and that provides lower prices to the consumers in this era where they have many choices and switching costs are low, especially for evyday products like FMCG’s, to which Nature Foods belongs. Moreover, it is very difficult to ensure brand loyalty from the customers who are very rational and highly aware of global and market trends as well as opportunities

Common assessment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Common assessment - Essay Example In the United States, it is the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) that sets the GAAP standards for private firms while it is the IASB sets principles for international accountants (Horngren et al, 2008). Compliance with GAAP is mandatory by every business operating in the USA. Corporations that are public companies are closely monitored by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to ensure their compliance to GAAP. II. GAAP and description of the accounting principles In the GAAP there exists accounting principles which also serves as measurements of conventions that are significant which are cost recording, revenue recognition and the matching principle. The recognition principle states that a company records revenues in its accounts only when it has earned and realized the revenue (Horngren et al, 2008 p.703). Revenues therefore cannot be recognized if it has not been earned. A second important convention is the matching principle which states that revenues must be li nked to the expenses associated with them. Accountants apply the matching principle by identifying the revenue recognized during a period and by linking the expenses to the recognized revenue directly ( Horngren, 2008 p.703). The Cost Principle This GAAP accounting principle states that the recording of cost must be at their fair market price. Fair market price is determined by the amount reflected on documents accompanying the goods and/or services to ensure objectivity and accuracy of accounting when purchases are made. The effect of this costing principle on assets is that its value will not change until the market value of the asset changes. To effect this change in the books according to GAAP principle, a new require a new transaction as an evidence to effect the change of the value of the asset. In cases where objective evidence is not available to ascertain cost, the transaction can instead be recorded at its fair market value as determined by a third party appraiser (McKeown , 1973). The Revenue Recognition Convention The recognition principle states that a company records revenues in its accounts only when it has earned and realized the revenue (Horngren, 2008 p.703). Revenue cannot be recognized if it has not been earned. This principle states that revenue must only be completed and recorded into a company’s books when the transaction is already completed. This means that revenue will only be recorded once actual payment is received. On occasions when transactions involve huge projects which take a very long time to finish such as construction of buildings, revenue is done an accrual basis whereby it will bill its client on periodic basis on the amount of work that has been done or completed and recognize the revenue even if there is still work in progress (Klueh, 2009). Recognizing revenue correctly is important to the accuracy of the financial statements because earning is a critical aspect of a financial statement which can affect the compan y’s many stakeholders. The Matching Principle A second important convention is the matching principle which states that revenues must be linked to the expenses associated with them. Accountants apply the matching principle by identifying the revenue recognized during a period and by linking the expenses to the recognized revenue directly (Horngren, 2008 p.703). This can be likened to the revenue recognition principle whereby expenses related to the revenue that were earned during a certain accounting period must be reflected in the books of the

Discuss weber's concept of ideal types in political authority, with Essay

Discuss weber's concept of ideal types in political authority, with reference to real world examples - Essay Example According to Weber, â€Å"authority is power accepted as legitimate by those subjected to it. Weber outlines three forms of authority in modern societies: traditional, charismatic, and rational-legal. These forms of authority are ideal pure types that are rarely â€Å"pure† in real life†. Political system has a rational nature and it gives political authority a legal outlook. The people who govern have been given the right to do so. The people who are subordinate believe in the actions taken by leaders trusting in their right of action. Every society has people in different position to govern the system. During the second First World War Weber raised as major critic to the government’s war policies. Marx writing had central focus on inequality and he considered it to be an inevitable part under capitalism(Laundy ,p 55,1988)After the end of the war the Germany found in Weber a statesman and an intelligent leader.Thus according to Weber they are traditional, charismatic and rational- legal. â€Å"Webers three kinds of ideal types are distinguished by their levels of abstraction† (Coser,1977). It is very essential to understand which factors lead to the formation of different kind of leaders in the world. They are from different field of activities like political, spiritual, cultural entertainment etc. Weber details different types of ideal political authorities in order to show their genuine nature. The following are the ideal types of Weber’s political authority. According to traditional way the authority is transferred by custom or religious means. .The practice of authority is in a dictator mode and it is passed on from past. In this case the power of the authority is not challenged by the subordinates. It can be made up from cultural or spiritual aspects. They have a dominant status as the power is being given from past authority. The people are more obedient to these leaders as this system is being

Computer Architecture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Computer Architecture - Essay Example Von Neumann Architecture Von Neumann’s ideas are significant as they inspired the making of EDVAC computer back in 1952. The construction of Manchester Mark I computer preceded that of EDVAC. To Von Neumann, an efficient electronic computer would contain four main elements. These are the arithmetic logic unit, control unit, memory and input-output devices. In his architecture, Von Neumann moved if an efficient general purpose computer was to be made it is imperative to give it exemplary ability to store data and the intermediate outcomes of computation. On top of this, it is important to enable the computer to keep the instructions and commands given in carrying out whatever computation (Cragon, 2000). To achieve this, Von Neumann proposed that it is necessary to encode computer instructions in numeric form and enable the computer to store these instructions and their data in the same memory. The control unit help execute coded instructions saved in computer memory. Arithmetic unit performs arbitrary subsets of certain arithmetic operations. Von Neumann argued that operation speed, cheapness and simplicity of a machine should determine the economy of the arithmetic unit. Arithmetic unit accesses information from registers so as to be able to manipulate values. Data and program code reside in a computer’s memory. Input and output are enables a computer to communicate with the outside environment. Today’s input and output functions have improved on Von Neumann’s ideas and some take place within the computer (Null & Lobur, 2012). System bus There are wires found in the main board. It is these wires that interlink chips and devices plugged in the mainboard. The bus is the collectivity of these wires. The width of the bus goes with the number of wires. Data bus almost always contains wires in multiples of eight. Besides data wires, there are additional wires that help the computer in signaling and control. Bus throughput capability is the product of the speed of the bus clock (hertz) and the width of the bus (bits). Devices connected to the mainboard communicate via the bus. Bus arbitration is the method used to adjudicate the chance for each device to get access to the bus. Devices of high priority including processor and RAM get preference in accessing the bus (Cragon, 2000). These high priority devices have few interrupts. The control channel signals interrupts. Interrupt signals help interrupt CPU’s tasks in order to attention to whatever event that may occur. The CPU handles interrupt requests with respect to priority of their device. High priority devices have low interrupt numbers. In the past, bus arbitration has advanced over the years so that the computer does not need to arbitrate the bus. Direct memory access allows devices to insert or get data into or out of computer memory. The system bus has several functions. All types of buses allow sharing of data amongst the peripherals connected to the co mputer (Null & Lobur, 2012). System bus helps in addressing. Addressing helps in sending data to and from particular memory sections. System bus supplies power to different computer peripherals. It is the work of the bus to provide system clock that helps in synchronizing computer peripherals with other elements in the system. The use of Boolean operators in computer-based calculations Boolean operators can be used in the

Analysis and discussion of non-markt and market behaviours, economic Term Paper

Analysis and discussion of non-markt and market behaviours, economic analysis of behaviour - Term Paper Example Its impact on RBC and various strategies adopted by the company because of those economic impacts on the organization has also been discussed in this study. The role of cooperative and political behaviors in relation with the market based behaviors of RBS has been studied. Different strategies and policies that have been employed by RBC or are planning to employ have also been included in this study. Table of Contents Table of Contents 3 Canadian Economy – An Overview 5 Financial Sector in Canada – An Overview 6 Royal Bank of Canada 7 Stakeholders of RBC 8 Clients 8 Employees 9 Shareholders or Investors 9 SRI Community 10 Suppliers 10 Governments 10 Environmental NGOs 10 Economic and Regulatory Environment of RBC 11 Canada 11 United States 11 Europe 12 Financial Markets 13 Regulatory Environment 13 Economic Impact 14 Corporate Strategies by RBC 15 Corporate Governance 15 Risk Management 17 Policies and Procedures 17 Mutual Funds and Governance 18 References 19 Canadian Economy – An Overview The economic system of Canada is very much similar to that of United States of America. The industrial society of Canada is high tech in nature and is quite affluent in its resources. The standard of living of the people is quite high. There has been a significant growth in various industrial sectors of Canada like mining, manufacturing, services sector, etc. after the end of World War II in the year 1945. It has resulted in the transformation of the Canadian economy which was rural in nature into an urban and industrial economy. United States serves as the main trading partner of Canada. There have been various trade agreements between these two countries recently like the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and Canada-US Free Trade Agreement (FTA). This has helped in the development of economic integration and trade between the two countries to a considerable amount. Three-fourths of the exports generated from Canada are accounted through a sub stantial amount of surplus in trade with US. Canada is amongst one of the largest supplier of oil, gas, electrical power and other energy sources for United States. Canada managed to have a significant growth in its economy during the period of 1993 to 2007 because of its varied natural resources, modernized plants and labor forces which are highly skilled in nature. At the end of the year 2008, Global Financial Crisis (GFC) had an adverse effect on the Canadian economy and it went into economic recession. In 2009, the country experienced fiscal deficit for the first time in 12 years time. However the major banks in Canada have managed to recover for the ill effects of recession because of its tradition of having strong capitalization and lending practices which are highly conservative in nature. There has been a marginal growth of Canadian economy in the years 2010-2011. By 2005 it is supposed to be able to balance its budget. The petroleum sector of the country is growing at a rap id pace because of the discovery of many new natural oil reserves in Canada. Canada is ranked in the third position in the world with regards to the volume of oil reserves present in the country (CIA, 2012). Financial Sector in Canada – An Overview The financial services sector of Canadian economy consists of banks, loan companies, trusts, insurance companies, credit unions, securities dealers, companies of mutual funds, leasing companies, insurance agents, financial advisors, different types

The Quality of Education in the Public School System Essay Example for Free

The Quality of Education in the Public School System Essay Basic education whether it is from a public or a private school is one of the most fundamental needs of mankind. It is responsible for the advancement of our civilization. Education is a vital necessity and the fundamental right of an individual. It is difficult to put a price tag for education. However, it can be said that education is the window to numerous opportunities and the most essential means of poverty elevation. According to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights Everyone has the right to education Education shall be directed to the full development of human personality and to the strengthening of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. It shall promote understanding, tolerance and friendship among all nations, racial or religious groups, and shall further the activities of the United Nations for the maintenance of peace. (art.26 Universal Declaration of Human Rights). Today’s education system has become an issue of debate especially between the public and the private school educational quality. Each and every parent has their own set of choices for their children. Many people opt for having a religious affiliation, for others the costs of private school may not be affordable (Public School Review n.pag). This paper compares the major differences between both public and the private schools and also gives a few recommendations of improving the quality of education in the public school system. If we take into consideration the cost involved in the public and the private schools, it can be noted that public schools are funded through federal, state and local taxes. For instance, when a person pays taxes to the government they are paying for their childs education and the education of other children in the community. On the other hand, private schools do not run on the tax revenues or any fund from the government.   Instead, these schools are funded through tuition, fundraising, donations and private grants. Therefore, when a parent has to send their child to school they compare the cost of education. If the parent is not financially capable to pay the fees for the private school, then obviously the parent opts for public schools where the fees structure is much less and compromise on the quality of education. In order to improve the quality of the public schools it is essential to increase the funding to these schools, improve the infrastructure and also increase the number of teaching faculty. When it comes to admission, public schools admit all children, and therefore these schools are multicultural in nature. As per the rules in most of the countries, public schools are open for all and must educate all children (Public Education Network n.pag). Private schools are selective in nature. For instance, schools managed by churches give preference to Christians. They are not compelled to accept every child by any rule. Today because of this reason private school admission is very competitive. It is therefore important that public schools need to continue and improve their multicultural nature and promote education among all communities equally. It is essential to recognize the diversity of groups and issues that are present in every town and city (Leistyna 1-23). Whether fair or not, educational opportunity and academic achievement are directly tied to the social divisions associated with race, ethnicity, gender, first language, and social class. The level and quality of educational attainment either open the doors to opportunity or close them. —Educational psychologist Edmund W. Gordon in The Covenant with Black America In general public schools offer subjects which usually includes math, English, reading, writing, science, history, physical education, music and arts. The substance of what children learn is mandated by the state and learning is measured through tests and examinations. In private schools these subjects are flexible for students. Besides the students are taught the curriculum using various effective techniques such as take children on extended outdoor trips that blend lessons across the curriculum. Such innovative trips increase the practical knowledge of the students. Private schools are not bound by any rules and therefore they can create their own curriculum and assessment systems. In order to improve the public schools it is important to take some of the special teaching techniques followed by the private schools (GreatSchools.net n.pag). In terms of the teaching faculty it is a well known fact that the teachers in public schools are usually state certified or, at least working toward certification. Public school teachers need compulsory college degrees and to be licensed by the state (Broward County Public Schools n.pag). Qualified teachers with certification ensure that they have gone through the training required by the state, which includes student teaching and coursework. However, this is lacking in a private schools. Teachers in private schools may not be required to have certification but often have good subject area expertise and an undergraduate or graduate degree in the subject they teach. It is important to maintain the standards of payment in public and private schools because teachers also need to maintain high standards of living. Private schools are usually committed to providing attention to each and every child individually and therefore keep the class size small. Many parents choose private schools for this reason. In public schools though many states recognize the value of small classes, they are unable to do so because of overcrowding and lack of good infrastructure especially in large school districts and urban schools (GreatSchools.net n.pag). As a result teachers cannot give equal attention to individual students or for students with special needs. It is essential therefore to decrease the size of classes in public schools to improve the quality of education. Finally, it can be said that in order to improve the public education system, it is essential to equitably allocate resources. For instance, educational and administrative staffing ratios show how many students per teacher or per administrator are in each school. Work Cited    Public School Review, Public School vs. Private School (2007) Public School Review LLC. 21 October 2007, http://www.publicschoolreview.com/private-public-schools.php Public Education Network, Public Schools Must Be Held Accountable, Americans Say (26 July 2007) 21 October 2007, http://www.publiceducation.org/doc/Press_Releases/20070726_Public.doc Leistyna, P. Extending the Possibilities of Multicultural Community Partnerships in Urban Public Schools, The Urban Review, Volume 34, Number 1 / March, 2002, pp 1-23. GreatSchools.net, Private vs. Public Schools: Whats the Difference? (February 2007) GreatSchools Staff, 21 October 2007, http://www.greatschools.net/cgi-bin/showarticlefeature/ca/197 Broward County Public Schools, Public Vs. Private Education 21 October 2007, http://www.browardschools.com/info/education.htm

Teen Pregnancy Leads to Adoption Essay Example for Free

Teen Pregnancy Leads to Adoption Essay Teen Pregnancy is a problem in todays society. There appears to be a lack of support and teen mothers dont know their options. I feel that many teens today are unaware of the dangers of unprotected sex and what the outcomes are in this process. To bring another life into this world without proper care and attention that they need is not a good thing at all. Keeping the child is a big step but is also a benefit at times. It’s only beneficial when the teen mom is one hundred percent sure that they are ready for this new life to come into their world and to give them the attention they need. Because teen pregnancy is so common in the United States there needs to be a solution to people that have no support for the child. People that have no support after having the child, should consider adoption for the best of the child. Babies are great. They are all loving, cute and make the best cuddle buddy but who knew taking care of a baby would be so much work. Most teens don’t think of a baby being so hard to take care of a child at sixteen years old because they have never taken care of one all by themselves before, but it’s more work than you could ever expect. Babies take so much energy to take care of from waking up every three hours, changing diapers, feeding them, buying them the things the need to giving them all you attention. Being a teen mom you must give your full attention to them, this is why most teens fail at being a teen mom because teens are young and like their attention on other things. Most teens get pregnant because they have lack of knowledge of birth control and protection. Most teens don’t discuss these things with their partner, that’s why teen pregnancy is so popular now days. By age fifteen, thirteen percent of teens have had sex at least once, could be more. Almost half of the United States have had sex by age fifteen some even at fourteen (Friedman). Most teens can talk to anybody about sex besides their partners or their parents, which parents and partners are the most important people to talk to in this situation. You have to be open and willing to talk to absolutely anyone so you feel comfortable. Some teens think that their crushes are true love and that’s when unprotected sex happens because you don’t know the other person as well as you think you do. When teens get pregnant they have multiple risk factors. Some factors are growing up in a single-parent family, living in poverty or high-poverty neighborhood having low attachments to school, and having parents with low educational attainment to teach their children on their own (Mayard). Most teens normally grow their children up in a very poor place because they have no money to support the child. This happens to a lot of teens in the world today. Just about every year about one million teenagers in the United States become pregnant at a very young age and out of these only thirteen percent are planned pregnancies (Mayard). The whole reason for open adoption is to offer opportunity to learn, without someone teasing you because you don’t have any parents if you’re an adopted child (DeMatteo). Some people love the whole adoption thing and want to bring new kinds in to have a home and to feel loved, but you need to get licensed for being a foster parent to be able to take these kids in. To become a foster parenet you need to get a license and to do that you need to attend an open house, which is where you do background checks and assessments to see if your place and family is safe enough for a child. Then you have to have thirty hours of training for ten weeks. After doing this they determine if you get your license or not. If you do, your license are good for two years so after your two years are up you need to renew them (DeMatteo). Becoming a foster parent is really important these days because there are a lot of kids that don’t have homes. Throughout the entire state statistics show that there are four thousand one hundred and forty eight kids in a foster or other care today. Children in foster homes â€Å"age out† or become too old to be in foster care when they turn eighteen because they are officially a legal adult and have their own choices to make. When these kids come out of foster care and they tell people that they are adopted and do not know their biological family, some kids find that bad, but it’s not. People think those kids that are adopted are different from everyone else but they are not any different. They do the same exact stuff as us and function just as well. Most kids are proud to be adopted because they know their biological parents wanted the best for them. The children know their parents will still be there for them but just thought that open adoption would be the best possible solution. Open adoption is probably the best way to go not closed adoption. Open adoption allows the biological parents and child to see and talk to each other but closed adoption doesn’t. Open adoption lets the parents see who their child is going to and closed adoption just puts the child somewhere. Parents in open adoption tend to have better health towards this than the parents in closed adoption. They don’t go through a lot of grief for years they may have grief for maybe 5 months at the most (Silber). The adoptive parents and birthparents gain trust in each other over the years. In open adoption the adoptees has their questions answered right away because they adoptive parents have access to anything. In closed adoption those kids with questions are left there clueless because they have no access to records or anything. The children in open adoption love to hear that their birthparents are coming to see then but in closed adoption those words hurt the child because they don’t know the true story why they got put up for adoption. In closed adoption it may take seven to ten years to adopt a child and in open adoption it could take a couple of days (Silber).

Analysing The Consumer Behaviour Concept

Analysing The Consumer Behaviour Concept Solomon, Bamossy, Askegaard and Hogg (2010) described consumer behaviour as a study of why, how, when and where consumers make purchases of a particular product and it tends to understand the decision making process of consumers. Also, Hannah and Wozniak (2001) revealed that consumer behaviour seeks to focus on the consumption related activities of individual as well as investigate the reason behind and the forces influencing the selection, purchase, use and disposal of goods and services in other to satisfy personal needs and wants. Furthermore, Hannah and Wozniak (2001) revealed that consumers behaviour encapsulate activities like influencing others, being influenced by others and complaining about and returning product and exposure to the media. Finally, in this report, the concept of consumer behaviour as well as marketing communication, customer satisfaction and reference group influence with regards to consumers or visitors in Newarke house museum and New-walk museum will be analysed using some theories. Antonides and Van Raaij (1998) revealed that consumer behaviour is concerned with the following namely; Mental and physical act (behaviour) Including the motives and causes Of individuals and (small) group Regarding orientation, purchase, use, maintenance and disposal (consumption cycle) And house hold production (Do it yourself) Of (scarce) goods and services From the market, public and household section Lending of functionality and achievement of consumer goods and value And to satisfy Take into account short term and long term effect And individual and societal consequences However, Solomon, Bamossy, Askegaard and Hogg (2002) regarded consumer behaviour as a process and it involves many different actors. In the quest of trying to understand the consumer behaviour concept it was revealed by Jobber (2010) consumer are involved in a sequence or process of consumption. Figure 1 described the consumption process of consumer for product or services Figure 1; Consumption Process of Consumer For Product Or Services Need Recognition/Problem Awareness Information Search Evaluation of Alternatives and Purchase Post-Purchase Evaluation of Decision Sourced from: Jobber, D. (2010) Principles and Practice of Marketing Need Recognition/Problem Awareness This is the first stage of the consumer decision making process (Solomon et al 2010). This stage involves when a consumer recognises that there is a difference between his true self (that is, the current state) and his ideal self (the desired state). This fact was supported in the first visit when the ladies revealed that they had to go somewhere because they were on holiday, However, Jobber (2010) revealed that there are two issues that determine the intention of a consumer to solve his problem namely; the magnitude of the discrepancy between the desired and the present state and the relative importance of the problem (Neal, Quester and Hawkin2 2007). Also, Jobber (2010) further revealed that in a situation where the difference between the present state and desired state is small, the consumer might not be motivated to move to the next stage of the process (that is, information search) Furthermore, O`Shaughnessey (1987) suggested that a customer must be aware of the need to solve a problem as well as being aware of the need inhibitor and a need may arise as a result of stimulation which can be caused by advertising campaign. Information Search Jobber (2010) revealed that information search involves the identification of alternative ways to solve a problem. Information search might be carried out internally or externally (Jobber 2010). This was supported in the first visit when the 2 ladies revealed that they searched the Internet as well as ask friends about the museum. However, internal search involves a consumer reviewing relevant information from his memory bank in which the information will include reference to personal experiences and marketing communication. While, external search involves searching from personal sources like friends, co-workers, neighbours as well as commercial source like sales people and advertising (Jobber 2010). Recently, consumers tend to use the internet as their major information search tools using search engines like Google and Yahoo (Jobber 2010) This was also suppoted in the first visit when the two ladies revealed they searched the Internet for more information before coming to the museum. Furthermore, Solomon et al (2010) revealed that the major aim of information search is to create an awareness set that involves several brands that can solve the consumer`s problem. Evaluation of Alternative and the Actual Purchase Consumers tend to be open to several alternatives in the process of decision making. This several alternatives will be evaluated and filtered to produce an evoked set (Jobber 2010). This evoked set includes several brands which a consumer is considering to purchase, in which the consumer tend to use fewer criteria to select the brand of choice because information search has already taken place (Kuusela, Spence and Kunto 1998) Furthermore, Solomon et al (2010) suggested that consumers tends to evaluate product or service using the knowledge about the product or service, hence allowing the consumer to group product or service in accordance to their belief and attitude about different brand of product. This was supported However, Schiffman, Kanuk and in the second visit to New Walk museum when the people observed to be chatting to each other said they decided to come to the museum instead of going to the Caribbean because of what their fried had told them. Wisenblit (2009), suggest that the purchase stage is when the customer actually make up their mind and purchase the product of service after information has been searched and several alternative evaluated. The first stage of the categorisation is the basic level of category. This level tends to group product or service with common attribute or character while the second level is the subordinate category which includes grouping of individual brands; and the third category id the super- ordinate category Figure 1.2 depicts the three stages involved in evaluating and categorising of brands Figure 1.2: Evaluating and Categorising of Brands Tourism Museums Caribbean European Country Vacation Africa New Faces Arts and Painting History Newark House Museum/ New Walk Museum Adapted from: Solomon et al (2010) Consumer Behaviour Post- Purchase Evaluation of the Decision Jobber (2010) revealed that the aim of an effective marketing is to create customer satisfaction and acquire customer loyalty. Customers tend to experience some post purchase issues in which the issue tends to be form or arise as a result of uncertainty in the consumer decision. The consumer tends to ask himself if he made the right decision or not? This issue according to Kotler et al (2008) is referred to as cognitive dissonance. This was supported in the first visit when I concluded that anyone in the museum at that time could conclude that two female from the group of 8 were enjoying themselves. However, the result of post purchase evaluation of product or services are based on the quality of service or product, as well as the role of the sale-person which act as a problem solver. This factors tends to reduce the cognitive dissonance in the consumer (Jobber 2010) Marketing communication of the museums Marketing communication can be described as messages and media used to convey information to the market or target consumers (Baines, Fill and Page 2008). However, the collective means of communicating with target consumers is referred to as the Marketing Communication Mix (Baines, Fill and Page 2008). The marketing communication mix comprises of five tools which can be used collectively at different level in other to intensify communication with the audience or target consumers, namely; advertising, personal selling, public relations, sales promotions and direct marketing. (Baines, Fill and Page 2008) Figure 1.3: Marketing Communication Mix Tools Personal Selling Public Relation Advertising Sales Promotion Direct Marketing Adapted from: Baines P, Fill.C and Page K (2008) Marketing Advertising According to Baines et al (2008) they described advertising as a non personal form of communication where a clearly identifiable sponsor pays for a message to be transmitted through media. Also, they further revealed that advertising tends to engages the target consumers impersonally and its a tool used to communicate an organisation marketing offer(s). Furthermore, Baines et al (2008) suggested two ways in which advertisement could be used namely; It can be used to influence demand for product and services It can be used to manage perception and understanding about the organisation. Types of Advertising There are two major types of advertising namely; Digital advertising- This type of advertising includes the use of television advertising, music in advert, infomercial (this involves product demonstration and features as well as testimonial about product) radio advertising, product placement, and online advertising (McCarthy 2002) This type of communication mix(that is, Internet) is been used by both museums as informations about the museums could be found on the museums website Physical advertising- This includes mobile billboards advert, in-store advertising, celebrity branding and press advertising (McCarthy 2002) Sales Promotion Sales promotions are used commonly in consumer market especially during the launching of a new brand and its mostly in a matured market where market growth is limited and when prices and sales promotion work are the only means of causing brand switching behaviour in consumers as well as improving performance (Baines et al 2008). Also, sale promotions are majorly concerned with offering additional value to customers in order to enhance sales. Public Relations Baines et al (2008) described public relations as a marketing communication mix tool that influences the perception of various group of consumers or stakeholder about an organisation. Also, Bruning and Ledingham (2001) described public relations as the tools that manage the relationship between an organisation and the public. Finally, Baines et al (2008) defined public relations as a management activity that attempt to shape the attitude and opinion held by organisations stakeholders. Personal Selling This can be described as an activity carried out by an individual or group of individual representing an organisation to potential customer in order for a sale or transaction to be made (Baines et al 2008). This form of activity is different from the other types of marketing communication mix because personal selling carry out transactions directly with customers and feedback are gathered from consumers in other to measure and aid improvement (Baines et al 2008) Direct Marketing According to Jobber (2010) Direct Marketing is the distribution of products, information and promotional benefits to target consumers through interactive communication in a way that allows response to be measured . Direct marketing seeks to acquire and retain customers by contacting them without the use of an intermediary (Jobber 2010 pp 547). Furthermore, Jobber (2010) revealed that direct marketing tends to use several methods such as; direct mail, telemarketing, direct response advertising, catalogue marketing, mobile marketing, electronic media like the internet, door-to- door leafleting. An Investigation on the Impact of Reference Group on Consumers or Visitor in Newark House Museum and New Walk Museum Cohen, Joel and Ellen (1972) described reference group influence as an actual or imaginary individual or group conceived to having significant relevance upon an individual evaluation, aspiration or behaviour. Also, Bearden, William and Etzel (1982) indicated that direct and verbal interaction are not the only means of influencing a customer instead observing the reference group will suggest the choice of brands a customer will choose. Furthermore, Interdependent cultures like china, Korea stress the need to conform to group norms and social acceptance (Gurhan-Canli and Masheswaran 2000). Also, Wong and Ahuva (1998) suggested indicated that consumption or use of luxuries conspicuously which translate to wealth or social status by consumers from east Asia are as a result of cultural influence. However, past research by Park and Lessig (1977) identified three reference group namely; informational influence, utilitarian influence and value expressive influence Informational Influence Park and Lessig (1977) reveals that, in this type of influence the individual seek information about various brands from an association of independent group of expert. His could be supported in the first visit when I asked the two ladies and I was told they searched on the Internet as well as asked their friend. Also, Kelmar (1961) revealed that in this type of influence, individual are more likely to accept information that will broaden and improve knowledge and ability to cope with environment. Furthermore, Park and Lessig (1977) revealed that individual will seek information from whom they see as professional as well as observe what expert do (such as brand of television a repair man buys). This information will influence the individual in the aspect of the type of television brand they intend to purchase. Also, individuals tends to be influenced by observing a seal of approval of an independent testing agency as well as seeking brand related knowledge and experience from friends and neighbours who have reliable information about brands (Park and Lessig 1977). Utilitarian Influence Kelmer (1961) suggests that this type of influence influences an individual to satisfy a certain group expectation in other to obtain the praise or avoid punishment form group. Furthermore, this type influence affect the decision of an individual to purchase a particular brand as well as the individual decision to purchase a brand is as a result of influence from family member. Value expressive Influence This influence make individual feels that the purchase or use of a particular brand will aid the image of people have on them (Park and Lessig 1977). Also, this influence make an individual feels that the purchase of a certain brand would help show others what they would like to be. For example, an individual wanting to be like an athlete, a good parent (Park and Lessig (1977).This was supported in the second visit when the white male believe to be in his 20s was taking note of everything in the museum so as to become a renowned poet like Geoffrey Chaucer. Furthermore, Park and Lessig (1977) reveal that this type on influence make the individual feels that it would be nice to be like a type of person on an advertisement of a certain brand. Customer Satisfaction According to Oliver (1997); satisfaction is the consumer fulfilment response; its a judgement that a product or service feature or the service itself; provides a pleasurable level of consumption- related fulfilment. Also, Zeithaml and Bitner (2003) defined satisfaction as customer evaluation of a product or service in terms of whether the product or service has met their need and expectation. They further stated that failure to meet the needs and expectation could be regarded as dissatisfaction with product or service. Furthermore, Zeithaml and Bitner (2003) indicated some factors that influence customer satisfaction towards a product or service namely; Product and Service Features- Evaluating the product or service significantly influences customer satisfaction (Oliver 1997) for example, I was amazed when I discovered that New Walk museum also cater for children also in the second visit when some of the visitors were a bit noisy because they were amazed by the creatures Consumer Emotions- Oliver (1997) revealed that customer emotions can affect their perception of satisfaction with product or service. These emotions can be stable, pre-existing emotion (Oliver 1997). Also, Zeithaml and Bitner (2003) suggest that some emotion can be as a result of consumption experience of a particular service. Liljander and Strandvik (1997) also revealed that negative emotion like depression, guilt and anger tends to have a strong effect on customer dissatisfaction ratings towards a service or product. Attributions for service success or failure- Folkes (1988) described attributes as the perceived cause or causes of event which can influence perception of customer towards a product or service. This type of influence was revealed in the first visit when the lady told me she was expecting to a lot of people in the museum. Perception of Equity or fairness- This can also influence customers satisfaction (Clemmer and Schneider (1996). This type of influence occurs when a customer asks his or herself Have I been treated fairly compared to other customer? (Zeithaml and Bitner 2003) Also, this perception can create a notion of dissatisfaction as well as satisfaction or fairness. Other consumers, family member and co- workers- This influence tends to affect satisfaction in terms of if their needs or expectation has been met compared to what their family member received, (Zeithaml and Bitner 2003). Recommendations In other to enhance satisfaction in customers visiting the museums, it is imperative that museum tries to maximize visitors satisfaction by avoiding any form of disappointment, for example, in the second visit to New Walk museum, some visitors were disappointed because they only came to see the dinosaurs and the geology gallery but the gallery was closed due to renovation also, in the first visit to Newarke museum when the lady was complaining that she was expecting to meet a lot people in the museum, which was quite different from her expectations. However, in my opinion, this low turnout of people might be attributed to the communication strategy used by the museum. Hence it is suggested that that the museum (both New Walk and Newarke museum) should utilise three marketing communication mix that is, the advertising, some Public Relations as well as Direct marketing to home schools as well as foreign schools which includes universities. Also, the museums should ensure that visitors are completely satisfied with the quality of service they provide in order to build a loyal customer base. For example in, the first visit when the two ladies told me that they were informed about the museum by friends which invariably support the revelations by Jones and Sasser (1995) which states that completely satisfied customers are likely to become apostle and recommend the service six times more than very satisfied customers Also, it is suggested to the museum to bring in more history about legends because in the second visit a white male revealed he came to the museum so as to make note of what could have inspired poets like Geoffrey Chaucer. References Bruning S.D and Ledingham J.A (2000), Perception of relationship and evaluation of satisfaction: an exploration of interaction; Public relations review 26, 1. 85-95 Baines P, Fill.C and Page K (2008) Marketing; Oxford university press inc, 1st edition p471-503 Armstrond and Kotler (2005) Marketing; an introduction. International edition 7th edition pearson prentice educational inc USA Solomon. M, Bamossy.G, Askegaard (2002) Consumer behaviour; A European approach. Pearson educational limited 2nd edition USA p 302 Park, W and Lessig P,(1977); Student and housewives: differences in susceptibility to reference group influence; journal of consumer research 4 Cohen J.B and Golden E(1972) Informational social influence and product evaluation; journal of applied psychology 56. Hanna,N and Wozniak.R (2001) ;Connsumer behaviour; an applied approach prentice hall inc 1st edition. Antonidee. G. and Van Raaij, W (1998) Consumer behaviour: a European approach; John Wiley and Son ltd. West sussex , England. 1st edition Neal,C.P Quester and D.I Hawkins (2007) consumer behaviour: implications for marketing strategy. Boston mass: Irwin O`Shaughnessey, J (1987) Why people buy, New York: Oxford University Press pp 161 Kuusela, H ,M.T, Spence and A.J Kanto (1998) Expertise effect on prochoice decision processes and final outcomes: a protocol analysis, European journal of marketing vol 32, no 121 pp 37 Jobber D (2010) Principles and Practice of marketing: the ultimate learning resource; 6th edition. McGraw-hill companies UK Clemmer, C and Schnieder (1996) fair service in advances in service marketing and management; vol5 edited by TA Swartz, Brown and SW brown (Greenwich CT; JAI press) pp 109-26 Oliver (1997) Satisfaction, a behavioural perspective on the consumer Ney York McGraw hill Folkes V.S Recent attribution research u=in consumer behaviour; A review and new direction journal of consumer research 14pp548-65 Liljander V, and Strandvik T emotions in service satisfaction international journal of service industry management 8 no 2 pp 189-69 Lessig, V.P. and Park, C.W. (1978) Promotional perspectives of reference group influence: advertising implications, Journal of Advertising, Vol. 7, No. 2, pp.41-47 Kelman, H.C. (1961) Processes of opinion change, Public Opinions Quarterly, Vol. 25, pp.57-78 McCarthy, Michael (2002-10-17). Digitally inserted ads pop up more in sports GÃ ¼rhan-Ganli, Z. and Maheswaran, D. (2000) Cultural variations in country of origin effects, Journal of Marketing Research, Vol. 37, pp.309-317 Wong, N.Y. and Ahuvia, A.C. (1998) Personal taste and family face: luxury consumption in confucian and western societies, Psychology and Marketing, Vol. 15, No. 5, pp.423-441. Schiffman, L.G. and Kanuk, L.L. 2004. Consumer Behaviour. 8th Edition. USA: Prentice Hall Solomon M, Bamossy. G , Askegaard, S and Hogg.M (2010). Consumer Behaviour: A European Perspective. 4th ed. England: Pearson Education Bearden, William O. and Michael J. Etzel, (1982) Reference Group Influence on Product and Brand Purchase Decisions Journal of Consumer Research, Vol. 9, No. 2. (Sep.,1982), pp. 183-194. Cohen, Joel and Ellen Golden (1972), Informational Social Influence and Product Evaluation, Journal of Applied Psychology, 56, 1, 54-99. Zeithaml V.A and Botner M (2003). Service Marketing: Integrating customer focus across the firm. 3rd ed. Ney Yory: McGraw Hill publishers Jones, T.O. and Sasser, W.E. Jr (1995), Why satisfied customers defect, Harvard Business Review, Vol. 73 No. 6, pp. 88-99

Devastating Effects of Synthetic Pesticides in Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring :: Environment Environmental Pollution Preservation

Devastating Effects of Synthetic Pesticides in Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring Rachel Carson was a biologist, ecologist, and a writer. She was an advocate for environmental awareness and published a book to help the populous understand the effects of harmful substances like DDT. Her book, Silent Spring, explained to the public the dangers of synthetic chemicals to the environment and to the human race. She advocated that humanity should learn to coexist with the environment, not always trying to dominate it. Her book increased environmental awareness and allowed people to understand the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Rachel Carson’s central argument was based upon the fact that synthetic pesticides were destroying the delicate balance of the ecosystem. She explained that the toxic chemicals did not disappear but instead would build up over time up the food chain, eventually leading into the bodies of the upper tiers. She also used the destruction of life as a way to convince people that synthetic pesticides are bad. These specific examples of destruction, such as the death of lake fish and robins, had occurred in actually places. By linking all the occurrences of destruction, she was able to put together an argument able to change the way people think about chemical pesticides. Her argument and support made people understand that the spread of synthetic chemicals was a serious issue. In Silent Spring, Rachel Carson’s audience was not just the US government that she had been working for, but the regular people using these pesticides. She needed to reach every person and spread knowledge of the serious dangers that pesticides could inflict on the environment. She simplified the specifics and scientific processes in order for simple people to understand what these harmful chemicals were doing to them and what they were doing to the places they lived. People understood that she was writing not to discredit the chemical pesticide industry but to look out for everyone else’s well being. The rhetorical triangle was a significant part of Silent Spring‘s argument. Rachel Carson wanted to persuade people of the serious danger of this chemical threat. She used the appeal to emotion, or pathos, the most in her argument. She used the peoples fear in order to persuade them of the dangers. She compared the chemical pesticide to nuclear fallout and she explained the concentration and build up caused by the natural food cycle. She wanted everyone to understand that they would eventually be affected by the high concentration of toxic material.

Comparing Wiesels Night and The Gospel According to Mark :: Comparison Compare Contrast Essays

Comparing Wiesel's Night and The Gospel According to Mark Wiesel's Novella, Night, can be labeled a 'religious book' when looked at in light of the unquestionably religious text, the "Gospel According to Mark" from the "New Testament" of Christianity's Holy Bible. This proves to be the case if one looks at the central parallels which may be drawn between the two works. A comparable narrative framework, consistent use of light and dark images (indicating 'good' and 'evil,' respectively), and the ongoing theme of questioning faith serve as these central similarities. However, the works do part company when the reader seeks to answer those questions of faith which the characters of both works raise. The narrative frameworks of the two texts are quite similar. Both are biographies (Night in first person, the "Gospel" in third person) of a strong and admirable individual's life (or aspect of his life) told in the form of a story. Both of these individuals, Wiesel and Jesus, experience an inversion of occupation within their lives. Wiesel, a "student" at home, says that he is a "farmer" when he is brought to the concentration camp in order to seem to the SS officer who is questioning him that he will be a good worker (Wiesel 29). Likewise, Jesus, who by birthright was a carpenter, chooses to lead his life as a teacher and healer. The oddity of this inversion is pointed out by the people of Jesus' "hometown", they ask "is not this [Jesus] the carpenter?" (Mark 6.3). Their question implies the absurdity of his teaching the word of God and healing when he is 'supposed' to be a carpenter. In addition, in both texts, the narrator's perspective is limited. Mark's limitation is revealed b y the other three gospels, that serve as a part of the canon of the "New Testament," in that his testimony is not entirely consistent with theirs. This is shown most explicitly in the difference between his gospel and John's gospel; "Mark's Jesus will neither confirm nor deny that he is the long-awaited king... [but] repeatedly throughout John's gospel, Jesus declares himself to be the means of salvation" (Oxtoby 211). Mark does not narrate the definitive version (or perspective) of Jesus' life. Wiesel's limitation is admitted by himself. He is a prisoner, and so he does not know what is going on in the greater world, or even who is winning the war.

Barbados :: essays research papers

Barbados Barbados is a small country located in the Caribbean Sea. The capital is Bridgetown with a population of about 8,789. The head of state of Barbados is Queen Elizabeth II and she is represented by General Dame Nita Barrow. The total population of the country is around 252,000. The main language is English and the predominant religion is Christianity. Their date of independence was November 30, 1966. Barbados is the eastern most Caribbean Island. It is about 200 miles North-North East of Trinidad and about 100 miles East-South East of St. Lucia. It is the second smallest country in the Western Hemisphere. The major urban centers in the area include Bridgetown, Speightstown, Oistins, and Holetown. The land is mainly flat except for a series of ridges that rise up to about 1,000 feet and then falling towards the sea. The climate of the region consists of tropical temperatures influenced by the Northeast trade winds. The average annual temperature is approximately 77 degrees Fahrenheit. The daily temperatures rarely get above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The dry season is cool, while the wet season is slightly warmer. The main rains come during the months of July, August, September, October, and November. The annual average rainfall is 40 inches in the coastal areas and 90 inches in the central areas. The net migration into Barbados is 4.82 per 1000. The annual growth rate is 0.4%, which is one of the lowest in the world. The annual birthrate is 15.45 per 1000, and the annual deathrate is 8.27 per 1000. Barbados ranks fourth in the World in population density with the overall density being 1526 per square mile. The whole island is inhabited, leaving no sparsely populated areas. The main race is Negro, which is about 92% of the population. The remainder of the population is consists of Whites (3.8%), Mulattoes (3.8%), and East Indians (0.4%). About 70% of the population is Anglican. The other 30% belong to various denominations such as Moravian, Methodist, and Roman Catholic. Barbados was once under British control from 1624. Its House of Assembly, which began in 1639, is the third oldest legislative body in the Western Hemisphere. By the time Britain left in 1966, the island was completely English in culture. The British influence is still seen today in quaint pubs, cricket games on the village greens, and in the common law. Barbados' government is British Parliament. The queen is the head of state and she is represented by the governor general. The governor general appoints an advisory council. The executive authority is the Prime Minister who is Owen Seymour Arthur which came into power on September 6, 1994.

Communication in Health & Social Care Essay

1. Understand why effective communication is important in the work setting 1.1 – Identify the different reasons people communicate To express needs; to share ideas and information; to reassure; to express feelings; to build relationships; socialise; to ask questions; to share experiences People communicate in order to establish and maintain relationships with others, to give and receive information and instructions, to understand and be understood, to share opinions, knowledge, feelings, emotions, to give encouragement and show others they are valued. see more:people from different backgrounds Communication is an essential tool a carer can use to meet the needs of those they are caring for. It is a basic requirement of my job role to communicate with individuals and their families, other members of staff on a daily basis. Communicating with other staff members ensures effective team working and continuity of care. It also ensures any health and safety issues are recognised and reported. All carers attend hand over at the beginning of each shift and also complete communication books after attending an individual, thereby keeping other staff informed and aware of current situations within the workplace. Individuals communicate with carers to express their needs and preferences and to ensure they are met. As a carer I would discuss the options and choices available to the individual to allow them an informed choice regards their care. 1.2 – Explain how communication affects relationships in the work setting Effective communication is more than just talking, and is essential for the well-being of the individuals you care for. It includes body language, gestures, facial expressions, positioning and appearance. It is important to be aware of non-verbal communication when interacting with individuals at work. Communication is a fundamental relationship-building skill in the workplace. If people don’t communicate well they limit their ability to connect on any meaningful level and, at the extreme, can create conflict. Positive communication skills like listening, open questions, calm tone of voice. These help bring people together because they are behaviours that lead to creating relationships. Workplace relationships also become a lot stronger when people can clearly and effectively communicate what they need and allow others to do the same. 2. Be able to meet the communication and language needs, wishes and preferences of individuals 2.2 – Describe the factors to consider when promoting effective communication It is impossible to do without communication in health and social care, we have many reasons to communicate and it is essential communication is done effectively without misunderstanding others or being misunderstood. We communicate with: Patients, residents, clients, Health care professionals, Managers and supervisors, Family and friends. Factors to consider: – that most communication is non-verbal, that information must be factual and concise and not be littered with personal opinions (and documented in the same manner). Documented care should be dated, timed and signed. This last point is particularly important when maintaining medication records). There are many other factors to consider when promoting effective communication such as: – environment – is the location correct, it is noisy, do you need privacy, is the communication able to flow freely whilst doing a task or is a formal place required. – proximity – the better you know a person the closer you will be and sharing information is easier – closeness can encourage effective communication. Do you need to reposition yourself or say chairs around you to ensure you make effective use of the space around you so it is not a barrier to communication. – body positioning/body language – do you need to lean towards the person to encourage communication and show them you are interested but going too close can be invading someone’s â€Å"space†. Standing directly in front of someone may be interpreted as being too direct. Body language needs to be considered – arms crossed can be perceived as defensive and not open to communication. Standing over a person may also seem intimidating – do you need to kneel down onto someone’s level. – touch – A light touch on a person’s arm or hand can communicate caring and understanding, but sometimes touch can feel intrusive, even threatening. Touch is a safeguarding issue and you must never impose yourself physically on a vulnerable adult. You also need to consider the method of communication and what is the best way for effective communication such as – written (emails, texts, letters, reports etc), verbal (face to face or over telephone). You will also need to consider cultural differences when promoting effective communication. Acknowledging and responding to the cultural aspects of a person’s identity and care needs are strategies that are likely to enhance communication. Avoid general assumptions that beliefs about issues such as diet, personal care practices, sleeping arrangements and ‘health’ are shared by all service users. Another factor is language differences – Language is a central feature of any communication process. There is often an assumption in care settings that the language of the dominant culture should be used, which in most cases is English. Where care professionals are involved, this may also include use of technical health or social care jargon. Avoid using jargon where possible as it can confuse service users who are unfamiliar with the specialist terms. Physical difficulties influence the way individuals are able to communicate. This is another factor to consider. You need to be sensitive to the specific needs of individuals so communication is facilitated from the start. For example, if a person has difficulty enunciating (speaking clearly) following a stroke, allow enough time for a conversation to take place, check frequently that you are receiving their message correctly and reassure the person that they don’t need to rush. You also need to fact in those people with hearing difficulties or those who are visually impaired. You need to consider whether the person’s hearing aid is in and working, speaking clearly and concisely, ensure you speak directly to the person’s face or in front of them. Use facial expressions to aid understanding. With visually impaired ensure you introduce that you are there before launching into a conversation, use light touches on the body to let someone know you are there and make sure clearly end a conversation and let the person know if you are leaving. 3. Be able to overcome barriers to communication 3.1 – Explain how people from different background may use and/or interpret communication methods in different ways Diversity is something to be celebrated however everyone being different can cause issues with communication. We are all different and interpret information in different ways so we need to ensure we consider peoples differences when communicating. Cultural differences can mean people interpret communication differently. What is acceptable in one culture may not be in another e.g. a handshake between a man and woman may not be allowed, addressing the opposite sex may not be allowed, personal care of the opposite sex may not be allowed. People may also not be competent in communicating effectively – they may not have had a formal education or have special educational needs therefore it is important to consider how that individual can interpret information and in turn communicate themselves. In simple terms a person’s personality also affects how they communicate and respond to communication. A quiet introverted person may not be heard about a loud extrovert person. Also that person may not be able to digest information in a room that is full of loud, noisy people. Similarly a person who likes noise and a room full of chatter may not prefer a quiet environment and could â€Å"switch off†.

General Power of Attorney

My Agent shall have full power and authority to act on my behalf. This power and authority shall authorize my Agent to manage and conduct all of my affairs and to exercise all of my legal rights and powers, including all rights and powers that I may acquire in the future. My Agent's powers shall include, but not be limited to, the power to: 1. Open, maintain or close bank accounts (including, but not limited to, checking accounts, savings accounts, and certificates of deposit), brokerage accounts, retirement plan accounts, and other similar accounts with financial institutions. a. Conduct any business with any banking or financial institution with respect to any of my accounts, including, but not limited to, making deposits and withdrawals, negotiating or endorsing any checks or other instruments with respect to any such accounts, obtaining bank statements, passbooks, drafts, money orders, warrants, and certificates or vouchers payable to me by any person, firm, corporation or political entity. b. Perform any act necessary to deposit, negotiate, sell or transfer any note, security, or draft of the United States of America, including U.S. Treasury Securities. 2. Sell, exchange, buy, invest, or reinvest any assets or property owned by me. Such assets or property may include income producing or non-income producing assets and property. 3. Purchase and/or maintain insurance and annuity contracts, including life insurance upon my life or the life of any other appropriate person. 4. Take any and all legal steps necessary to collect any amount or debt owed to me, or to settle any claim, whether made against me or asserted on my behalf against any other person or entity. 5.Enter into binding contracts on my behalf. 6. Exercise all stock rights on my behalf as my proxy, including all rights with respect to stocks, bonds, debentures, commodities, options or other investments. 7.Maintain and/or operate any business that I may own. 8.Employ professional and business assistance, as may be appropriate, including attorneys, accountants, and real estate agents, for my personal or business affairs. 9. Sell, convey, lease, mortgage, manage, insure, improve, repair, or perform any other act with respect to any of my property (now owned or later acquired) including, but not limited to, real estate and real estate rights (including the right to remove tenants and to recover possession). This includes the right to sell or encumber any homestead that I now own or may own in the future. 10. Prepare, sign, and file documents with any governmental body or agency, including, but not limited to, authorization to: a. Prepare, sign and file income and other tax returns with federal, state, local, and other governmental bodies. b. Obtain information or documents from any government or its agencies, and represent me in all tax matters, including the authority to negotiate, compromise, or settle any matter with such government or agency. c. Prepare applications, provide information, and perform any other act reasonably requested by any government or its agencies in connection with governmental benefits (including medical, military and social security benefits), and to appoint anyone, including my Agent, to act as my â€Å"Representative Payee† for the purpose of receiving Social Security benefits. 11. Transfer any of my assets to the trustee of any revocable trust created by me, if such trust is in existence at the time of such transfer. 12. Subject to other provisions of this document, disclaim any interest, which might otherwise be transferred or distributed to me from any other person, estate, trust, or other entity, as may be appropriate. However, my Agent may not disclaim assets, to which I would be entitled, if the result is that the disclaimed assets pass directly or indirectly to my Agent or my Agent's estate. This Power of Attorney shall be construed broadly as a general Power of Attorney. The listing of specific powers is not intended to limit or restrict the general powers granted in this Power of Attorney in any manner. Any power or authority granted to my Agent under this document shall be limited to the extent necessary to prevent this Power of Attorney from causing: (i) my income to be taxable to my Agent, (ii) my assets to be subject to a general power of appointment by my Agent, or (iii) my Agent to have any incidents of ownership with respect to any life insurance policies that I may own on the life of my Agent.